Working Class Audio

By Working Class Audio

Peel back the glamour of the professional recording world. Guests from the world of audio for music, film, games, restoration, and more share their insights on how they made their journey, how they su... more

4.8

200200 ratings

Download on the App Store

Download on the App Store

Get it on Google Play

FAQs about Working Class Audio:

How many episodes does Working Class Audio have?

The podcast currently has 538 episodes available.

Working Class Audio episodes:

September 09, 2024WCA #508 with Cesar Mejia – Navigating Post-COVID Teaching, Balancing Studio Ownership, Diversifying Income Streams, Expanding Shelter Studios, and Longtime Collaboration with Herbie Hancock
In this episode of Working Class Audio, host Matt Boudreau welcomes back Cesar Mejia, a longtime friend of the podcast, to discuss his continued journey as an educator, studio owner, and audio professional. Cesar, first featured in episode #117 back in 2017, shares his experiences navigating the post-pandemic world, teaching the next generation of musicians, and balancing life at his studio, Shelter Studios.

In This Episode, We Discuss:
Cesar Mejia's Return to Podcast: Reflecting on his first appearance in 2017, episode 117, and discussing his journey.
Teaching Post-COVID: Cesar talks about teaching at Cal State Dominguez Hills and Whittier College, highlighting changes in student mentality and the shift in teaching due to the pandemic.
Students' Musical Preferences: Discussing the differences between students at Dominguez Hills, who are more electronic-focused, and those at Whittier, who are often acoustic musicians.
Shelter Studios and Family Property: Cesar's studio, Shelter Studios, is located on family property that he inherited. He is working on possibly expanding the space while keeping the studio comfortable and home-like.
Balancing Expansion and Stability: Conversations about the benefits of expanding the studio or staying in the current location and the importance of financial stability.
Wiring and Additional Gigs: In addition to teaching and studio work, Cesar occasionally takes on wiring gigs for other studios, keeping his income diversified.
Collaboration with Herbie Hancock: Cesar continues to work with Herbie Hancock, especially on tours post-COVID, and handles audio tasks such as mixing stems for live performances.
Matt's Rant: Being in Asset
Links and Show Notes
The Shelter Studios
The Shelter on Instangram
WCA Episode #117 with Cesar Mejia
Credits
Guest: Cesar Mejia
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith
...more
1h 13min
September 02, 2024WCA #507 with Ebonie Smith - Memphis Upbringing, Education, Atlantic Records, Administrative Proficiency, and Multitasking As A Necessity
My guest for this episode is Producer/Engineer/ Composer Ebonie Smith, who currently holds the esteemed roles of senior audio engineer and producer at Atlantic Records. Ebonie has worked on projects for The Hamilton Cast Album, Janelle Monae, Sturgill Simpson, and Jason Mraz.
In This Episode, We Discuss:
Memphis Upbringing and Tri-State Area
Radio and Musical Influences
Transition from Sports to Music
College Struggles and Musical Pursuit
Technological Fascination and Audio
Barnard College Audio Tech Job
Pursuit of Music Technology
Parental Expectations vs. Music
NYU and Advanced Music Studies
Career Start at Atlantic Records
Evolution from Editing to Producing
Hamilton Cast Recording Involvement
Creating an Incubator Program
Move to Los Angeles Decision
Differences Between NYC and LA
Atlantic Records Role Transformation
Producing Unique Label Projects
Challenges in the Music Industry
Importance of Administrative Proficiency
Balancing Multiple Creative Roles
A Continuing Passion for Audio
Multitasking Is a Necessity
Full Control of the Signal Chain
Matt's Rant: Making Opportunity For Yourself

