It's Levels To This

Chapters

00:00 ESP and the Power of Thought
03:24 The Birth of Trap Music
06:14 The Struggles Behind Trap Music
09:00 Cultural Impact of the Crack Epidemic
11:36 The Legacy of Trap Music
01:02:42 Levels 2 This Full OUTRO.mp4

Is the soul of music being averaged out? In this episode of It’s Levels To This, Dan Marshall and Fatboi stage an AI intervention. We dive into the Suno rabbit hole to ask a hard question: Can a computer ever truly recreate the "dirt" and character that makes the Blues the foundation of everything we love?

We also tackle the Gene Simmons vs. Hip Hop debate. If Run-DMC are the Kings of Rock, how can you separate the family? From Prince’s "Purple Rain" miracle to the art of mimicry used by legends like MJ and John Lennon, we trace the DNA that connects the "Big Three"—Rock, Country, and Hip Hop.

Chapters

00:00 The Creative Process: Mimicry and Originality
08:49 The Distinction Between Singers and Artists
14:23 Influences and the Creation of Unique Sound
18:06 Divine Intervention in Performance
20:03 The Impact of Iconic Performances
21:08 The Debate on Music Hall of Fame
24:51 The Interconnection of Genres
29:10 Hip Hop: Rock's Little Brother
31:33 The Power of Music Genres
37:14 Recognition in the Music Industry
38:54 The Nature of Awards and Recognition
46:12 Levels 2 This Full OUTRO.mp4

Sensei says: "I recently caught my 12-year-old son obsessing over my 40-year-old Walkman. Watching him discover that tactile, imperfect sound made me realize something: modern records are often "perfect," but they feel completely empty. They have the polish, but they’ve lost the pulse."

In this episode, we’re bridging the gap between analog nostalgia and modern digital chaos. We’re breaking down why "imperfection" is actually a production tool and how legends like George Clinton and Thundercat use creative friction to keep their music alive.

If you’ve ever felt like your tracks are missing that "soul," or you’re struggling to manage big personalities in the studio, this breakdown is for you.

What we cover in this episode:

Analog vs. Digital: 
Why my son's Walkman has something modern Spotify tracks are missing.

The "No Man" Secret: 
Why George Clinton avoided "Yes Men" to find true genius.

Creative Flow: 
How to use mimicry to find your original voice.

The Artist Whisperer: 
Navigating personalities and ego behind the console.

Chapters

00:00 The Nostalgia of Analog Music
02:34 The Evolution of Music Production Techniques
05:41 The Influence of Thundercat and Eclecticism in Music
08:39 The Art of Songwriting and Creative Flow
11:38 Breaking Musical Norms and Expectations
14:34 The Legacy of George Clinton and Creative Collaboration
20:29 The Art of Production and Control
23:50 Navigating Artist Personalities
26:31 Behind the Scenes: The Unsung Heroes
30:31 The Role of Yes Men and No Men
33:48 The Creative Process: Mimicry and Originality
36:00 Levels 2 This Full OUTRO.mp4

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.

Keywords

music, Grammy, 1984, 2026, sampling, technology, concept albums, media influence, music production, music trends, music production, songwriting, industry dynamics, ownership, creativity, performance, cultural shifts, K-Pop, timelessness, competition

Takeaways

Rick Beato's comparison of Grammy nominees highlights a perceived decline in music quality.
The conversation reflects on the nostalgia for music from past decades.
Gatekeeping in the music industry has changed with the rise of social media.
The ease of music production today has led to a saturation of similar sounds.
Sampling has evolved, with many artists relying on existing tracks without adding originality.
The concept album has become rare in modern music, with many artists focusing on singles.
The influence of media, especially MTV, shaped music consumption in the past.
Today's music often lacks the distinctiveness of past eras due to homogenization.
The role of producers and songwriters has expanded, leading to more collaborative efforts.
The discussion touches on the cultural impact of artists like Michael Jackson and their legacy. The modern music industry often involves multiple writers and producers for a single track.
Budgets for music production have significantly decreased over the years.
Ownership and independence in music are becoming increasingly important.
The quality of modern music is often perceived as lacking energy and originality.
Producers play a crucial role in shaping an artist's performance and sound.
Cultural shifts have changed the way music is consumed and appreciated.
K-Pop represents a new trend in music that combines energy and youthfulness.
Timelessness in music is a key factor for lasting success.
Competition among artists can drive creativity and innovation in music.
Authenticity and self-belief are essential for artists to thrive in today's industry.

