Recording Studio Rockstars

"It's pretty hard to f* it up in Muscle Shoals." Jay Tooke found creative freedom and killer drum sounds after leaving Nashville for the slower pace of Muscle Shoals. We talk studio vibes, live tracking, subtlety in performance, and the magic of first takes. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com My guest today is Jay Tooke, a Canadian-born, award-winning producer, drummer, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and mix engineer now based in Muscle Shoals. After a 14-year run in Nashville, Jay developed a reputation for his intuitive and organic approach to production—working with artists like Randy Houser, Cody Johnson, Lindi Ortega, James Otto, and many more. He's produced six #1 singles and multiple top 10s across Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, with credits ranging from mixing for Cody Jinks to drumming on albums by The Steel Woods. We had Jay on the show back on episode RSR311, where we talked about his transition from band life to the control room, mixing in Muscle Shoals, and embracing a less-is-more approach to production. Today, we're catching up on what he's been working on lately at Fame Studios and Noble Steed  and digging deeper into his creative process. THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.adam-audio.com/ https://www.spectra1964.com https://pickrmusic.com  https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/ Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/3v6l7ldK64dlpBATOv3PIy?si=da901ffdebb34951 If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review   CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/526

What if fewer mics could help you make better records? Alan Evans (Soulive) joins me to talk 4-track recording, Iceland sessions, AI in music, and how simplicity, mindset, and health can fuel your best creative work.   Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com My guest today is Alan Evans, a recording, mixing, and mastering engineer, producer, and musician based in Western Massachusetts. Alan's probably best known as the drummer and co-founder of Soulive, but over the past 30 years, he's also built a deep discography engineering, producing, and shaping the sound of hundreds of recordings. He grew up in a musically rich household in Buffalo, NY, soaking in the sounds of Miles Davis, Ray Charles, and Jimi Hendrix which ignited his interest in music. As a teenager, he hit the clubs and started recording bands, teaching himself the craft of recording, mixing, and production from the ground up. These days, Alan continues to push boundaries through his label, Vintage League Music, with projects spanning jazz, funk, reggae, rock, and Americana—including recent recordings with Oteil Burbridge and MonoNeon at Floki Studios in Iceland, and a new album with Charlie Hunter and Ella Feingold at Pilot Recording Studios in Housatonic, MA. Alan's been on the show before in episodes RSR183, RSR339, and RSR440—and I'm psyched to have him back again, this time in person for video at Ready To Rock Studios. THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.adam-audio.com/ https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here! https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy  https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/ Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/1F16ucxEvIBugOepkzsTkW?si=FJKiBFINRAOZrjKf0FdYJg If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/525

Can you really build your own recording studio gear and make it sound amazing? Mitch Rose from Audio Boys says yes—and shows you how. From hand-built microphones to creating reverb chambers in your home, we dive into the heart of DIY recording and why it's the most creative path to finding your signature sound.   Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com My guest today is Mitch Rose, a recording and mixing engineer from Newcastle, Australia. Mitch is passionate about all things DIY—building his own mics, preamps, EQs, compressors, and even studio furniture and acoustic treatment for home studio spaces. He's been teaching music and audio production for over a decade at technical colleges across Australia, covering everything from recording and live sound to composing in Ableton. Mitch is also a multi-instrumentalist who plays drums, guitar, bass, and all kinds of percussion—especially the Cajon. These days, he spends most of his time recording and mixing other artists from his DIY home studio, and sharing what he learns online. He runs a popular YouTube channel called The DIY Recording Studio, where he teaches other producers and engineers how to start their own DIY studio journey—with hands-on build tutorials for companies like MicParts, DIYRE, CAPI, and Sound Skulptor. Mitch recently flew to the US for NAMM 2025 to work with Z&H Designs and connect with artists, producers, and creators from around the world where I got to shoot a couple of fun videos with him at the booth. Thank you to Nick at Panorama Mastering for the introduction! THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.adam-audio.com/ https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here! https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy  https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/ Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/59vJxA8aupW03dSSZDfHyc?si=i77sfgsvTyaSLNvRiwqd-Q If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/524

