Recording Studio Rockstars

Latest Episodes:

RSR220 - Justin Francis - Grammy Nominated Engineer Shares Mixing Tips for Your Home Studio Nov 22, 2019

Show notes

My guest today is Justin Francis a multi Grammy nominated Nashville engineer and mixer who I got turned on to from listening to mastering engineer Kim Rosen's discography when preparing for her interview.

Justin Mixes from his log cabin home studio in Ashland City, Tennessee. In just one week, clients can range from Andrea Bocelli to Alice Cooper, and other notable artists include Top 40 bands like Little Big Town; country singers like Kacey Musgraves, Ronnie Milsap, Tyler Childers, Margo Price, and Rodney Crowell; blues legends like Buddy Guy; classic rock stalwarts like Deep Purple; punk legends like Anti-Flag, and rabble-rousers like Rozwell Kid and Diarrhea Planet — streams of which reach more than a million every month. Additionally, Justin's work with bluegrassers like Special Consensus and Frank Solivan & Dirty Kitchen earned him two Grammy nominations for Best Bluegrass Album.

Today I'm going to ask Justin all about his studio here in Nashville, how he likes to mix a wide variety of music, and what tips we can learn for getting better mixes in our own pro and home studios.

Thanks to our sponsors!

WhisperRoom: https://whisperroom.com Get 10% off the 4x4 or 4x6 booths now when you mention Recording Studio Rockstars: http://whisperroom.com

Eventide: https://www.eventideaudio.com

OWC - Other World Computing: https://www.OWC.com

RSR Academy: http://RSRockstars.com/Academy

Want to learn more about mixing? Get Free mix training with Lij at: http://MixMasterBundle.com

Hear more on Youtube

If you love the podcast, then please Leave a review on iTunes here

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AT: http://RSRockstars.com/220

RSR219 - Ryan Smith - Sterling Sound Engineer & Tips for DIY Mastering At Home Nov 15, 2019

Show notes

My guest today is Ryan Smith a mastering engineer at Sterling Sound. He has mastered records for a wide array of artists, including Greta Van Fleet, Elle King, and AC/DC.

Ryan Smith began his journey in the world of audio when he moved to New York City in 1995. In the late 90's he moved through various recording studio gigs and other "audio odd jobs" around New York City. This eventually led to a job as an assistant engineer at the Manhattan's Right Track Recording, where Ryan had the opportunity to work alongside legendary engineers and producers, including Phil Ramone, Arif Mardin, Russ Titelman and Frank Filipetti.

In 2002, Ryan made the move to mastering. He joined Sterling Sound where he's been for the past 17 years. Early in his time at Sterling, Ryan spent time working alongside both Ted Jensen and the late George Marino. In addition to digital mastering, Ryan learned the art of vinyl mastering and lacquer cutting from George. During the current resurgence of vinyl, Ryan has become one of the most in demand vinyl specialists around.

Thanks to our sponsors!

WhisperRoom: https://whisperroom.com Get 10% off the 4x4 or 4x6 booths now when you mention Recording Studio Rockstars: http://whisperroom.com

Eventide: https://www.eventideaudio.com

OWC - Other World Computing: https://www.OWC.com

RSR Academy: http://RSRockstars.com/Academy

Want to learn more about mixing? Get Free mix training with Lij at: http://MixMasterBundle.com

Hear more on Youtube

If you love the podcast, then please Leave a review on iTunes here

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AT: http://RSRockstars.com/219

RSR218 - Dr Ford - How to Mix in a Pro or Home Studio from an Award Winning Mixer Nov 08, 2019

Show notes

My guest today is Daniel Ford aka "Dr Ford", 6 x Award Winning Producer and Mixer with music at #1 on iTunes, & the Billboard Top 20. Daniel has Studio C of the world-famous Sound Kitchen Studios here in Nashville and has been on the show with us before for episode RSR136 to talk share some great tips for vocal mixing.

We also covered Daniels recording journey studying under west coast legends Ronnie King and DJ BattleCat of Tupac, Snoop, & Dr Dre cred. So go back and check out that episode to learn more. But today we decided to bring Dr Ford back to focus strictly on mixing in your home studio. Lets learn what we can about taking the tracks that you have or that people send you and mixing the drums, bass, guitars, keys, and vocals to sound like a polished mix.

