🎙️ From ‘Shut Up and Dance’ to Benson Boone: Captain Cuts on Crafting Iconic Pop

Season 2 of Producer Points kicks off with the hit-making duo Captain Cuts — Ben Berger and Ryan Rabin — whose songwriting and production credits include Walk the Moon, Bebe Rexha, Benson Boone, Halsey, The Chainsmokers, Tove Lo, Grouplove, and many more.

In this episode, host Justin Gammella sits down with the longtime friends and collaborators to unpack how they’ve maintained success across over a decade in pop music. They discuss their evolution from managing and touring in a band to becoming in-demand producers and songwriters, how their surprise artist deal with Epic Records came to be, and the balance between being creators and curators.

We dive deep into:🎵 The making of Benson Boone’s “There She Goes” — from piano jams to tempo-switching choruses
🎵 Building Bebe Rexha’s “I Got You” and the wild vocal production journey behind it
🎛️ Favorite gear, plugins, and how they split creative roles as a duo
🎧 Their approach to demo mixes, final bounce philosophies, and vocal chain secrets
🔥 Plus: Their first studio was raided by a SWAT team?! Yep.

This episode is packed with insight, stories, and real talk from two of the best in the business.

🎶 Check out the Producer Points Spotify Playlist for songs discussed in this episode:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oqD4l6js2moC7r1DxqAR9

In this roundtable edition of Producer Points, host Justin Gammella sits down with three seasoned producers and mixers to unpack one big question: Does analog gear still matter in 2025?

As digital tools continue to evolve, the role of analog gear is less about necessity—and more about taste, process, and emotion. From workflow to sonics to studio philosophy, this episode explores the creative and practical reasons some of the best in the game still turn to hardware.

🎙 Featuring:🔹 Martin Cooke – Mixer/producer for Death Cab for Cutie, Pearl Jam, Biffy Clyro
🔹 Jon Graber – Producer/engineer with credits including NOFX, MxPx, and Capitol Records sessions
🔹 Yianni AP – LA-based mixer/producer known for Jeremy Zucker, David Kushner, Alexander 23

🎛 Topics include:

• The real reasons to still use analog gear in a digital world

• How analog shapes mindset, speed, and decision-making

• Budget gear worth investing in (and what to skip)

• Their favorite chains, racks, and plugin equivalents

• Whether analog is about sound… or just vibe

Whether you're a hardware junkie or totally in the box, this episode is packed with insight from pros who've built careers blending both worlds.

🎶 Check out the Producer Points Spotify Playlist:https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oqD4l6js2moC7r1DxqAR9

From cracked DAWs to Billboard credits — this roundtable is all about what it really takes to grow.

On this episode of Producer Points, host Justin Gammella is joined by three powerhouse producers to talk about leveling up — creatively, professionally, and technically — without losing the magic that got you started.

🔹 Sarcastic Sounds – Artist/producer known for his signature lo-fi meets pop sound and co-writer/producer of “Daylight” by David Kushner.
🔹 Mike Del Rio – Artist/producer and one half of Rio Kosta, with credits including LP, X Ambassadors, and Kylie Minogue.
🔹 Denis Kosiak – Grammy-winning mixer/producer known for his work with Khalid, Normani, and more.

🎛 In this episode:

• What gear is actually worth upgrading — and what’s not

• File organization, studio vibe, and hosting like a pro

• Mindset shifts from casual creativity to professional consistency

• How to collaborate on bigger projects without losing your identity

• Why scrappiness and instinct still matter as you grow

Whether you're scaling up your gear, your space, or your mindset — this episode is packed with practical insights and real talk.

🎶 Check out the Producer Points Playlist:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oqD4l6js2moC7r1DxqAR9

🎙 Delayed, Devalued, Disrespected: Why Aren’t We Getting Paid?

In this special solo episode of Producer Points, host Justin Gammella opens up about one of the music industry’s most frustrating and under-discussed realities: not getting paid on time—or at all.

From indie artists to major-label collaborators, this episode dives into the broken system that delays payments for months (or even years), erodes trust, and pushes creators to the brink. Justin shares personal stories, behind-the-scenes experiences, and messages from other creators who’ve had enough.

🎵 Topics covered:

• The song that went viral—but still hasn’t been paid out

• Why it takes 6 to 12 months (or more) to see a check

• The emotional and financial toll of being ignored by labels and publishers

• Voice messages from real producers and writers sharing their stories

• Why this isn’t just about money—it’s about respect, equity, and survival

If you’re a songwriter, producer, artist, or anyone in the music world, this one’s for you.

🎧 Listen. Share. And if you’ve been through this too—reach out.

🎶 Playlist: Producer Points Spotify Playlist

🎙 Letting Go of Perfectionism in Music Production
On this roundtable episode of Producer Points, we’re getting real about one of the most universal—and paralyzing—challenges for music producers: perfectionism. Host Justin Gammella is joined by three dynamic producers with unique workflows, candid stories, and practical wisdom on how to stop overthinking and start finishing music.

