Legendary music producer Tom Werman discusses his career, almost producing for Guns 'N Roses & Blues Brothers, working with Motley Crue & Poison, and issues with Nikki Sixx and Lita Ford. Topics include Motley Crue & occultism, Cheap Trick, Poison & studio dynamics, unreleased Motley Crue songs, Guns 'N Roses & Duff, and working with Lita Ford.
Motley Crue focused on image over occultism controversies, using music as a tool for rebellion and edginess.
Bob Ezra emphasized the importance of rhythm guitars in music production, enhancing sound quality through strategic arrangements.
Insights from Tom Werman highlight the complexities of band decisions, missed opportunities with renowned musicians, and transitioning to consultancy roles in the music industry.
Deep dives
Motley Crue's PRMC Controversy and Musical Direction
Motley Crue's association with the PMRC and accusations of backmasking towards them emphasized the controversy surrounding their musical themes. Despite claims about occult influences, the band's music was centered around creating publicity and an edgy image rather than promoting sinister motives. Their song 'Shout at the Devil' evoked conflicting interpretations due to its presentation, showcasing a blend of rebellion and symbolism.
Music Production Insights with Bob Ezra
Bob Ezra delves into his approach to music production, highlighting the significance of rhythm guitars in songs. By doubling the rhythm guitars in certain tracks, he aimed to enhance the sound quality and make the music more engaging for listeners. Ezra's attention to detail in the recording studio led to strategic decisions regarding song arrangements, ultimately contributing to the success and depth of the musical compositions.
Reflections on Music Industry Dynamics and Personal Contentment
Reflecting on his extensive experience in the music industry, Bob Ezra shares insights into the evolution of bands and the dynamics within production teams. While discussing his interactions with various musicians, including Motley Crue and Poison, Ezra acknowledges the complexities of band decisions and producer relationships. Ultimately, Ezra expresses contentment with his retired life, emphasizing his satisfaction with documenting his industry experiences in writing.
Working Relationships and Personal Experiences with Artists
The guest shares insights into their experiences with various artists and bands, including missed opportunities with renowned musicians like Michael Wagner and Paul McCartney. They recount interactions with John Belushi and their intense personality, contrasting his serious demeanor with expectations of humor. Additionally, they discuss working with LA Guns and how the lack of radio exposure affected the perception of a specific song.
Challenges and Innovations in Music Production
The guest explains the detailed approach to assisting a singer with pitch-related challenges using synthesizers, showcasing manual techniques before the era of modern auto-tuning. They delve into the complexities of resolving the singer's pitch issues and the experimentation involved, highlighting the innovative solutions attempted. Furthermore, the guest reflects on transitioning to consultancy roles in the music industry and facing resistance despite offering valuable expertise and a troubleshooter approach.
Tom Werman is a legendary music producer who has worked with Cheap Trick, Ted Nugent, Motley Crue, Poison, Twisted Sister, Dokken and more. He has a new book out November 21st titled “Turn It Up: My Time Making Hit Records In The Glory Days Of Rock.” We discuss many things from the book including how he almost produced Guns ‘N Roses & the Blues Brothers, working with Motley Crue & Poison, and issues with Nikki Sixx and Lita Ford.
0:00:00 - Intro 0:00:15 - Motley Crue & Occultism 0:04:31 - Ozzy Osbourne 0:05:45 - Tom's New Book & Journey 0:09:23 - Wicked Lester & KISS 0:12:27 - George Harrison 0:16:33 - Having an Ear for Music 0:18:27 - Cheap Trick 0:19:54 - Poison & Women in the Studio 0:23:15 - Motley Crue & Partying 0:25:55 - Nikki & Vince Tragedies 0:28:33 - Mick Mars & Guitars 0:30:55 - Unreleased Motley Crue Songs 0:34:10 - Motley Crue After Tom Werman 0:35:42 - Motley Crue & RnR Hall of Fame 0:36:45 - Ted Nugent & Stryper 0:38:40 - Guns 'N Roses, Appetite & Duff 0:41:30 - Making Peace with People 0:42:50 - Motley Crue Vs. Mick Mars 0:44:25 - Albums Tom Almost Produced 0:47:01 - Possible Second Blues Brothers Album 0:48:50 - Working with L.A. Guns 0:51:05 - Lita Ford 0:53:50 - Trying to Reposition Career 0:56:55 - The Hollywood Way 1:02:37 - Association with Hard Rock 1:04:30 - Bed & Breakfast 1:05:15 - Songwriting Books & Heroin Diaries 1:09:58 - In Touch With Music Business People 1:13:10 - Wrap Up 1:15:56 - Outro