In this episode we’re talking about RUN DMC and 
how their ground breaking fusion of ROCK and RAP brought bold new sounds to the cultural landscape and changed the world of music forever...

Get ready rock steady cause It's Levels To This...

Chapters

00:00 The Fusion of Musical Worlds
01:22 The Impact of Rockbox and Crossover Genres
14:52 Run-DMC and Aerosmith: A Game-Changing Collaboration
20:22 The Legacy of Run-DMC and the Evolution of Hip-Hop
27:42 Levels 2 This Full OUTRO.mp4

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Fatboi is a Multi-platinum, Grammy nominated, award winning producer whose credits include: Camoflauge, YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Gucci Mane, Young Jeezy, Rocko, Shawty Redd, Flo Rida, Bow Wow, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Juvenile, Yung Joc, Gorilla Zoe, OJ Da Juiceman, 8Ball & MJG, Jeremih, 2 Chainz, Nicki Minaj, Bobby V, Ludacris and Yo Gotti, Monica, Zay Smith, TK Kravitz, Future.

https://twitter.com/thefatboi
https://www.instagram.com/thefatboi_/

______________________________________________

Sensei Hollywood*  (a.k.a. Dan Marshall) is an accomplished musician, producer, engineer, and audio educator who's performed on and engineered multi--platinum records with Big Boi, Outkast, Killer Mike, Chamillionaire, Carlos Santana, Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg, Ron Isley, Lil Wayne, Trillville, Monica, and more...

As an instructor and chair of the Audio Production program at the Art Institute of Atlanta, he he taught a new generation of audio engineers and producers to go on to great things in their own right.

Summary

In this episode, we continue our deep dive into Michael Jackson’s Human Nature, written by Steve Porcaro and featuring the guitar work of session ace Steve Lukather, both of Toto fame.

We’re listening to individual tracks of the multi-track recording and learning about the music theory behind one of the all time great pop songs.

Sensei and Fatboi explore chord progressions, jazz influences, and the importance of collaboration in music creation, emphasizing the creative process from initial ideas to the final product. We delve into the intricacies of music production, vocal techniques, and the creative process behind iconic songs. We also explore the significance of emulation in developing one's unique sound, the influence of legendary artists like Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones, and the evolution of recording techniques over time. The discussion highlights the importance of capturing the essence of a demo, the artistry involved in vocal arrangements, and the lasting impact of musical influences on contemporary artists.

Chapters

00:00 Real-Time Collaboration in Music Production
00:14 Innovative Tools for Remote Recording
01:09 Analyzing Classic Tracks and Production Techniques
08:17 The Role of Jazz in Modern Music Production
11:20 Jazz Influences in Modern Music
14:11 Articulation and Musical Complexity
17:45 The Role of Instrumentation in Songwriting
20:47 Demo-itis and the Creative Process
23:13 Vocal Techniques and Their Impact
26:35 Blending Genres: R&B, Pop, and Jazz
30:40 The Art of Collaboration in Music Production
34:38 Frankenstein: The Metaphor for Music Creation
44:50 The Influence of Church and Jazz on Music
46:02 Capturing the Essence of a Demo
47:33 The Art of Emulation in Music
50:20 The Journey of Finding One's Voice
52:23 The Importance of Learning from Great Artists
54:03 The DNA of Musical Influence
55:13 The Legacy of James Brown and His Impact
56:00 Understanding Lyrics and Vocal Techniques
58:33 The Role of Emotion in Music Production
01:01:32 The Process of Clearing Samples and Collaborations
01:03:16 The Creative Process Behind PYT
01:04:56 The Special Nature of Quincy Jones' Collaborations
01:06:33 The Hidden Nuggets of Music Theory
01:06:50 The Evolution of Recording Techniques
01:08:57 The Transition from Analog to Digital Recording
01:11:16 The Role of Limitations in Creativity
01:13:20 The Signature of Flaws in Music Production
01:15:22 The Future of Music Technology
01:15:24 Levels 2 This Full OUTRO.mp4

Summary

This conversation delves into a deep analysis of Michael Jackson's iconic song 'Human Nature.' The hosts explore the song's production, lyrics, and the complex persona of Michael Jackson, discussing how his experiences and the cultural context of the 80s shaped the music. They reflect on the deeper meanings behind the lyrics and the legacy of the song, emphasizing its impact on pop culture and music history.

