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

@DeeKeiMixes
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Sep 30, 2025 • 1h 16min

The Ultimate Guide to Producing: Mixerman on Building Songs, Not Just Sounds

In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu sit down with Eric Sarafin—better known as Mixerman, author of Zen and the Art of Mixing—to discuss his new book Mixerman’s Ultimate Guide to Producing Records, Music and Songs. We dive deep into what it really means to be a producer today, why arrangement and songwriting matter more than obsessing over plugins, and how home producers can still make professional records. From studio acoustics and mixing philosophies to the business side of contracts and working with artists, Mixerman shares decades of wisdom on creating music that connects. Whether you’re a bedroom producer, an aspiring engineer, or a seasoned mixer, this episode is packed with insights on how to build better productions, develop your artistic identity, and survive the modern music industry.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LU⁠HIRE JAMES⁠Find Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLu @JamesParrishMixesTwitter: @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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Aeropress and use my code MMPOD for a great deal: https://aeropress.comSupport 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
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Sep 25, 2025 • 13min

Exclusive Archive | Smart EQ's Demystified

Thank you for being a subscriber to this exclusive content!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠ (https://www.youtube.com/deekeimixes)⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!⁠ (https://discord.gg/s2WrUg8)⁠HIRE DEE KEI⁠ (https://deekeimixes.com)⁠HIRE JAMES⁠ (https://www.jamesparrishmixes.com/)Find Dee Kei and James on Social Media:Instagram: ⁠@DeeKeiMixes⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/deekeimixes/) ⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/jamesdeanmixes/)JamesParrishMixes (https://www.instagram.com/jamesparrishmixes/)Twitter: ⁠@DeeKeiMixes⁠ (https://www.twitter.com/deekeimixes) The Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by ⁠Izotope⁠ (https://izotope.com/mmpodcast), ⁠Antares (Auto Tune)⁠ (https://app.redcircle.com/shows/antarestech.sjv.io/WDDyOO), Sweetwater (https://mixingmusicpodcast.com/sweetwater), ⁠Plugin Boutique⁠ (https://pluginboutique.com/?a_aid=604322feb04e4), ⁠Lauten Audio⁠ (https://www.lautenaudio.com/), ⁠Filepass⁠ (https://filepass.com/?fpr=twb41), & ⁠Canva⁠ (https://partner.canva.com/e44vg6)The 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 (mailto:deekeimixes@gmail.com)Our Sponsors:* Check out Aeropress and use my code MMPOD for a great deal: https://aeropress.comSupport 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
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Sep 23, 2025 • 1h 4min

Luck, Effort, and Music Success: What’s Really in Your Control?

In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, DK and Lu dive into the psychology behind music industry success. They break down the concept of locus of control—whether you believe your career is driven by luck, external forces, or your own actions—and how this mindset shapes your growth as an audio engineer, producer, or artist.From learned helplessness to empowerment, they explore why some talented people never get their break, how cognitive biases influence our perception of success, and why faith, sacrifice, and clear values can be the hidden tools to thriving in music.Whether you’re chasing Grammys or just trying to stay consistent in the studio, this episode will challenge you to reframe your mindset, take responsibility for what’s in your control, and build a healthier, more empowered career in audio.👉 Perfect for mixing engineers, producers, and musicians who want to sharpen not just their technical skills but their mental game too.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LU⁠HIRE JAMES⁠Find Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLu @JamesParrishMixesTwitter: @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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Aeropress and use my code MMPOD for a great deal: https://aeropress.comSupport 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
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Sep 16, 2025 • 46min