Links and Show Notes
Ebonie's Site

Credits
Guest: Ebonie Smith
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith
...more
1h 17min
August 26, 2024WCA #506 with Wesley Heaton & Kamaron Lockwood – Studio Resilience, DIY Spaces, Live Sound Lessons, Gear Overload, And Lessons From Their First Studio Fiasco
My guests today are Wesley Heaton and Kameron Lockwood, producers, engineers, and mixers from Indianapolis, Indiana. They are studio partners at Holy Ground Productions and have extensive live sound experience working with bands like Bingo Boys, Skeletonwitch Rituaal, and Pillars.
In this episode, we discuss:
Studio Location And Name
Early Friendship Timeline
Growing Up Experiences
Meeting Through Audio
Live Sound Frustrations
Musical Background Origins
Gear Acquisition Journey
First Paid Recordings
Studio Environment Challenges
DIY Venue Recordings
Recording School Experiences
Self-Education In Audio
Recording With Anthrax
Transition From Live Sound
Studio Construction Challenges
Importance Of Deposits
Business Partnership Dynamics
Studio Community Focus
Lessons From First Studio
Hospitality And Client Comfort
Matt's Rant: Perfection
Links and Show Notes
Holy Ground Productions
Holy Ground on Instagram
Credits
Guest: Wesley Heaton and Kameron Lockwood
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith
...more
1h 19min
August 19, 2024WCA #505 with Ben Pike – Vinyl Mastering, Lathe Cut Records, Analog Studio Setup, and Navigating Chronic Illness
My guest today is Mastering Engineer Ben Pike, who runs an analog-based mastering and record cutting studio in Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK. Ben specializes in vinyl mastering and custom lathe cut records, working primarily with independent artists. He has collaborated with artists and groups such as ATA Records, Yaatri, The London Ambient Orchestra, Smith & The Honey Badgers, and King Zepha.
In this episode, we discuss:
Leeds, West Yorkshire Roots
Discovering Recording Technology
DIY Recording Beginnings
Home Studio Evolution
Transition to Mastering
Vinyl Mastering Journey
Analog Studio Setup
Custom Lathe Cut Records
Challenges of Chronic Illness
Building a Mastering Studio
Navigating the Music Industry
Supporting Independent Artists
Small Batch Vinyl Production
Innovative Vinyl Techniques
Mastering and Cutting Synergy
Restoring Vintage Gear
Matt's Rant: The Art of Being Concise
Links and Show Notes
Ben Pike's Studio: Rare Tone Mastering
Jeff Powell Companion Episode
Credits
Guest: Ben Pike
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith
...more
1h 13min
August 12, 2024WCA #504 with Jordan Brooke Hamlin – Encouraging Artistic Risk, Moxe Studio, Nashville's Music Culture, Zeppelin Hippies, and Reclaiming Neglected Land
My guest today is Producer/Multi-Instrumentalist/Engineer, Jordan Brooke Hamlin, who has worked with Indigo Girls, KT Tunstall, Vienna Teng, Lila Blue, Katie Herzig, Lucy Wainwright Roche, Allison Russell, and Brandy Clark.
---------------------------------
In this episode, we discuss
Upbringing In Kentucky
Music-Loving Family
Zeppelin Hippies
Deep Connection To Music
Early Music Exposure
Discovery Of Production
Sarah McLachlan Influence
Running Her Studio
Creating Artist Space
Mental Health Focus
Challenges In Nashville
Supportive Studio Environment
Economic Challenges
Studio Setup Efficiency
Working With Labels
Navigating Industry Changes
Moxie Studio Origin
Residential Studio Blend
Artist Commune Vision
Reclaiming Neglected Land
Importance Of Environment
Balancing Creativity And Deadlines
Nashville's Music Culture
Contrasting With Los Angeles
Session Efficiency Vs. Exploration
Encouraging Artistic Risk
Challenges In Studio Ownership
Supporting Independent Artists
Grant Programs For Artists
Gender Equity In The Audio Industry
Financial Pressures On Music
Organizational Tools (Airtable)
Payment Delays From Labels
Navigating Professional Relationships
Empathy For Touring Artists
Evolving Industry Dynamics
---------------------------------
Matt's Rant: Getting Organized
---------------------------------
Links and Show Notes
Book Matt mentions in Interview: Day Trading Attention
AirTable
Jordan's Studio
---------------------------------
Credits
Guest: Jordan Brooke Hamlin
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith
...more
1h 11min
August 05, 2024WCA #503 with Tony Brooke - Audio Data Management, Seasonal Income Fluctuations, Career Coach Influence, Music Data Management Tools, and Getting Credit
My guest is Grammy Nominated Music Metadata Professional Tony Brooke. Tony has worked on projects for Richard Thompson, Coldplay, David Byrne, twenty one pilots, Maroon 5, Jane's Addiction, Duran Duran, Steve Miller, Norah Jones, Erasure, Ramblin' Jack Elliott, Doobie Brothers, Sarah McLachlan, Elvis Costello, Seal, George Clinton, Emmylou Harris, Indigo Girls, Lucinda Williams, Dave Chappelle, Khaled & Carlos Santana, Herbie Hancock, Stern Grove Festival, Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival. He's also worked for Pandora/SiriusXM and Warner Music Group.
---------------------------------
In this episode, we discuss
Tony's Audio Production Journey
Background and Education
