Mixing Music | Music Production, Audio Engineering, & Music Business

In this no-holds-barred episode, Dee Kei and James dive deep into the toxic myths, vague advice, and ego-driven illusions that still dominate the world of mixing and audio education. From the false promise of "secret sauce" techniques to the cult of gear and performative certainty, they break down why so many mixers cling to superstition — and how it’s holding back real growth.They also explore why even elite mixers often give ambiguous or misleading advice, how language shapes misunderstanding, and why certainty is often just a mask for insecurity or marketing.Plus: Japanese philosophy, baseball rituals, self-diagnosed autism, and why Rick Rubin might actually have it all figured out.🎙️ Topics include:Why certainty in audio is usually a performanceSuperstition vs. skill: why mixers invent magicGear worship and the illusion of controlThe cultural psychology of mixing adviceHow to spot BS advice (and what to do instead)The “DAW insecurity test” (Do you flinch when someone says they use a different DAW?)Why great mixers sound uncertain — and that’s a good thingSUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by ⁠Izotope⁠, ⁠Antares (Auto Tune)⁠, Sweetwater, ⁠Plugin Boutique⁠, ⁠Lauten Audio⁠, ⁠Filepass⁠, & ⁠Canva⁠The Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at ⁠deekeimixes@gmail.com⁠.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/mixing-music-music-production-audio-engineering-and-music/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Dee Kei and Lu dive deep into the sonic and philosophical chaos of mixing hyperpop, sigilkore, and other maximalist genres — where distortion, clipping, and sheer loudness aren't flaws, they’re features.From pushing mixes to -2 LUFS to layering clippers at every stage, Dee Kei shares his firsthand experiences mixing records for artists like Odetari and Barelyhuman, and how that work has redefined his approach to both mixing and creativity.But this episode goes beyond technique. It explores the philosophy behind weirdness, the cultural value of outsider genres, and why trying to normalize everything can kill innovation. We talk gear (StandardClip, Cake, Gold Clip), philosophy (Zen, dualism, the Just World Fallacy), and how freedom from expectation leads to better art.💡 Topics include:How to mix hyperpop and maximalist arrangementsWhat it really means to clip with intentionWhy distortion isn’t a dirty wordThe feeling > the frequency chartHow “messiness” builds emotionZen philosophy, validation, and letting go of the rulesWhy being weird is not just okay — it’s necessarySUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by ⁠Izotope⁠, ⁠Antares (Auto Tune)⁠, Sweetwater, ⁠Plugin Boutique⁠, ⁠Lauten Audio⁠, ⁠Filepass⁠, & ⁠Canva⁠The Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at ⁠deekeimixes@gmail.com⁠.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/mixing-music-music-production-audio-engineering-and-music/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this deep and reflective episode, Dee Kei and Lu explore one of the most relatable challenges for mixers and creatives alike: the paradox of improvement and insecurity. Why does getting better at your craft sometimes make you feel worse? How can self-doubt either fuel your growth or paralyze your process?With insights from Zen philosophy, mixing experience, and personal anecdotes, they unpack the emotional rollercoaster that comes with V1 mixes, fear of feedback, and chasing perfection. The episode touches on the difference between insecurity and curiosity, the danger of comparison, and why the best mixers embrace ambiguity.Whether you're a beginner, intermediate, or seasoned pro, this conversation will help you reframe your mindset and reconnect with the joy of mixing.Topics Include:The illusion of the "perfect mix"How to handle feedback without egoFlow state and finding alignment with your craftZen quotes and how they apply to creative workWhy obsessing over a snare for 6 hours won’t matter to your clientLetting go of validation and trusting your tastePerfect for mixers, engineers, and any creative chasing mastery without losing their soul.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by ⁠Izotope⁠, ⁠Antares (Auto Tune)⁠, Sweetwater, ⁠Plugin Boutique⁠, ⁠Lauten Audio⁠, ⁠Filepass⁠, & ⁠Canva⁠The Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at ⁠deekeimixes@gmail.com⁠.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/mixing-music-music-production-audio-engineering-and-music/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu dive into the power of minimalist mixing — the art of doing more with fewer plugins. While the temptation to load up every fancy compressor and vintage EQ is real, many engineers find freedom, speed, and clarity by stripping things back. From building simple yet powerful vocal chains to learning when your mix actually needs less processing, this episode breaks down the philosophy, mindset, and techniques behind working smarter, not just harder. Whether you're chasing speed, cleaner results, or just less plugin fatigue, this one’s for you.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by ⁠Izotope⁠, ⁠Antares (Auto Tune)⁠, Sweetwater, ⁠Plugin Boutique⁠, ⁠Lauten Audio⁠, ⁠Filepass⁠, & ⁠Canva⁠The Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at ⁠deekeimixes@gmail.com⁠.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/mixing-music-music-production-audio-engineering-and-music/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu get brutally honest about the gear they regret buying — not because it sounded bad, but because it didn’t move the needle. From analog outboard gear that collected dust to plugins that felt essential (but weren’t), this episode is all about separating emotional purchases from strategic investments.Whether you're a bedroom producer or a full-time engineer, we explore what gear actually makes a difference at different stages of your career. We break down common purchasing mistakes, why some tools are overrated for professionals, and what we wish we bought instead. This is a must-listen for anyone building a real audio career, not just a pretty studio.Topics include:The gear we regret (and why)Emotional vs strategic purchasesPro mindset vs hobbyist mindsetWhat we would buy insteadGear that actually helps you grow your businessHow to prioritize purchases at different career stagesThe hidden cost of chasing “feeling legit”SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by ⁠Izotope⁠, ⁠Antares (Auto Tune)⁠, Sweetwater, ⁠Plugin Boutique⁠, ⁠Lauten Audio⁠, ⁠Filepass⁠, & ⁠Canva⁠The Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at ⁠deekeimixes@gmail.com⁠.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/mixing-music-music-production-audio-engineering-and-music/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

