At this point, I have been producing for about three years. I learned almost everything I know from YouTube videos and the rest I have learned from online courses.
I use Logic Pro X. For me, it's a very straight forward DAW to use. It's easy for me to plug in my instruments and record something quickly. It has options for how I want to lay down a beat so it doesn't feel like I’m doing the same thing over and over again. Also, it's very compatible with the plug-ins that I use so I can do all steps of my process in one place.
My favourite piece of gear is definitely my Arturia KeyLab 49. I use that keyboard for everything I do!!!
My favourite software plugins are the Slate Digital suite because it gives me a large array of ways to up my game. Some of my favourites in the suite include the Kilohearts Multipass and the VerbSuite Reverb. I use some form of both of those on most songs.
I like to produce my tracks and mix them myself so usually, I will have different sessions where I'm either solely producing, writing a song and recording, or mixing. I like to record as I write as I find it gives me an extra bit of motivation as I work.
On YouTube, there are a couple of channels I like to watch. The main channels I watch are Curtis King TV and Simon Servida. They both do very in-depth production tutorials with all types of caveats. I’m also a huge fan of the Slate Academy. Through that website, I've been able to learn so much about production and engineering specifically using the Slate Digital plug-ins.
Even though he teaches on FL Studio the steps taken are universal!
Don't normalize your tracks!!! I would also say that being successful at music is not only about making good music, it's also a lot about marketing.
I think my biggest challenges I’ve faced related to making music have been the many learning curves. You can be good at many things but it takes consistency over time to catch on! Also getting a good mix cause that's never done!
Don’t try to be like someone else. Chances are they can do them better than you can. Make your music original and unique to you and that’s your best chance.
I use Slate Digital but that's all.
I always try to get feedback on my music and there are a few ways I like to do it. RepostExchange is always one of my first places. I can test out a song on SoundCloud and iron out the kinks before I put the finals for sale. I also like to send my tracks out to my manager Dunes and my family and friends. They always keep it real with me, especially the younger family members.
My new track Dreams most definitely. I believe anyone who makes music has dreams and my track Dreams is an ode to all the dreamers as well as a reminder of not to slack because you don’t know how long you have.
Most definitely. RepostExchange has made me some awesome connections including my label DUCMG Records discovering me on there. It has opened up the path to many collaborations and relationships. Also, it has helped me to get an immense amount more feedback which has helped me to improve with every track.
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This interview has been lightly edited for brevity and clarity.
