Don Makes Music on SoundBetter

Don helps artists find their sound and build a foundation for their vision through unique and powerful production and songwriting, as well as crisp mixing capabilities and session guitar playing

Blending an eclectic fusion of both new and vintage sounds, Sean Smith ("Don") brings a unique flavor to any piece. A seasoned Classic Jazz and Blues musician, Don complements virtual instruments and samples with smooth guitar licks, fills on the keys and lush background layers to make bangin' productions and crystal clear mixes.

As a writer, Don draws on his love of story telling, character creation and emotional resonance to craft honest, moving songs.

Influences:

Red Hot Chili Peppers, Beatles, Childish Gambino, Kendrick Lamar, Kanye West, Flume, Kygo, Fleetwood Mac, Jimi Hendrix, Simon & Garfunkel, Wes Montgomery, Joe Pass

www.donmakesmusic.com

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Credits

2 Reviews

Endorse Don Makes Music

by Dave S.
Verified
Don was great to work with. He is an excellent producer, songwriter and engineer and works fast. I plan to work with him more in the future!
by Jewel J.
Verified
Don is very versatile because he can create music inspired by different genres... from hip hop to jazz to alternative etc. He also plays various instruments, which is a plus. Further, he is very helpful. During our last session, he helped me come up with different background melodies to add to my existing song. Overall he has good energy

Interview with Don Makes Music

Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?
A: Breathe by Riz La Vie. Executive Producer and Mixing Engineer.
Q: What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?
A: Can you make my record better? Yes.
Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?
A: What's your plan for your music career? Who are your inspirations?
Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?
A: I also run an artist co-living company and when I'm not making music, I'm managing the company
Q: How would you describe your style?
A: From Mellow Bars to Hot Rhythmic and everything in between
Q: Can you share one music production tip?
A: Leave space for the artist
Q: What type of music do you usually work on?
A: Hip Hop, RnB, Neo Soul, Pop, EDM, Singer/Songwriter, Rock and most any contemporary genre
Q: What's your strongest skill?
A: Mixing, Music Production
Q: What do you bring to a song?
A: The hit factor
Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?
A: Frank Dukes, Bob Power, Andrew Scheps, Noah Shebib
Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.
A: Music production and mixing. I also write music.
Q: What are you working on at the moment?
A: 2 albums a few EPs and 30+ singles
Q: Is there anyone on SoundBetter you know and would recommend to your clients?
A: Brett Miller
Q: Analog or digital and why?
A: Analog. It sounds better.
Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?
A: I promise to make music that resonates with you and with listeners
Q: What do you like most about your job?
A: Working with awesome artists who have a vision and are passionate about their music
Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?
A: Producers don't only make beats or EDM tracks. We also help arrange, coach during studio sessions, bring instrumentalists together, etc.
Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?
A: Be upfront with your career goals and your budget. This will help you determine if your working with the right people.
Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?
A: Piano, Acoustic Guitar, Drum Kit, Laptop, Tascam Recorder
Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?
A: Masego. Great sound and creativity
Q: What's your typical work process?
A: I produce in Ableton and record in Pro Tools
Q: Tell us about your studio setup.
A: Located in Bushwick, right off the Jefferson L train stop. Large live room with drums, guitars and full in the box production suite