Were going to dig into each element of a mix and break down some of the challenges and solutions that you might run when mixing. Dr Ford has lots of experience teaching online and in person. So if you want to follow up this interview to learn more then make sure to check out his website at DrFord.com or go visit his Youtube channel where he does regular videos including a new series called The Dr's Office.

Thanks to our sponsors!

WhisperRoom: https://whisperroom.com Get 10% off the 4x4 or 4x6 booths now when you mention Recording Studio Rockstars: http://whisperroom.com

Eventide: https://www.eventideaudio.com

OWC - Other World Computing: https://www.OWC.com

RSR Academy: http://RSRockstars.com/Academy

Want to learn more about mixing? Get Free mix training with Lij at: http://MixMasterBundle.com

Hear more on Youtube

If you love the podcast, then please Leave a review on iTunes here

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AT: http://RSRockstars.com/218

RSR217 - Justin Cortelyou - Platinum Engineer working with Paul MacCartney, Johnny Depp, Alice Cooper, and Phish Nov 01, 2019

Show notes

My guest today is Justin "Corky" Cortelyou a platinum selling Nashville producer, engineer, mixer who has worked with all sorts of great talent learning under greats like bluegrass legend Bil VornDick (working with Marty Robbins, Ralph Stanley, Alison Krauss) , mixing guru Chuck Ainlay (working with Dixie Chicks, Mark Knopfler, Miranda Lambert), and master mixer Mike Shipley (working with Def Leppard, Shania Twain, Maroon 5, and Aerosmith).

Justin studied music and engineering at Middle Tennessee State University, became the night manager for Sound Stage Studios before moving out to LA to work with Mike Shipley. Justin then teamed up with producer, songwriter, and musician, Tommy Henriksen. He partnered with Tommy developing artists, negotiating record deals with Warner Bros., Geffen, and Interscope, touring, and doing front of house.

In 2008, Tommy and Justin moved their operations to Nashville, TN where they teamed up with legendary producer, Bob Ezrin (Pink Floyd, Alice Cooper, KISS). Alongside Bob Ezrin, Justin worked with some of the biggest artists in history including Paul McCartney, Deep Purple, Alice Cooper, Joe Perry, Johnny Depp, Phish, Ke$ha, and Kiss to name just a few. Working out of Ezrin's Anarchy Studio, Justin's work has gone on to gain international acclaim including numerous #1's and sales records.

Thanks to our sponsors!

WhisperRoom: https://whisperroom.com Get 10% off the 4x4 or 4x6 booths now when you mention Recording Studio Rockstars: http://whisperroom.com

Eventide: https://www.eventideaudio.com

OWC - Other World Computing: https://www.OWC.com

RSR Academy: http://RSRockstars.com/Academy

Want to learn more about mixing? Get Free mix training with Lij at: http://MixMasterBundle.com

Hear more on Youtube

If you love the podcast, then please Leave a review on iTunes here

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AT: http://RSRockstars.com/217

RSR216 - Chris Finney - Recording Dr John, The Meters, BB King, and the Rebirth Brass Band in New Orleans Oct 25, 2019

Show notes

My guest today is Chris Finney a Grammy Winning Producer, Engineer, and Mixer. He is a life long advocate of music and business education, on both the High School and College levels.

His 25+ years in the recording studio include dates with Robert Plant, B.B. King, Herbie Hancock, and New Orleans legends Dr. John, Harry Connick, Jr., Allen Toussaint, the Meters, and Fats Domino. He has been instrumental in kicking off and developing the recording careers of New Orleans funk-rock mainstays Galactic, Trombone Shorty, The Revivalists, Naughty Professor, and newcomers like SexualThunder! and Organized Crime.

In 2017, He co-founded the non-profit 30AMP Circuit, with renowned guitarist Charlie Hunter. 30AMP's mission is to bring music from underserved communities around the world into the mainstream. Their first project brought them to rural Southeast Mexico to produce "Lo Sagrado," by Silvana Estrada, which was released in November, 2017.

Chris is currently adjunct professor of Music business at Tulane University in New Orleans, and is an active member of the Memphis Chapter of the Recording Academy, currently serving as a Chapter Governor, as well as Co-Chair of the Producers and Engineers wing.

A big thanks to Emile Louapre, for introducing me to Chris to bring him on the show.

Thanks to our sponsors!

