Producer for Hire

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

A: I'm proud to have contributed to the composition of music for the "Terminator Salvation" teaser trailer, which gained significant prominence during March Madness. The project involved crafting a high-energy and suspenseful soundtrack to captivate audiences during the highly-watched sports event. The combination of iconic Terminator imagery and the excitement of March Madness made it a memorable and impactful project, and I take pride in being a part of it.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: I'm currently developing a talented local country singer in Northeast Georgia named Matt Roper. Matt is a gifted singer-songwriter with a passion for creating heartfelt country music that resonates with his audience. With a unique blend of traditional and contemporary country influences, he has been making a name for himself in the local music scene. Matt Roper's music is characterized by soulful lyrics that tell compelling stories, accompanied by his rugged and rich vocals. His dedication to his craft is evident in his commitment to perfecting his songwriting and musical skills, making him a promising artist on the rise. As his development continues, I'm working with Matt to help him refine his sound, expand his fan base, and reach new audiences. This includes honing his stage presence, connecting with music industry professionals, and exploring opportunities for live performances, recording sessions, and promotional activities. Together, we aim to build his brand and establish a strong presence in the country music scene, not only in Northeast Georgia but potentially on a broader scale. Matt Roper's journey as a local country singer in Northeast Georgia is an exciting one, filled with potential and promise. With the right guidance and support, he could make a significant impact in the country music industry and share his music with a wider audience.

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

A: I'm new to SoundBetter.com and haven't had the chance to establish connections within the community yet. However, I firmly believe that as creative individuals, we should always be open to recommending others within the SoundBetter community if they might be a better match for a project than myself. It's all about supporting and connecting with fellow artists and professionals.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: I prefer digital recording over analog primarily for the convenience it offers. Digital recording allows for easier storage, editing, and sharing of music, making the entire recording and production process more streamlined. However, I still appreciate the warm and nostalgic sound of analog recording, which is why I use analog-emulating plugins to capture some of that vintage audio character while benefiting from the practicality of digital technology.

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

A: As a producer it is my goal to fulfill the promise of enhancing and elevating their music through enhancing the sound quality of their song. Also, by giving creative input and helping them to bring out the best performance by coaching them effectively. By being a problem solver, addressing any issues that may arise during recording, mixing, or mastering. And Finally helping stay true to their vision. In essence, collaborate effectively, elevate their music, and help them achieve their creative and career goals.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: I love being a music producer because it allows me to create and shape music, express my creativity, work with talented artists, and witness the transformation of musical ideas into finished tracks, all while enjoying the satisfaction of bringing joy and emotion to listeners through my work.

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

A: 1. How involved will you be in the creative process? o I tell them that I'll be heavily engaged contributing to songwriting, arranging, and other creative aspects. 2. How do you handle revisions and feedback during the production process? o I welcome critiques and allow for 2 rounds of revisions before I charge 3. What is your approach to working with artists and helping them achieve their vision? o I tell that that I’m a good collaborator who can understand and bring their ideas to life. 4. What is your process for mastering and mixing? o I give them a brief description and if they are interested in the technical aspects of my production process they are more than welcome to sit with me while I mix once I take care of all of the preliminary aspects of mixing.

