Session Musician / Guitarist

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

A: I've had the privilege of collaborating with an impressive roster of top artists, including: Justin Timberlake, Ed Sheeran, Karol G, Camila Cabello, Ricky Martin, Alejandro Sanz, Anuel, Enrique Iglesias, Pedro Capó, Camilo, Reik, Nicky Jam, Gloria Trevi, Ricardo Arjona, India Martinez, Paulo Londra, CNCO, and many more. Working with such talented artists has been an incredible experience, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to contribute my skills to their music.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: Currently, I'm fully immersed in recording music 24/7. I'm passionate about creating high-quality music, and I do it with dedication and enthusiasm. Every day, I work on multiple projects, recording between 3 to 5 songs daily for national and international artists, many of whom I connect with through SoundBetter. Recording is my life, my everything. I'm passionate about the creative process and the opportunity to collaborate with talented artists from around the world. I'm committed to excellence and innovation in every project I take on.

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

A: Absolutely! I'm happy to recommend Drummer Juan Guillermo Aguilar Bayer, a talented musician and colleague I've had the pleasure of working with. His exceptional skills, versatility, and professionalism make him an excellent choice for any project requiring top-notch drumming. Juan's expertise spans a wide range of genres, and his ability to adapt to different styles and musical directions is impressive. I've witnessed firsthand his dedication to delivering high-quality performances that elevate any song. If you're looking for a reliable, creative, and skilled drummer to collaborate with, I highly recommend Juan Guillermo Aguilar Bayer. You can find him on SoundBetter, and I'm confident he'll bring value and excellence to your project.

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: I'm a firm believer in embracing both analog and digital technologies in music production. While each has its unique strengths and weaknesses, the lines between them have blurred significantly in recent years. Analog equipment offers a distinct warmth, character, and tactile experience that many musicians and producers still cherish. The physicality of analog gear can inspire creativity and foster a deeper connection with the music. On the other hand, digital technologies provide unparalleled flexibility, precision, and convenience. Software plugins, digital instruments, and recording platforms have revolutionized the music-making process, allowing for faster workflow, greater experimentation, and easier collaboration. Ultimately, the choice between analog and digital comes down to personal preference, the specific needs of the project, and the desired sonic aesthetic. By combining the best of both worlds, I aim to create rich, engaging, and timeless music that resonates with listeners.

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

A: My promise to my clients is simple yet uncompromising: I guarantee to pour my heart, soul, and expertise into every recording, ensuring that each project receives the utmost care, attention, and passion. You can trust that I will: - Deliver exceptional quality and professionalism in every aspect of the recording - Bring creativity, innovation, and precision to enhance your song - Collaborate closely with you to understand your vision and exceed your expectations - Provide timely, reliable, and transparent communication throughout the process Your music is my top priority, and I'm committed to helping you achieve your artistic goals.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: What I love most about my job is the limitless creativity it offers. As a musician, I see myself as an artist, similar to a painter. I have the freedom to choose my colors, techniques, and textures, and then bring my vision to life. Recording is an exhilarating experience because every take is a new adventure, a new world waiting to be discovered. There are no boundaries, no limits, and no rules. I thrive on the uncertainty and excitement of creating something new and original. For me, music is about exploration, experimentation, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Every recording session is a new opportunity to innovate, to challenge myself, and to create something truly remarkable. That's my passion, my goal, and my driving force.

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

A: Two of the most common questions I receive from customers are: 1. What equipment do you use? My answer: I use a combination of high-end equipment and software to ensure top-notch quality. Specifically, my setup includes [list your equipment, e.g., Apogee Symphony MKII, Neumann U87 microphone, etc.]. 2. What files or materials do I need to send you before recording? My answer: To ensure a smooth and efficient recording process, please provide me with the following: - A clear brief outlining your vision and goals for the project - Any relevant reference tracks or demos - Stems or individual tracks for the song (if applicable) - A rough mix or demo of the song (if applicable) - Any specific instructions or guidelines for the recording By providing these materials, you'll help me understand your project's unique needs and deliver high-quality results that meet your expectations.

