Music Production Podcast

Francis Preve is a sound designer, producer, and synthesizer programmer. He programs factory presets for the leading synthesizer manufacturers including Sequential, Roland, Korg, Oberheim, Serum, and many more. He is the Section Lead of Digital Composition at Austin Community College. Francis releases sound packs through his company SympleSound. His latest release, Serum Models, turns the popular synthesizer into a hyper-realistic physical modeling synth. In our 4th conversation on the Music Production Podcast, Francis discusses his new pack, Serum Models, and explains how physical modeling synthesis works. We go deep into his work as a sound designer and Francis gives thorough explanations of a variety of synthesis concepts. We also talk about his work as an educator and some student success stories, along with the traits those students exhibit in his classes. It's a wide-ranging and deep conversation with one of the world's best sound designers! Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube Takeaways: The development of new Serum models and physical modeling and sound design. The process of creating and marketing sound packs. The psychology of sound creation involves a deep connection to the subtleties of music and the ability to differentiate musical elements. Learning to differentiate musical elements is a transformative experience that opens up new dimensions in music appreciation and understanding. The impact of music theory on creativity and the ability to enjoy music without over-analyzing it. The role of technology in music education and the importance of learning by playing and experimenting. The differences between analog and digital synthesis and the unique characteristics of each. The concept of aliasing in sound and its impact on audio quality. The use of images to create wavetables in synthesizers and the exploration of sound design through experimentation.  The significance of presets in synthesizers Passion is a key factor in determining success in a career. Limitations can enhance creativity and problem-solving in music production. Technology, such as AI and software, has both benefits and ethical considerations in music creation. Teaching and mentorship play a significant role in shaping the future of music production and the industry. Links: Francis' Site - https://www.francispreve.com Symplesound - https://www.symplesound.com Francis' Serum Preset Collections including Models- https://xferrecords.com/preset_packs/manufacturers/francis-preve Synthtopia on Serum Models - https://www.synthtopia.com/content/2024/05/06/francis-preve-releases-serum-models-preset-expansion-library/ Francis on MPP #38 - https://brianfunk.com/blog/2017/10/30/38-francis-preve-sound-designer-educator Francis on MPP #98 - https://brianfunk.com/blog/2019/1/29/98-francis-preve-2-sound-design-synthesis-vanlife Francis on MPPP #273 - https://brianfunk.com/blog/francis-preve-3 Francis' Clients (wow!) - https://www.francispreve.com/clients Sara Landry -  https://djmag.com/features/sara-landry-hard-technos-high-frequency-priestess Shadowstar -  https://www.beatport.com/artist/shadowstar/873086 CHKLTE -  https://ra.co/dj/chklte/biography Shreddward - https://www.shreddward.com/ Josh Davidson (Kepler North)- https://www.instagram.com/kepler_north Jeff Rona - https://liquidcinema.com/ Brian Funk Website - https://brianfunk.com Music Production Club - https://brianfunk.com/mpc  5-Minute Music Producer - https://brianfunk.com/book Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit Music Production Podcast - https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: PODCAST - https://brianfunk.com/store Thank you for listening.  Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider! And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs. Brian Funk    

Tyler Manning and Jordan Dale are part of Boredomfighters, a nonprofit that brings music-making and collaboration to kids across the United States. Boredomfighters conducts workshops, assemblies, and "Instrument Gardens" to empower young people to create music on the fly using modern production techniques. Tyler and Jordan spoke to me about their work in Boredomfighters and how they've been inspired by inspiring young people to create music. They share their techniques to help participants feel safe to drop inhibitions and have fun creating music together. The principles they share apply to any musical situation. We had a blast talking about their work and listening to music their audience created at a recent event. This episode is sponsored by Baby Audio, makers of incredible music software. Use the code MPP15 to save 15%! https://babyaud.io  Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube Takeaways: Engaging in music production and creative expression through simple rules, examples, and creative constraints. Encouraging vulnerability and the impact of technology on music education and creativity. The importance of fostering intrinsic motivation and creativity in young learners. The challenges and opportunities in engaging and inspiring young people to explore music and creative arts. The significance of role models and exposure in shaping musical interests and aspirations. The value of creating an ideal learning environment for music exploration and self-expression. The use of vocal prompting and chat GPT in music workshops with kids. The importance of capturing the energy of a space through music. The ripple effect of their work and the empowerment of people to do similar workshops in their communities. Links: Boredomfighters - https://www.boredomfighters.org/ Boredomfighters Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/boredomfightersfoundation/ Boredomfighters YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@theboredomfighters Boredomfighters SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/boredomfighters Brian Funk Website - https://brianfunk.com Music Production Club - https://brianfunk.com/mpc  5-Minute Music Producer - https://brianfunk.com/book Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit Music Production Podcast - https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: PODCAST - https://brianfunk.com/store Thank you for listening.  Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider! And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs. Brian Funk