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

A: One of the biggest misconceptions about musicians is that their work is easy and glamorous. While the idea of fame, fortune, and a carefree lifestyle may be associated with some successful musicians, the reality is often quite different. It's important to recognize that musicians, like people in any profession, have a wide range of experiences and challenges. The music industry can be tough, competitive, and uncertain, and success often comes through a combination of talent, hard work, and opportunity.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: What type of music project are you working on? Is it a single, an album, a film score, a commercial jingle, or something else? What is your musical style and vision for this project? Understanding their musical preferences and goals is crucial. Do you have any specific references or inspirations for the sound you want to achieve? It's helpful to know if they have favorite artists, songs, or specific sounds in mind. What is your budget for this project? Knowing their budget will help you determine what level of production and resources can be allocated to the project. What is your timeline or deadline for completing the project? Understanding the timeline is essential for scheduling and planning. Have you already written or composed any music for the project? If they have existing music or lyrics, it can affect the production process. Do you need assistance with songwriting, arrangement, or just production and recording? Clarify the scope of your involvement in the creative process. What is the size and instrumentation of the band or ensemble (if applicable)? Knowing the number and type of instruments involved can help with planning and logistics. Do you have a preferred recording studio or location for recording? Some clients may already have a location in mind, while others might need your recommendations. What level of post-production and mixing services do you require? Determine if they expect you to handle mixing and mastering in addition to recording. Are there any specific technical or sonic qualities you desire in the final product? Discuss details like the use of analog equipment, specific effects, or any other sonic preferences. Do you have any specific expectations for the final mix and master (e.g., loudness, tonal balance)? Understanding their mastering preferences is crucial for the final delivery. Will you need assistance with album artwork, distribution, or promotion? Some clients may need guidance or referrals for these aspects. Have you worked with a music producer before, and if so, what was your experience? Understanding their past experiences can provide insight into their expectations. Can you provide a rough idea of the number of songs or tracks for this project? This helps with project scope and pricing. What rights and royalties structure are you considering? Discuss ownership and distribution of royalties, especially if the project achieves commercial success. Are there any specific challenges or unique elements to this project that you'd like to highlight? Identifying potential challenges in advance can help with planning and problem-solving. Do you have a vision for live performances or touring related to this project? If applicable, discuss how the production process might impact live performances.

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

A: To find a producer like myself and effectively communicate their goals, a potential client should: 1. Research: Start by researching producers who specialize in the genre or style of music they're interested in. Look at their portfolios, past work, and client testimonials. 2. Networking: Attend music events, workshops, and connect with musicians, artists, and other professionals in the industry. They may have recommendations or introductions to potential producers. 3. Online Platforms: Explore online platforms where you can find a variety of music producers and studios. Read profiles, reviews, and listen to their previous work. 4. Clear Goals: Clearly define your project goals. Know what you want in terms of sound, style, and the role of the producer in your project. 5. Budget: Determine your budget for the project. This will help you narrow down your options and ensure you can afford the services of the producer you select. 6. Initial Contact: Reach out to potential producers through email or social media. Explain your project, your goals, and inquire about their availability and interest. 7. Ask Questions: During your communication, ask relevant questions about their production process, equipment, and how they envision contributing to your project. 8. References: Request references or past client contact information to validate their work and reputation. 9. Collaboration Expectations: Clearly express your expectations regarding your role, creative input, and the producer's responsibilities. Discuss the terms of collaboration, including contracts, timelines, and payment. 10. Samples and Demos: Share samples of your work or ideas, if available, to give the producer a better understanding of your vision. Effective communication, mutual understanding of goals, and a good working relationship are key to a successful producer-client collaboration. Be open to feedback and ideas and ensure both parties are on the same page throughout the project.

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

A: I wouldn't even need 5 pieces. I could thrive on a desert island with just three essential pieces of gear: My Roland TR-8S Drum Composer, your Taylor Acoustic guitar, and your Korg Nautilus Keyboard. These tools would provide me with the means to express myself through music, explore my creativity, and keep myself entertained, making the need for additional gear unnecessary. Except for a generator! LOL!