WhisperRoom: https://whisperroom.com Get 10% off the 4x4 or 4x6 booths now when you mention Recording Studio Rockstars: http://whisperroom.com

Eventide: https://www.eventideaudio.com

OWC - Other World Computing: https://www.OWC.com

RSR Academy: http://RSRockstars.com/Academy

Want to learn more about mixing? Get Free mix training with Lij at: http://MixMasterBundle.com

Hear more on Youtube

If you love the podcast, then please Leave a review on iTunes here

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AT: http://RSRockstars.com/216

RSR215 - Jessica Tomasin - Managing Echo Mountain Studios in Asheville NC Oct 18, 2019

Show notes

My guest today is Jessica Tomasin, manager at Echo Mountain Recording Studios in beautiful Asheville NC. Under her direction, the studio has evolved into a world-class destination featuring a full range of digital and analog capabilities with an amazing selection of gear and a wide variety of credits like War On Drugs, The Avett Brothers, Dierks Bentley, Iron and Wine, Flogging Molly, Steve Martin & The Steep Canyon Rangers, and many more. And through volunteering and establishing private companies and non-profit organizations, she is committed to helping the future of music and promoting the city as a musical destination.

Jessica also co-founded the Asheville Music Professionals, a non-profit organization committed to providing education, advocacy, connection, and collaboration in the music community. She is also the co-owner of ACME, a publishing company that helps to connect artists with licensing opportunities.

In 2013 she was chosen as Entrepreneur of the Year by the City of Asheville/Chamber of Commerce for her work in music. In 2014 she started Jet Up Productions, a full service event management and production company, and has curated a number of festivals and events each year such as The Breeder's Cup, Asheville Goombay Festival, Beer City Festival, Brewgrass, RHS Community Foundation Fundraiser featuring Gladys Knight and Little Big Town, and many other projects. Her latest event, Connect Beyond Festival, is an arts and literature festival featuring creative talent from around the world with a mission to inspire change for social justice through music, film, art and literature.

Thanks to our sponsors!

WhisperRoom: https://whisperroom.com Get 10% off the 4x4 or 4x6 booths now when you mention Recording Studio Rockstars: http://whisperroom.com

Eventide: https://www.eventideaudio.com

OWC - Other World Computing: https://www.OWC.com

RSR Academy: http://RSRockstars.com/Academy

Want to learn more about mixing? Get Free mix training with Lij at: http://MixMasterBundle.com

Hear more on Youtube

If you love the podcast, then please Leave a review on iTunes here

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AT: http://RSRockstars.com/215

RSR214 - Kim Rosen - Mastering Grammy Winning Records from a Home Studio Oct 11, 2019

Show notes

My guest today is Kim Rosen a mastering engineer working out of her own studio, Knack Mastering, located in Ringwood, NJ. Kim's mastered six Grammy® nominated albums in the past four years; one winning for Best Folk Album (Aimee Mann), three nominated in Best Blues Album categories (Bettye LaVette, Victor Wainwright and Theresa James) as well as two nominations in the Best Engineered Album/Non-Classical category (Bonnie Raitt and The Milk Carton Kids).

Kim grew up in Northampton, Massachusetts and poured herself into the vibrant college music scene. In the summer of 2002, a friend turned her on to a mastering studio in NJ that was looking for an intern. Kim jumped at the opportunity, moved to NJ and began her journey at West West Side Music with Alan Douches (RSR092).

In 2009, after working her way up to Staff Mastering Engineer at West West Side, Kim decided to go out on her own and has built a growing list of clients that includes producers and engineers such as Ryan Freeland, Ed Cherney, Joe Henry, Matt Ross-Spang, Paul Q. Kolderie and artists such as Rhiannon Giddens, Aimee Mann, Belly, Bonnie Raitt, Billy Bragg, Wynonna Judd, The Birds of Chicago, The Barr Brothers, Over The Rhine, Sarah Jaffe, Anthony Green and Title Fight.

Thanks to our sponsors!

WhisperRoom: https://whisperroom.com Get 10% off the 4x4 or 4x6 booths now when you mention Recording Studio Rockstars: http://whisperroom.com

Eventide: https://www.eventideaudio.com

OWC - Other World Computing: https://www.OWC.com

RSR Academy: http://RSRockstars.com/Academy

Want to learn more about mixing? Get Free mix training with Lij at: http://MixMasterBundle.com

Hear more on Youtube

If you love the podcast, then please Leave a review on iTunes here

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AT: http://RSRockstars.com/214

RSR213 - Tommy Womack - Government Cheese, Indie Rock, and Writing Good Songs Oct 04, 2019

Show notes

My guest today is Tommy Womack A Singer-songwriter, author, humorist and Kentucky native Tommy Womack got his start in 1985 to 1992 with legendary Bowling Green based post-punk and college radio faves, Government Cheese (who's story is immortalized in Tommy's cult classic book "Cheese Chronicles").

