Artist Development | R&B + Pop

Q: Tell us about your studio setup.

A: Logic X, Pro Tools, Ableton, Adams A7x monitors, Apollo 8, U87, Avalon 737, Wurlitzer 200a, Roland Juno 60, Yahama Cs5, Yamaha Motif, Fender Tele, NI Maschine. Tons of VSTs and plugins.

Q: What's your typical work process?

A: I typically lay down the track and foundation for the song in my studio and then branch out into several studios around NYC as need be for the record. I'm also willing to travel to the artist. I utilize my network of specialized musicians, songwriters, and engineers, and carefully curate a team who can enhance the artist’s unique vision. I oversee the entire production process and collaborate with the artist all along the way.

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

A: I started playing classical trumpet at 10. That was my first foray into learning music. Around age 17 I started learning other instruments and making music on my laptop. I’ve been writing, producing, and composing for over 10 years. And I’ve been running my sync company for 7 years.

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

A: Stay focused on quality. Look for someone who is willing to work with you and take time to understand your vision. Remember the experience will be fun and rewarding, but also work.

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

A: Producing the debut album for an artist who went on to be featured in publications, land syncs, and tour around the US opening for a major artist. We collaborated on everything from music to visuals to the live show. It was very rewarding to be involved in all aspects of his career.

Q: What are you working on at the moment?

A: Producing several EPs, co-writing with label artists, and running my sync licensing company.

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

A: Darren Fewins is an amazing vocal producer based out of Engine Room in NY and a frequent collaborator

Q: Analog or digital and why?

A: Both. Some sounds can only be realized digitally and some sounds can only be achieved with analog gear.

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

A: To be someone who’s willing to collaborate with you and care about the music as much as you do.

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: I love the creative challenges. I love collaborating with inspiring people. I also love the creative resonance you get once you've made something great and it hits right in the heart and leaves you with goosebumps.

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

A: Q: Do your services include everything from producing the track to mix mastering to pitching to sync and is everything included in the proposal? A: Yes. Q: Do you guarantee placements? A: Nothing is ever guaranteed in our industry, but I will do my best to get it placed.

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

A: I think a lot of people don't understand the time, money, and dedication it takes to make a great record. While the process should be fun, production truly takes focus and work.

Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?

A: It would depend on what they present to me, but I’m mainly interested in their influences and what kind of emotion are they trying to convey. Also what do they aspire to do within the music industry.

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

A: Mac laptop with Logic X, Juno 60, Focal monitors, UAD interface, and a U87.

Q: How would you describe your style?

A: Modern, polished, and soulful. I want the listener to feel something when they hear the record. I also like blending programmed instruments with organic instruments just to keep things modern, yet human.

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

A: Anyone dedicated who has a distinct sound and something to say.

Q: Can you share one music production tip?

A: Don't be afraid to make mistakes and experiment. Fail forward. Making a good record is a process of experimenting, following your gut, and discovering what works. The only way you'll make something meaningful is if you can get out of your own way and leave a little room for magic.

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

A: Contemporary rnb, pop, electronic, and hiphop. I occasionally branch out into rock, singer-songwriter, folk, and jazz.

Q: What's your strongest skill?

A: My strongest skill is that I care about the artist progressing and having a successful long-lasting career. I love artist development and I try to utilize all of my resources to help the artist realize their vision.

Q: What do you bring to a song?

A: I always try to bring heart and emotion to a record. I also try to modernize the production so it’s competitive in today’s marketplace.

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

A: Quincy Jones, Timbaland, Missy Elliot, Prince, Michael Jackson, and Kanye are some of my top inspirations. Love how newer artists like Frank Ocean, Solange, and Miguel are bringing left of center ideas while still maintaining emotion and musicality. Also everything 90’s.

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

A: The most common work I do is full record production from demo to completion. I produce a lot of EPs and albums for artists who are looking to find their sound and kick start their careers. I also pitch the material to sync and label opportunities.