🔹 Joe Pepe – LA-based producer/songwriter with credits including MGK, Travis Barker, and Kiana Ledé. Joe’s relaxed, intuitive approach blends rawness with polish.
🔹 Stephen Conley – Songwriter, producer, and mixer known for his work with GAYLE. Stephen brings a thoughtful balance of technical precision and emotional instinct.
🔹 Matt Parad – Alt-pop producer and composer for Tinashe and Olivia O’Brien. Matt thrives in minimalist, emotionally driven production environments.

In this episode, we dig into:
🎛️ The difference between refining and over-editing—and how perfectionism often hides as “just one more tweak”
🎛️ The vocal comping trap: when endless takes kill the vibe
🎛️ Building trust in your taste, and why your first idea is usually the right one
🎛️ How to know when a song is done (hint: it’s usually a feeling, not a checklist)
🎛️ Why committing to sounds, using templates, and simplifying your toolkit leads to better records
🎛️ The high cost of mixing fatigue—and strategies for resetting your ears
🎛️ The underrated magic of “imperfections” that make a record feel human
🎛️ What letting go really means for both technical mixers and emotionally-driven artists

Plus:
🎧 Listener Q&A covering vocal tracking limits, artistic perfectionism, mixing with crickets (literally), and whether AI tools are helping—or hurting—the creative process.
🔥 Our unfiltered take on plugins like God Particle, Tonal Balance Control, and the surprisingly useful $30 Maserati Waves plugin.

Whether you’re battling vocal takes, struggling to call a mix finished, or trying to break free from the loop of endless tweaks, this episode offers perspective, humor, and actionable tools to help you move forward.

🎧 Listen now and give yourself permission to stop chasing perfect.
🎶 Check out the Producer Points playlist featuring songs discussed in this episode: Producer Points Playlist

🎙 Building a Sustainable Career in Music Production
On this roundtable episode of Producer Points, we’re tackling one of the most important—and rarely talked about—topics in the industry: what it really takes to build a sustainable, long-term career in music production. Host Justin Gammella is joined by two powerhouse producers who’ve each carved out their own paths, offering hard-earned wisdom, unfiltered stories, and actionable advice:

🔹 Midi Jones – A versatile producer whose catalog spans pop, R&B, and hip-hop. Known for his adaptability, consistency, and technical mastery, Midi has quietly built a career rooted in relationships, creative integrity, and staying ahead of the curve.
🔹 Sarcastic Sounds (Jeremy) – A producer and artist with a signature lo-fi-meets-indie aesthetic. From self-released viral hits to major label deals and publishing breakthroughs, Jeremy has built a diverse, multi-faceted career that bridges both the artist and producer worlds.

In this episode, we break down:
🎵 What “sustainability” actually means in the modern music industry—beyond just placements and plaques
🎵 Balancing passion projects with paid work (and why you shouldn't be ashamed of doing both)
🎵 How to organize your sessions, back up files, and avoid losing your hard work
🎵 Why so many producers never see their master royalties—and how to navigate label deal realities
🎵 Monetizing your skills in a crowded market: syncs, indie artists, content creation, and more
🎵 Adapting to a changing industry: plugins like Serum 2, the rise of producer content, and staying creatively fulfilled
🎵 Mental health, burnout, and how to stay inspired for the long haul

Plus:
🎧 Listener questions about finding artists, starting late, and the myth of the “Nepo Baby advantage”
🔥 Our unfiltered take on Serum 2 and how it stacks up in 2025’s synth landscape

Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your career to the next level, this episode is full of real talk, practical insight, and a ton of perspective on what longevity in music production really looks like.

🎧 Listen now and invest in your long game.
🎶 Check out the Producer Points playlist featuring songs discussed in this episode: Producer Points Playlist

🎙 Crafting the Perfect Vocal Production: Secrets to Stellar Vocals

On this special roundtable episode of Producer Points, we're diving into the art and science of vocal production—one of the most crucial yet nuanced aspects of music creation. From tuning and layering vocals to fostering the perfect recording environment, host Justin Gammella is joined by three top industry talents who share their expert insights:

🔹 Ryan Marrone – A versatile producer whose innovative touch has elevated projects for artists like Sabrina Carpenter and JP Saxe, consistently bringing fresh creativity and technical precision to every track.

🔹 Alex Bilowitz – A songwriter and producer whose impressive credits include global icons BTS and Bebe Rexha. Beyond his chart-topping work, Alex might just be one of the greatest keys players around—and he's equally known for his sharp humor and engaging studio presence.

🔹 DJ Kyriakides (Daylight) – Renowned for his versatility, DJ Kyriakides (Daylight) has produced hits across genres for artists like Shawn Mendes and Fifth Harmony. His keen musical instincts and adaptive production style make him a respected figure in the industry.