Upon moving to Nashville in 1992, Tommy's become known for his long working relationship with Will Kimbrough, starting with their bands the bis-quits (who made one classic album for John Prine's Oh Boy label in 1993), and their band Daddy, who have made two albums and enjoy a cult following.

Since 1998, Tommy has released seven solo albums, the latest being the brand-new "Namaste". He looks forward to the back half of 2016 with new songs from that record to play, in addition to such proven past show-stoppers as "Nice Day", "Vicky Smith Blues" and "Alpha Male & the Canine Mystery Blood."

In addition to "Cheese Chronicles", Tommy is the author of the comic Civil War novella "The Lavender Boys & Elsie", and the recently published "Dust Bunnies". He has written for many magazines, including the Oxford American, and is a regular contributor to The East Nashvillian.

Thanks to our sponsors!

WhisperRoom: https://whisperroom.com Get 10% off the 4x4 or 4x6 booths now when you mention Recording Studio Rockstars: http://whisperroom.com

Eventide: https://www.eventideaudio.com

OWC - Other World Computing: https://www.OWC.com

RSR Academy: http://RSRockstars.com/Academy

Hear more on Youtube

If you love the podcast, then please Leave a review on iTunes here

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AT: http://RSRockstars.com/213

RSR212 - Matt McQueen - How to Do Music and Video at Your Studio Sep 27, 2019

Show notes

My guest today is Matt McQueen a studio owner, recording engineer, music producer, and videographer who built his studio in 2013 in an abandoned church located in the mountains of a rural East Tennessee town. The building has a 30 x 50' live room with 24' high ceilings and large old wooden rafters.

Matt has recently gone full time with his studio having had plenty of experience creating music but also creating content as a videographer for other producers like Warren Huart and Glenn Fricker. This has led him to create his own video channel for his studio to help promote local artists and bands.

We live in a world where social media and YouTube channels can be an important part of our musical output. So I'm psyched to talk with Matt today about making the leap to go full time in music and also see what we can learn about creating content for our own studios and artists that we work with. And of course we will be digging into his process for recording and mixing too.

Thanks to our sponsors!

OWC - Other World Computing: https://www.OWC.com

JZ Microphones - https://usashop.jzmic.com/ use coupon: ROCKSTAR at checkout for 50% off JZ vintage series microphones.

RSR Academy: http://RSRockstars.com/Academy

Want to learn more about mixing? Get Free mix training with Lij at: http://MixMasterBundle.com

Hear more on Youtube

If you love the podcast then please Leave a review on iTunes here

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AT: http://RSRockstars.com/212

RSR211 - Rolff Zwiep - Managing Blackbird Studio in Nashville Sep 20, 2019

Show notes

My guest today is Rolff Zwiep who moved to Nashville as a musician/songwriter, and small business owner founding Technical Knock Out Products, a musicians accessory sales and manufacturing business. Working his way through 'real jobs' in the industry as a cartage tech, freelance stage hand & stage manager, production manager with the Nashville Symphony, and working in and managing a number of music/entertainment based service businesses.

In 2004 Rolff launched Blackbird Studio's audio equipment rental business with John McBride and in 2015 assumed his current role as Blackbird Studio manager working with clients including major labels, publishing companies, indie artists and bands, film/video production companies and studio themed events.

I've known Rolff for nearly 25 years and he has even helped me put together my Hay Bale Studio at Bonnaroo before when we needed to rent lots of awesome gear.

I'm psyched to learn more about managing a professional studio and gain some business wisdom and insights today.

Thanks to our sponsors!

OWC - Other World Computing: https://www.OWC.com

JZ Microphones - https://usashop.jzmic.com/ use coupon: ROCKSTAR at checkout for 50% off JZ vintage series microphones.

RSR Academy: http://RSRockstars.com/Academy

Want to learn more about mixing? Get Free mix training with Lij at: http://MixMasterBundle.com

Hear more on Youtube

If you love the podcast then please Leave a review on iTunes here

CLICK HERE FOR SHOW NOTES AT: http://RSRockstars.com/211