By toru
5
3333 ratings
The podcast currently has 29 episodes available.
Today, we sit down with the multi-talented Greg David, a guitarist, music producer, and engineer.
In the second part of our interview with Greg David, we explore his approach to compression, live performance, and the nuances of working with other musicians. As a guitarist-turned-producer, Greg shares how his experience playing in live settings continues to inform his production process. We discuss the importance of dynamics, understanding when less is more, and the need for musicianship in an age of technology-driven production. His recent work includes various collaborative projects, along with building a home studio to cultivate a space where creativity can thrive.
Throughout the episode we discuss:
* How Greg’s understanding of compression evolved and why less is often more.
* The importance of live performance in shaping his production style.
* The role of collaboration and why involving other musicians can elevate your work.
* Greg's insights on how technology has changed the way we approach production.
* The significance of maintaining authenticity and feel, even in the digital age.
* Tips on maintaining consistency when working with multiple elements in a mix.
* How limitations can actually enhance creativity.
* The challenges and rewards of building a home studio from scratch.
* The influence of sync licensing on Greg's career and how it allows him to stay creative.
* How playing with musicians has helped him understand the dynamics of a live performance.
Three Gems From This Conversation:
* Collaboration Elevates Creativity: Working with other musicians not only enhances your sound but also opens you up to new ideas and approaches.
* Embrace Limitations: Having fewer options can lead to more focused and creative decisions, ultimately helping you find your unique sound.
* Simplicity Is Powerful: Sometimes, stripping back your production to its essentials can create a more impactful and authentic sound.
Timeline:
0:00 - Intro
1:26 - Understanding Compression
4:08 - The Art of Mixing
7:01 - Less is More
9:54 - The Importance of Collaboration in Music
13:14 - Developing Sonic Taste and Aesthetic
16:07 - Creating Movement in Drum Programming
18:45 - Sync Licensing
30:27 - Exploring New Musical Projects
32:14 - Quick Hits: DAW Preferences and Mixing Techniques
34:07 - Quick Hits: Influential Albums and Their Impact
35:30 - Quick Hits: Best Music Purchase Under $100 (Shure stereo mixer)
38:04 - Overcoming Habits That Hinder Creativity
40:48 - Encouraging Musicianship and Live Performance
43:09 - Inspiration from Other Artists
46:08 - Drum Sounds as an Art-form
List of References from the Interview:
Music:
* "Dark Side of the Moon" by Pink Floyd
* "Uptown Special" by Mark Ronson
* "Voyager" by Moonchild
Products:
* Native Instruments Maschine
* Ableton Live
* Shure Stereo Mixer
* Zulu Two-Inch Tape Emulator
Connect with Greg David:
* Instagram: @gregory_david_gtr
* Spotify: Gregory David
* YouTube: @Gregorydavidmusic
Connect with Toru:
* Website: torubeat.com
* Instagram: @torubeat
* YouTube: @torubeat
* Spotify: Toru
* Apple Music: Toru
Credits:
This episode was co-produced, engineered and edited by Matthew Diaz. From ProducerHead, this is Toru, and in a way, so are you. Peace.
Today, we sit down with the multi-talented Greg David, a guitarist, music producer, and engineer.
In Part 1 of this conversation, we explore Greg David's journey through music production, the evolution from working with loops to embracing live takes, and his deep understanding of mixing and dynamics.
Greg shares his perspective on creating authentic music by experimenting with non-traditional panning techniques, understanding the importance of dynamics, and the impact that recording in live settings can have on a track's energy and feel.
His reflections on how the recording techniques of the past can still influence today’s music provide a fresh perspective on approaching music production in modern times.
Throughout the episode we discuss:
* The influence of Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings on recording techniques.
* How live takes differ from overdubbing and their impact on a track's authenticity.
* The importance of dynamics and how Greg incorporates them into his production.
* The impact of saturation and how different levels can change the feel of a mix.
* Greg's transition from sample-based music to creating his own unique sound using live instruments.
* How Greg’s mixing philosophy revolves around creating space and balance within a track.
