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    Music Production Podcast

    An exploration of music production through informal discussions about technique, philosophy, gear, and creativity. Hosted by Brian Funk, a musician, songwriter, teacher, and Ableton Certified Trainer.
    enBrian Funk362 Episodes

    Episodes (362)

    #362: Finding Support in Community with Michaela Shiloh and Andre Mullen

    #362: Finding Support in Community with Michaela Shiloh and Andre Mullen

    Michaela Shiloh and Andre Mullens run the community-based record label HRDRV, which helps artists develop their careers. Their combined decades of experience in the music industry include writing music for top artists like Janet Jackson and Jennifer Lopez and working for Bad Boy Records. 

    Michaela and Andre discuss the importance of camaraderie and collaboration in running their company, HRDRV. The conversation also delves into the challenges of wearing multiple hats as a musician and the need for a toolbox in the music industry. Michaela and Andre share stories from their journeys in the music business and how they led to the development of HRDRV.

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

     

    Music Production Podcast
    enMarch 11, 2024

    #361: Touring and Performing with Music's Largest Acts - Carlos Sosa

    #361: Touring and Performing with Music's Largest Acts - Carlos Sosa

    Carlos Sosa is a musician, producer, composer, and music director. Sosa formed Grooveline Horns, a 1970s funk and R&B influenced brass group. Carlos tours and records with Maroon 5, Kelly Clarkson, Jason Mraz, Zac Brown Band, and Hanson.

    Carlos and I spoke in-depth about his music career recording and touring with some of music's largest acts. He spoke about how his never-ending desire to learn had him remote-recording since 2004, meeting new people, and landing dream gig after dream gig. Carlos' energy and enthusiasm fuels this great conversation, loaded with insight and wisdom.

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

    Music Production Podcast
    enMarch 06, 2024

    #360: Pick Yourself with Philip Roder

    #360: Pick Yourself with Philip Roder

    Philip Röder is a music producer who runs the Copilco professional mixing and mastering studio in Berlin. Philip's YouTube Channel, Pick Yourself, helps music producers hone their craft and tap into their own personal style. 

    Philip and I had a great conversation about his work and his underpinning philosophies. We went into detail about how he encourages musicians to invest in themselves and "pick yourself." Philip explains how he employs the Go-Giver mindset to his work and how it has brought him success in many aspects of his life.

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

    Music Production Podcast
    enFebruary 26, 2024

    #359: Music Theory, Harmonic Series, Beach Boys with Tim Smolens

    #359: Music Theory, Harmonic Series, Beach Boys with Tim Smolens

    Tim Smolens is a musician, composer, and recording engineer. He teaches music theory on his YouTube channel and at High Castle Music Conservatory. Tim has toured and plays in the bands ISS and High Castle Teleorkestra.

    Tim and I had an inspiring conversation about his work and appreciation of music and chord theory. Throughout the episode, Tim demonstrates the principles on his piano. We discussed the chord theory of the Beach Boys and Soundgarden, the evolution of recording technology, and much more.

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Takeaways:

    • Tim Smolens' YouTube channel focuses on analyzing the chord progressions and music theory behind the Beach Boys' music.
    • The Beach Boys' music is known for its complexity and intricate production techniques.
    • Tim Smolens incorporates interesting chord progressions and extensions in his own music, drawing inspiration from various genres.
    • Home recording has evolved significantly, allowing musicians to create complex and layered compositions.
    • The way music is consumed and appreciated has changed, with a diminished passion for music in society. Music has a profound influence on philosophy and can be explored as a subject of study.
    • Learning to play an instrument can be challenging, but the struggle and resilience required can lead to a deeper appreciation and understanding of music.
    • Technology has revolutionized music production, allowing for greater control and experimentation in creating music.
    • The production of music plays a significant role in creating feelings, moods, and atmospheres.
    • The aesthetics of music, including tone production and composition, can greatly impact the emotional impact of a piece.
    • The studio itself can be considered an instrument, with its unique capabilities and effects on the music.
    • Different musical instruments offer unique challenges and opportunities for expression.
    • Timing and groove are essential elements in music, creating a sense of feel and energy.
    • Studio musicians have played a significant role in shaping the sound and feel of music throughout history.
    • The science of music and tuning, including the harmonic series, can provide a deeper understanding of the relationships between notes and harmonies.
    • Harmonic science is often overlooked in music education, but understanding it can enhance musical compositions and performances.
    • The cultural context in which music is created and perceived can influence the perception and appreciation of different musical elements. Balancing music with a busy life can be challenging, but it is possible to find time for creativity.
    • Creating a dedicated space for music and setting aside specific times for practice and composition can help prioritize musical pursuits.
    • Joining platforms like Patreon and music conservatories can provide valuable resources and support for musicians.
    • Embracing tangential conversations can lead to unexpected insights and creative ideas.

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

     

    Music Production Podcast
    enFebruary 20, 2024

    #358: Sequencers, Humanization, Groove and Feel with Alexkid

    #358: Sequencers, Humanization, Groove and Feel with Alexkid

    Alexkid is a music producer and plug-in designer. He's been releasing house music for decades and designing Max for Live devices for Ableton and Isotonik Studios. Alex now runs 510k Arts, where he releases his powerful sequencers, including the new VST/AU plug-in Seqund. 

