Mixer extraordinaire, Chris Lord-Alge, discusses his career, Dolby Atmos in music, SSL mixing boards, Neve vs. SSL consoles, evolution of music production tools, family dynamics, and remixing classics. He also reflects on his journey in the music industry, emphasizing the importance of unique perspectives and taking control.
Starting as an assistant taught valuable lessons on listening and following instructions diligently.
Transitioning from soul and R&B to rap, preference for melodic music emerged over contemporary rap.
Creating impressive rough mixes boosted popularity and led to diverse project opportunities.
Emphasizing the importance of vision and control in production process for shaping final song outcome.
Deep dives
Starting at a Recording Studio and Learning the Ropes
Starting as an assistant at a recording studio, the speaker was taught important lessons by his mentor about listening, paying attention, and following instructions diligently. He began by wrapping cables, setting up, and cleaning, gradually progressing to more complex tasks like running the remote and punching in during sessions.
Evolution in the Music Industry and Working with Varied Genres
Having worked with Philly soul, R&B, and later transitioning to recording influential rap tracks like Grandmaster Flash's 'The Message', the speaker mentions a preference for melodic music over contemporary rap. He recounts becoming a sought-after engineer due to his talent for creating impressive rough mixes that left lasting impressions on artists, leading to a surge in popularity.
Navigation Through Different Studios and Career Advancement
While at Unique Recording Studios and other facilities, the speaker enhanced his reputation by producing exceptional rough mixes that impressed artists and producers, elevating his status in the industry. Building strong relationships through high-quality work ethic led to demand for his engineering skills, enabling him to work on diverse projects and progress in his career.
Transition to Independence and Emphasis on Musicality
After honing his skills at various studios, the speaker eventually moved towards working independently and emphasizes a preference for music with melody and musicality. His journey from an assistant to a sought-after engineer was largely influenced by his ability to create captivating rough mixes that resonated with artists and industry professionals.
Working with Hit Factories and Unique Studios
The speaker recounts working in renowned studios like Hit Factory and Unique, where he gained a reputation for attracting clients due to his unique approach and energy. Transitioning from a salaried period at Unique to freelancing at Hit Factory, the speaker developed a reputation for client loyalty and dedication to his craft.
Breakthrough Records and Career Highlights
The speaker reflects on pivotal moments in his career, highlighting records like 'Living in America' and collaborations with renowned artists like Dan Hartman and Tina Turner. He emphasizes the importance of breakthrough records and how they opened doors to exciting opportunities in the music industry.
The Art of Mixing and Producing
The speaker delves into the essence of being a good producer, emphasizing the significance of making decisions and portraying confidence in the studio. He stresses the importance of having a vision and maintaining control during the production process, highlighting the producer's role in shaping the final outcome of a song.
Embracing Change and Future Prospects
The speaker shares insights on adapting to new technology and trends in music production, particularly in the realm of Atmos mixes. He discusses the challenges and rewards of staying current in the industry, emphasizing the importance of creativity, innovation, and a lifelong passion for music.