"Music's too fun not to have fun making music." In this episode, I talk with Chris Andrews, a seasoned producer, mix, and mastering engineer who has worked with artists across the globe. From his Dolby-approved Atmos studio, Monument Sound, nestled at 7,400 feet in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado, Chris delivers stunning immersive mixes that compete at the highest level of the music industry. His story begins in a basement studio in Virginia and evolves through years of military service, technical refinement, and relentless creativity. We talk about Chris's current studio setup, his go-to tools like the SSL Sigma, and how Forte AI and Soundflow are revolutionizing his workflow. He shares advice for audio professionals on avoiding debt, maximizing creativity, and treating music as both an art and a business. This one's packed with insight and inspiration! Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com My guest today is Chris Andrews, a 25-year veteran producer, mix, and mastering engineer based in Monument, Colorado. He got his start running TBR Studio—The Basement Recording Studio—for seven years before moving to Denver in 2007, where he balanced a day job while refining his craft by night. That dedication led to the creation of Monument Sound, a private studio set 7,400 feet up in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains. In 2022, he leveled up his studio with a Dolby-approved ATMOS mixing room, allowing him to deliver immersive, three-dimensional mixes that help artists compete in today's evolving audio world. While he's worked with artists all over the globe across many genres, his heart is in rock, pop, and country. And when he's not mixing music, he's lending his post-audio talents to indie film projects. THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.adam-audio.com/ https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here! https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy  https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/ Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic Listen to this guest's discography on Apple Music: STEREO: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/monument-sound-mix-master/pl.u-XkD0vN0C2vbYx3g ATMOS: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/chris-andrews-atmos-mixes/pl.u-zPyLl9LCer95vy8 If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/523

"Surround yourself with people you admire." In this episode of Recording Studio Rockstars, I had the pleasure of talking with Brendan Duffey, a multi-Grammy-nominated mix and mastering engineer with nearly 30 years of experience. Brendan has worked with legends like Kendrick Lamar, Sheryl Crow, Milton Nascimento, and Bruce Dickinson—best known as the iconic lead singer of Iron Maiden and a legendary solo artist in his own right. Brendan brings a deep understanding of both the technical and emotional sides of music production. We talked about everything from his early days teaching audio engineering—where he learned how to explain complex concepts in simple ways—to his approach to mixing and mastering across different genres. Brendan shared what it was like to remix and master much of Bruce Dickinson's solo catalog, how he thinks about low-end in hip-hop, and why sometimes a mistake in the studio can lead to your most exciting creative breakthrough. He also opened up about how vocal production has changed over the years, moving from an auditory process to a more visual one, and why he believes simplicity, emotional connection, and knowing your tools inside and out are what really make a mix come alive. Brendan reminded me that mixing isn't just about the gear or the plugins—it's about bringing out the best in the performance and creating something that moves people. This was a killer episode with tons of great insight, whether you're just starting out or deep in your career. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com My guest today is Brendan Duffey, an award-winning mix and mastering engineer with 21 nominations to his name. Based in Jupiter, Florida, Brendan has nearly three decades of experience delivering world-class sound for artists across genres, including Bruce Dickinson of Iron Maiden, Kendrick Lamar, Milton Nascimento, and Sheryl Crow. For 10 years, Brendan owned and operated a major recording facility in São Paulo, Brazil, before relocating to California to focus on mixing and mastering. He later moved to Jupiter in search of a better quality of life for his family. Brendan holds a B.A. in Recording Arts from CSU Chico and a Master's degree in Music Business from Berklee College of Music. Thank you to Matt Boudreau for the introduction our NAMM meetup! THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.adam-audio.com/ https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here! https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy  https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/ Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0L98zCsTqvYmMxalrJa1SZ?si=8bfd61e0069a4adb If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/522

