Gene Phoa on SoundBetter

Indie / alt-pop rock producer helping artists craft cinematic, heartfelt music that tells a story.

Hi, I’m Gene - an indie / alt pop rock producer, songwriter, singer, and multi-instrumentalist from Adelaide, Australia.

I see each song like a little movie - a world of its own, where lyrics, melody, and sound come together to tell a story. Inspired by producers like Dan Nigro, Rostam, and Tony Hoffer, my goal is to help you find your authentic voice and turn your ideas into a cinematic, heartfelt musical journey.

My productions blend organic instruments with modern textures to create music that feels melodic, emotional, and timeless - think Stephen Sanchez, Holly Humberstone, or The Temper Trap. As a singer myself, I bring a performer’s perspective to the process, helping artists deliver expressive vocal takes and shaping productions that support the voice.

A classically trained pianist turned indie musician, I’ve played over 600 shows, won the SCALA Festival of Original Music’s Lyrics Award, and been mentored by industry pros including Chris Chidiac (Mushroom/Universal), Jon Wiza (La Voz Colombia), and Grammy-winner Gabs Agostino. I’ve also spoken on music production and creativity at Nexus Arts and Coral Street Art Space.

From songwriting and arranging to production, recording, and mixing, I can help bring your creative vision to life with heart, clarity, and depth.

Let’s connect and start telling your story - one song at a time!

Tell me about your project and how I can help, through the 'Contact' button above.

Languages

English

3 Reviews

Endorse Gene Phoa

by Luka
I’ve had the pleasure of working with Gene on a few recording projects, including an acoustic cover session. He’s got a great ear for production and recording, and always brings a creative yet focused approach to studio work. Gene is very versatile and adaptable, and his warm, welcoming personality makes every session enjoyable and collaborative. Highly recommend him for any music projects!
by Jeremiah
Gene Phoa is a powerhouse in production and sound consultancy And live music.

Every project he touches is seamless at execution thanks to his organised and thoughtful approach.

Beyond the tech, Gene brings energy, vision, and a passion for music that elevates every performance. If you want your sound to hit hard or however suits your vibe, Gene is the guy.
by Jared Palmer
Gene has such an inviting presence and personality, and he really takes a lot of care with every project he undertakes, whether it’s his own music or yours.

His passion for all parts of his process is incredibly infectious, and I always find myself more inspired because of it.

I’ve worked with Gene on multiple music and video collaborations over the course of the last few years and he never fails to bring something new to the table each time.

Highly recommend.

Interview with Gene Phoa

Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?
A: I want to make great music and will be honest about where I can bring the most value. I'll take the time to understand what you’re trying to say and will listen to the song as to where it needs to go.
Q: What do you like most about your job?
A: I love working with artists to really hone in on the DNA of a song and then helping them nurture that into a sonic world of its own. I guess you never really know where it's going take you and gotta love those "aha" moments when things just click and fall into place.
Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?
A: What stage is your song currently at - raw idea, demo, ready to mix? How did this song come about? What does it mean to you? What do you want listeners to feel and think when they hear this song? Who are your key influences and are there any reference tracks that reflect the sound you're going for?
Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?
A: That producers just “add sounds.” In reality, production is part songwriting, part psychology, and part storytelling. It’s about guiding the vision, emotion and journey of a song from start to finish.
Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?
A: Don't just look at gear and credits. Read up on how they think about music, how they approach it, and how interested they are in you and your project. The right producer isn’t just technically skilled. They’re someone who “gets you" and helps bring out your best. Shared philosophy and chemistry can make all the difference.
Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?
A: I started out as a classical pianist, later picked up guitar, and worked in marketing before returning to music in 2016. While I started out on the local gig circuit, my journey led me to study sound production at the Adelaide College of the Arts and I've been continuing that path ever since.
Q: How would you describe your style?
A: Melodic, meaningful and nostalgic. I love blending organic and modern, as well as classic and contemporary sounds to create a scene within a song.
Q: Can you share one music production tip?
A: Focus on the core idea of the song rather than copying what other artists do. Once you hone in on that and listen to it, it'll tell you what else it needs, which may involve inspiration from other artists.
Q: What do you bring to a song?
A: I focus on bringing out the heart of the song - its intent, emotion, and story. For me, it’s not about chasing trends or copying sounds. The production, genre, and “colour” are all there to serve the song’s vision. My goal is to create something that feels honest, inspired, and timeless - music that still moves you years later.
Q: What's your typical work process?
A: Every project starts with a conversation - about the artist, the story behind the song, and the emotion they want the listener to feel.
Q: Analog or digital and why?
A: Both. Each has its pros and cons in terms of how it affects the process and the end result. It really depends on what the song needs.
Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?
A: MacBook, Audient ID14, Akai MPK Mini, Fender Tele, Headphones
Q: What's your strongest skill?
A: Honing on the song's core concept and serving it through the music, lyrics and production.
Q: Tell us about your studio setup.
A: Audient iD44, Neumann NDH30, Adam Audio T5V Monitors, Plugins (FabFilter, Universal Audio, Soundtoys, IzoTope, Valhalla, Melodyne), Mics (Neumann, Shure, Aston)
Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?
A: Producers: George Martin, Dan Nigro, Rostam, Jack Antonoff, Finneas, Tony Hoffer, Lauv, Avicii Artists: The Beatles, Arctic Monkeys, half alive