The Most Underrated Mixing Trick: Room Reverb

Big reverbs are out, intimacy is in. In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu break down why room reverbs and short reverbs are some of the most underrated tools in modern mixing. From making vocals feel natural to giving drums the depth of a live room, room verbs can glue your mix together without drowning it in washy tails.We also dive into the shift from long Post Malone–style reverbs to today’s drier, punchier sound, the plugins we rely on most (Valhalla Vintage Verb, Valhalla Room, UAD Ocean Way, Cooper Time Cube), and why EQing your reverbs is essential for clarity. Beyond the technical, we talk about the unpredictability of the music industry, why labels can’t manufacture guaranteed hits, and why the only real “secret sauce” is loving the music enough to keep creating.Topics covered:Why room reverbs make mixes sound natural and aliveHow to add depth without washing out vocals or instrumentsFavorite reverb plugins for vocals, guitars, and drumsWhy EQing reverbs can make or break a mixThe myth of “secret formulas” in hit songsWhy unpredictability makes the industry more fair than it looksWhether you’re chasing a more professional sound or just want your mixes to feel more real, this episode will give you both technical takeaways and perspective on what really matters in music.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LU⁠HIRE JAMES⁠Find Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLu @JamesParrishMixesTwitter: @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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Aeropress and use my code MMPOD for a great deal: https://aeropress.comSupport 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
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Sep 11, 2025 • 14min

Exclusive Archive | Pultec EQ Demystified

Thank you for being a subscriber to this exclusive content!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠ (https://www.youtube.com/deekeimixes)⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!⁠ (https://discord.gg/s2WrUg8)⁠HIRE DEE KEI⁠ (https://deekeimixes.com)⁠HIRE JAMES⁠ (https://www.jamesparrishmixes.com/)Find Dee Kei and James on Social Media:Instagram: ⁠@DeeKeiMixes⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/deekeimixes/) ⁠ (https://www.instagram.com/jamesdeanmixes/)JamesParrishMixes (https://www.instagram.com/jamesparrishmixes/)Twitter: ⁠@DeeKeiMixes⁠ (https://www.twitter.com/deekeimixes) The Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by ⁠Izotope⁠ (https://izotope.com/mmpodcast), ⁠Antares (Auto Tune)⁠ (https://app.redcircle.com/shows/antarestech.sjv.io/WDDyOO), Sweetwater (https://mixingmusicpodcast.com/sweetwater), ⁠Plugin Boutique⁠ (https://pluginboutique.com/?a_aid=604322feb04e4), ⁠Lauten Audio⁠ (https://www.lautenaudio.com/), ⁠Filepass⁠ (https://filepass.com/?fpr=twb41), & ⁠Canva⁠ (https://partner.canva.com/e44vg6)The 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 (mailto:deekeimixes@gmail.com)Our Sponsors:* Check out Aeropress and use my code MMPOD for a great deal: https://aeropress.comSupport 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
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Sep 9, 2025 • 37min

Analog vs. Convenience: The Real Battle in Modern Mixing

Is analog really better, or is convenience the true king in modern mixing? In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu dive deep into the ongoing debate of analog hardware vs. digital plugins — and reveal why the real competition has never been about sound quality, but about workflow efficiency and convenience.They explore the myths that analog gear automatically makes you a better mixer, the hidden costs and maintenance headaches of vintage units, and how digitally controlled hardware is bridging the gap between tone and practicality. From patch bays and recalls to plugin innovation and offline bounces, this conversation breaks down what actually matters in professional mixing today.Whether you’re a gearhead, a plugin-only engineer, or someone stuck between worlds, this episode will help you rethink how you invest your time, money, and energy in the studio.🔑 Topics Covered:Why analog vs. digital misses the point — it’s really analog vs. convenienceThe recall nightmare and why efficiency matters more than everHow plugin innovation turned “convenience” into “quality”Why buying analog gear doesn’t make you a better mixerHidden costs of analog gear (maintenance, tubes, resale)The rise of digitally controlled analog unitsWhy working faster often means making more emotionally honest mixesSUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LU⁠HIRE JAMES⁠Find Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLu @JamesParrishMixesTwitter: @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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Aeropress and use my code MMPOD for a great deal: https://aeropress.comSupport 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
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Aug 26, 2025 • 27min