Chapters

00:00 Boredom as a Catalyst for Creativity
06:24 Decoding the Lyrics of 'Human Nature'
12:12 The Mystique of Michael Jackson
15:35 The Sound of the City in 'Human Nature'
16:53 Legacy of 'Human Nature': A Reflection
18:28 The Studio 54 Experience: Music and Memory
18:33 Levels 2 This Full OUTRO.mp4

Takeaways

Michael Jackson's 'Human Nature' is a timeless classic.
The song reflects the cultural context of the 80s.
Lyrics of 'Human Nature' reveal deeper emotional themes.
Michael Jackson's persona was more complex than perceived.
The production of 'Human Nature' is iconic and influential.
Studio 54 played a significant role in the song's narrative.
The song captures the essence of youth and nightlife.
Michael Jackson understood the importance of mystique in his career.
The legacy of 'Human Nature' continues to resonate today.

Summary

In this conversation, Sensei and Fatboi delve into the legal dispute surrounding the iconic song 'Every Breath You Take' by The Police, exploring the creative process behind the song, the significance of arrangement, and the implications of music royalties. They discuss the evolution of music production techniques, the influence of other artists, and the legacy of The Police and Sting. The conversation culminates in a reflection on collaboration, compensation, and the impact of money on creative partnerships.

Takeaways

The lawsuit centers around the royalties of 'Every Breath You Take'.
Sting is credited as the sole writer, which is disputed by his bandmates.
The arrangement of the song played a crucial role in its success.
Demos can differ significantly from final versions, impacting the song's reception.
The song's legacy continues to influence pop culture and music today.
Legal disputes in music often highlight the complexities of collaboration.
The evolution of music production has changed how songs are created and perceived.
Sampling has become a common practice, raising questions about credit and compensation.
Creative partnerships can lead to conflict, especially regarding financial rewards.
Understanding the business side of music is essential for artists. 

Chapters

00:00 The Lawsuit Over 'Every Breath You Take'
10:17 The Original Demo vs. The Final Version
19:25 The Impact of Production Choices
26:23 Sampling and Royalties in Modern Music
41:39 Creative Partnerships and Their Dynamics
52:48 Verdict on the Lawsuit: Fair Compensation?
01:08:42 Equitable Arrangements
01:13:15 Final Verdict? Who Gets What?
01:15:43 Levels 2 This Full OUTRO.mp4

Summary

Songwriter, music publisher, and business consultant Tami LaTrell is here to share her incredible journey through the music industry.

We'll dive into how technology has completely changed the game, the crucial importance of understanding intellectual property, and the real challenges independent artists face in a super saturated market. Tami will also talk about founding Mezzo Agency to help artists get their royalties and unclaimed money. Plus, she shares why accountability is key for artists, producers, and publishers, and how education can help creators get paid fairly.

Whether you're an aspiring artist, a seasoned pro, or just love music, Tami’s insights will give you a fresh perspective on the evolving world of music.