n this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu dive deep into the often overlooked but game-changing concept of depth in mixing. Beyond loudness and width, depth creates that three-dimensional, professional sound we all chase. The guys break down what actually creates depth, from volume contrast and EQ decisions to reverb, delay, and automation tricks. They also discuss common “depth killers” that flatten a mix, and share practical techniques that you can start using today to bring life and space into your tracks. Whether you're mixing vocals, drums, or full productions, this episode will help you understand how to move your mixes from flat to full.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by ⁠Izotope⁠, ⁠Antares (Auto Tune)⁠, Sweetwater, ⁠Plugin Boutique⁠, ⁠Lauten Audio⁠, ⁠Filepass⁠, & ⁠Canva⁠The Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at ⁠deekeimixes@gmail.com⁠.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/mixing-music-music-production-audio-engineering-and-music/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu break down one of the simplest but most powerful tools in every engineer’s arsenal: high-pass and low-pass filters. From functional cleanup and frequency management to shaping emotion, depth, and energy, filters are far more than just technical necessities — they’re creative tools that shape the feel of a track. The guys discuss where filters should be used, where they’re often abused, and how they use them to sculpt tone, add movement, and guide listener focus. Whether you’re cleaning up mud or automating your way to a more emotional mix, this episode will leave you hearing HPFs and LPFs in a whole new way.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by ⁠Izotope⁠, ⁠Antares (Auto Tune)⁠, Sweetwater, ⁠Plugin Boutique⁠, ⁠Lauten Audio⁠, ⁠Filepass⁠, & ⁠Canva⁠The Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at ⁠deekeimixes@gmail.com⁠.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/mixing-music-music-production-audio-engineering-and-music/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu dive deep into the relationship between self-esteem, insecurity, and communication in the studio. Beyond gear and plugin chains, your ability to collaborate, accept feedback, and maintain emotional stability may be the real secret to becoming a trusted professional. We explore how low self-esteem can lead to defensiveness, people-pleasing, or creative burnout — and how building authentic confidence can improve client relationships, reduce revision stress, and elevate the quality of your work. Whether you're just starting out or trying to level up your freelance career, this conversation is packed with insight, vulnerability, and practical advice.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by ⁠Izotope⁠, ⁠Antares (Auto Tune)⁠, Sweetwater, ⁠Plugin Boutique⁠, ⁠Lauten Audio⁠, ⁠Filepass⁠, & ⁠Canva⁠The Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at ⁠deekeimixes@gmail.com⁠.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/mixing-music-music-production-audio-engineering-and-music/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The discussion kicks off with the challenges of handling bad recordings and how to set necessary boundaries with clients. Insights are shared on balancing artistic integrity with commercial demands and the importance of clear communication. The hosts tackle the complexities of creative dilemmas, emphasizing the need for transparency. They dive into the struggles of people-pleasing while maintaining professional boundaries, and introduce innovative pricing strategies. The conversation even touches on the creative potential found in imperfections, showcasing a love for art driven by passion.

In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu get candid about the mistakes they still make — even after years of mixing, mastering, and working with big-name artists. From rushing decisions and second-guessing revisions, to over-processing vocals and letting imposter syndrome creep in, they share the real lessons behind the errors that never quite go away. This episode is a reminder that growth doesn’t mean perfection — it means awareness, adaptability, and learning faster each time you fall into familiar traps.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by ⁠Izotope⁠, ⁠Antares (Auto Tune)⁠, Sweetwater, ⁠Plugin Boutique⁠, ⁠Lauten Audio⁠, ⁠Filepass⁠, & ⁠Canva⁠The Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's Private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at ⁠deekeimixes@gmail.com⁠.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/mixing-music-music-production-audio-engineering-and-music/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy