K-Pop Producer/Mix Engineer

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Hybrid. I have created a hybrid setup in my studio where most of the work is done within the DAW workspace, but I always make it a point to bring that all back out to analog and sum it through some expensive hardware to bring back that warmth and natural sound.

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

A: A lot of people ask if they can come to my studio and the answer is always YES! Please come by and feel free to listen to the mix in my studio, and we can twist and turn some knobs and get creative if you feel.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: I generally ask for specific details on what they are trying to do with their projects, and if they have any references, and also whether they are on a budget or not. Just because you are on a budget, doesn't mean that you should sacrifice quality. Sure, if you are able to fund your project without any borders you will definitely find yourself having more options, but being on a budget shouldn't mean you would get a lesser quality product. Let's talk and make things happen!

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

A: Just do it, don't hesitate. Once you get the ball rolling, you will absolutely find yourself wishing you had found me sooner :)

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

A: Macbook, Interface, Midi Controller, Microphone, and Headphones.

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

A: I've been at this for the last five years, and started right from graduating out of Berklee College of Music. I had my first gig in Korea working for a major group called TVXQ and moved on to work with a wide range of R&B artists like Jinbo, Crush, Zion T, Jay Park, Heize, and many more. With one thing leading to the next I've been constantly meeting new people and discovering new sounds here in Seoul.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: I am fast, and efficient, all while being precise and detail oriented. I am definitely not afraid of making drastic decisions. and exploring new possibilities within my track writing and mixing.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Always A/B your music/mix against what reference you are looking for. Don't make a carbon clone, but make sure you are hitting the ballpark and have a clear vision for what you are trying to create.

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

A: I normally work on K-Pop, but am versatile and can generally do any style of music ranging from dance tracks to ballads to hip hop/trap. Everything in between!

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: My strongest skill is definitely my background in audio engineering which has trained my ears to hear the finest details, and this helps immensely while writing music as well. I can hear what a song's finished product will sound like before it ever even hits the speakers. Coupled with a very well equipped studio and my secret weapon, the Barefoot MM27s, my ears are definitely well suited for any job related to music.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: I typically write a track first and have my team of topliners write the melody above it. After which we will go into vocal production and recording, and will make any revisions to the track as needed. The track will then be mixed and mastered and ready for distribution. Typical turnarounds will vary but generally track + toplines will be delivered within 3-4 business days, and mixes will be delivered 2-3 days after recording is done.

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: I have a beautiful studio located in Seoul, South Korea that sports names like Pro Tools HD, Barefoot, Neve, SSL, Neumann, Dangerous Audio, Universal Audio, Apogee, and many many more. Feel free to check out my gear list on my website at www.jonskim.com

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

A: I am a producer and songwriter with a background in audio engineering. I write for major artists here in Korea, and also have been working simultaneously as a mix engineer, as well as opening up my studio for recording sessions.