The Sound Mind

In this episode, I dig into a simple but uncomfortable question: how much of yourself are you willing to change just to be successful? Inspired by Dijon’s conversation with Zane Lowe, I explore the tension between authenticity and validation — how easy it is to shape-shift for the tribe, and how rare it is to build a life that bends around who you actually are. From the pitfalls of creating for approval to the hollowness of “manufactured realness,” I break down why the truest work is messy, personal, and permissionless. With thoughts from Brian Eno and a look at the current “engagement recession,” this episode argues for stripping away layers, trusting your taste, and making from the inside out.

Drop us an email with any thoughts or topics you'd like us to discuss. Give us a follow on our socials if you want to see more of our journeys.

[email protected]

James: https://www.instagram.com/jamesberkeleymusic
Marcus:  https://www.instagram.com/marcus_hedges_composer

In this episode, I talk about being stuck in a rough writing patch — why it happens, and how we gently work through it. From dodging our emotions, comparing ourselves to others, and numbing with our phones, to learning to trust our ideas again. It’s about giving ourselves permission to make “bad” work, creating space for intuition, and remembering that clarity comes from making, not overthinking. Soft effort, kind discipline, and letting creativity speak when we finally get quiet enough to hear it.

Drop us an email with any thoughts or topics you'd like us to discuss. Give us a follow on our socials if you want to see more of our journeys.

[email protected]

James: https://www.instagram.com/jamesberkeleymusic
Marcus:  https://www.instagram.com/marcus_hedges_composer

In this episode, I dive into redefining success as a creative and why external markers like getting up early or being constantly busy aren’t the key to growth. I talk about the disconnect between time spent and output, the importance of getting out of the “busy mindset,” and how to focus on what actually moves the needle. I also share my approach to backing vocals, advice for getting into production, tips on time management, and thoughts on finding the right management, label, or agent. Plus, how being more intentional with your creativity can lead to deeper, more fulfilling work.

Drop us an email with any thoughts or topics you'd like us to discuss. Give us a follow on our socials if you want to see more of our journeys.

[email protected]

James: https://www.instagram.com/jamesberkeleymusic
Marcus:  https://www.instagram.com/marcus_hedges_composer

In this episode, I dive into the wild ride of my recent social media growth - how it’s created opportunities, the pressure that comes with it, and how I’m learning to navigate the highs and lows. I share some go-to phrases that help when things feel overwhelming, plus why doing less (but with more focus) can actually get you further. We also get into your questions on working with producers for the first time, finding artists to collaborate with, and whether social media is really a must for new artists.

Drop us an email with any thoughts or topics you'd like us to discuss. Give us a follow on our socials if you want to see more of our journeys.

[email protected]

James: https://www.instagram.com/jamesberkeleymusic
Marcus:  https://www.instagram.com/marcus_hedges_composer

Today, we welcome Jed Bevington to the podcast. Jed is a versatile multi-instrumentalist, string arranger, and violinist who has collaborated with a diverse range of artists, including Eloise, Cavetown, Nix Northwest, Enny, Fat Dog, and  my old band, Yakul. Releasing his own music under the name Jed Holland, he brings a unique perspective to both string arranging and songwriting.

In our chat, we dive into Jed’s approach to writing and arranging, how he works with artists from different genres, and the importance of saying “yes” when you’re starting out. Jed also shares insights on building a network that sustains creative work, forging meaningful connections through collaboration, and navigating the practicalities of freelance rates. Tune in for a conversation on music, creativity, and the art of collaboration!

Follow Jed:

https://www.instagram.com/jedbevington
https://www.instagram.com/jedholland
https://open.spotify.com/artist/3jdKUAwJ3NA8f3UImRTBBl?si=RiIfZ-frSUS6s1z0eFbZQw

Drop us an email with any thoughts or topics you'd like us to discuss. Give us a follow on our socials if you want to see more of our journeys.

[email protected]

James: https://www.instagram.com/jamesberkeleymusic
Marcus:  https://www.instagram.com/marcus_hedges_composer

In this episode, we talk about the tricky balance of knowing when a project is finished and when it’s time to move on. We explore why “done is better than perfect” and how taking action often outweighs endless planning. We dive into the importance of maintaining a beginner’s mindset to spark creativity and discuss the value of investing in experiences that fuel artistic growth. If you're someone who struggles with perfectionism or knowing when to wrap things up, this episode is for you! Tune in for tips on embracing imperfection, taking action, and fuelling your creativity with new experiences.

