Pop Music Producer

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

A: One project I'm especially proud of is my first paid project as a freelance producer. It was a significant milestone in my career, marking the transition from working solely on personal projects to collaborating with artists in a professional capacity. For this project, I worked closely with an emerging artist who had a clear vision for their sound but needed help refining it. My role involved not just the production but also providing creative input on arrangements and sound design. I helped them shape their ideas into a polished track, experimenting with different melodies and textures to find the right fit. What made this project so rewarding was seeing the artist's excitement as we developed the song together. The collaborative process allowed me to grow as a producer and strengthen my skills in a real-world setting. The final product received positive feedback, and knowing I played a part in helping the artist achieve their goals was incredibly fulfilling. That experience solidified my passion for music production and reinforced my commitment to supporting other artists on their journeys.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: At the moment, I’m busy with a variety of projects, primarily focusing on ghost productions for several labels. It’s been a great opportunity to work on diverse tracks and collaborate with different artists, allowing me to explore various styles and genres. In addition to that, I’m also taking on some freelance music producer work here and there. This allows me to work directly with artists, helping them develop their sound and bring their ideas to life. Each project brings its own unique challenges and creative opportunities.

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

A: Yes, I highly recommend Bram Fidder for mixing and mastering. His expertise in the craft is impressive, and he consistently delivers high-quality results. Bram has a keen ear for detail and understands how to enhance the elements of a track, ensuring that every aspect shines through in the final mix. He’s also great at collaborating with artists, taking their feedback into account while providing valuable insights to elevate the music. I’ve seen firsthand how his work can transform a good track into something truly exceptional. If you’re looking for someone to bring your project to life through professional mixing and mastering, Bram would be an excellent choice!

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: I definitely lean towards digital production, and there are a few key reasons for this preference. First, flexibility is a major advantage. Digital audio workstations (DAWs) allow for easy manipulation of tracks, including editing, arranging, and mixing. You can easily experiment with different sounds and ideas without the constraints of physical gear. Second, the cost-effectiveness of digital production is significant. It allows me to access a wide range of high-quality virtual instruments and plugins without the expense of purchasing and maintaining analog hardware. Third, efficiency is a huge plus. Working digitally streamlines the entire process—from recording to mixing and mastering—enabling me to produce music more quickly. I can easily save and recall projects, which is invaluable when collaborating with artists. Lastly, digital production opens up a world of possibilities for creativity. The vast array of tools and effects available allows for innovative sound design and experimentation, which I find inspiring. While I appreciate the warmth and character of analog gear, the advantages of digital production align better with my workflow and artistic vision.

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

A: My promise to my clients is to provide a collaborative and supportive environment where their creative vision can flourish. I am dedicated to bringing their ideas to life while ensuring they feel heard and valued throughout the entire process. I commit to delivering high-quality production that meets their artistic goals and to maintaining open lines of communication. I understand that every project is unique, so I promise to tailor my approach to fit their specific needs and preferences. Furthermore, I strive for transparency in my work, keeping clients informed about progress and timelines. My ultimate goal is to create music that resonates with them and their audience, and I’ll put in the effort to make that happen. Whether it’s refining a melody or adjusting a mix, I am here to support them every step of the way and ensure they’re satisfied with the final result.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: What I love most about my job as a music producer is the creative collaboration with artists. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about helping someone bring their vision to life. I enjoy the process of brainstorming ideas, experimenting with sounds, and crafting a song from the ground up. Each project presents a unique challenge, allowing me to learn and grow with every collaboration. I also love the thrill of finding that perfect sound or melody that just clicks—it’s like discovering a hidden gem. Additionally, music has a powerful ability to connect people, and being a part of that process is truly rewarding. Knowing that the music we create together can resonate with listeners and evoke emotions is what keeps me passionate about this work. It's not just about producing tracks; it's about creating something meaningful that can touch lives and tell stories.

