Producer Points

🎧 HOLYCHILD’s Brat Pop Blueprint — Louie Diller on Creating Ahead of the CurveIn this episode of Producer Points, Justin sits down with Louie Diller — songwriter, producer, drummer, and one half of the groundbreaking duo HOLYCHILD. A decade after their debut The Shape of Brat Pop to Come, Louie reflects on how HOLYCHILD helped pioneer the brat pop sound that still feels ahead of its time.🎶 Song deep dives:“Barbie Nation” by HOLYCHILD — chaotic yet controlled production, playful vocal tone, and odd-time signatures that somehow groove“Favorite” by Silver Otto — vocal production, drum pocket choices, and the unexpected journey of a song written with Bonnie McKee🎛️ We explore:Louie’s unique drum programming style and transient-rich productionsGear favorites, from Spitfire Labs to Zildjian Master Sound hi-hatsThe balance of perfection vs. imperfection in modern popWhy songwriter advocacy through SONA is so critical for the future of music🔗 Follow & Listen:Louie Diller: @louieliveslaughslovesJustin Gammella: @justin_gammellaProducer Points: @producer_pointsTikTok: @producer.points🎧 Producer Points Playlist: Spotify🎙️ Full Episodes: Spotify | Apple Podcasts

🎧 Spotify / Apple Podcasts DescriptionFrom Writing “Mad at Disney” to Producing “Dirty Martini” — Salem Ilese on Becoming the Artist She NeededIn this episode of Producer Points, Justin sits down with platinum-selling artist, songwriter, and now producer Salem Ilese — the creative force behind viral anthems like “Mad at Disney,” “PS5,” and “Build a Bitch” (with Bella Poarch).But this conversation is about more than just writing hits. It’s about creative evolution. Salem opens up about stepping into production, owning her sound, and what it’s taken to become the artist she spent years writing for.🎶 Song deep dives:“hahaha” — self-producing vulnerable lyrics with bold sonic textures“Dirty Martini” — finding the line between confidence and chaos, and how this song redefined her sound🎛️ We explore:Writing hits for Bella Poarch, TXT, Ava Max & moreLearning production and taking full creative controlHer plug-ins and setup: RC-20, Baby Audio, Leapwing, Output Portal & moreBalancing artist and songwriter identitiesWhat she wishes she knew earlier — and what she’d tell any young producer trying to do both🔗 Follow & Listen:Salem Ilese: https://www.instagram.com/salemileseJustin Gammella: https://www.instagram.com/justingammellaProducer Points: https://www.instagram.com/producer_pointsTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@producer.points🎧 Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oqD4l6js2moC7r1DxqAR9?si=ff91d84b02b04997

🎧 Behind the Scenes of “Sunroof”: Dazy on Viral Moments, Ableton Hacks & Drum PerfectionIn this episode of Producer Points, Justin sits down with Dazy (Nick Minutaglio)—the artist, songwriter, and producer behind Nicky Youre’s global smash “Sunroof” and collaborations with Role Model, Maude Latour, Tanerelle, Carter Ryan, Quinn XCII, DVBBS, and more.From his early SoundCloud days to topping charts worldwide, Dazy shares his unique journey, deep dives into his guitar-driven pop sound, and unpacks how he builds tight, infectious productions that stick.🎶 Song deep dives:“Sunroof” by Nicky Youre — how it started as a dorm voice memo, why the guitars needed two dozen layers, and the key change that made it a hit“No Rush” by Maude Latour — dreamy vocal stacks, loose doubles, and the balance between simplicity and impact🎛️ We explore:Ableton hacks for faster, cleaner bouncesDrum programming, groove layering, and tight bass tricksGuitar tones, Sketch Cassette magic, and pedal choicesBuilding a music career post-college, DM’ing your way into sessions, and how “Sunroof” blew up on TikTokPlug or Unplug: Dazy’s honest takes on Trackspacer, CLA Vocals, Radiator, Output Thermal, and more🎧 Available now on all podcast platforms and YouTube.🔗 Follow & Listen:Dazy: https://www.instagram.com/heydazyJustin Gammella: https://www.instagram.com/justingammellaProducer Points: https://www.instagram.com/producer_pointsTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@producer.points🎧 Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oqD4l6js2moC7r1DxqAR9?si=ff91d84b02b04997