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

A: My career path began in 1992 when I started as a recording engineering apprentice at Cook Production Studio in Atlanta. I gained experience and skills working in various studios in Atlanta, eventually transitioning to work as a beat programmer. Afterward, I relocated to Los Angeles, where I evolved my career by becoming a composer and sound designer for film and television, contributing to the creative aspects of audio production in media. Finally, I returned to Atlanta to start a family with my wife Julie and my two sons Samuel and Henry and to establish my recording studio, focusing on producing local artists and helping them achieve their musical goals.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: My musical style is a fusion of various genres, showcasing a diverse range of influences. I grew up in the south where my first exposure to music was Country. Which incorporates the storytelling and emotional depth often reflecting themes of rural life, love, and personal experiences. As a teenager I discovered Rock music with bands like Led Zeppelin, The Police and Alice in Chains. The rock influence in my style brings a raw, energetic edge. I like to incorporate electric guitars, strong rhythms, and a sense of rebellion or intensity in my music. I've also always had an affinity for Pop Music. Pop elements in my music make it catchy and accessible. I love when songs have memorable hooks, strong melodies, and a focus on relatable themes, making music appealing to a wide audience. In my twenties electronic music took on a huge role in the culture of the time and I instantly fell in love with Dance Music. Dance elements suggest a focus on rhythm, beats, and electronic instrumentation. I love any music suitable for getting people on their feet and moving, with a strong emphasis on grooves and danceable tunes. As I progressed in my musical education I discovered the finer points of jazz. Jazz influences add a level of sophistication and improvisational flair to my music. I like to incorporate complex chord progressions, intricate instrumentation, and elements of improvisation in my compositions. This eclectic blend of influences allows for a versatile and unique musical style that can appeal to a broad audience with the potential to transcend genre boundaries, offering something for a variety of listeners. It's a testament to my creativity and willingness to experiment with different musical elements to create a distinctive sound.

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

A: If I could work with anyone right now it would probably be Adele. Working with a highly talented artist like Adele would be an incredible opportunity. Adele is known for her powerful and emotionally charged music, and collaborating with her would be a dream come.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Always use a reference track! This can help with both arrangement but also mixing and sound selection. Pick a song that suits the style of song you are working on, import it into you DAW and reference back and fourth during the whole creative process until you are finished.