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

A: Here are some common questions I receive from customers and my typical responses: How long will it take to produce my track? Answer: The timeline can vary depending on the complexity of the project and my current workload. Typically, I aim to provide a rough draft within a few weeks, but I’ll work with you to set a timeline that fits your needs. What do you need from me to get started? Answer: I’d love to have your vision for the song, including any reference tracks, style preferences, and specific ideas you have in mind. If you have lyrics or melodies, that would be helpful too! What software and gear do you use? Answer: I primarily use Ableton Live Suite for production, along with a range of plugins and virtual instruments. I keep my setup updated to ensure I can deliver high-quality sound. How many revisions do I get? Answer: I typically include a set number of revisions in my package, which we can discuss upfront. I want to make sure you're happy with the final product, so I'm open to making adjustments as needed. What if I don’t like the final product? Answer: My goal is to ensure you're satisfied with the music we create together. If you have concerns about the final product, let’s discuss it! I'm committed to making adjustments until it aligns with your vision. Can I provide input during the production process? Answer: Absolutely! Collaboration is key in my process. I encourage your input and feedback at every stage to ensure we create something that truly reflects your vision. These questions help set clear expectations and foster a collaborative environment, ensuring a smooth production experience.

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

A: One of the biggest misconceptions about music production is the belief that there are magic buttons or shortcuts that can instantly create a hit song. Many people think that just pressing a few keys or tweaking a few knobs will yield professional-sounding results. However, the reality is that producing music takes a lot of hard work, experimentation, and creativity. Great production comes from a deep understanding of song structure, arrangement, and sound design. It requires time spent refining melodies, layering sounds, and ensuring everything fits together seamlessly. Each element must be carefully crafted and balanced, and that often involves a lot of trial and error. Additionally, the process is highly collaborative. It’s about connecting with the artist, understanding their vision, and guiding them through the creative process. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and each project is unique, requiring a tailored approach to truly bring out the best in the music. So, while technology can enhance our work, there’s no substitute for the artistry and effort that goes into creating something meaningful.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: When meeting with prospective clients, I typically ask the following questions to understand their vision and goals better: What is your overall vision for the project? This helps me grasp what they hope to achieve with their music. What style or genre are you aiming for? Knowing their preferred genre or influences allows me to tailor my approach accordingly. Do you have any reference tracks? Asking for examples of songs they love or want to emulate gives me insight into their taste and desired sound. What is your timeline for this project? Understanding their deadlines helps me plan the production process and manage expectations. What role do you want me to play in the production? This clarifies whether they want full production, mixing, or specific contributions, allowing me to align my services with their needs. How do you like to communicate during the process? Knowing their preferred communication style (e.g., email, calls, in-person meetings) helps establish a smooth workflow. Can you share a bit about your career so far? Understanding their journey and experiences gives me context about their artistry and aspirations.

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

A: When hiring a music producer, here are some key pieces of advice to ensure you find the right fit: Define Your Vision: Before reaching out, have a clear idea of your artistic goals and what you want to achieve with your music. Knowing your style, influences, and desired sound can help you communicate effectively with potential producers. Communication is Key: Make sure the producer is open to collaboration and feedback. A good producer will listen to your ideas and work with you to enhance your vision. Effective communication is crucial for a successful partnership. Discuss Process and Expectations: Ask about their production process, timelines, and what you can expect at each stage. Understanding how they work will help you gauge whether their approach aligns with your needs. Budget Considerations: Be upfront about your budget and discuss pricing from the start. This will help ensure that there are no surprises later on and that both parties are on the same page. Trust Your Instincts: Ultimately, go with a producer you feel comfortable with. A good working relationship can lead to creative breakthroughs, so it’s important to trust your instincts and find someone who understands your vision.

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

A: If I found myself stranded on a desert island, I’d have to think carefully about the gear I’d take to keep the creative juices flowing. First on my list would be my laptop with a DAW. It’s essential for music production, allowing me to arrange and compose tracks wherever I am. I can’t imagine not having it to capture the inspiration of my surroundings. Next up, I’d bring a MIDI controller. It’s compact and versatile, perfect for inputting melodies and beats. With it, I could experiment with different sounds and arrangements, ensuring that I keep my music fresh and engaging even in isolation. I’d also need a portable audio interface to ensure high-quality audio input and output. This way, I could record vocals or any instruments I might want to use, maintaining the integrity of the sound. A solid pair of headphones is a must-have as well. They would help me monitor my mixes accurately, allowing me to refine my tracks without the luxury of studio monitors. Finally, I’d take a field recorder. This would let me capture the unique sounds of the island—the waves crashing, birds singing, and rustling leaves. These natural sounds could inspire new ideas and be woven into my music, adding an organic touch to my creations. With this setup, I’d be able to create some incredible music while soaking up the beauty and serenity of the island. It might just be the perfect environment for inspiration!