In this episode of Producer Points, Justin sits down with platinum-selling artist, songwriter, and producer Jake Scott—the heart-forward creative behind fan favorites like “Good Day” and the Russell Dickerson hit “She Likes It.”From his Arkansas roots to signing a publishing deal with David Hodges, Jake shares the highs, lows, and lessons of building an independent career fueled by consistency, intention, and emotional connection.🎶 Song deep dives:“Good Day” by Jake Scott — the story behind its uplifting tone, collabing with Noah Conrad, unexpected horn choices, and Jake’s vocal chain & guitar textures“She Likes It” by Russell Dickerson ft. Jake Scott — minimalism done right: super-wide guitar tricks, tight 808s, and production restraint that lets the song breathe🎛️ We explore:Jake’s “One Song a Month” strategy that built his fanbase from the ground upWorking with Aloe Blacc, Jason Mraz & Russell DickersonFavorite gear and plugins (CLA-2A, Wunder CM7, Goodhertz Trem, etc.)Why phase-aligned real drums still matterPlug or Unplug: Jake’s take on vocal chains, VMR, RX11 & moreWhether you’re a producer, a songwriter, or an artist trying to build something real—this one’s full of gold.🔗 Follow & Listen:Jake Scott: @jakescottmusicJustin Gammella: @justingammellaProducer Points: @producer_pointsTikTok: @producer.points🎧 Playlist: Producer Points Spotify Playlist

In this episode of Producer Points, Justin sits down with genre-blending producer, songwriter, and mixer David Schaeman — the creative mind behind standout tracks for Cameron Whitcomb, Emeline, John Harvie, and LOYALS. A Berklee alum with an ear for cinematic pop, gritty country, and hooky punk, David walks through his production style and shares insights into balancing raw emotion with polished execution.🎶 Song deep dives:“Quitter” by Cameron Whitcomb — driving acoustics, layered vocals, and rhythmic punch“This Is How I Learn to Say No” by Emeline — vocal pocket, guitar grit, and emotional clarity🎛️ We explore:• David’s go-to guitar pedals, vocal chains, and mixbus templates• The balance of analog gear and digital tools• Why the pocket matters more than perfectionIf you love emotionally rich records and tight, dynamic production—you’ll get a lot out of this one.🔗 Follow & Listen:David Schaeman: @schaedogJustin Gammella: @justingammellaProducer Points: @producer_pointsTikTok: @producer.pointsProducer Points Playlist: SpotifyFull Episodes: Spotify, Apple

In this episode of Producer Points, Justin sits down with groundbreaking producer, songwriter, and label founder Elie Rizk — the creative force behind hits for KESHI, Bella Poarch, Renee Rapp, Jessie Murph, mazie, Sub Urban, Diplo, and more. Elie shares the stories and techniques behind some of his biggest productions and explains how his label Good Boy Records is changing the game for songwriters.🎶 Song deep dives:"Build a Bitch" by Bella Poarch — balancing bombast, satire, and grit"Soft Spot" by Keshi — intimate production, analog textures, and drum simplicity🎛️ We explore:Elie’s go-to gear, mixbus, and vocal chainsUsing real instruments in modern popHow Good Boy Records is pushing for songwriter equityIf you care about great pop music and ethical creative business, don’t miss this.🔗 Follow & Listen:Elie Rizk: @eliethebearGood Boy Records: @goodboyrecords | itsgoodboy.comJustin Gammella: @justingammellaProducer Points: @producer_pointsProducer Points TikTok: @producer.pointsProducer Points Playlist: SpotifyFull Episodes: Spotify, Apple

In this episode of Producer Points, Justin sits down with Grammy-winning producer and songwriter POM POM (Kellen Pomeranz), whose sound spans genre and generation—from stripped-down ballads with John Legend to alt-pop gems with Lyn Lapid, Leyla Blue, Suki Waterhouse, and more.🎸 We explore her guitar-forward production style, signature drum sound, and how she uses space and texture to support powerful storytelling.🔊 Go behind the scenes of Leyla Blue’s “What a Shame” and Lyn Lapid’s “In My Mind”—from guitar mic’ing and vocal layering to trap drum programming and foley-laced intros.🎛️ Plus: her go-to mixbus tricks, backing vocal philosophies, favorite gear, and a Plug or Unplug round featuring the Frank Dukes Prince Synth, Valhalla Delay, CLA Vocals, and more.Whether you’re a producer, songwriter, or just someone who loves beautifully crafted records—this one’s a masterclass.🔗 Follow & Listen:POM POM: https://www.instagram.com/sheispompom/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/producer_points/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@producer.pointsSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/39LcUbNHdc7kssfUZ0wB5aApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/producer-points/id1745600859Producer Points Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oqD4l6js2moC7r1DxqAR9