Timeline:
0:00 - Intro
1:14 - Welcome Greg David
1:50 - Track 1: "Sail On" by Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings
4:59 - Discussion on Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings recording techniques
9:33 - Track 2: "Be Better" by DJ Harrison
12:28 - Organic textures and glued mixes of DJ Harrison
15:11 - Live takes vs overdubbing
18:52 - Toru’s recent experience using live takes in his production
23:46 - Track 3: "She's Gone" by Disclosure
28:24 - Discussion on the modern, clean mix of the Disclosure track
32:31 - Starting with drums
35:33 - Greg explains why he gave up sampling and began creating all his sounds
41:10 - Explanation of ADSR and how it applies to mixing
45:56 - Beginning the discussion on Greg's mixing philosophy
47:03 - Outro
List of References from the Interview:
Songs:
* "Sail On" by Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings
* "Be Better" by DJ Harrison
* "She's Gone" by Disclosure
Products:
* Ableton Live (mentioned in Greg's workflow)
* Tascam 388 (used for recording drum breaks)
Connect with Greg David:
* Instagram: @gregory_david_gtr
* Spotify: Gregory David
* YouTube: @Gregorydavidmusic
Connect with Toru:
* Website: torubeat.com
* Instagram: @torubeat
* YouTube: @torubeat
* Spotify: Toru
* Apple Music: Toru
Credits:
This episode was co-produced, engineered and edited by Matthew Diaz. From ProducerHead, this is Toru, and in a way, so are you. Peace.
In this episode of ProducerHead, Toru sits down with Shrimpnose, a talented producer who’s known for his unique blend of acoustic and electronic music.
They explore his journey from metal influences to the world of electronic music, how sadness has shaped his creative process, and the inspirations for his latest project, The World Pushed Against You. His first full-length with Nettwerk, the 12-track project ranges from frenzied jersey club-laden IDM to mellow garage-infused ballads.
This conversation delves deep into the healing power of music, Shrimpnose’s approach to blending genres, and how he’s developed his signature sound.
This episode is packed with valuable lessons on authenticity, self-expression, and the power of staying true to oneself.
Throughout the episode we discuss:
* Shrimpnose’s journey from metal to electronic music and how he discovered his love for blending genres.
* The impact of artists like Dijon, Justin Vernon, and Shlomo on his creative process.
* How sadness and mental health have influenced Shrimpnose’s music and journey as an artist.
* The importance of juxtaposition and combining unexpected elements in music production.
* The role of live performances and how they shape his understanding of music and self-expression.
Three Meaningful Takeaways:
* Embracing Vulnerability: Shrimpnose emphasizes how expressing sadness and vulnerability in music can be a form of healing and self-discovery.
* Creative Juxtapositions: He finds inspiration in combining seemingly opposing elements, which keeps his creative process fresh and engaging.
* Music as a Language: For Shrimpnose, music became a way to express emotions that he couldn’t always articulate verbally, making it a vital part of his life.
Timeline:
0:00 - Introduction to Shrimpnose
2:32 - Track 1: "Many Times" by Dijon
7:14 - Track 2: "Hazeltons" by Justin Vernon
19:30 - Track 3: "Places" by Shlomo
29:45 - Discussing the role of sadness in creativity
32:45 - Shrimpnose’s unique approach to playing the guitar left-handed
40:45 - How mental health influences Shrimpnose's music and journey
44:45 - Embracing mistakes and letting the music "be what it wants to be"
48:45 - The importance of honesty in life and art
57:59 - Discussing the album "The World Pushed Against You" and its themes
1:00:45 - Shrimpnose’s decision to move away from Lo-Fi and create dance music
1:09:45 - Quick Hits section
1:21:31 - Outro
List of References from the Interview:
Songs:
* Dijon – "Many Times"
* Justin Vernon – "Hazelton"
* Shlomo – "Places"
* Elliott Smith – Self-titled album
* YYYXX – "About You"
Books/Authors:
* Albert Camus (referenced in the discussion about the album title)
Podcasts/Products:
* Ableton Live (mentioned as his DAW of choice)
Connect with Shrimpnose:
* YouTube: @shrimpnosebeats
* Instagram: @shrimpnose
* Facebook: johnshrimpnose
* Spotify: Shrimpnose
* Apple Music: Shrimpnose
* Official Profile: Nettwerk Music Group
Connect with Toru:
* Website: torubeat.com
* Instagram: @torubeat
* YouTube: @torubeat
* Spotify: Toru
* Apple Music: Toru
Credits:
This episode was co-produced, engineered and edited by Matthew Diaz. From ProducerHead, this is Toru, and in a way, so are you. Peace.