Drop us an email with any thoughts or topics you'd like us to discuss. Give us a follow on our socials if you want to see more of our journeys.

[email protected]

James: https://www.instagram.com/jamesberkeleymusic
Marcus:  https://www.instagram.com/marcus_hedges_composer

In this episode, we reflect on James's final tour with Yakul, exploring the emotions and challenges of stopping a long-term project and the process of moving on. We dive into whether long-term goal setting is always beneficial or if it can box you in, discussing the importance of staying flexible and being open to new opportunities. We also talk about the need to define your focus and how that can act as a barometer for future direction. Tune in for a deep dive into transitions, adaptability, and the lessons learned from closing one chapter and starting another.

Drop us an email with any thoughts or topics you'd like us to discuss. Give us a follow on our socials if you want to see more of our journeys.

[email protected]

James: https://www.instagram.com/jamesberkeleymusic
Marcus:  https://www.instagram.com/marcus_hedges_composer

In this episode, we're excited to welcome Beatmaker, producer, and multi-instrumentalist edbl to the podcast. Known for his prolific collaborations, edbl has collaborations with over 60 artists, helping to spotlight some of the most exciting up-and-coming talent in the UK. With over 70 million streams and support from platforms like Radio 1, 1Xtra, Radio 2, and Jazz FM—not to mention a prestigious Maida Vale session—edbl has solidified himself as a major force in the music scene. He’s also collaborated closely with artists like Odeal, Jelani Blackman, Samm Henshaw, Jay Prince, and Ady Suleiman.

In this conversation, we explore edbl’s journey from balancing side gigs to building a music career that now stands on its own. We also dive into how he translates his songs for live performances, and why going with the flow—rather than overplanning—has been an important asset to his success. Plus, we hear his thoughts on the state of the music industry, his hopes for the future, and the one plugin he couldn’t live without if stranded on a desert island.

Tune in for an inspiring chat with one of the UK's most dynamic producers!

Follow Ed:

https://www.instagram.com/edbledbl
https://open.spotify.com/artist/7ncd26zzbpqgZRroBKmReO?si=YbNwx5CmTg6inv7ltqBOSA 

Drop us an email with any thoughts or topics you'd like us to discuss. Give us a follow on our socials if you want to see more of our journeys.

[email protected]

James: https://www.instagram.com/jamesberkeleymusic
Marcus:  https://www.instagram.com/marcus_hedges_composer

In this special episode we're thrilled to welcome our first guest, John Elleson-Hartley, a seasoned mixing and mastering engineer with over 25 years of experience in the industry. Based in Horsham, UK, John has worked with a diverse array of composers and has contributed to high-profile projects like Nainita Desai’s Deepest Breath soundtrack on Netflix, Miguel Doliviera’s Ibiza Narcos on Sky, and Ian Livingstone’s Formula 1 2023 video game soundtrack for Codemasters. With credits that include work for Universal, BBC, and ITV, John’s expertise is unparalleled.

In our conversation, we dive into what mastering truly entails and how the process has evolved with advancements in technology. John shares his thoughts on the subjective nature of 'the best' in audio, emphasizing the importance of intuition over rigid processing chains. We also explore the concept of loudness and how digital streaming platforms adjust LUFs through their algorithms.

John highlights the critical role of referencing mixes on various speaker systems and the importance of building a strong network for professional growth. We also discuss why it's crucial to continue promoting your music long after its release and how maintaining an attitude of gratitude can fuel long-term success in the industry.

https://www.musiklab.co.uk/
https://www.instagram.com/johnehartley/

Drop us an email with any thoughts or topics you'd like us to discuss. Give us a follow on our socials if you want to see more of our journeys.

[email protected]

James: https://www.instagram.com/jamesberkeleymusic
Marcus:  https://www.instagram.com/marcus_hedges_composer

In this episode James explores essential life guidelines to help you stay on track, even when faced with challenges. Discover why prioritising physical and mental health is the foundation of sustained creative success, and how focusing on your environment can naturally enhance the quality of your work.

James talks about the importance of setting boundaries, emphasising why it’s crucial to prioritise your own well-being over the expectations of others. Learn why taking action often trumps perfect planning, and how to keep moving forward despite uncertainties.

Join us for a practical and motivational conversation about building a resilient creative life, where health, environment, and proactive steps lead to lasting success.

Drop us an email with any thoughts or topics you'd like us to discuss. Give us a follow on our socials if you want to see more of our journeys.

[email protected]

James: https://www.instagram.com/jamesberkeleymusic
Marcus:  https://www.instagram.com/marcus_hedges_composer