Dex Green is a Nashville-based producer, engineer, and songwriter. He recorded his new album, Imaginary War, by himself, playing every instrument. Dex has worked with artists like Elvis Costello, Margo Price, and Collective Soul. His work has been nominated for a Grammy. Dex and I spoke about his work and the lessons he's picked up from recording countless acts in various genres. He discussed the process of recording his new album Imaginary War. Dex shared how he's combined philosophies and concepts from jazz studies, playing in punk and ska bands as a teenager, and recording top artists in Nashville. Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube This episode is sponsored by Baby Audio. Use the code MPP15 to save 15%! https://babyaud.io  Takeaways: Dex's unconventional path to producing his album as a solo artist The impact of personal experiences on artistic expression and creative decisions The evolution of music and the influence of different genres on contemporary music The challenges and rewards of writing and recording a solo album The importance of finding the right key and voice for musical compositions The importance of limitations in the creative process The role of music production software in modern music creation The significance of recording techniques in shaping the sound of a track The impact of ska bands on the music scene The creative process and songwriting in music production Links: Imaginary War by Dex Green - https://3sirens.ffm.to/imaginarywar Dex's YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@dexgreenmusic Dex on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chickensplease/ "It's Only the End of the World" by Dex Green - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YjAJ-ALijt0 Dex's Credits on Discogs - https://www.discogs.com/artist/1078981-Dexter-Green "What Makes This Song Great: Walking on the Moon" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VVZFkI9HgJY Waves Space Rider - https://www.waves.com/plugins/space-rider Brian Funk Website - https://brianfunk.com Music Production Club - https://brianfunk.com/mpc  5-Minute Music Producer - https://brianfunk.com/book Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit Music Production Podcast - https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: PODCAST - https://brianfunk.com/store Thank you for listening.  Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider! And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs. Brian Funk

Delve into the impact of AI on music creation and the future of human-made music. Explore crafting compelling stories in music like the Beatles and Nirvana. Learn about unconventional recording techniques and using unique instruments to create depth in music production. Embrace limitations and storytelling to enhance music creation and spark creativity.

Mikas is the creator of We Make Dance Music, a site of music resources for producers. On his podcast, Live Electronic Music Tutorials with Mikas, he creates tracks in real-time, sharing tips and techniques along the way. The result of each episode becomes a template viewers can purchase on WeMakeDanceMusic.com.  This is the second time Mikas and I spoke on the Music Production Podcast. Immediately I was reminded of his passion and impressive work ethic. As a new father, Mikas discussed the importance of staying consistent and scheduling time to work on his music career. He spoke about how we can take small actions on a regular basis to complete major goals. Mikas also had some powerful thoughts on authenticity and honesty in art and how that can lead to deeper connections with your audience. Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube Takeaways: Consistency and dedication are key in pursuing creative endeavors. Limited time can increase productivity and focus. Focusing on strengths while working on weaknesses can lead to better results. Learning and growing as an artist is important, regardless of experience. Daily practice and challenges like Jamuary can lead to significant progress. Platforms like We Make Dance Music provide opportunities for musicians to make a living. Community and collaboration are important in the music industry. Success is the result of intentional action and consistent effort. Putting in the work and showing up consistently is more important than waiting for inspiration or relying on luck. Building relationships and connections requires effort and vulnerability, but it can lead to meaningful experiences and personal growth. Real, tangible experiences are important in a world dominated by technology. Taking breaks and engaging in physical activities can help maintain focus and perspective. Honesty, authenticity, and providing value to others are key in building meaningful relationships. Links: We Make Dance Music - https://www.wemakedancemusic.com/en/ Live Electronic Music Tutorials with Mikas Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/1SzmnEScpNBHCTJb3cqubN WMDM YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Wemakedancemusicstudios WMDA Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wemakedancemusic/ Mikas' First Time on the Music Production Podcast - https://brianfunk.com/blog/2018/8/25/75-mikas-creator-of-we-make-dance-music Brian Funk Website - https://brianfunk.com Music Production Club - https://brianfunk.com/mpc  5-Minute Music Producer - https://brianfunk.com/book Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit Music Production Podcast - https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: PODCAST - https://brianfunk.com/store This episode was edited by Animus Invidious of PerforModule - https://performodule.com/ Thank you for listening.  Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider! And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs. Brian Funk

Join Jeff Leisawitz, a talented musician, producer, and author, as he shares insights on the magical impact of storytelling in music. He discusses how personal narratives can create universal connections and highlights techniques like The Hero's Journey. Jeff emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in songwriting, encouraging artists to embrace imperfections and use them creatively. The conversation reveals how specific details can enhance emotional engagement and make songs resonate deeply with listeners.