In this episode, we break down:

🎵 The essentials of vocal production: roles, responsibilities, and balancing technique with artistry.🎵 Gear and pre-production strategies: microphone choices, vocal warm-ups, and setting session expectations.🎵 Creating the ideal atmosphere: techniques to help vocalists feel comfortable, confident, and ready to deliver their best performances.🎵 Technical insights: A deep dive into vocal tuning software (Melodyne, Auto-Tune, Waves Tune), clip gaining strategies, and vocal layering.🎵 Mixing magic: EQ and compression tips that will ensure vocals sit perfectly in the mix.🎵 The rise of AI-generated vocals: Impacts, challenges, and ethical considerations for producers.

Join us as we reveal insider tips and techniques that can take your vocal productions to the next level.

🎧 Listen now and elevate your vocal production game!

🎙 Spotify’s Pay Cuts: What It Means for Songwriters & Producers

For the first time on Producer Points, we’re bringing you a roundtable discussion on one of the most pressing issues in the music industry—Spotify’s recent rate changes and their impact on songwriters, producers, and artists.

Host Justin Gammella is joined by two incredible guests to break down what’s happening, why it matters, and what can be done about it:
🔹 Scott Robinson – Grammy-nominated producer, songwriter, and engineer with a diverse career spanning major labels, indie success, and everything in between. A returning Producer Points guest and fan favorite.
🔹 Jeremy Silver – Powerhouse songwriter and producer with credits including Christina Aguilera, Michael Bublé, and countless major sync placements. He’s also a candidate for the ASCAP Board of Directors, advocating for songwriter rights.

Together, they dive into:
🎵 The Spotify rate decrease: How bundled services like audiobooks have led to significant cuts in publishing payouts.
🎵 The songwriter master share debate: Should songwriters get a percentage of the master, or is this just a band-aid solution?
🎵 Producer points & publishing struggles: The challenges of tracking royalties, why fees may be a better alternative, and what needs to change.
🎵 What’s next? How songwriters and producers can push for fairer rates, the role of unions, and whether major catalogs can leverage power over streaming platforms.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone in the music industry who wants to understand where things stand and what the future holds for songwriters and producers.

🎧 Listen now and join the conversation!
🎶 Don’t forget to check out the official Producer Points playlist on Spotify featuring songs discussed on the show. ⁠Listen here.

🎙 Imad Royal: Crafting Genre-Defying Hits

On the Season 1 finale of Producer Points, host Justin Gammella sits down with the innovative and multifaceted Imad Royal. As a producer, songwriter, and artist, Imad’s work spans across genres and borders, making waves in the worlds of pop, electronic, and beyond. His impressive portfolio includes collaborations with top-tier artists such as Doja Cat, BTS, The Chainsmokers, Panic! At The Disco, Charlotte Lawrence, Oliver Tree, ASHE, Quinn XCII, MAX, and Jawny. From the streets of D.C. to the studios of Los Angeles, Imad has carved out a distinctive path in the music industry with his forward-thinking approach to production.

In this episode, Imad takes us through his journey from his early musical influences to his work with some of the most exciting names in the industry. We explore his collaborative process, building rapport in the studio, and how relationships shape creativity. Imad also opens up about his personal artist project and the versatility that makes him a force in music.

We dive into the production of standout tracks like Doja Cat’s “Boss Bitch” and Oliver Tree’s “Alien Boy,” revealing the techniques behind their unique sounds. From dynamic drum processing to the secrets of imperfect vocals, Imad shares invaluable insights for producers of all levels. Plus, in our “Plug or Unplug” segment, he gives his quick takes on must-have production tools and techniques.

Whether you’re a seasoned producer or just starting out, this episode is packed with tips, stories, and inspiration from one of the industry’s most forward-thinking creators.

Don’t miss out on the full experience—be sure to check out the official Producer Points playlist on Spotify, featuring all the songs discussed in our episodes. Listen here.

🎙 Ruslan Odnoralov: From Russia to Nashville, Shaping the Sound of Modern Music

In this episode of Producer Points, host Justin Gammella sits down with Ruslan Odnoralov, a music producer, songwriter, and vocal producer who has journeyed from Russia to Nashville, where he’s making a significant impact on the music scene. With collaborations that include artists like Lennon Stella, Charlotte Sands, Hunter Hayes, CMC$, and RUEL, Ruslan has a unique ability to elevate every project he touches. Recently, his work on Catie Turner’s latest EPs has been turning heads, showcasing his fresh and dynamic approach to production.

Join us as Ruslan shares his journey from his roots in Russia to becoming a key player in Nashville’s music industry. We explore his favorite local spots and the stories behind them, offering a glimpse into the life of this multi-talented producer.

We also delve into the making of standout tracks like Charlotte Sands' "Dress" and Catie Turner’s "Step Mom," where Ruslan reveals the techniques and creative processes that brought these songs to life. From innovative guitar processing to vocal effects that push boundaries, this episode is packed with insights that will resonate with producers at every level.

In our "Plug or Unplug" segment, Ruslan gives his take on essential gear and plugins that are integral to his workflow. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just starting out, this episode is filled with inspiration and practical advice from one of the most versatile talents in music today.

Don’t miss out on the full experience—be sure to check out the official Producer Points playlist on Spotify, featuring all the songs discussed in our episodes. Listen here.