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

A: y career path in music production has been quite a journey! I’ve been making music for over eight years, starting out in the EDM scene where I honed my skills in electronic production. During that time, I learned a lot about sound design and arrangement, which laid a solid foundation for my current work. As I evolved, I shifted my focus more toward pop music, blending those electronic influences with catchy melodies and rich textures. I still primarily produce in the box, using digital tools to create vibrant sounds while experimenting with elements from different genres. Throughout my journey, I’ve also worked as a ghost producer for various pop and EDM labels, which has given me invaluable experience in understanding the industry and collaborating with other artists. Alongside that, I’ve taken on a lot of freelance work, helping artists bring their visions to life. Currently, I’m in my last year at the Herman Brood Academy, where I’m fine-tuning my craft and learning even more about music production. It’s been an exciting and fulfilling experience, and I’m eager to continue growing and creating impactful music in the years to come!

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: I would describe my style as a fusion of catchy pop melodies with 80s-inspired sounds that create an uplifting and nostalgic vibe.

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

A: I would love to work with Charlie Puth. His blend of catchy pop melodies and intricate production techniques is incredibly inspiring. I admire his knack for crafting hooks that stick in your head and his ability to combine emotional depth with upbeat energy. Charlie is also a talented multi-instrumentalist and vocal producer, which would make collaborating with him an exciting learning experience. I think our styles could complement each other well—his strong songwriting skills and my production approach could lead to some truly fresh and impactful tracks. Plus, his understanding of vocal arrangements and harmonies would bring a lot of depth to any project we worked on together. Overall, collaborating with Charlie Puth would not only be creatively fulfilling but would also push me to elevate my production game to the next level.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: One effective tip for achieving cleaner vocal reverb is to use sends instead of applying reverb directly to the vocal track. This allows for greater control and clarity in your mix. Here’s how to do it: Create a Reverb Bus: Set up an auxiliary track (often called a "bus") and insert your preferred reverb plugin on that track. Send the Vocal Signal: Instead of adding reverb directly to your vocal track, create a send from your vocal track to the reverb bus. This allows you to control how much of the vocal signal is sent to the reverb without affecting the original vocal sound. Adjust the Levels: You can then adjust the send level to control how much reverb the vocals receive. This way, you can keep the vocal dry and clear while still adding the spaciousness of reverb. Split the Signal (Optional): For even more control, consider splitting the vocal signal into two tracks: one for the dry vocal and another for the wet vocal with reverb. This allows you to mix them independently, giving you greater flexibility in balancing the effects. Using sends for reverb not only keeps your vocals cleaner but also allows for more dynamic control over the effect, making your mix sound more polished and professional.