Live Sound Survival Guide: IEM Mixes, Dante, and Virtual Soundcheck

Going on tour and need a rider that actually delivers? In this solo episode, Lu breaks down how to plan, pack, and execute reliable live sound on a world tour. Learn why your tech rider is a blueprint, not a wishlist, how to prioritize monitors and IEMs so the artist always hears a clear mix, and how to design sensible substitutions and backups for real-world venues. We cover FOH and monitor workflows, Dante-based recording to Nuendo Live for virtual soundchecks, adding crowd ambience mics to in-ears, carrying your own talkback, RTA mic, DI boxes, and the checklists that keep a team on time. We also get into mindset: punctuality, preparation, and owning mistakes. If you want fewer surprises and better shows, this is your playbook.What you’ll learnHow to write a rider that venues can actually fulfillFOH and monitor roles when the artist runs IEMsSensible substitutions for consoles and wireless systemsWhy UPS power and gear redundancy save showsUsing Dante Virtual Soundcard and Nuendo Live for multitrack recordingVirtual soundcheck to build mixes before the band arrivesAmbience mic placement for more natural in-earsPacking the essentials: talkback, RTA, DI, cables, backups, show filesWhy organization and accountability beat “more gear” every timeSUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LU⁠HIRE JAMES⁠Find Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLu @JamesParrishMixesTwitter: @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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Aeropress and use my code MMPOD for a great deal: https://aeropress.comSupport 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
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Aug 19, 2025 • 47min

How to AI-Proof Your Music Career | Why I’m Not Afraid of AI (And Neither Should You Be)

Is AI going to replace mixers, producers, and engineers? In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu explain why they’re not afraid of artificial intelligence — and why you shouldn’t be either.They break down how competing on price is the fastest way to kill your career, and why the future belongs to mixers and producers who focus on brand, community, and storytelling. Instead of selling “just music,” you’re really selling trust, identity, and an experience — things no AI can replicate.We also talk about:How to build a business model AI can’t undercut.Why service, communication, and reliability matter more than ever.What artists like Post Malone actually “sell” (hint: it’s not songs).The difference between creation vs. curation in an AI-driven world.Why AI is a tool to support you, not replace you.If you’ve been worried about the rise of AI in music production, this episode will give you practical strategies and mindset shifts to stay relevant, protect your career, and build a brand that lasts.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LU⁠HIRE JAMES⁠Find Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLu @JamesParrishMixesTwitter: @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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Aeropress and use my code MMPOD for a great deal: https://aeropress.comSupport 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
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Aug 12, 2025 • 1h 5min

Stop the Endless Revisions: Systems That Get Your Mix Approved Faster

Learn how to cut endless revision cycles, manage client expectations, and keep projects moving smoothly without losing trust. In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lew share proven systems for reducing back-and-forth, building strong client relationships, and delivering mixes that get approved faster. From intake forms and reference tracks to strategic phone calls, Zoom sessions, and real-time feedback tools, discover the workflow tweaks that save time and boost client satisfaction. Whether you’re working with indie artists or major labels, these insights will help you protect your brand, streamline communication, and keep clients coming back.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LU⁠HIRE JAMES⁠Find Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLu @JamesParrishMixesTwitter: @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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Aeropress and use my code MMPOD for a great deal: https://aeropress.comSupport 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
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Aug 5, 2025 • 1h 36min

The Music Industry Isn’t Evil — You’re Just Bitter: How to Stop Blaming the Industry and Start Winning

📝 Episode DescriptionIn this episode, Dee Kei and Lu get real about the biggest mindset shift you need to survive and thrive in the music industry. Spoiler: it’s not out to get you.They break down the common myths that cause people to become bitter and give up — from ideas about gatekeeping and parasitic elites to survivorship bias and luck. You’ll learn why success in music has less to do with who you know and more to do with being practical, reliable, and emotionally aligned with the life you're building.This episode dives deep into the psychology of rejection, ego traps, and the hard truth that many people don’t want to hear: you’re not owed anything — but you can earn everything.🔑 Topics Include:Why most people misunderstand how the industry worksWhat bitterness, gatekeeping, and “the game is rigged” narratives missHow low conscientiousness sabotages creative careersWhy success favors the reliable, not just the talentedThe myth of selling your soul to make itPassion vs. alignment — and why some should keep music a hobbyThe survivorship bias in music success storiesWhat "selling cool" actually means in brandingSUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!⁠SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBE⁠Join the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LU⁠HIRE JAMES⁠Find Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLu @JamesParrishMixesTwitter: @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.Our Sponsors:* Check out Aeropress and use my code MMPOD for a great deal: https://aeropress.comSupport 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

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