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

A: I have a diverse range of musical interests and work on various genres, including Country, Rock, Pop, and EDM. Working across different genres can be a rewarding and creative experience, as it allows me to explore different musical elements and styles. Each genre has its unique characteristics, and blending them or transitioning between them can result in innovative and exciting music.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: My strongest asset music arrangement stems from a combination of innate talent, developed skills, and personal qualities that I bring to the process. Creativity: Music arrangement requires a high degree of creativity. My ability to envision new musical ideas, harmonies, and instrumentation sets me apart. Musical Knowledge: A deep understanding of music theory, harmony, rhythm, and composition is essential for effective arrangement. My strong foundation in these areas allows me to manipulate musical elements to create compelling arrangements. Attention to Detail: Music arrangement often involves intricate details such as voicing, dynamics, and phrasing. My ability to focus on these finer points can lead to well-crafted arrangements that captivate listeners. Adaptability: Successful arrangers can adapt to various musical styles and genres. I can easily shift between different musical contexts which demonstrates versatility and a broader appeal to potential clients or audiences. Communication: Working with musicians and producers requires effective communication skills. My ability to articulate my ideas, listen to feedback, and collaborate with others is crucial in the music arrangement process. Technical Proficiency: Proficiency with music notation software, digital audio workstations (DAWs), and various musical instruments significantly enhances my arrangement skills. This technical prowess allows me to execute My creative ideas effectively. Dedication and Practice: Like any skill, music arrangement improves with practice and dedication. I've invested time and effort into honing My arrangement skills to be a strong asset. Emotional Connection: Great music arrangement evokes emotions and connects with the audience on a deeper level. If my arrangements consistently resonate with people, it demonstrates my ability to create music that has a lasting impact. Innovation: Pushing the boundaries of traditional music arrangement by incorporating new elements, experimenting with novel sounds, or reimagining existing pieces can make my work innovative and fresh. Experience: The more experience I gain, the more refined and nuanced my arrangements become. Experience allows me to develop my signature style and approach to music arrangement. Ultimately, My strongest asset is music arrangement resulting from a combination of these factors, with my own unique blend of creativity, technical skills, and dedication that sets me apart from others in the field. My ability to create beautiful and memorable musical experiences through arrangement is a valuable asset.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: 1. I create compelling melodies and rhythms. This means I have a strong grasp of what makes a melody catchy, memorable, and emotionally resonant. My sense of rhythm ensures that the songs I create have a solid and engaging foundation that can get people moving or tapping their feet. 2. My skills as a musician play a pivotal role in crafting and performing songs. Playing multiple instruments, my musical prowess allows me to bring compositions to life with skill and precision. My proficiency in playing and interpreting music adds depth and authenticity to my work. 3. My ability to arrange effectively means I can orchestrate songs in a way that is not only pleasing to the ear but also supports the overall emotional and thematic content. This skill helps in structuring songs in a coherent and compelling manner. 4. My individuality and creativity shine through in my music. My approach to each song is not formulaic; instead, it's distinctive and tailored to the specific mood, message, or story you want to convey. This unique approach ensures that each song stands out as an original piece of art, allowing you to explore a wide range of musical styles and themes.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: Creating a song is a multi-step process that involves various stages, from initial inspiration to the final polished track. Here's a breakdown of the typical process: 1. Inspiration and Composition: o Concept and Theme: Begin with an idea, emotion, or theme that I want to convey in the song. This could come from personal experiences, a story, or any source of inspiration. o Lyrics and Melody: Write the lyrics and create a melody for the song. This often starts with a rough draft, which might be just vocals and acoustic guitar or piano. 2. Demo Creation: o Rough Demo: I start with a rough demo, which often includes just a basic arrangement with piano and vocals. This serves as a foundation for the song. 3. Arrangement: o Instrumentation: Determine what additional instruments and elements I want in the song, such as guitar, bass, drums, synths, strings, etc. o Chord Progressions and Structure: Refine the chord progressions and song structure, including verses, chorus, bridge, and any other sections. 4. Pre-Production: o Instrumental Arrangement: Flesh out the full arrangement of the song, adding the chosen instruments and developing their parts. o Demo Enhancement: Improve the rough demo to better reflect my vision for the song. 5. Recording: o Vocals: Record the lead vocals and any harmonies. This often involves multiple takes to capture the best performance. o Instrumental Tracks: Record all other instruments and elements, paying attention to the quality of the sound and performance. 6. Editing: o Editing and Timing: Edit the recorded tracks to ensure that everything is in time and on beat. o Pitch Correction: If needed, apply pitch correction to the vocals or any instruments. 7. Mixing: o Balancing: Adjust the levels of each track to create a balanced sound. o Equalization: Use EQ to shape the tone of individual tracks and make them sit well together. o Effects: Add reverb, delay, compression, and other effects to enhance the sound. o Panning: Position tracks in the stereo field for a more spacious mix. o Automation: Create automation for volume changes, effects, and other parameters. 8. Mastering: o Final Touches: The mastering engineer fine-tunes the overall EQ, compression, and limiting to prepare the song for distribution. o Sequencing: If the song is part of an album, the mastering engineer may also sequence the tracks for a cohesive listening experience. 9. Quality Control: o Listen to the final mix and master to ensure that it meets my standards for sound quality and musicality. The specific details of each step may vary depending on the style of music, the resources available, and personal preferences. Collaboration with others, such as musicians, producers, and engineers, is common in the music production process, and each collaborator plays a vital role in bringing the song to life.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: My studio setup is a well-organized and sophisticated space designed for professional audio production, mixing, and recording. It’s divided into these three specialized rooms to allow for efficient and high-quality audio production. I’ve invested in the right equipment and acoustic treatment to create a professional and creative space for music production, mixing, and recording. Control Room: 1. Aesthetic and Acoustics: The control room is designed with auralex acoustic treatment to ensure a flat and neutral sound. The walls have diffusers and absorbers to minimize sound reflections. 2. Main Workstation: The centerpiece of the control room is a hand-built Windows 10 PC. This computer serves as the brains of my studio and runs Steinberg's Cubase, a popular DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) for music production. 3. Monitor Setup: I have a dual-monitor setup along with a 55-inch flat screen which provides ample screen real estate for managing my DAW, plugins, and other production tools. 4. Studio Monitors: Vintage Event 2020s and a set of Yamaha HS5s They are carefully positioned for optimal stereo imaging. Along with a 12-inch Sub-Woofer. 5. Acoustic Treatment: The control room features bass traps, diffusers, and absorbers to ensure accurate sound monitoring. 6. Midas M32 Console: For tracking I have the impressive Midas M32 digital mixing console. It's a centerpiece for live sound and recording, offering superb audio quality and extensive routing capabilities. 7. Korg Nautilus Keyboard: My Korg Nautilus Keyboard is prominently placed in the control room for easy access when recording live keyboard or MIDI instrument parts. Computer Room: 1. Main PC Components: The computer room houses my Windows 10 PC. It's built for high performance and features a powerful i9 CPU, 128gigs of RAM, and an array of fast SSD for quick loading times and processing capabilities. 2. Server Rack: This room also contains server racks for managing data storage, backups, and network equipment to ensure my studio operates efficiently. Tracking Room: 1. Microphones and Mic Stands: The tracking room is equipped with a range of microphones for recording different instruments and vocals. Sturdy microphone stands are strategically placed for easy positioning. 2. Acoustic Treatment: Acoustic treatment is present in the tracking room as well, but the focus here is on sound isolation and creating an acoustically pleasant environment for live recordings. 3. Monitoring and Headphones: There are headphones in this room to allow musicians to hear themselves and the backing tracks while recording and to communicate back and fourth between the Control Room and the Tracking Room.