In this ProducerHead Sample, Toru connects with Birocratic, a producer who took his passion from making beats in his dorm room to becoming a recognized name in the music industry. Birocratic shares how a chance encounter with BuzzFeed helped him reach a wider audience, the importance of building genuine relationships in the industry, and how patience and persistence play a crucial role in his career. He also talks about his long-standing relationship with Chillhop and how it influenced his journey as a music producer. This episode offers insights into navigating the music scene, staying true to your craft, and the power of being open to unexpected opportunities.
Throughout the episode we discuss:
* How releasing music under Creative Commons unexpectedly led to exposure on BuzzFeed.
* The importance of building relationships with video producers and other creatives.
* The impact of patience and persistence in Birocratic’s journey.
* Embracing the shift from YouTube to TikTok and adapting outreach strategies.
* The role Chillhop played in Birocratic’s career and his involvement with the label.
Three Meaningful Takeaways:
* The Power of Exposure: You never know who might be listening or watching, so make your work accessible and ready to be discovered.
* Genuine Relationships Matter: Building connections with creators and being sincere can lead to long-term collaborations.
* Adaptability is Key: The music industry constantly changes, and being open to evolving your approach can lead to new opportunities.
Timeline:
0:00 - Introduction
0:57 - Birocratic's journey from making beats in his dorm room
2:28 - Decision to release music under Creative Commons
3:39 - How BuzzFeed discovered and used his music
3:57 - Discussing the impact of being featured in BuzzFeed videos
5:57 - Outreach to YouTubers and vloggers to expand his music’s reach
8:42 - The value of building relationships and the challenges of ‘cold outreach’
10:18 - Creating a frictionless experience for collaborators and fans
11:52 - The evolution and influence of Chillhop on Birocratic's career
14:27 - Transitioning from mastering and A&R work to touring
15:57 - Advice on taking a long-term view of one’s music career
Connect with Birocratic:
* YouTube: @birocratic
* Instagram: @birocratic
* Spotify: Birocratic
* Apple Music: Birocratic
Connect with Toru:
* Website: torubeat.com
* Instagram: @torubeat
* YouTube: @torubeat
* Spotify: Toru
* Apple Music: Toru
Credits:
This episode was co-produced, engineered, and edited by Matthew Diaz. Special thanks to Birocratic for sharing his story and insights. From ProducerHead, this is Toru, and in a way, so are you. Peace.
Thanks for reading toru’s Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
Welcome to part two of this two part episode with Brian Funk.
Today's guest is Brian Funk, a New York-based musician, producer, and Ableton Certified Trainer. He hosts the Music Production Podcast. Brian teaches music production at Berklee Online. And, he is the author of 5-Minute Music Producer: 365 Music-Making Activities.
Throughout this conversation we discuss:
* The advantages of having a day job.
* Thinking about the opinions of others.
* The distinction between what you can and can’t control.
* How multiple projects can help you avoid burnout.
* Why you should have your own website.
* And, how Brian accidentally wrote a book.
That’s it for Part Two of this two part episode. Subscribe to ProducerHead wherever you are listening so that you don’t miss out on future episodes. Don’t forget to leave a review and share this episode with a friend.
Three Things I Learned From This Conversation:
1. WHEN YOU’RE WORKING, WORK. WHEN YOU’RE RELAXING, RELAX.
It’s OK to take a break and watch Netflix. Don’t ruin an episode of The Bachelor with guilt about how you “should be working right now.” Build relaxation and time away into your working routine to avoid burnout and create space for enjoyment. You and the quality of your work will thank you.