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

A: I usually work on pop music, focusing on tracks that blend catchy melodies with modern production elements. This includes a mix of artists and styles, from upbeat, radio-friendly pop to more introspective, emotionally-driven songs. I enjoy creating music that has both mainstream appeal and a personal touch. I’m drawn to working with artists who are influenced by the likes of Will Linley, EDM-inspired pop, and emerging sounds from artists like Alexander23 and NOTD. The fusion of pop and electronic elements allows for a lot of creativity, and I love experimenting with different textures, beats, and vocal styles to create something fresh and engaging. Ultimately, I’m excited to help artists craft their unique sound within the pop genre, regardless of whether it’s a danceable anthem or a heartfelt ballad.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: My strongest skill is my ability to generate creative ideas quickly. Whether it’s coming up with catchy hooks, unique sound concepts, or innovative arrangements, I thrive on brainstorming and thinking outside the box. This skill helps me adapt to the artist's vision and keep the momentum going in the studio. I often draw inspiration from various genres and styles, which allows me to pull in fresh elements that make a song stand out. This quick-thinking approach not only helps in the initial stages of production but also during revisions, where I can offer new perspectives or solutions to challenges we might face. Ultimately, my ability to brainstorm and develop ideas on the fly allows us to explore different musical directions and keeps the creative process dynamic and exciting.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: What I bring to a song is the ability to take an artist’s vision and turn it into a fully realized, professional track. My focus is on production, shaping the overall sound and vibe that aligns with the artist’s style while ensuring the song is emotionally engaging and ready for the audience. Here’s how I contribute: Creating a Unique Sound: I help the artist develop a sonic identity that fits their vision. This involves exploring different textures and styles to craft a sound that feels authentic and distinctive. Building the Instrumental: I handle all aspects of the instrumental—arranging chords, programming drums, and layering synths or other instruments. My goal is to create a backdrop that feels fresh, emotionally resonant, and aligned with the song's message. Emotional Production: I work to enhance the emotional core of the song, using dynamics, textures, and subtle production elements that make it hit on a deeper level. This could mean adding rich layers to a ballad or keeping things minimal for a more intimate feel. Mixing and Polishing: After the vocals are recorded, I manage all the post-production—cleaning up the vocals, adding effects like reverb or delay, and ensuring they sit perfectly in the mix. I make sure the track sounds polished and ready for streaming or radio. In essence, I bring the technical skills and creative insight needed to take a rough idea and transform it into a fully produced track that captures the artist’s vision, connects with listeners, and holds its own in the competitive music landscape.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: My typical work process as a pop producer starts with a conversation with the artist to get a clear sense of their vision for the track. We talk about the mood, sound, and any artists they’re inspired by so I know the vibe they’re aiming for. Once we have that direction, I dive into building out the track. I usually start with the instrumental, laying down chords, creating a beat, and adding layers of synths or guitars to match the emotion of the song. If the artist has a demo or rough idea, I’ll use that as a starting point and build from there. Once the foundation is solid, I spend time refining the production—adding textures, effects, and elements that give the track its unique character. After I get the instrumental where it needs to be. The artist will send me the vocal files, I handle the vocal production; cleaning them up, adding effects like reverb, tuning, and harmonies to make everything sit nicely in the mix without losing the natural emotion. The next step is arranging the song, making sure it flows smoothly and has dynamic moments—whether that’s a powerful chorus or a more intimate breakdown. Finally, I move on to mixing, balancing all the elements so the track sounds tight, clean, and ready for release. If needed, I’ll handle the mastering too, giving it that final polish. Throughout the process, I stay in close communication with the artist to make sure the track is headed in the direction they want, keeping their vision front and center while making it sound professional and polished.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: My studio setup is very basic but effective. I am using my MacBook Pro, a set of good monitor speakers, a good pear of headphones, a MIDI keyboard and a microphone if I would record vocals too. I am working with this setup for the last couple years and I really like the minimalism so things don't overwhelm me. I am also just learning playing guitar. Of course I have also access to top tier plugins to make every song sound industry standard.

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

A: Jon Bellion: He’s a powerhouse when it comes to blending genres and creating tracks that feel both experimental and commercial. I’m inspired by his DIY approach to music production, his use of vocal chops, and how he integrates unexpected sounds into his pop records. Charlie Puth: As a producer himself, Charlie Puth is known for his perfect-pitch precision and attention to detail in the studio. He’s got a knack for catchy melodies and tight production, and his use of vocal production, especially in layering harmonies, is something I look up to.

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

A: Most of the time, artists come to me with a rough idea—a voice memo, a melody, or just some lyrics—and it’s my job to turn that spark into a fully produced track. We’ll sit down (or connect remotely) and talk through their vision, referencing artists or songs, and figure out the vibe they want. Once we’re on the same page, I start building the instrumental, layering beats, synths, or guitars until it feels right. After that I mix and polish the track until it’s ready for release. It’s about taking their raw ideas and crafting something both personal and polished, something that can connect with listeners and still sound great on the radio. That transformation is the heart of what I do for my clients.