Mixing & Mastering Engineer

Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?

A: A big misconception about my work as a mix and mastering engineer is that I’m just here to "fix" bad recordings. While I can enhance the sound, my main goal is to creatively blend and balance tracks to bring out the best in the music. Another misconception is that mixing and mastering can be done quickly, but these processes require time, attention to detail, and collaboration to get the best results. It's about enhancing and refining the artist's vision, not just correcting mistakes.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: When we start working together, I'll ask about your genre, vision for the sound, and the current state of your mix. I’ll also want to know what elements you want to stand out, if you have any reference tracks, and where you plan to release the music. Understanding your audience, timeline, any challenges you've faced, your sound preferences, openness to feedback, and budget helps me tailor my approach to your project and deliver the best results.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: My work process starts with understanding the client's vision and genre. I then analyze the tracks, mix them to create a balanced sound, and ensure everything is clean before mastering. During mastering, I fine-tune the mix for different playback systems. I share the results with the client, make any revisions, and deliver the final files once approved. Communication throughout ensures the final product meets their expectations.

Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?

A: Very proud of a project that I fully produced mixed and mastered called Honey. It sounds amazing on streaming platforms and on vinyl.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: Currently, I am engaged in various ongoing projects, applying my skills and expertise to diverse creative endeavors.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: It's the ear, not the gear.

Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?

A: Being a creative asset in the pursuit of delivering quality, meaningful, and unforgettable sound is a crucial aspect of shaping the identity and presentation of music and multimedia on a global scale. My role as a contributor to these artistic endeavors holds immense significance, as I strive to leave a lasting impression through the power of sound, making it an integral part of the world's creative landscape.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: It's truly fulfilling to leverage my gifts and talents as a means to not only serve and contribute to someone else's project but also as a means of provision for myself. The opportunity to utilize my skills in a way that benefits others while also sustaining my own livelihood is a source of great joy and gratitude.

Q: What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?

A: Frequently, customers inquire about deadlines, and I understand the importance of timely delivery. Depending on my workload, I can often accommodate quick turnarounds, sometimes delivering within 24 hours or even less. Rest assured, meeting your project's deadline is a priority for me, and I strive to ensure your music receives the attention and quality it deserves, regardless of the time frame.

Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A: When hiring a mix and mastering engineer, here’s what to keep in mind: Check their portfolio and experience, especially in your genre, and read client testimonials for insights on their professionalism and communication. Make sure they’re open to collaboration and understand your vision. Evaluate their technical skills and quality assurance process to ensure they deliver polished results. Discuss turnaround time and make sure it doesn’t compromise quality. Understand their pricing, but prioritize quality over cost. Look for an engineer who’s passionate about music and request a sample mix or test master to see if their style matches yours. Finally, have a clear contract outlining the scope of work, timelines, and payment terms. Considering these factors will help you find an engineer who can bring your music to life.

Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?

A: Laptop, Ableton Push 2, iPad, iPhone, Sennheiser HD280 headphones.

Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?

A: Building with other artists. Over 15 years.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: Hip Hop/Trap.

Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?

A: Madlib because he makes fire beats.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Be organized.

Q: What type of music do you usually work on?

A: Hip Hop & Trap.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: My strongest skill as a mix and mastering engineer is achieving sonic excellence through meticulous attention to detail. I have a sharp ear for nuances, technical expertise with audio tools, and a creative approach to solving problems. I collaborate closely with artists to align with their vision and adapt my skills to different genres. I’m also committed to continuous learning and stay updated with industry trends. My passion for music drives me to deliver polished, impactful results that resonate with both artists and listeners.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: As a mix and mastering engineer, I focus on bringing out the best in a song by balancing and clarifying each element, enhancing overall audio quality, and optimizing dynamic range. I address frequency imbalances and use stereo imaging techniques to create a spacious, immersive sound. I work closely with artists to ensure the final mix aligns with their vision and conduct rigorous quality control to eliminate technical issues. I also make sure the song meets industry standards and sounds great across various playback systems. My goal is to provide a polished, professional finish that highlights the song’s strengths and prepares it for distribution.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: A home studio featuring acoustically treated surroundings, a set of studio monitors, smaller computer speakers, and a pair of studio headphones.

Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?

A: J Dilla, Madlib, The Alchemist, Trippie Redd, Com Truise.

Q: Is there anyone on SoundBetter you know and would recommend to your clients?

A: Killian Cruiser.

Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.

A: Making beats, mixing & mastering.