Marcus Wiles on SoundBetter

2x Grammy Nominated Keyboardist and Producer/Songwriter. Credits include Kelsea Ballerini, Danny Gokey, Erin Kinsey, Jordan Feliz, and many others.

What's up! I'm a producer and keyboardist heavily influenced by Pop, Country, Jazz, and Gospel music. I have a wide range of experience not just in the studio as a writer, producer, and session player; but also in the live music environment as a touring Music Director, arranger, and playback engineer with over a decade of experience. I have been blessed to work with artists and on projects spanning a wide range budgets and genres, and find the most joy in partnering with creatives to help bring their vision to life.

Click the 'Contact' above to get in touch. Looking forward to hearing from you.

Credits

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Interview with Marcus Wiles

Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?
A: I'm very proud of my work as Jordan Feliz' Music Director. He has trusted me for years now to build his show and cultivate his band. He has allowed me a lot of creative freedom which has given me an opportunity to hone my craft not just as a producer, but as a leader. I'm very grateful for that opportunity. This has had a spill-over effect in my becoming involved in writing and producing music for him as well.
Q: What are you working on at the moment?
A: I just had a sync placement for a song I wrote and produced called "2 Wishes" that will air on Netflix's 'Temptation Island.'
Q: Analog or digital and why?
A: Both! Analog for vibes, digital for precision. You need both!
Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?
A: I promise to give you everything I have to offer. I don't want to do anything halfway in my life.
Q: What do you like most about your job?
A: When you make one of those songs that only existed deep inside someone's heart at one point. Turning something that didn't have words to describe it into a piece of music that says so much more.
Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?
A: That there isn't a vulnerability that has to be present to make good art. I really believe that have the best product, we have to develop trust for each other in this process. That requires vulnerability, and sometimes perhaps even asking difficult questions.
Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?
A: What are your influences? What are your goals for this project?
Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?
A: Let's both approach this with an open mind. I'm always excited to learn from people, and I appreciate that like-mindedness when I find it.
Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?
A: Assuming I can't just bring my laptop.... Nord Stage 4 Akai MPC Martin D28 My dad's old Telecaster My grandpa's old Deluxe Reverb (1972)
Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?
A: I've been playing music for as long as I can remember. From playing keys in church growing up, playing sax in grade school/college, making beats in my bedroom as a kid, and now playing keys and guitar on the road as a music director professionaly, this is all I've ever known. At some point, people started referring to me as a producer, and from then on, that's probably the best way to describe what I do amongst various environments and activities. I'm 32 currently, so I guess that's how long I've been doing it.
Q: How would you describe your style?
A: Song-forward! Production and ear candy must serve the song and the message of the lyrics, not the other way around.
Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?
A: Olivia Dean. Her sound is classic and timeless and she seems like a cool person.
Q: Can you share one music production tip?
A: When writing as a producer, it's way more important to find the song before looking for ear candy and the perfect sounds. I believe that's how many people end up only making 8 bar loops forever.
Q: What type of music do you usually work on?
A: Contemporary country, Pop, CCM, Indie pop
Q: What's your strongest skill?
A: I am very knowledgable of keyboards, synths, and music theory. I'm fortunate to have a strong foundation of learned music and gig experience for when deadlines are tight and obstacles present themselves in the production process.
Q: What do you bring to a song?
A: I have a lot of experience with independent and young artists looking for their sound. I have learned to use my skills as an accomplished keyboardist to work efficiently and navigate creative blocks.
Q: What's your typical work process?
A: Completely depends on the role I'm playing and the timeline.
Q: Tell us about your studio setup.
A: Converted bedroom with acoustic treatment, a vibey and comfortable workspace. I'm set up to track vocals, and also have an assortment of guitar and keyboards at my disposal. I regularly host writing sessions as well as tracking sessions and I primarily work out Ableton Live, but am familiar with Logic and Pro Tools as well.
Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?
A: Gospel, Pop, CCM, Contemporary Country, Jazz, Indie Rock (Mutemath is my favorite band)
Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.
A: Remote keyboard tracking/synth programming, Demo and Full productions, Live arrangements, live playback prep, national and international touring