2. MAKING GETTING STARTED EASIER.
Once you are on the path, you will discover what exists on the path. Begin working and you’ll find that you can reshape and edit according to what you experience during the process. Your vision will reveal itself along the way.
I feel this one strongly. Here’s the proof: “Do it on purpose and find out who you are.”
3. HAVING A DAY JOB CAN BE AN ADVANTAGE.
Day jobs are often seen as obstacles to living a creative life. Do not overlook the fact that your day job provides at least two powerful opportunities:
* Constraints on your time: The decision on when to work is made for you. Embrace those windows with intention.
* Creative Freedom: Without relying on the art as your livelihood, you’re able to make what it is you want to make.
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.
Tap in with toru:
Substack:
Instagram: @torubeat
YouTube: @torubeat
tiktok: @torubeat
Tap in with Brian Funk:
Instagram: @brianfunkmusic
Brian’s Website: https://brianfunk.com/
Conversation Timeline:
00:00 Intro
01:19 Burnout And Creating Small Wins
04:06 Make Getting Started Easier
08:45 Brian’s values and approach to entrepreneurship
11:37 How to use your day job to your creative advantage.
13:50 Motivation
15:15 Control
16:27 Embracing Your Perspective and Finding Your Voice
18:30 Video Creation
19:40 The value of variety in projects
22:00 Origin Story of Brian’s book: 5-Minute Music Producer: 365 Music-Making Activities.
25:10 My amazement at Brian’s productivity and creation of his book.
25:45 Evidence of the day job enhancing music projects
27:00 Why you should have your own website
30:45 Brian’s Class on Sampling through Berklee Online
32:03 Quick Hits
42:35 Brian’s Personal Encouragement
43:50 Outro
Referenced:
Rick Beato
Thanks for reading toru’s Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
Welcome to part one of this two part episode with Brian Funk.
Today's guest is Brian Funk, a New York-based musician, producer, and Ableton Certified Trainer.
Brian hosts the Music Production Podcast, teaches music production at Berklee Online, and is the author of 5-Minute Music Producer: 365 Music-Making Activities.
Throughout this conversation we talk about
* The value of embracing structure in songwriting.
* Decision making in the music production process.
* How limitations in your production process are a good thing.
* Working hard and not taking yourself too seriously.
* And Brian teaches me about anaphora.
Also, Brian brings us a mix of old and new for the ProducerHead Listening Room.
That’s it for Part One of this two part episode. Subscribe to ProducerHead wherever you are listening so that you don’t miss out on Part 2. Don’t forget to leave a review and share this episode with a friend.
Don’t miss Part 2 of this conversation with Brian Funk, where we will get into:
* The advantages of having a day job.
* Thinking about the opinions of others.
* The distinction between what you can and can’t control.
* How multiple projects can help you avoid burnout.
* And, how Brian accidentally wrote a book.
Top 3 Gems From This Conversation:
1. SELF-IMPOSED CONSTRAINTS AND LIMITATIONS LEAD TO FINISHING WORK.
If you have a computer, you can do anything, and that’s too much. Limit your options. Making decisions propels you forward.
2. A VISION IS NOT REQUIRED TO BEGIN A PROJECT.
Once you are on the path, you will discover what exists on the path. Begin working and you’ll find that you can reshape and edit according to what you experience during the process. Your vision will reveal itself along the way.
I love this one. Here’s the proof: “Do it on purpose and find out who you are.”
3. SHARE WHO YOU ARE.
In Brian’s case, he believed his musical identity should remain outside of school (he also teaches English). He has come to find that the two can live together. The world of education appreciates his musical talents and vice versa.
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.
Tap in with toru:
Substack:
Instagram: @torubeat
YouTube: @torubeat
tiktok: @torubeat
Tap in with Brian Funk:
Instagram: @brianfunkmusic
Brian’s Website: https://brianfunk.com/
Conversation Timeline:
00:00 Intro
01:45 Track 1 And Discussion
15:30 Track 2 And Discussion
25:05 Track 3 And Discussion
36:40 Drops In The Bucket
42:28 Following Personal Interest And Excitement
43:51 Becoming an Ableton Certified Trainer
46:45 Separation Between Music and Professional Life
47:50 Burnout (Episode 16 Preview)
48:00 Outro
Referenced:
How To Write One Song
The World Within A Song
Anaphora
Thanks for reading toru’s Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
Welcome to part two of this two part episode with Chenoa Tarin.