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

A: One of the biggest misconceptions about my work as a session musician is that it's simply a technical process. People often think that I just show up, play the right notes, and that's it. But the truth is, my job is about creativity, interpretation, and bringing a song to life. I love the fact that every new project is like a blank canvas, waiting for me to add my colors, textures, and emotions. It's an incredible feeling to start with nothing and then hear the finished product, knowing that I played a key role in shaping its sound and character. For me, this process is addictive – it's a rush of creativity and self-expression that drives me to keep pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: When working with prospective clients, I ask a series of questions to ensure I fully understand their vision and goals for the project. Some of the key questions I ask include: - What is the specific style or genre you're aiming for? - Are there any particular influences or references you'd like me to draw from? - Do you have any specific ideas or concepts in mind for the recording? - Are there any specific sounds, tones, or textures you're looking to feature? - What is the desired mood or atmosphere you want to convey in the recording? - Are there any specific technical requirements or specifications I should be aware of? By asking these questions, I can gather as much information as possible to ensure I deliver a recording that meets and exceeds the client's expectations.

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

A: For anyone looking to hire a provider like me, I'd offer the following advice: When working with a musician or producer, it's essential to communicate clearly about your vision, goals, and expectations. Be open to feedback and suggestions, as we can bring valuable insights to enhance your project. Also, remember that every collaboration is a two-way street. Be respectful, responsive, and timely in your interactions, and we'll do the same. Ultimately, trust is key. When you entrust your music to us, we take that responsibility seriously. Our goal is to deliver exceptional results that exceed your expectations. By working together with mutual respect, trust, and open communication, we can create something truly remarkable.

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

A: 1 Acoustic Guitar 1 Electric Guitar 1 Pedal Steel 1 Amp 1 tuner

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

A: With nearly a 2 decade of experience in the music industry, I've established myself as a versatile and accomplished session and touring musician. Over the past 16 years, I've had the privilege of working on diverse projects, collaborating with talented artists, and performing on stages around the world. My career has been a continuous journey of growth, learning, and creativity, with a strong focus on delivering exceptional quality and professionalism in every aspect of my work.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: My style is a vibrant fusion of diverse musical influences, reflecting my eclectic background and creative approach. With a broad range of genres informing my work, I've developed a unique sound that defies categorization. Imagine a musical passport stamped with the rhythms and flavors of multiple countries – that's what you'll experience when listening to my recordings. My style is a dynamic blend of cultures, genres, and emotions, resulting in a distinctive sound that's both globally inspired and uniquely my own.

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

A: I have a dream list of artists I'd love to collaborate with, including John Mayer, Justin Bieber, Bruno Mars, and Justin Timberlake, among others. What draws me to these artists is not only their incredible talent and dedication to their craft, but also their commitment to delivering high-quality live performances. Watching their live shows, you can see the attention to detail, the professionalism, and the passion that goes into creating an unforgettable experience for their fans. I admire their work ethic, their creativity, and their ability to connect with audiences around the world. Working with any of these artists would be an incredible opportunity for me to learn from them, grow as a musician, and contribute my skills and expertise to help create something truly special.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Here's a valuable music production tip for recording acoustic guitars: After capturing a great take, try subtly shifting the acoustic guitar track to the right in the grid, just a small amount. This technique, known as 'slight delay' or 'micro-offset,' can create a more natural, human feel and enhance the guitar's rhythmic interaction with other instruments. By introducing a tiny delay, you can create a sense of space and depth, making the acoustic guitar sound more organic and authentic. Experiment with this technique to find the perfect balance for your track.