"I always had music around." In this episode, Lij Shaw interviews Felipe de Mari Scalone, a Brazilian producer and musician, about his journey from growing up in a musical family to establishing Junk Mahal Studio in Brazil. Felipe shares insights from his time in London and Amsterdam, his transition from performing in bands to music production, and his experiences attending Mix with the Masters with Shawn Everett. He discusses his sound experimentation, mixing techniques, and the impact of Brazilian and international music on his work. Felipe also shares his unique approaches to reamping, DIY audio equipment, vintage technology, and the challenges and rewards of working in the music industry. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com My guest today is Felipe De Mari Scalone, a Brazilian producer, musician, and frontman of the shoegaze/grunge band Cyanish. After immersing himself in the music scenes of Amsterdam and London, he returned to Brazil to record his debut EP, Lighthouse (2019), marking the beginning of his journey in music production. In 2021, Felipe founded Junkmahal Studio, collaborating with artists like Vitor Bruno, Catiça, 43duo, De Um Filho, De Um Cego, and Luvbites, helping shape their sound across various genres. In 2022, he attended a Mix With The Masters seminar in France with Shawn Everett, and by the end of 2024, he had earned an honorable mention in Eric Valentine's mix contest. Shortly after, he moved to Los Angeles for an internship with Chris Sorem at Nest Recorders, continuing to refine his craft. I met Felipe at NAMM during our Recording Studio Rockstars meetup and was impressed by his story, enthusiasm, and the cool sound of his records! Shoutout to Matt Boudreau for the introduction at the bar. Today, we will discuss making records in Brazil, experimenting with sound, and creating super cool short videos for Instagram to create new and unusual instruments in the studio. THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.adam-audio.com/ https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here! https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy  https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/ Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2RWGULQsJ7Ulj9f6AmQ2O1?si=540116b8c51440b1 If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/521

Tune in for an episode of Recording Studio Rockstars with host Lij Shaw, featuring the talented musician and recording arts student, Abbie Griffin. Abbie shares her personal journey—from falling in love with music inspired by artists like Joni Mitchell and Taylor Swift, to navigating the challenges of the industry. She opens up about her songwriting process, the influence of her family and life experiences, and how technology is transforming the way we create music. Most importantly, Abbie emphasizes the importance of staying true to yourself and embracing your individuality. Don't miss her latest track, "Live from Onie's House," available on Spotify. Join us as we chat about music and creativity on this episode of Recording Studio Rockstars. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com My guest today is Abbie Griffin, an engineer, singer, guitarist, and bassist, and a student of Recording Arts and Production at Montclair State University in NJ, where she studies audio engineering, post-production, and live event audio. At just 22 years old, she's already been performing for nearly two decades. She loves making music and recently released her first record, Live from Onie's House, inspired by Joni Mitchell. To quote her greatest inspiration—her musical grandmother—Abbie is "the saddest yet happiest songbird you'll ever meet, with that smile." I met Abbie at NAMM when she came to a meetup for Recording Studio Rockstars. The first thing she said to me was that she was a fan of the podcast—and so was her dad! It's so cool to hear how the podcast is reaching a younger audience and inspiring those just starting out in their music and audio careers. Today, we're going to find out what it's like to be a young student of recording aspiring to be a musician and songwriter. We'll talk about what Abbie's learning in school, what she thought she needed to learn, and what music really means to her. She shares her thoughts on the rapid changes in music technology with AI, how the definition of a producer is evolving for the next generation, and where she sees the future of music heading. We'll also dive into her love for vintage gear, DIY instruments, and how strength training plays a surprising role in her creative process. And—one of the coolest parts—Abbie recently had the chance to interview Pat Metheny, one of her musical heroes. Get ready for an inspiring conversation about songwriting, personal growth, and embracing your unique sound! THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.adam-audio.com/ https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here! https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy  https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/ Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7jc5wSU8VTbukzdbPmvyXa?si=fc479fd1cff4463d If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/520