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

A: Dave Cobb, Deadmau5, Daft Punk, Quincy Jones, Dua Lipa, Sturgill Simpson, Dave Grohl, Big Z, Will Darling, Adele, Rick Beato, Taylor Swift

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

A: As a music producer and film score composer and arranger, the most common type of work I do for clients involves creating and shaping musical compositions for various media projects, such as films, television shows, advertisements, video games, and other visual content. Here's a breakdown of the key tasks and responsibilities in these roles: Composition: I compose original music that fits the emotional and thematic requirements of the project. This often includes creating melodies, harmonies, and rhythms that capture the desired mood and enhance the storytelling. Arrangement: I arrange music to suit the specific needs of a scene or project. This can involve orchestrating the composition for various instruments or ensembles, adjusting tempo, dynamics, and other musical elements to align with the visuals. Scoring: I synchronize the music with the timing and pacing of the visual content. This is essential to ensure that the music enhances the mood and intensifies the impact of the visuals. Recording: I may oversee the recording process, working with live musicians and vocalists if needed, or utilizing digital instruments and sample libraries to create the desired sound. Production: I mix and master the music to achieve the best possible sound quality, ensuring that the music is balanced and polished. Collaboration: I work closely with directors, producers, and other creatives to understand their vision and provide musical solutions that align with their goals. Collaboration and effective communication are vital aspects of the job. Sound Design: In film and media projects, I often integrate sound effects and design elements into the music to enhance the overall audio experience. Adaptation: I may need to adapt existing compositions or songs to fit the context of the project, whether it's creating a cover version or reimagining an existing piece. Mood and Style Exploration: I experiment with various musical styles and themes to find the best fit for a project. This could involve trying out different genres, instruments, and sounds to create a unique and evocative score. Technical Proficiency: I am proficient in various music production software and hardware, which allows me to create, edit, and manipulate the music effectively. Budget and Timeline Management: I manage the budget and timeline of the music production process, ensuring that the project stays on track and within financial constraints. Licensing and Copyright: I handle any licensing and copyright issues related to the music, ensuring that all legal requirements are met. The role of a music producer and film score composer and arranger is highly creative and collaborative, as it involves working with clients to bring their visions to life through music. Each project is unique, requiring a tailored approach to create the perfect musical accompaniment for the visual content.