Iftah is the creator of a number of official Ableton Live Packs, including CV Tools, Time and Timbre, Microtuner, and the new Performance Pack for Live 12. Formerly one-half of the duo, Skinnerbox, Iftah has performed around the world. His creative pursuits cover various mediums and styles such as electronic music, field recordings, photography, and programming.  Iftah and I spoke about his work as a music producer and developer. We discuss Iftah's journey in music, the development of the Performance Pack for Ableton Live, and the importance of rest and recovery in the creative process. Iftah speaks about the significance of building your own instruments and the satisfaction of seeing others use and create with your tools. We discuss the new features in Ableton Live 12 and the Performance Pack. We also explore the concept of constraints in music production and the importance of following one's own interests and passions.  Listen on Apple, Spotify, Google, YouTube Show Notes: Iftah on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/iftah.gabbai/ Iftah's YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@iftah_fow/featured Ableton Live's Performance Pack - https://www.ableton.com/en/packs/performance-pack/ Iftah's Performance Pack Video Manual - https://youtu.be/SnqCJmkxZ_s?si=6m6L4lG1vjRkugNh Iftah's Dancing Candle - https://www.instagram.com/reel/CRl9nioCG10/ Skinnerbox - https://soundcloud.com/skinnerbox SideBrain's Performance Pack Walkthrough - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kDVxZr4-Hoc Brian Funk Website - https://brianfunk.com Music Production Club - https://brianfunk.com/mpc  5-Minute Music Producer - https://brianfunk.com/book Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit Music Production Podcast - https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: PODCAST - https://brianfunk.com/store This episode was edited by Animus Invidious of PerforModule - https://performodule.com/ Thank you for listening.  Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider! And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs. Brian Funk  

Gregg Lehrman is the founder and CEO of Output. Output is a music-creation software company created by musicians for musicians. Gregg is an ASCAP award-winning musician and producer who has worked in television and film. Gregg spoke about his work at Output and how he started the company to fulfill his creative needs. He shared lessons he learned working for Hans Zimmer and how those experiences informed his work at Output. Gregg elaborated on how focusing towards a clear vision can help creatives work through the process and finish more work. Gregg also shared details about Output's latest work, Co-Producer.  Listen on Apple, Spotify, Google, YouTube Show Notes: Output - https://output.com Co-Producer - https://coproducer.output.com Arcade - https://output.com/products/arcade Output YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/outputsounds Output Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/output/ Gregg's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gregglehrman/ Brian Funk Website - https://brianfunk.com Music Production Club - https://brianfunk.com/mpc  5-Minute Music Producer - https://brianfunk.com/book Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit Music Production Podcast - https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: PODCAST - https://brianfunk.com/store This episode was edited by Animus Invidious of PerforModule - https://performodule.com/ Thank you for listening.  Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider! And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs. Brian Funk  

Guest Sound Oracle, a music producer who worked with Timbaland, shares insights on sound design for Ableton Live 12. Topics include drum rack creation, efficient organization, tape machines in production, inspiration from headlines, collaboration with Ableton, diversity in sound design, quality over quantity, mastering skills for success, and embracing imperfections for a unique sound.

The Him is a music producer, DJ, and plug-in designer with over 500 million streams on Spotify. He's toured some of the largest festival stages and done remixes for artists like Tiesto, The Chainsmokers, and Miley Cyrus. The Him just released his first plug-in, Sub Ninja, which allows producers to get an accurate understanding of the bass frequencies in a mix. The Him and I spoke about his career and Sub Ninja. We discussed the creative process and how he stays enthusiastic by balancing different projects with rest. The Him generously shared lots of useful insights we can all use in our own music production. You can get 10% off Sub Ninja with the code: MPPODCAST - https://dsp.thehim.com Listen on Apple, Spotify, Google, YouTube Show Notes: The Him Website - https://www.thehim.com Sub Ninja - https://dsp.thehim.com The Him Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thehim The Him YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@thehim The Him Soundcloud - https://soundcloud.com/thehim The Him Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/5WdqBAQhGFCrZvBKXiPIu7 How to Write One Song by Jeff Tweedy - https://amzn.to/3vuqClB World Within a Song by Jeff Tweedy - https://amzn.to/3TOAaBk The War of Art by Steve Pressfield - https://amzn.to/43zJpZ7 Effortless by Gregg McKeown - https://amzn.to/3VvYfhm Brian Funk Website - https://brianfunk.com Music Production Club - https://brianfunk.com/mpc  5-Minute Music Producer - https://brianfunk.com/book Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit Music Production Podcast - https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: PODCAST - https://brianfunk.com/store This episode was edited by Animus Invidious of PerforModule - https://performodule.com/ Thank you for listening.  Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider! And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs. Brian Funk