Loops? Or programming your beats from single hits?
When I started making music, I was mainly using loops. Nowadays I do this less and less; most of the time I just cut a particular sound.
What is the key ingredient in a track: Breakdown? Style of production? Bassline?
The story you want to tell.
When building a track, how do you normally work? Do you start with the drums and build from that?
Usually I start with a kick drum, write a bass around it, and then a synth. Once I am happy with the melodic part, I build the rhythm and then work on the flow.
Do you mainly use analog or digital soft-synth sources? Do you think analog makes a difference?
I don’t have any hardware toys, but judging by the impressions I’ve gotten from people [who use analog gear], it does make a difference.
Any advice on monitoring? Quiet? Loud? Do you prefer flat and boring speakers, headphones, or big, phat, and chunky monitors?
I always try to keep my monitors at a reasonable level, but in the end I find myself turning them up! I definitely don’t like flat speakers! I have a pair of Alesis M1 Active MKIIs, which are far from the best monitors on the market, but I totally love the warm sound that comes out of them!
What are the biggest barriers that new producers face?
Getting your name out there. Thousands of records are being released each week and it’s very hard to stand out, especially if you are too focused on writing the chart-topper rather than concentrating on developing your own sound.
How important do you think it is to have your music mastered commercially? Can you do it yourself as effectively, and what tools would you recommend?
It’s essential. Unfortunately that’s not one of my strong qualities, but I like Waves plugins.
What’s your opinion on processing the mix bus? Leave it clean or drive it to the extreme?
Definitely leaving the bus a bit clean—let your music breathe.
What do you believe is the secret to your success as a producer?
I cannot really say I’ve had spectacular success as a producer so far, but I am not afraid to create whatever I like without caring if it’s trendy! I just have fun and try to think out of the box.
Any advice for aspiring producers out there?
Don’t be afraid to sound different!