Tami LaTrell shares her journey as a songwriter, music publisher, and business consultant in the music industry. She discusses her experiences in songwriting, collaboration, and the evolution of music production technology. Tami emphasizes the importance of understanding intellectual property and the challenges independent artists face in today's saturated market. She reflects on her inspirations, the role of gatekeepers, and the changing value of music in the digital age. Tami's insights provide valuable lessons for aspiring artists navigating the complexities of the music business. In this conversation, Tami LaTrell discusses the significant changes in the music industry, particularly the decline in earnings for artists and producers due to budget cuts and the rise of streaming. She shares her journey in founding Mezzo Agency to help artists navigate the complexities of royalties and unclaimed money. Tami emphasizes the importance of accountability among artists, producers, and publishers, and highlights the need for education in the music business to ensure that creators are compensated fairly for their work.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Tammy LaTrell
07:20 The Evolution of Music Production
07:33 Ownership and Copyright in Music
54:28 The Importance of Education for Artists
58:40 The Impact of Technology on Music Value
01:00:31 The Role of Gatekeepers in the Music Industry
01:02:36 Disparities in Music Royalties
01:06:52 The Changing Landscape of Music Production
01:12:07 The Human Experience in Music Creation
01:19:04 Negotiation Strategies for Creatives
01:20:37 The Birth of Mezzo Agency
01:23:03 Navigating the Music Industry's Challenges
01:27:49 The Importance of Claiming Royalties
01:30:59 Understanding the MLC and Other Revenue Streams
01:36:39 The Role of Attorneys in Music Contracts
01:45:14 Creating a Win-Win Environment in the Music Business
01:47:50 The Treasure of YouTube and Royalties
01:48:22 Legacy Artists and Unclaimed Money
01:49:21 The Shift in Music Consumption
01:50:31 Accountability in Music Publishing
01:51:26 Building a Supportive Music Community
01:53:50 The Importance of Business Acumen for Creators
01:54:58 Continuous Learning in the Music Industry
01:56:17 Finding Hidden Revenue Streams
01:57:48 The Role of Clubs in Music Revenue
02:01:38 The Need for Music Registration Inspections
02:03:17 The Ecosystem of Music Relationships
02:09:57 Sustaining the Music Industry
02:10:25 Lightning Round with Tami LaTrell
02:11:55 Levels 2 This Full OUTRO.mp4
02:12:39 1_33_ intro  tami, fatboi, sensei _ aug 18, 2025_levels_2 this.mp4

Summary

In this conversation, Sensei and Fatboi delve into the intricacies of funk music, exploring its foundational rules and how certain artists, particularly Prince and The Time, have successfully broken these rules while still maintaining the genre's essence. They discuss the importance of musicianship, the role of rhythm, and the challenges of identifying the 'one' in complex musical structures. The dialogue highlights the evolution of funk and its lasting impact on modern music, emphasizing the creativity and innovation that define the genre. In this engaging conversation, Sensei and Fatboi explore the evolution of the music industry, reflecting on nostalgic memories of music retail, the impact of social media on stardom, and the importance of authenticity in music. They pay tribute to cultural icons like Ozzy Osbourne and Michael Jackson, discussing how their unique styles and approaches broke musical norms and left lasting legacies. The duo emphasizes the need for mystique in the modern music landscape, contrasting it with the oversaturation of social media presence.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Funk and Music Projects
01:34 Breaking the Rules of Funk
05:59 The Genius of Prince and the Time
10:37 The Evolution of Funk and Musical Directing
16:04 The Importance of Timing in Music
20:57 Locating the One in Funk Music
25:00 Understanding Rhythm and Timing in Music
30:41 The Influence of Iconic Artists
35:19 The Evolution of the Music Industry
38:14 Authenticity in Music and Performance
41:46 The Impact of Social Media on Artist Mystique
52:10 The Value of Artistic Presence
54:13 The Evolution of Music Consumption
57:35 The Mystique of Superstars
01:00:53 The Impact of Iconic Collaborations
01:03:19 The Legacy of Michael Jackson
01:07:14 The Cross-Genre Influence in Music
01:10:46 The Enduring Appeal of ABBA
01:13:31 Levels 2 This Full OUTRO.mp4

In this episode we talk to DJ Montay, the hit-making producer behind Flo Rida's 'Low.' ft. T- Pain, We'll explore his journey from DJ to producer and how Oomp Camp shaped Atlanta's music scene.  We’re digging deep and talking technical, as he lays out his workflow to produce DIAMOND* Records...

(*Diamond = 10,000,000 units sold!)

Get ready, cause It’s Levels To This

DJ Montay, is a Diamond certified, Grammy Award-nominated record producer and songwriter, who has worked with artists such as Flo Rida, T-Pain, Akon, Future, and Migos. He has a producer credit on Flo Rida's "Low”, which was one of the most successful singles of the 2000s. DJ Montay has had his productions featured on films such as Step Up 3D, Stomp The Yard, and Norbit.