    Alexkid and I spoke about his work, music, and experience designing sequencers. He went into great detail about the subtle art of humanization and how groove and feel are an integral part of his sound and sequencer design. He shared his philosophies about having a playful mindset and the importance of moving fast while creating. 

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

    Music Production Podcast
    enFebruary 12, 2024

    #357: Promoting Your Music in 2024 with Alex Akimov

    #357: Promoting Your Music in 2024 with Alex Akimov

    Alex Akimov is the founder of Simple Social, a music digital marketing agency, and Sound.Me, an AI-powered artist and creator platform. He has worked as an artist manager, promoter, and touring guitarist. Alex explores ways to help artists reach their career goals.

    On this episode, Alex discusses his experience in the music industry and his current focus on Simple Social and Sound.Me. He shares strategies about releasing music and building a career in the music industry.

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

    Music Production Podcast
    enFebruary 05, 2024

    #356: Troubadeck Songwriting Cards with Charlie McCarron

    #356: Troubadeck Songwriting Cards with Charlie McCarron

    Charlie McCarron is a film composer, songwriter, and game designer. He is currently running a Kickstarter campaign for his Troubadeck songwriting cards. Charlie ran the Composer Quest Podcast, where he interviewed songwriters and discussed their creative process.

    It was great to catch up with Charlie, who was the 2nd guest on this podcast! Charlie showed us his new Troubadeck, which is a fantastic tool for songwriting and jamming with others. We spoke about Charlie's work in film composing and game design. Throughout the episode, Charlie shared insightful wisdom about the connections between film composing, songwriting, and game design. 

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

    Music Production Podcast
    enJanuary 31, 2024

    #355: Selling an Album for $100 with Thad Cockrell

    #355: Selling an Album for $100 with Thad Cockrell

    Thad Cockrell is a musician, songwriter, and producer in Nashville, TN. His new album, THE KID, comes out January 26th and is available on vinyl for $100. Thad appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon after Fallon discovered his song "Swingin'" at a hardware store.

    In this episode, Thad discusses the evolution of his musical style and the importance of creating from a place of authenticity. He explains how he is challenging the current state of the music industry and the devaluation of music by selling his new record for $100. We had a great conversation about the power of music and songwriting, and the enjoyment of the craft.

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

    Music Production Podcast
    enJanuary 22, 2024

    #354: Finding the Present Moment Through Music with TJ Dumser - Six Missing

    #354: Finding the Present Moment Through Music with TJ Dumser - Six Missing

    TJ Dumser is an ambient artist who makes music as Six Missing. His newest album Here For Now combines modular synths, electronic and acoustic instruments, and immersive field recordings. TJ's music explores human resilience and the power of finding the present.

    TJ and I had a great conversation about his writing process and how he uses music to immerse himself in the present moment. We discussed how so many musical concepts and strategies also apply to everyday life. He also spoke about his musical gear and balancing his work as an artist with his day job.

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

    Music Production Podcast
    enJanuary 06, 2024

    #353: 4 Ways to be More Creative!

    #353: 4 Ways to be More Creative!

    Here are 4 tips I've learned that improve creativity!

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

     

    Music Production Podcast
    enDecember 31, 2023

    #352: Collaborating and Producing with Raul Sotomayor

    #352: Collaborating and Producing with Raul Sotomayor

    Raul Sotomayor is a musician, producer, and DJ from Mexico City. Raul makes Afro-Caribbean electronic music as Tonga Conga. He has a record label and studio named Kaya Records and produces music for a wide range of artists.

    Raul and I had a great time talking about his work as Tonga Conga and his background as a percussionist and DJ. He shared some thoughts on building a studio area that is comfortable and conducive to creativity. Raul detailed his insights on collaboration and helping artists reach their creative goals.  

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

     

    #351: Make Your Own Rules with Andrew Huang

    #351: Make Your Own Rules with Andrew Huang

    Andrew Huang is a musician, producer, video maker, and sound explorer. He's known for his YouTube channel which currently has over 2.35 million subscribers. Andrew recently released the Transit plug-in with Baby Audio, the Ghost Pedal with Endorphines, and the iOS Flip sampler. His new book, Make Your Own Rules, details his story as a music industry misfit and shares advice on how to build a career and navigate through a new and ever-changing musical landscape.

    Andrew and I had a great conversation about his work and how he followed his passion to get where he is today.  Andrew's insights about collaboration and experimentation are valuable lessons for musicians at any stage of their career. Andrew's book is currently available for pre-order and will be released February 6, 2024.

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

    Music Production Podcast
    enDecember 16, 2023

    #350: Stavroz on Creating, Producing, and Performing Their New EP Kick Up the Dust

    #350: Stavroz on Creating, Producing, and Performing Their New EP Kick Up the Dust

    Stavroz is an organic and cinematic electronic music group from Belgium. The award-winning 4-piece combines DJ-style electronic performances with acoustic instruments such as bass, guitar, wind, and brass. In December 2023, they released their Kick Up the Dust EP, combining a variety of styles, moods, energies, and instrumentation.