Bay Area Move
Technical Skills & Equipment
Live Music Engineer to Entrepreneur
Tascam DA88 Benefits
Multi-Track Services
Gig Organization Logistics
Music Industry Experiences
Seasonal Income Fluctuations
Business Diversification
Website Development
Ultimate Track Sheet
Career Transition Insights
Digital Console Shift
Career Coach Influence
Master's Degree Pursuit
Family Support Gratitude
Work-Life Balance Challenges
Music Industry Pressures
Honesty and Humility Importance
Music Data Exchange Research
DDEX XML Format
Pandora Credit Inclusion
Apple Credit Attribution Issues
Identifier Initiative
Music Data Management Tools
Sound Credit Replacement
Muse.AI & Other Databases
Data Accuracy Challenges
Technological Changes Preparation
Three-Tiered Data Storage
Data Preservation Strategies
Copyrighted Compositions Importance
Streaming Service Identification
Online Course Idea
Digital Data Management Strategies
---------------------------------
Matt's Rant: Embracing Social Media
---------------------------------
Links and Show Notes
Book Matt mentions in Rant: Day Trading Attention
Tools for capturing data in the studio:
Sound Credit: https://www.soundcredit.com/
Session Studio: https://www.sessionstudio.com/
VEVA Collect: https://vevacollect.com/
Identifiers:
ISNI (International Standard Name Identifier): http://isni.org/
ISWC (International Standard Musical Work Code): https://www.iswc.org/
DDEX standards for music data exchange: https://ddex.net/
CLIP - Free resource to learn industry terminology, creator rights, and how to get credited and paid: https://goclip.org/en/music
Master Tape Rescue project to find a home for lost tapes and other formats (Brian Kehew and Danny White): https://www.mastertaperescue.com/
Tony Brooke on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonybrooke/
SilentWay.com: http://www.silentway.com/
---------------------------------
Credits
Guest: Tony Brooke
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith
...more
1h 25min
July 29, 2024WCA #502 with Hans-Martin Buff - From Journalism to Audio: Exploring Binaural Sound, Working with Prince, Dolby Atmos, and Mastering the Art of Sequencing and Assembly
My guest is Hans-Martin Buff, a Recording Engineer, Music Producer, and 3D Geek based in Munich, Germany. Hans has worked with Prince, Peter Gabriel, and the Scorpions.
---------------------------------
In this episode, we discuss
Introduction and Background
Family Musical Influence
Early Musical Interests
Educational Background
Transition to Music Career
Pachyderm Studio Experience
Nirvana Recording Sessions
Working with Prince
Paisley Park Experience
Prince's Influence on Hans
Challenges in the Industry
Difficult Clients and Lessons
Technical Recording Techniques
Personal Growth and Development
Sequencing and Assembly
Memorable Projects and Highlights
Impact on Personal Music Enjoyment
---------------------------------
Matt's Rant: When to Let it Go
---------------------------------
Links and Show Notes
Hans' Site
Hans on Instagram
---------------------------------
Credits
Guest: Hans-Martin Buff
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith
...more
1h 40min
July 22, 2024WCA #501 with Chris Dugan – Green Day Tours, Studio Setup, Balancing Work and Family, Travel Tips, Freelance Pricing, and Backup Technology
My guest today is Grammy-winning engineer and Mixer Chris Dugan, who has worked on projects for Green Day, Gaslight Anthem, Weezer, and Alanis Morissette.
---------------------------------
In this episode, we discuss:Touring and Work with Green Day
European Tour
Recording Live Shows
Studio Engineer
Mixing for TV Broadcasts
Transition to More Mixing
Mixing with the Artist Present
Studio Setup and Equipment
Family-Friendly Home Studio
Home Studio Customization Efforts
Studio Setup During the Pandemic
Importance of Sound Reflections
Portable Mixing Setup Benefits
Atmos Setup Decision Factors
Affordable Speaker Tuning
Balancing Work and Family
Balancing Family and Work
Parenting While Touring
Encouraging Kids' Musical Interest
Family's Involvement in Music
Kids' Interest in Studio
Travel and Jet Lag Tips
Managing Sleep and Travel
Jet Lag Recovery Strategies
Efficient Airport Tips
Global Entry Efficiency
Time Shifter App Usage
Freelance Work and Pricing
Freelance Pricing Challenges
Word-of-Mouth Opportunities
Managing Project Deadlines
Impact of Unconventional Tracks
Importance of Politeness
Importance of Session Prep
Backup Storage and Technology
Backup Storage Discussions
Travel-Friendly Work Strategies
---------------------------------
Matt's Rant: The Battle for Your Attention
---------------------------------
Links and Show Notes
Chris Dugan on WCA #078
TimeShifter APP
Global Entry
---------------------------------
Credits
Guest: Chris Dugan
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith
...more
1h 2min
July 15, 2024WCA #500 with Catherine Marks - From Architect to Producer, Fearlessness, Supportive Mentors, Managing Creative Conflicts, and Capturing the Immediacy of a Moment
My guest today is Grammy-winning London-based producer and mixer Catherine Marks, who has worked on projects for boygenius, Wolf Alice, and The Mysterines.