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

A: I'm a versatile musician who thrives on working with a wide range of genres. While I'm comfortable working on any type of music, my specialties include: - Latin music (Salsa, Merengue, Reggaeton, Champeta) - Popular genres (Pop, Rock, Reggae) - High-energy styles (Metal, Funk, Hard Rock) - Electronic and dance music (EDM, Electronic) - Jazz and Fusion I'm passionate about bringing my skills and experience to any project, regardless of the genre. My goal is to deliver exceptional results that meet and exceed my clients' expectations.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: My strongest skills are a combination of technical expertise, artistic creativity, and personal qualities that enable me to deliver exceptional results. Specifically: - Professionalism: I maintain a high level of organization, communication, and reliability to ensure seamless collaborations. - Creativity: I bring a unique perspective and innovative approach to every project, ensuring that each recording is distinct and engaging. - Quality Sound: I'm meticulous about capturing and delivering high-quality audio that meets the highest industry standards. - Punctuality: I understand the importance of meeting deadlines and deliver my work on time, every time. - And, above all, being a nice person: I believe that a positive attitude, respect, and kindness are essential for building strong relationships and achieving outstanding results.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: As a creative and versatile musician, I bring a unique blend of imagination, technical skill, and attention to detail to every song I work on. My goal is to elevate the original idea of the producer or arranger, while always respecting their artistic vision. When working with sheet music or specific instructions, I am meticulous in my interpretation, ensuring that I deliver a precise and accurate performance. However, when given the freedom to improvise or contribute my own ideas, I thrive on the opportunity to add my own creative flair to the song. With a deep understanding of music theory and a keen ear for melody, harmony, and rhythm, I am confident in my ability to craft a performance that complements and enhances the song, taking it to new heights.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: My typical work process begins with receiving the session files or audio. I then request detailed instructions from the producer to ensure I understand their specific goals and requirements for the recording. Once I have a clear understanding of the project, I start working on the recording. Throughout the process, I send regular bounces to the producer to keep them informed and ensure I'm meeting their expectations. Upon completing the recording, I send a final bounce to the producer or arranger for approval. If they're satisfied with my work, I proceed to send all the audio files. If any corrections are needed, I make them until they're completely happy

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: _Top-Notch Equipment and Technology:_ - Apogee Symphony MKII 8x8 - Dangerous Monitor ST - Fractal Axe Fx III - BAE 1073, 1084 - Chandler Germanium, TG2 - Neve 8803 Stereo EQ - Distressor EL8X - Tube-Tech Compressor CL1B - Pro Tools HD - ATC Monitors SCM25A Pro MKI - Microphones: Neumann U87, U47FET, KM 184, Mojave MA-1000, AKG 414 ULS, and more - Electric Guitars: Gibson Les Paul Custom 59, Gibson 335 Custom 59, Gibson SG custom 64, Gibson TV special Custom 57, Gibson Custom Firebird 63, Gretsch RHH, PRS DGT, Fender Stratocaster Custom Shop HSS, Fender Telecaster, Fender Custom Jazzmaster 59, Fender Custom Jaguar 62, Suhr Modern, Baritone Guitar,Sitar, Pedalsteel, Fernandes Sustainer, Rickenbacker 360/12C63 12 Strings - Acoustic Guitars: Gibson SJ200, Gibson J45, Martin OMJM John Mayer, Martin D25 12Strings, Dobro (Resonador) _I'm Ready to Take Your Music to the Next Level!_

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

A: I draw inspiration from a wide range of talented musicians and music production professionals. John Mayer is a significant influence on my playing style and approach to music. As for session musicians, I have immense respect for the work of Dan Warner, Tom Bukovac, Rob McNelley, and Brian Sutton - their attention to detail and commitment to excellence are traits that I strive to emulate in my own work. My ideology is centered around delivering high-definition (HD) quality recordings that capture the true essence of the music. I'm constantly seeking out and learning from other musicians and producers who share this vision, and I'm always looking for new ways to push the boundaries of what's possible in music production

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

A: I specialize in recording a wide range of guitars and stringed instruments, including Acoustic Guitars, Electric Guitars, Mandolin, Banjo, Ukulele, Lap Steel Guitar, Bass Guitars, and Charango, among others. My goal is to deliver high-definition (HD) quality audio files that meet and exceed my clients' expectations. I take pride in providing fully edited, high-quality audio files that are tailored to each client's specific needs. Whether it's a solo instrument or a multi-track recording, I strive to capture the perfect sound and tone to bring my clients' musical visions to life