    I spoke with Gert from Stavroz, whose varied role in the band includes mixing, producing, and performing brass instruments, among other duties. Gert takes us through the band's creative process beginning with song creation, jamming, recording, and live performance. 

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Music Production Club Live Meeting Music:

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

    Music Production Podcast
    enDecember 05, 2023

    #349: Mixing Pop Music with Brent Hendrich

    #349: Mixing Pop Music with Brent Hendrich

    Brent Hendrich is an award-winning mix engineer with over 20 years of experience in the Nashville music industry. He has worked in just about every stage of the recording process and within a wide variety of musical genres. In recent years, Brent has become a specialist in mixing pop music. 

    Brent and I spoke about his work as a pop music mixing engineer. He shared valuable mixing techniques and strategies for reaching the artistic vision of his clients. Brent discussed some challenges he's faced and skills he's learned during his 20+ year career. 

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Music Production Club Live Meeting Music

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

    #348: Getting Inspired By... with Will Hatton

    #348: Getting Inspired By... with Will Hatton

    Will Hatton is a music producer and educator. He runs the popular Inspired By... YouTube Channel and has taught music for over a decade. Will releases music under the name Hush Child.

    Will and I had a great time talking about a wide range of topics. We discussed his work and success with his YouTube Channel. Will shared some insights about how he carved his own path in the music industry. We spent quite a bit of time discussing philosophical principles of creativity and productivity.

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Music Production Club Live Meeting Music

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

    Music Production Podcast
    enNovember 21, 2023

    #347: Battling Through Creative Challenges with Composer Amanda Cawley

    #347: Battling Through Creative Challenges with Composer Amanda Cawley

    Amanda Cawley is an award-winning orchestral composer for film, television, and video games. Amanda's work includes the documentary Visionary Gardeners, the animated series Fireman Sam, and the video game Siegebreaker

    Amanda and I spoke about her work creating sonic worlds for film and video games. She shared how she overcomes creative challenges and blocks, as well as the mental game of writing music. I found Amanda's insights quite valuable and look forward to applying them to my own work!

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Music Production Club Live Meeting Music

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

    Music Production Podcast
    enNovember 15, 2023

    #346: Yeuda Ben-Atar aka Side Brain

    #346: Yeuda Ben-Atar aka Side Brain

    Yeuda Ben-Atar, aka Side Brain, is a musician, producer, and Ableton Certified Trainer. Yeuda has taught countless students both online and in person. He first caught my attention around 2010 using his Sega Dreamcast arcade stick and other video game controllers to perform with Ableton Live. Yeuda regularly releases Ableton Live Packs and tutorials and holds a weekly "Study Group" where he and participants explore music production in all different styles of music. 

    Yeuda and I finally got to speak after years of following each other's work. He spoke about his unlikely path to finding himself at the center of controllerism and the LA Beat scene. Throughout the conversation his passion for what he does is undeniable. 

    If you are in the Los Angeles area, check out the Los Angeles Ableton User Group meeting on November 15, 2023.

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

     

    Music Production Podcast
    enNovember 07, 2023

    #345: Exploration Through Songwriting with Chloe Echo

    #345: Exploration Through Songwriting with Chloe Echo

    Chloe Echo is a singer/songwriter, producer, and educator originally from New Zealand and living in Los Angeles. She just released her new EP Past Life. Chloe teaches for Berklee Online.

    Chloe and I got a chance to reconnect after meeting and writing music together at the Monterey Songwriting Retreat. She spoke about how her past has brought her to where she is now as a person and artist. We reflected on our songwriting sessions together and the lessons we both learned about collaboration and making ourselves vulnerable to write music with new people. 

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

    Music Production Podcast
    enNovember 01, 2023

    #344: Lanier Sammons - Engineer, Composer, and Educator

    #344: Lanier Sammons - Engineer, Composer, and Educator

    Lanier Sammons is an engineer, composer, and teacher at California State University, Monterey Bay. He teaches recording and technology, and has worked on many records, films, concert hall works, and installation pieces.  

    Lanier and I spoke about his work as a teacher and producer, as well as his new track, a cover of ZZ Top's "Waiting for the Bus." We discussed our experiences together at the Monterey Songwriting Retreat, and how collaborating with others helps bring out new ideas and opportunities for music producers.

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

    Music Production Podcast
    enOctober 23, 2023

    #343: Developing Your Craft with Consistency w/ Filip from Flow Prod

    #343: Developing Your Craft with Consistency w/ Filip from Flow Prod

    Filip is a musician and producer who runs the YouTube Channel Flow Prod. Filip shares practical tips and techniques that help music producers improve their music and workflows.

    Filip and I spoke about his work as a producer and YouTuber. He shared some thoughts on balancing music and life, as well as some practical approaches that allow him to create more music at higher levels. 

    Listen on Apple, Spotify, GoogleYouTube

    Show Notes:

    Thank you for listening. 

    Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!

    And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.

    Brian Funk

     

    Music Production Podcast
    enOctober 16, 2023