Today's guest is Chenoa Tarin, a Brooklyn based, producer, vocalist and songwriter whose sounds are an homage to the music that formed her. Chenoa Tarin also runs “Bouquet,” a monthly femme forward artist showcase in Brooklyn with resident DJ Dewy ‘87.
As you’ll hear throughout this conversation, Chenoa believes deeply in self-expression and the importance of art.
Throughout this conversation, we will discuss:
* Chenoa’s experience at SAE Institute.
* Complementary career paths as a music producer.
* The importance of being competent AND kind.
* What is technically correct versus what is true and authentic to you.
* Chenoa’s experience and ideas for starting an event of your own, wherever you are.
* And, Chenoa tells us that you can do whatever you want, forever.
Top 3 Gems From This Convo:
1. REGARDLESS OF YOUR TALENT, ARE YOU KIND?
Yes. Make good music. Also, there is no substitute for kindness and connection to a community.
You can fail alone, but no one succeeds without the support of others.
2. FOCUS ON COMMUNICATING WHAT YOU FEEL, NOT WHAT IS “CORRECT.”
Notice if you are imposing rules and limitations about what is technically “correct.” Prioritize the communication of your energy and feeling through your music.
3. YOU CAN DO WHATEVER YOU WANT, FOREVER.
Remember that when other people say you that you cannot do something, it is not necessarily true.
It is something that they said, nothing more.
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.
Tap in with toru:
Instagram: @torubeat
YouTube: @torubeat
tiktok: @torubeat
Tap in with Chenoa Tarin:
Instagram: @chenoatarin
Chenoa’s Website: https://www.chenoatarin.com/
To jump to a specific moment in the conversation:
0:00 Intro
1:38 Another's Success Is Not Your Failure
2:50 Quitting Too Early
4:40 Formal Education and Chenoa's Experience at SAE
14:03 Balancing Competence and Kindness
18:45 How and Why to Start Your Own Show
21:40 Self-imposed Limits and Rules
26:20 Caught Up In Music As Technically Correct
29:40 Comparison
34:10 Save Everything
37:30 Quick Hits - Get to know Chenoa
43:20 Chenoa's parting message
44:30 Outro
Referenced:
The Creative Act: A Way Of Being
Thanks for reading toru’s Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
Welcome to part one of this two part episode with Chenoa Tarin.
Today's guest is Chenoa Tarin, a Brooklyn based, producer, vocalist and songwriter whose sounds are an homage to the music that formed her. Chenoa Tarin also runs “Bouquet”; a monthly femme forward artist showcase in Brooklyn with resident DJ Dewy ‘87.
As you’ll hear throughout this conversation, Chenoa believes deeply in self-expression and the importance of art.
Throughout this conversation, we will discuss:
* Community and how Chenoa actively builds it through Bouqet.
* Expressing your values and creating inclusive spaces through events.
* Why Chenoa decided starting her own show was important.
* That you are ready before you think you are.
* And, that the success of another is not your failure.
And, Chenoa shares a few bangers across genres in today’s edition of the ProducerHead Listening Room.
That’s it for Part 1 of this two part episode with Chenoa Tarin. Take a quick second and subscribe to ProducerHead wherever you are listening so that you catch Part 2. Don’t forget to leave a review and share this episode with a friend:
Don’t miss out on Part 2 of this conversation with Chenoa, where we will get into:
* Chenoa’s experience at SAE Institute.
* Complementary career paths as a music producer.
* The importance of being competent AND kind.
* What is technically correct versus what is true and authentic to you.
* Chenoa’s experience and ideas for starting an event of your own, wherever you are.
* And, Chenoa tells us that you can do whatever you want, forever.