In this episode, we discuss
Upbringing in Australia
Early exposure to music through parents' record collection
Participation in a Yamaha piano course at an all-girls school
Development of interest in songwriting and record production
Studying architecture at the University of Melbourne
Taking a year out to work in Dublin
Introduction to Dublin's music
Immersion in live music and DJ nights in Dublin
Discovery of interest in music production and reverb
Transition from architecture degree to music production career
Learning about music production while working for Flood
Recording a song with Elastica, gaining Flood's attention
Fearlessness and willingness to take opportunities
Early advice from her father and
Support from the Dublin community
Early experiences in the studio,
Multitasking in various roles
Learning via observing, asking questions, and reading manuals
Development of skills and studio efficiency
Mentorship from Alan Moulder
Working with producers like Dmitry Tikovoy, Ben Hillier, and Flood
Importance of capturing the immediacy of a moment over technical perfection
Discipline to let go of awareness and move forward in projects
Managing creative conflicts and rising from unknown engineer to sought-after producer
Establishing connections with key individuals in the music industry
Importance of mutual understanding and communication in the recording process
Working with Alan Moulder and Flood, enhancing her career
Mutual respect and high expectations foster professional growth
Importance of enjoying projects and respecting colleagues
Prioritizing a balanced lifestyle over immediate success
Pressure to maintain career momentum and need for self-care to prevent burnout
Consistent commitment and passion for work
Experiences and reflections on winning a Grammy award
Highs and lows of industry recognition
Challenges of being away for extended periods during album work
Anticipation for future projects and collaborations
Matt's Rant: 500 Episodes and Pressing On
Links and Show Notes
Catherine's Site
Catherine on Instagram
Credits
Guest: Catherine Marks
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith
...more
1h 18min
July 08, 2024WCA #499 with Stephen Kerrison - Touring to Mastering, Weird Jungle, Liverpool Music Scene, Instilling Confidence, Listening, and The Importance of Taste in Mastering
My guest today is UK-based mastering engineer Stephen Kerrison, known for his work with Petbrick, Ditz, Charles Watson, Jake Isaac, Lleo, and Liz Lawrence. This is Stephen's second appearance on Working Class Audio, his first being WCA #413 alongside Katie Tavini, a fellow Weird Jungle Mastering Collective member.
In this episode, we discuss
Weird Jungle Collective Update
Liverpool Music Scene Evolution
Working Under a Record Shop
From Touring to Mastering
Collective's Structural Changes
Industry's Financial Realities
Instilling Confidence
Balancing Creativity and Technique
Musicians' Record Perspectives
Older vs. Younger Musicians
Transition to Mastering
Mastering Different Genres
Challenges of Live Performance
Importance of Taste in Mastering
Exploring the UK Music Scene
Collaborative Music Environment
Managing Work-Life Balance
Financial Strategy
Use of Backing Tracks
Maintaining Artist Confidence
Comparison to Visual Art
Listening
Checking Out The Competition
Seth Godin
Matt's Rant: Stepping Away
Links and Show Notes
Matt's Photo Instagram account
WCA #413
Stephens Site
Katie's Site
Weird Jungle
Credits
Guest: Stephen Kerrison
Host: Matt Boudreau
Engineer: Matt Boudreau
Producer: Matt Boudreau
Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
Announcer: Chuck Smith
...more
1h 4min