Cambo on Working with Doja Cat, Jackson Wang & Reinventing Country MusicIn this episode of Producer Points, Justin sits down with producer and songwriter Cambo, whose genre-defying work spans pop, rock, and country. From shaping the explosive sound of Doja Cat and Jackson Wang to redefining what modern country can be with Tanner Adell, Cambo unpacks the creative mindset and technical workflow behind his bold productions.🎸 Deep dive on Jackson Wang’s “Blow” — how Cambo fused gritty guitars with polished pop🤠 Breaking down “Buckle Bunny” by Tanner Adell — from 808s and acoustic guitars to sub-lifting bass🎛️ Mixbus tricks, vocal chain techniques, and his studio setup at Lineage Studios🤝 Collaboration philosophy, artist-first sessions, and how to stay genre-versatile without losing your identityA must-listen for producers, songwriters, and anyone curious about pushing sonic boundaries in today’s music.🔗 Follow & Listen:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/producer_points/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@producer.pointsSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/39LcUbNHdc7kssfUZ0wB5aApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/producer-points/id1745600859Producer Points Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oqD4l6js2moC7r1DxqAR9

In this episode of Producer Points, Justin sits down with producer and artist Hazey Eyes — known for his lush, cinematic production style on tracks with Jeremy Zucker, Chelsea Cutler, Suki Waterhouse, and more.Blending classical training with indie-pop instincts, Hazey Eyes opens up about how he builds emotional landscapes through texture, restraint, and careful sound design. From banjos and layered choirs to dreamy strings and reverb-drenched guitars, his productions let the song breathe without ever feeling empty.🎛️ We dive into:• The story behind “Terrible Things” by Jeremy Zucker & Chelsea Cutler• How “Model Actress Whatever” came together with Suki Waterhouse• Mixing dreamy vocals, gritty drums, and minimal elements for maximum emotion• His favorite gear, go-to plugins, and how he organizes sessions• Rapid-fire opinions in our Plug or Unplug segmentIf you're into emotional, cinematic production that still hits hard, this one’s for you.🎧 Follow & Listen:Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/39LcUbNHdc7kssfUZ0wB5aApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/producer-points/id1745600859Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/producer_points/Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oqD4l6js2moC7r1DxqAR9

Lo-Fi Vibes to Folk Anthems — Sarcastic Sounds on Collaborating with Lil Wayne & David KushnerIn this episode of Producer Points, Justin dives into the world of Sarcastic Sounds — the Canadian producer and artist redefining modern music with his unique blend of lo-fi aesthetics and hi-fi precision. From crafting moody beats to working with genre giants like Lil Wayne and David Kushner, Sarcastic Sounds shares how he bridges the gap between hip-hop, pop, and folk-inspired anthems.🎛️ Go behind the scenes on collaborations like BoyWithUke’s "Loafers" and Dean Lewis’ "Empire" as Sarcastic Sounds unpacks his approach to sound design, emotional storytelling, and the creative freedom that comes with trusting your instincts.🎹 Highlights:• The story behind “Loafers” and balancing rawness with polish• Techniques for building anthemic yet intimate productions• How to craft lo-fi drum textures that stand out• His favorite gear and plugins — including Soundtoys Little AlterBoy and Chandler TG2• Advice for aspiring producers on blending imperfections into hit recordsIf you're passionate about sound design, songwriting, and taking risks in the studio, this episode is a must-listen.Follow & Listen:🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/39LcUbNHdc7kssfUZ0wB5a🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/producer-points/id1745600859📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/producer_points/🎵 Producer Points Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oqD4l6js2moC7r1DxqAR9

In this episode of Producer Points, Justin sits down with producer and songwriter Joe Pepe — a creative force behind hits for mgk, Travis Barker, Kiana Lede, and more. Known for his hard-hitting drums and biting guitar tones, Joe breaks down the process behind his signature sound. From his East Coast roots to Los Angeles studios, he shares insights into his workflow, building trust in the studio, and how he captures the perfect day-of bounce.🔊 They dive into the stories behind Chloe Lilac’s “Supermoon” and Sam Short’s “Aphrodite,” revealing Joe’s favorite production tricks, vocal chains, and mixing hacks. Plus, Joe shares lessons from collaborating with MGK, Travis Barker, Kiana Lede, and others — and why finding the right balance between organic and modern sounds is key to a killer record.🛠️ Plug-in talk, gear favorites, and why sometimes the best thing you can do is trust your gut.If you’re into modern pop, alternative production, or just want to learn how to make drums hit like they mean it, this episode is a must-listen.🔗 Follow & Listen:Producer Points Playlist: Spotify PlaylistInstagram: Producer PointsTikTok: Producer PointsSpotify: PodcastApple Podcasts: Podcast