Top 3 Gems From This Convo:
1. ANOTHER PERSON’S SUCCESS IS NOT YOUR FAILURE.
Other people are not your competition nor in your way. When you witness another’s success, make it a point to congratulate them.
No one controls whether or not they succeed.
However, they do choose how to treat themselves and others when they do.
2. THERE ARE MANY WOMEN MAKING MUSIC.
We all have a responsibility to include and make space for one another.
You have more power than you think you do to make an impact.
3. WE ARE UNABLE TO SEE WHAT ANOTHER PERSON IS GOING THROUGH.
Social Media gives us the impression that we know how and what other people are doing.
Before you compare or place judgments on another person’s life, keep in mind that you are viewing curated surface-level snapshots.
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.
Tap in with toru:
Substack:
Instagram: @torubeat
YouTube: @torubeat
tiktok: @torubeat
Tap in with Chenoa Tarin:
Instagram: @chenoatarin
Chenoa’s Website: https://www.chenoatarin.com/
To jump to a specific moment in the conversation:
0:00 Intro
1:45 Listening Room Track 1
4:40 Listening Room Track 1 - Discussion
8:08 Listening Room Track 2
12:22 Listening Room Track 2 - Discussion
15:35 Listening Room Track 3
18:30 Listening Room Track 3 - Discussion
26:20 Bouqet and Creating Safe Spaces for Performance
29:00 Philosophy behind Boquet
31:20 Inspiration for starting Boquet
36:55 Another's Success Is Not Your Failure
38:29 Add'l Context and Outro
Referenced:
Bouqet: The Monthly Show Run By Chenoa and Dewy ‘87.
Heart Beats: The Monthly Show Run By A. Sarr
Thanks for reading toru’s Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
Welcome to Part 2 of this two part conversation with Wrex Mason.
Today's guest is Wrex Mason, a Hip-Hop producer from Hartford, CT; currently residing in Brooklyn, NY. Wrex began producing at age 11, and for the past 13 years, he has released both solo and collaborative projects with a wide range of artists.
Above all else, Wrex prioritizes being a "perpetual student of the craft" and a stark advocate for creative independence.
His influences include J Dilla, Madlib, Flying Lotus, DJ Premier, Easy Moe Bee, 9th Wonder, and Pete Rock.
WrexMason.com is a one-stop shop for Wrex's discography, merch, and marketplace for artists in search of beats.
Welcome to part two of this two part episode with Wrex Mason.
If you haven’t already, I invite you to listen to Part 1 of this conversation, where Wrex shares his Sketchbook Mentality and his philosophy on how to keep good and bad days in perspective.
Today, in part two of this conversation, Wrex shares how he identified the grooves of his self-talk to improve his practice and his art. How he combines structure and free-flowing time to capture inspiration, and what producers can learn from the world of cooking. Wrex also emphasizes the prioritization of making music for yourself first.
Before you soak-up another episode of ProducerHead, please subscribe and drop a rating as well as a review wherever you are listening. This helps ProducerHead find its place and its people. After all, without you, there is no ProducerHead.
Top 3 Gems From This Convo:
1. SCHEDULE CREATIVE TIME THAT NATURALLY PLAYS TO YOUR STRENGTHS.
What works for others may or may not work for you.
Look for patterns in what has led to fulfilling creative sessions in the past and try to recreate those.
If you don’t know where to start, pick an approach or copy another routine and try it out.
Adjust for youself along the way, but keep experimenting. The idea is to stay in motion.
2. IF YOU CAN’T CREATE, CLEAN.
You’re in a creative session and nothing is happening.
Take this time to clean your studio while you listen to samples.
Re-organize your digital studio.
Listen and organize samples you have to set yourself up for a future session.
3. BE OPEN TO INSPIRATION FROM NON-MUSICAL SOURCES.
Wrex uses chefs and culinary arts as a model to draw on inspiration. What else interests you outside of music?
Maybe it’s sports, fashion, design, comedy, or something completely different?
Give yourself the opportunity to appreciate how others approach their craft.
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.