Summary

In this conversation, the speakers discuss the evolution of music from the 1980s to the present day, focusing on the perceived decline in quality and originality. They explore the impact of technology, the role of gatekeeping, and the significance of concept albums. The discussion also touches on the influence of media on music trends and the changing landscape of music culture, highlighting the challenges and opportunities faced by modern artists. In this conversation, Fatboi and Sensei explore the evolution of music production, the changing dynamics of the industry, and the importance of authenticity and performance in modern music. They discuss the impact of technology on songwriting, the significance of ownership, and the need for competition and collaboration among artists. The dialogue also touches on cultural shifts in music consumption and the quest for timelessness in contemporary songs.

Titles

Is Modern Music Losing Its Touch?
Comparing Grammy Nominees: Then vs. Now

 sound bites

"Does today's music suck?"
"Hip hop got away from us."
"It's levels to this."

Chapters

00:00 Does Modern Music Suck? Rick Beato Says:Yes! We React
00:53 INTRO
01:32 Reacting to Music Trends and Grammy Nominations
05:18 The Evolution of Songwriting
09:26 The Impact of Music on Culture
14:20 MTV's Role in Music Popularity
19:22 The Concept of Albums vs. Singles
24:22 The Changing Landscape of Music Production
29:25 The Influence of Soundtracks on Music
32:17 Sampling and Its Artistic Value
35:48 The Evolution of Music and Sampling
39:34 The Changing Landscape of Songwriting and Production
43:48 Ownership and the Music Industry
46:20 The State of Modern Music and Performance
51:53 The Impact of Technology on Music Consumption
57:04 Cultural Shifts in Music and Society
01:02:36 The Evolution of Song of the Year
01:04:33 The Competitive Landscape of Music
01:07:15 The Importance of Rivalry in Music
01:08:25 The Role of Originality and Authenticity
01:29:40 Finding the Balance in Music Creation
01:34:53 Levels 2 This Full OUTRO.mp4

Summary

In this conversation, Fatboi and Sensei reflect on the legacy of Stax Records and the contributions of Steve Cropper, highlighting the art of collaboration and the unpredictable nature of creating hits. We explore the journey of musicians, emphasizing the importance of paying dues and gaining experience in the music industry.The discussion also touches on the timelessness of music and its ability to resonate across generations.

Chapters

00:00 Cold Open

00:29 Intro

01:02 Steve Cropper & The Greatness of Stax

03:05 Green Onions playthru/reaction

06:12 Music Biz 101: Paying Your Dues

13:37 Why Does Stax Get Overlooked?

15:15 Steve Cropper's Style/Approach

18:02 Green Onions Musical Breakdown

21:04 Green Onions & The Cultural Zeitgeist

25:53 Is Green Onions...PERFECT?

27:39 Knowing When You Have A Hit On Your Hands

35:05 Soul Man Breakdown

37:20 Sam & Dave & Sloppy Business At Stax

38:38 Other Stax Groups: The BarKays

39:43 BarKays & Spies Like Us

42:00 Jazze Pha's Connection To The BarKays

46:59 Levels 2 This Full OUTRO.mp4

Takeaways

• Many successful artists start by working for free to gain experience.
• Paying dues is essential in the music industry.
• Leadership qualities are often developed through following great leaders.
• The balance between working for free and making a sustainable living is crucial.
• Success requires putting in the necessary hours and effort.
• Music is a collaborative art form that thrives on diverse influences.
• Hits are often unexpected and cannot be forced.
• The legacy of Stax Records is significant in shaping modern music.
• Steve Cropper's contributions exemplify the importance of supporting roles in music.
• Great music transcends time and continues to impact future generations.

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

-----------------------------------------

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