Ryan Hunter on Sync, Cinematic Production & His Evolution from Envy on the Coast to 1st VowsIn this episode of Producer Points, Justin sits down with artist, songwriter, and producer Ryan Hunter — best known for fronting the iconic band Envy on the Coast and for his deeply atmospheric solo project, 1st Vows. From the alternative rock scene to film scoring, Ryan’s genre-defying career is a testament to reinvention and honesty in artistry.🎙️ We dive into the emotional and sonic layers of 1st Vows’ “Never Learnt to Pray” and how Ryan builds intimacy and scale in the same breath.💭 Hear how “Was It a Dream” with MARIS came together, including vocal production tips and experimental textures.🎬 Ryan shares his journey into film and sync work — the mindset shift, musical demands, and how storytelling plays a central role.🎛️ Plus: plugin preferences, favorite gear (Highland Park BG2, Eventide H3000, API preamps), and how he dials in a perfect day-of bounce.If you're looking for insight into cinematic pop production and emotionally charged songwriting, this episode is a must.Follow Ryan: @1stvowsFollow & Listen:🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/39LcUbNHdc7kssfUZ0wB5a🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/producer-points/id1745600859📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/producer_points/🎵 Producer Points Playlist: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2oqD4l6js2moC7r1DxqAR9

In this episode of Producer Points, Justin sits down with producer, songwriter, vocalist, and mixer Daylight (DJ Kyriakides) — a true 100-percenter known for crafting records that balance timeless emotion with bold sonic choices. From his Grammy-nominated work with Shawn Mendes to collaborations with Sabrina Carpenter, GAYLE, Maroon 5, Mon Rovia, and K.Flay, DJ brings intention and integrity to every project he touches.🎧 We break down the making of “Stitches” — from the iconic stomp-clap groove to the raw vocal takes that made it a global hit. Learn how DJ layered acoustic textures, processed gang vocals, and kept ad libs exciting without overcrowding the mix.🔊 DJ opens up about studio design, production mindset, and gear favorites — including AudioScape hardware, Goodhertz plugins, and why simple choices often win.🌌 We also dive into Mon Rovia’s “To Watch the World Spin Without You”, how DJ balances emotional weight with mix clarity, and the difference between producing for pop stars vs. emerging indie acts.Whether you’re a producer, artist, or creative of any kind, this episode is a blueprint for staying passionate, collaborative, and grounded in the long game.🎧 Follow & Listen:InstagramTikTokSpotify (Podcast)Apple PodcastsProducer Points Playlist

In this episode of Producer Points, Justin sits down with producer and songwriter Nevin Sastry — the creative force behind Shaboozey’s chart-dominating “A Bar Song (Tipsy)”, as well as tracks with JoJo, Noah Cyrus, phem, Upsahl, and more. With a background that spans classical guitar, medical school, and genre-bending production, Nevin brings a rare combination of discipline and intuition to the studio.🎧 We dive into “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” — from reimagining J-Kwon’s classic into a country anthem to co-producing the viral hit with Sean Cook and building a vocal chain that cuts through any mix.🎸 He breaks down his approach to acoustic tone, crowd layering, whistle tracking, and why the simplest parts often hit the hardest when they’re recorded with care.🎚️ Production talk from “Winning Streak” and Lady Wrangler — how he crafted Shaboozey’s debut album sound, created cinematic moments with minimal ingredients, and found his signature guitar tone.🔌 A deep “Plug or Unplug” segment covering Omnisphere, Superior Drummer 3, CLA Vocals, Kramer Tape, Guitar Rig, and more — plus, why trusting your gut matters more than your gear.Nevin’s story is equal parts risk and reward — and a must-listen for anyone chasing longevity in today’s fast-moving music landscape.Follow & Listen:InstagramTikTok

Falconry Breaks Down ‘numb little bug’ and the Power of Performance-Based ProductionOn this episode of Producer Points, Justin sits down with producer, songwriter, and guitarist Falconry (aka Dru DeCaro), whose work spans from electrifying live performances with Miguel and Machine Gun Kelly to studio productions for Em Beihold, Christian French, One OK Rock, Clean Bandit, Fletcher, jxdn, and more.We dig into:🎸 Falconry’s evolution from shredding in Baltimore bands to producing radio hits in LA🎧 The story behind Em Beihold’s viral breakout “numb little bug” — how it came together in one day and sparked a global moment🎛️ His philosophy of “performance-based production” — how guitar chops, live energy, and studio creativity all blend together🔥 Deep dive on Christian French’s “love ride” and the art of blending guitars with digital sound design🎸 His favorite pedals, outboard gear, and the rare Dookie amp mod he uses in the studio👀 What producers can learn from being on stage — and how to build emotion into every noteWhether you're a guitar-forward producer or just obsessed with gear, tone, and songwriting instinct, this episode is packed with knowledge, stories, and real talk from one of the most versatile talents in music today.🎶 Check out songs from this episode on the Producer Points Playlist