Chapters

00:00 The Rise of DJ Monte and Mixtape Culture
03:08 Transitioning from DJing to Production
06:03 The Work Ethic Behind DJing
08:58 The Evolution of DJing and Production Techniques
12:09 Oomp Camp and the Atlanta Music Scene
14:54 Creating Street Anthems and Club Classics
17:56 Navigating the Music Industry and Staying Relevant
20:53 The Impact of Sampling in Music Production
24:06 The Creative Process of Beat Making
27:03 The Legacy of 'Get Low' and Its Influence
31:10 The Evolution of Music Distribution
34:50 The Rise of Flo Rida and Crossover Hits
37:58 The Impact of Streaming on Music Revenue
46:00 Navigating Changes in the Music Industry
49:59 The Role of Live Performances in Artist Success
56:06 The Mixtape Culture and Its Legacy
59:50 The Influence of Leadership in Music Production
01:02:04 Championing Unsung Heroes in the Industry
01:04:53 Navigating the DJ to Producer Pipeline
01:07:59 The Evolution of Music Trends and Production
01:10:53 Sampling and the New Generation of Artists
01:14:07 Appreciation for Legacy and New Interpretations
01:14:57 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights from the Pros

From Turntables to Tracks: DJ Montay's Journey Through Hip-Hop History

Join us for an electrifying conversation with DJ Montay, a true pioneer who's witnessed the Atlanta music scene evolve firsthand. In this episode, Montay takes us on a journey from his early days spinning records to becoming a master music producer, sharing invaluable insights into the grind of DJ culture and the challenges of the ever-changing music industry.

Discover how mixtapes became the lifeblood of Southern hip-hop, propelling artists and sounds into the mainstream. Montay pulls back the curtain on the creative process behind hit records like "Get Low," revealing the dedication and artistry required to craft iconic tracks. He shares his wisdom on staying relevant in a fast-paced industry while remaining humble amidst success.

We also dive deep into the evolution of music distribution, from the era of physical media to the dominance of digital streaming. Learn how this shift has impacted artist and producer revenue, and how the rise of crossover hits, like those by Flo Rida, reshaped the landscape. The enduring power of live performances and the legacy of mixtape culture are also explored, highlighting their continued influence on the industry.

Finally, we discuss the intricate dynamics of music production, the crucial role of leadership in shaping the industry, and the evolving relationship between DJs and producers. Montay emphasizes the importance of recognizing unsung heroes in the music scene and the challenges faced by new artists today. We even touch on the impact of sampling on music and our appreciation for legacy artists, all culminating in a rapid-fire segment that offers unique personal insights from DJ Montay himself.

Don't miss this opportunity to hear from a legend! Hit subscribe and turn on notifications so you don't miss future episodes.

#DJMontay #AtlantaHipHop #MusicProduction #MixtapeCulture #MusicIndustry #GetLow #FloRida #MusicEvolution #Podcast

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Fatboi is a Multi-platinum, Grammy nominated, award winning producer whose credits include: Camoflauge, YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Gucci Mane, Young Jeezy, Rocko, Shawty Redd, Flo Rida, Bow Wow, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Juvenile, Yung Joc, Gorilla Zoe, OJ Da Juiceman, 8Ball & MJG, Jeremih, 2 Chainz, Nicki Minaj, Bobby V, Ludacris and Yo Gotti, Monica, Zay Smith, TK Kravitz, Future.

https://twitter.com/thefatboi
https://www.instagram.com/thefatboi_/

______________________________________________

Sensei Hollywood*  (a.k.a. Dan Marshall) is an accomplished musician, producer, engineer who's performed on and engineered multi--platinum records with Big Boi, Outkast, Killer Mike, Chamillionaire, Carlos Santana, Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg, Ron Isley, Lil Wayne, Trillville, Monica, and more...

He was formerly an instructor and the chair of the Audio Production program at the Art Institute of Atlanta where he taught a new generation of audio engineers and producers to go on to great things in their own right.

https://www.instagram.com/senseihollywood
https://twitter.com/senseihollywood.