Tap in with toru:
Instagram: @torubeat
YouTube: @torubeat
tiktok: @torubeat
Tap in with Wrex Mason:
Instagram: @wrexmason
Website: WrexMason.com
To jump to a specific moment in the conversation:
0:00 Preview / Intro
2:02 There's A Yesterday...
4:12 How Wrex Discovered This Philosophy
5:45 Wrex's Routine
7:45 Saving Ideas
8:12 What Makes A Good Sample
8:50 Inspiration From Non-Musical Sources
11:40 Make Music For Yourself First. Inspired by Madlib
13:00 How Do You Develop Taste?
17:55 Surprising Sample Sources
20:15 The Difference Between an Artist and a Producer
22:00 What To Do When You Get Stuck
24:00 What To Do When You Are Overthinking
28:30 Upcoming Projects
30:00 Where To Get Beats
31:10 Quick Hits
38:23 Closing
Referenced:
Madlib Speaking on Making Music For Himself First (@4:02):
Brasilintime Documentary (Full Doc)
Thanks for reading toru’s Substack! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.
Welcome to Part 1 of this two part conversation with Wrex Mason.
Today's guest is Wrex Mason, a Hip-Hop producer from Hartford, CT; currently residing in Brooklyn, NY. Wrex began producing at age 11, and for the past 13 years, he has released both solo and collaborative projects with a wide range of artists.
Above all else, Wrex prioritizes being a "perpetual student of the craft" and a stark advocate for creative independence.
His influences include J Dilla, Madlib, Flying Lotus, DJ Premier, Easy Moe Bee, 9th Wonder, and Pete Rock.
WrexMason.com is a one-stop shop for Wrex's discography, merch, and marketplace for artists in search of beats.
Welcome to part one of this two part episode with Wrex Mason.
In this conversation, Wrex shares his Sketchbook Mentality, the importance of maintaining sustainable working habits in order to produce our best work, and the power of a broad perspective in our day-in and day-out work.
Before you soak-up another episode of ProducerHead, please subscribe and drop a rating as well as a review wherever you are listening. This helps ProducerHead find its place and its people. After all, without you, there is no ProducerHead.
That’s it for Part 1 of this two part conversation with Wrex Mason.
Make sure you come back for part two of this conversation, where Wrex shares how he identified the grooves of his self-talk to improve his practice and his art. How he combines structure and free-flowing time to capture inspiration. What producers can learn from the world of cooking. And, the prioritization of making music for yourself first.
Top 3 Gems From This Convo:
1. REMEMBER THAT TODAY IS ONE OF MANY DAYS.
There will be days where the work will come easier than others.
None of those days are necessarily better or worse than any other.
Show up every day with a curiosity and openness to what may happen.
2. UNCHECKED FEAR IS A POWERFUL AND OFTEN INVISIBLE FORCE.
If you notice yourself experiencing thoughts that are not encouraging you to move forward, ask yourself if you’re experiencing fear.
Asses that fear and re-label it according to its actual merit.
3. EMBRACE A SKETCHBOOK MENTALITY.
Remember: You don’t get to choose when good ideas come.
When an idea comes to you, even in a fragmented or incomplete form, write it down, record it, or make a voice note.
Show up regularly and pay attention to when ideas are presenting themselves.
Listen on Apple, Spotify, and YouTube.
Tap in with toru:
Instagram: @torubeat
YouTube: @torubeat
tiktok: @torubeat
Tap in with Wrex Mason:
Instagram: @wrexmason
Website: WrexMason.com
To jump to a specific moment in the conversation:
Chapters
0:00 Preview
0:30 Intro
2:05 Listening Session Track 1
7:01 Listening Session Track 1 - Discussion
11:22 Listening Session Track 2
15:39 Listening Session Track 2 - Discussion
19:30 Adult Swim Context
20:58 Listening Session Track 3
24:35 Listening Session Track 3 - Discussion
26:45 Restraint In Music
27:45 Sketchbook Mentality
29:30 Discovery of The Long Term and Sketchbook Mindset
31:18 Managing stress and pressure.
34:12 Closing
Referenced:
Adult Swim: Wiki, Adult Swim Website
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