Andrew McGuinness on SoundBetter

I’ve worked with some of the most renown Soul, RnB, Jazz, & Funk artists in music history. With over 30 years industry experience. Studio owner and record producer.

Thanks for looking at my profile,
Music always comes 1st. Showing off and fireworks isn’t me. A happy sideman in recording, performing and life.

I’ve recorded many commercial presentations, theatre productions, soundtracks, been a pop star, toured the globe a few times over, had businesses, lost businesses. (Bumps and bruises, free of charge...)

I was in the James Taylor Quartet and was one of the originators of Acid Jazz before being scouted and moving to Berlin, where I lived, loved and worked for 22 years.

Berlin gave me more experiences and range of music styles than can be described here.
From Eclectic-Jazz to Electro-Punk band D.A.F. Ask me when you get in touch.

Musical Director, Arranger and Drummer for the Baltic Soul Orchestra for 12 years, I worked with over 120 legendary soul artists (the ones we’ve all heard of).
Recorded remote drums for the Olivier Award winning Broadway production of The Life Of Pi.

I own a small but stunning studio.
There’s more…much more. Just ask.
In service to you and the music we make.

Send me an email through 'Contact' button above and I'll get back to you asap.

Credits

Discogs verified credits for Andrew McGuinness

Gloria Scott
Gloria Scott
Gloria Scott
Gloria Scott
The James Taylor Quartet
The James Taylor Quartet
Bobo In White Wooden Houses
Yulara
Bobo In White Wooden Houses
Bobo In White Wooden Houses
Various
Czech
Yulara
Space Kelly
Various
Georg Levin
Jazzanova
Various
Various
Various
Wahoo
Zœllner*
Bobo In White Wooden Houses
Katja Werker
Ekayani
Lovegrove (3)
Malaya Blue
Ryle*
Tom Glide
Legacy Pilots
Gizelle Smith
Gloria Scott
Gloria Scott
Ufo Hawaii
Jazzanova

2 Reviews

Endorse Andrew McGuinness

by Tom l.
I am writing to highly recommend Andrew for any musical endeavors he may pursue. I have had the pleasure of working alongside Andrew for several years, and his talent, professionalism, and dedication to music have always stood out.
As a studio owner and record producer, Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every project he undertakes. His commitment to excellence is evident in his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to bring out the best in both artists and recordings.
His talent, professionalism, and love for music make him a valuable asset to any project.
by Lee Groves
Not only is Andrew a fantastic musician, he's also a brilliantly accomplished producer and engineer. The result of that is not only do you get beautifully played drums, the sound is also absolutely first class. I can't recommend Andrew enough: he's also a very warm human being and great fun to work with. Book him now: you won't regret it.

Interview with Andrew McGuinness

Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?
A: There have been so many high points in my career to mention. If I had to choose one it would be my work as Orchestra Director/Arranger/Drummer at the Baltic Soul Weekender. I got to work with all the artists I grew up listening to and who i influenced me when I was younger. Most of them are now good friends of mine. What an honour !
Q: What are you working on at the moment?
A: Currently working on some production music for a London Based company. Also co-producing an album for an artist out of Baltimore, U.S
Q: Analog or digital and why?
A: Analogue AND Digital are both incredible tools. Depends on the setting and production requirements.
Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?
A: My promise is: I’ll say what I do and do what I say. No funny business.
Q: What do you like most about your job?
A: What I like most is that I am able to pursue my passion and share that passion with the world.
Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?
A: I would say, let’s talk first. Get to know each other either over coffee or on Zoom. Getting along and being eye level is everything. If we don’t get along, there’s someone else out there who’s more suited.
Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?
A: I would take sticks, a practise pad, a Snare drum, an iphone and Cooper my Patterdale Terrier.
Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?
A: I’ve been a professional since 1987. With well over 5000 live shows( probably much more than that anctually) and 30 years of recording/studio experience.
Q: How would you describe your style?
A: My style reflects the wishes of the client. The difference between a Broadway Musical and a House Artist is a measure of that. I’m totally comfortable with either of these.
Q: Can you share one music production tip?
A: My number 1 production tip is: Never stop improving something that can be improved upon. There is also a time to let it be. That’s a skill.
Q: What type of music do you usually work on?
A: Fortunately, I’ve had so many different musical experiences, I’ll record anything that is within my vocabulary. If, for any reason, I am out of my depth, I’ll say it from the start. Otherwise, I’m pretty fearless.
Q: What's your strongest skill?
A: My strongest skill I’d say is communication. I also believe strongly in delivering the best quality and not settling for 2nd best. I never quit until everyone is 100% satisfied.
Q: What do you bring to a song?
A: I bring authenticity to the music I’m given.
Q: What's your typical work process?
A: Typically I’m given a ST mix with drums and a second, drum-less version. Other times, I just get the raw demo track no drums. Whatever the Producer has to offer, that’s what I’ll work with.
Q: Tell us about your studio setup.
A: Studio was built in 2020. It replaced the previous studio I had for 7 years. A concrete outer structure with free floating inner room. Absorbers and diffusers, as should be. The room sounds incredible. I’m an in the box guy currently. Running 16 audio channels to Cubase Pro 12, 2xUR8/24 Interfaces, Dorico for Notation, 88 weighted Key midi piano, Slate Digital Plug in’s, Slate Trigger 2, a few Waves, and Plugin Alliance tools as well. Adam A77X, NS10 Studio Monitors, Auratone mono monitor. A good selection of carefully selected Mics, AKG, Sennheiser, SE, Shure.
Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?
A: I’m inspired by anyone displaying true love and authenticity for their particular art-form.
Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.
A: Most recently, clients have asked me for Midi Drum Replacement. I’m comfortable with most genres - I’ll be straight with a client if I’m not. I’m not the only horse in the race.