FAQs about Working Class Audio:

How many episodes does Working Class Audio have?

The podcast currently has 538 episodes available.

More shows like Working Class Audio

Sodajerker On Songwriting by Sodajerker

Sodajerker On Songwriting

380 Listeners

Production Expert Podcast by Production Expert

Production Expert Podcast

118 Listeners

Bobby Owsinski's Inner Circle Podcast by Bobby Owsinski

Bobby Owsinski's Inner Circle Podcast

121 Listeners

Recording Studio Rockstars by Lij Shaw

Recording Studio Rockstars

502 Listeners

The Mastering Show by The Mastering Show Podcast

The Mastering Show

225 Listeners

Tape Op Podcast by Tape Op Podcast

Tape Op Podcast

254 Listeners

Master Your Mix Podcast by Mike Indovina

Master Your Mix Podcast

51 Listeners

hanging out with audiophiles by hanging out with audiophiles

hanging out with audiophiles

241 Listeners

Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond by Pushkin Industries

Broken Record with Rick Rubin, Malcolm Gladwell, Bruce Headlam and Justin Richmond

4,114 Listeners

The Bob Lefsetz Podcast by iHeartPodcasts

The Bob Lefsetz Podcast

405 Listeners

The Truth About Vintage Amps with Skip Simmons by The Fretboard Journal

The Truth About Vintage Amps with Skip Simmons

475 Listeners

The SonicScoop Podcast | Mixing, Mastering, Audio Engineering and Music Production by SonicScoop

The SonicScoop Podcast | Mixing, Mastering, Audio Engineering and Music Production

165 Listeners

Secret Sonics by Ben Wallick and Carl Bahner

Secret Sonics

43 Listeners

The New Music Business with Ari Herstand by Ari's Take

The New Music Business with Ari Herstand

189 Listeners

Wong Notes by Premier Guitar

Wong Notes

510 Listeners