How long have you been producing music and how did you learn? 

I’m pretty new to the game but as a kid, I was addicted to Music 2000 and eJay on the PlayStation 1 and used to spend hours arranging tracks. This gave me the bones of knowledge of how to structure each element within a track. I then used a couple of arranging apps for fun and then I decided I’m going to kick off properly producing a couple of years ago, and started releasing last year.

I learn by just playing around on the DAW with sounds, watching tutorials and making many mistakes!

What DAW(s) do you use and why?

I’ve tried a lot! but I am currently on Ableton Live 11. I have a ninja-like work approach, create swiftly while in the ‘zone’ and Live 11 is a very intuitive DAW that suits this style.

I still have Reaper and use that often as I’m used to it. I use n-Track Studio on my phone to be able to do stuff when I’m not near my PC and just export sounds onto my DAWs from there.

What are your favourite pieces of gear and why?

Probably my little Arturia minilab MKII midi keyboard, it integrates really well and is incredibly cheap!

What are your favourite software plugins and why?

As I’ve just switched over to Ableton I am trying out Output Arcade stuff with it. Super cool so far! I still use Reaper ReaPlugs too. I am keen to give Serum a go one day soon and also look into Soundtoys after receiving recommendations from others.

How would you summarise your approach/workflow when creating a track?

Usually, start with a sample of some kind, whether it is a drumline I like or a vocal, a particular bassline….I'll build around it, and hopefully fast as my best stuff is made rather quickly. Overthinking a track can kill it for me sometimes!

What resources do you use to improve your craft?

Ableton YouTube tutorials are hot on my viewing list right now and I generally read blogs and talk to other creators.

What is the last YouTube tutorial you watched that you would recommend to other Re-Ex Members?

What knowledge or advice do you wish you'd learned earlier?

• Not everyone is going to like your sound. Don’t take it personally.
• Engage with artists whose music you genuinely like, don’t be afraid to ask for tips or feedback. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
• Layer the sounds, especially drums.

What challenges related to making music do you face and how do you overcome them?

Finding time to produce is always a challenge with work and other interests. I just squeeze it in whenever I can.

Sometimes I lose interest in a track I’m working on, and I’ve found it’s better to just completely walk away from it and come back to it weeks/months later and usually, you’ll be able to finish it with fresh ears and a fresh perspective.   

Can you share any killer tips or techniques?

I’m still such a newbie but here is my advice for fellow newbies:

Adding vocals to any track, whether it is a sample chop or straight up acapella will give the music some soul and make it much more memorable for the listener. 

If you’re creating for DJs, play your track in a mix and work out if you need to make it more user friendly if that’s going to be your angle. E.g. longer intros, removing the drums in breaks etc.

Do you try and get feedback or suggestions to improve your music? If so, how?

Absolutely, I’ll get a chosen few to listen before I drop a track and take on their feedback and ideas. It’s hard to take criticism of something you’re proud of but it’s worth the ego hit in the long run.

Which track are you most proud of and why?

My remix of Danny Jenks ‘Stress’ turned out pretty good I think, my liquid edit suited the vocals he used in that track and the bass variations I created I’m especially happy with.

Has RepostExchange affected the way you make music? If so, how?

It’s connected me with other producers and helped me develop getting solid feedback and help gain skills and ideas by working together on remixes and collabs. 

Desert Island Gear

Top L-R: Arturia MiniLab MKII Midi Keyboard, Output Arcade.

Bottom L-R: Ableton Live 11, Behringer HPS3000 Studio Headphones, Reaper.

Connect with Jane Doe DnB on SoundCloud.

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This interview has been lightly edited for brevity and clarity.