Today we’re talking to grammy nominated engineer Scott Taylor, AKA Scotti

He’s leveled up from my Audio 101 class to the top of the charts working with J.I.D. Rae Sremmund, and Travis Scott

The student has become the teacher, so get your pencils ready

It’s levels to this

Summary

In this engaging conversation, the speakers reflect on their experiences in the music industry, emphasizing the importance of authentic teaching, studying the greats, and navigating the studio environment. They discuss the journey from being a student to becoming a professional, the significance of building relationships, and the role of confidence and trust in collaboration. The conversation also touches on managing egos, the art of communication, and the value of sharing knowledge in the creative process. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of the music industry, discussing the importance of hard work, humility, and the ability to adapt in a fast-paced environment. They share personal experiences from long studio sessions, the significance of wearing multiple hats, and the evolving landscape of music in the face of technological advancements like AI. The dialogue emphasizes the value of collaboration, learning, and teaching within the creative process, while also reflecting on past successes and future aspirations.

Chapters

00:00 The Impact of Authentic Teaching
03:00 From Student to Professional: A Journey in Music
05:58 The Importance of Studying the Greats
08:53 Navigating the Studio Environment
12:01 Building Relationships in the Music Industry
15:02 The Role of Confidence and Trust in Collaboration
18:07 Ego Management in Creative Spaces
21:08 The Art of Communication and Feedback
23:53 Teaching and Sharing Knowledge in Music
27:04 Creating a Positive Vibe in the Studio
34:53 The Studio Experience: Time and Ego Management
40:53 The Journey of Hard Work and Humility
46:50 Wearing Multiple Hats in the Music Industry
52:31 The Evolution of Music and the Role of AI
01:01:47 Reflections on Success and Future Aspirations

______________________________________________

Fatboi is a Multi-platinum, Grammy nominated, award winning producer whose credits include: Camoflauge, YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Gucci Mane, Young Jeezy, Rocko, Shawty Redd, Flo Rida, Bow Wow, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Juvenile, Yung Joc, Gorilla Zoe, OJ Da Juiceman, 8Ball & MJG, Jeremih, 2 Chainz, Nicki Minaj, Bobby V, Ludacris and Yo Gotti, Monica, Zay Smith, TK Kravitz, Future.

https://twitter.com/thefatboi

https://www.instagram.com/thefatboi_/

______________________________________________

Sensei Hollywood*  (a.k.a. Dan Marshall) is an accomplished musician, producer, engineer who's performed on and engineered multi--platinum records with Big Boi, Outkast, Killer Mike, Chamillionaire, Carlos Santana, Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg, Ron Isley, Lil Wayne, Trillville, Monica, and more...

He was formerly an instructor and the chair of the Audio Production program at the Art Institute of Atlanta where he taught a new generation of audio engineers and producers to go on to great things in their own right.

https://www.instagram.com/senseihollywood

https://twitter.com/senseihollywood.

*F.K.A. ThundaDan

Today we’re talking to grammy nominated engineer 
DEE BROWN, currently working as a staff engineer at Apple Music in Nashville

Rick Ross, Kendrick Lamar and H.E.R. have benefitted from his experience

And so should you

We got his take on AI, Dolby Atmos, the future of music production, and much more

Social Media:
INSTAGRAM - @thed247 #studiolife 
TWITTER - @thed247
FACEBOOK - Dee Brown 

Get ready
Cause its levels to this...

In this conversation, Grammy-nominated engineer Dee Brown discusses the evolving landscape of music production, particularly focusing on the use of Atmos technology, the role of AI in creativity, and the importance of studio techniques. He shares insights on building personal studios, the intricacies of mixing in Atmos, and the future of music consumption in a world increasingly dominated by technology. We delve into the evolving landscape of audio technology and music engineering and discuss the impact of new audio formats like Atmos, the challenges faced by independent engineers, and the role of AI in music production. The conversation also touches on the future of music sampling and the importance of musicianship in an increasingly digital world.

Chapters

00:00 The Role of Atmos in Music Production
02:49 AI and Creativity in Music
06:02 Studio Techniques and Equipment
09:03 Building a Personal Studio
12:02 Understanding Atmos Mixing
15:01 The Future of Atmos and Music Consumption
27:09 Exploring New Audio Technologies
30:35 The Journey of a Music Engineer
32:18 Challenges in the Music Industry
35:35 The Role of AI in Music Production
40:32 The Evolution of Music Sampling
46:06 The Future of Music Engineering

Here in part 2 of our conversation with grammy award winning recording engineer Kori Anders, we delve into the evolution of music production, highlighting the shift from analog to digital, the impact of technology on creativity, and the challenges faced by modern engineers. We discuss the role of AI in music production, the future of immersive sound technologies like Dolby Atmos, and the importance of maintaining the vibe in music. Kori, Sensei, and Fatboi share memorable studio experiences and insights from their careers, emphasizing the need for adaptability in an ever-changing industry.

Chapters

00:00 Evolving with Technology in Music Production
03:07 The Shift from Analog to Digital
05:58 The Role of Templates in Mixing
08:47 Embracing AI in Music Production
12:04 The Future of Dolby Atmos in Music
14:57 Consumer Experience and Music Quality
18:14 The Importance of Vibe in Mixing
21:01 Learning from New Producers
24:04 Memorable Studio Experiences
29:59 Final Thoughts and Advice
31:33 LEVEL UP Lightning Round: We put Kori on the spot

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“Before I even knew there was such a career as audio engineering, I was just a kid growing up in San Jose, California who wanted to be a DJ.”

Mention anything music related to this guy, and watch his face light up.  Kori Anders is as passionate as they come when it comes to Mix Engineers.  Back in 2002 he was literally a month away from starting law school, when he decided to instead take a leap of faith and pursue his passion for music by enrolling in Full Sail University’s Recording Arts program.  That leap of faith has reaped rewards that have surpassed anything he could have ever imagined.  Through out the little more than a decade he has been an engineer, Kori has worked with a plethora of amazing artists and producers including Nicki Minaj, Usher Raymond, Wyclef Jean, and Pharrell Williams.  He has worked on more than 20 Gold and Platinum selling Albums and has received Grammy Nominations for his work on Akon’s “Konvicted” album and Faith Evans’ “R&B Divas” album.   In 2010, he joined elite company by becoming a Grammy Award Winning Engineer for his work on BeBe and CeCe Winans’ Best Contemporary Gospel Album, “Still”.  

Kori draws from a combination of a diverse musical palette, his roots as a DJ, and his uncanny ear for detail, to provide his clients with a polished sound that enhances the emotional intent of the artist.  On the few days off from mixing that he does have, Kori is often still found in the studio creating. Music is sacred to him, and for that reason, quality is the only option.

“Its an amazing feeling to breath life into some of the records that become the soundtracks to millions of people’s lives.  I wouldn’t trade my career for any other career in the world!” 

-Kori Anders

______________________

ABOUT THE HOSTS:

______________________

Fatboi is a Multi-platinum, Grammy nominated, award winning producer whose credits include: Camoflauge, YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Gucci Mane, Young Jeezy, Rocko, Shawty Redd, Flo Rida, Bow Wow, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Juvenile, Yung Joc, Gorilla Zoe, OJ Da Juiceman, 8Ball & MJG, Jeremih, 2 Chainz, Nicki Minaj, Bobby V, Ludacris and Yo Gotti, Monica, Zay Smith, TK Kravitz, Future.

https://twitter.com/thefatboi
https://www.instagram.com/thefatboi_/

______________________________________________

Sensei Hollywood*  (a.k.a. Dan Marshall) is an accomplished musician, producer, engineer who's performed on and engineered multi--platinum records with Big Boi, Outkast, Killer Mike, Chamillionaire, Carlos Santana, Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg, Ron Isley, Lil Wayne, Trillville, Monica, and more...

He was formerly an instructor and the chair of the Audio Production program at the Art Institute of Atlanta where he taught a new generation of audio engineers and producers to go on to great things in their own right.

https://www.instagram.com/senseihollywood
https://twitter.com/senseihollywood.