Lij Shaw of Recording Studio Rockstars recently sat down with Gabe Dagrezio to dive into his journey from frontman of The New Story to a highly regarded producer, engineer, and studio owner. With years of experience in the music industry, Gabe has worked with a wide range of artists, helping them craft their sound through both performance and technical mastery. He emphasizes the importance of authentic recordings combined with solid technical skills, often sharing how preparation and understanding the artist's vision are key to great results. Gabe also talks about his studio setup, his approach to mixing and mastering, and how modern tools like room simulation headphones can elevate home recordings. Throughout the conversation, he highlights the value of community organizations like AES, continual learning, and building genuine relationships—lessons that are crucial for anyone looking to thrive in today's ever-changing industry. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com My guest today is Gabe Dagrezio. Gabe started as the frontman of The New Story, an Italian touring band signed to EMI/Virgin in the early 2000s. His time in the studio sparked a deep passion for recording, leading him to master performance, engineering, and production. Gabe is a skilled guitarist, songwriter, and singer who has performed thousands of shows worldwide. His background gives him a performer's sensitivity in the studio, bridging the gap between artistry and technical precision. With a Bachelor of Music in Songwriting, Contemporary Guitar, and Music Technology, he brings a well-rounded approach to recording, mixing, and coaching artists to their best performances. We met a couple years ago and here's a quote from Gabe "NAMM, I walked up to you because I listen to your podcast, and I recognized the voice, then, I looked at your badge :)" THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.adam-audio.com/ https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here! https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy  https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/ Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic Listen to this guest's discography on Soundcloud: Recent productions: https://on.soundcloud.com/BMSg25zFjH4crFA99 Original songs: https://on.soundcloud.com/YVPKzB29pob8UAy9A If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/519

What does it take to rise from cleaning studios to shaping some of the most iconic records of our time? Trina Shoemaker's story is not just about breaking into the music industry—it's about breaking through it. As the first woman to win a Grammy for Best Engineered Album, Trina paved the way for a generation of female producers and engineers, and she brings her powerful voice and razor-sharp insight to this inspiring and unfiltered conversation. In this episode, Trina shares how she went from mopping floors at Capitol Records to earning Grammy wins for her work with artists like Sheryl Crow and Emmylou Harris. She tells the behind-the-scenes stories of working on Wrecking Ball and how that album helped define the sound of Americana. We explore her years in London learning the art of engineering, her move to New Orleans to join the legendary Kingsway Studio, and the deep musical and personal lessons she learned along the way. Trina also pulls back the curtain on the realities of being a woman in a male-dominated field—how she navigated the industry, demanded respect, and held true to her belief in capturing raw, honest performances. She discusses her approach to vocal production, why she avoids auto-tune, and how crafting backing vocals is one of her secret weapons. Beyond her life in the studio, Trina opens up about her love of writing and her dream of publishing a novel and having actor Will Patton narrate the audiobook. Whether you're a seasoned engineer or just starting out, this episode offers a powerful reminder: authenticity, persistence, and a deep respect for the artist's process will always rise above the noise. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com My guest today is Trina Shoemaker, who was born in 1965 and raised in Joliet, IL, southwest of Chicago. Over the past three-and-a-half decades, she has produced, recorded and mixed hundreds of records. A four-time Grammy® Award winner and six-time nominee, she is the first woman to win the Grammy® for Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical. Her credits run the gamut from Queens Of The Stone Age, Rodney Crowell, Charley Crockett and Iggy Pop to Sheryl Crow, Brandi Carlile and Tanya Tucker. Although audio engineering is a passion, writing songs and playing musical instruments are not. Instead, while her ears are busy in the studio recording music, her imagination is busy creating characters, narratives, plotlines and dialogues as she travels through the hidden workings of songs. These stories have culminated in the creation of her debut novel, Bury Me Alive In Your Sugar. Trina lives on Mobile Bay in Fairhope, Alabama, with her husband, singer-songwriter Grayson Capps. Thank you to Tyler Bryant for the introduction! THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.adam-audio.com/ https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here! https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy  https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/ Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7FEgPMG0Zhkx6vdIuU5SUX?si=38dbbb23f1994fae If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/518

Ulf Blomberg is a Swedish producer, engineer, and musician known for his deep roots in the DIY scene and his work in punk, death metal, and black metal. He joins Lij to talk about running his own studio, recording techniques, the power of real amps, and why clear communication and artist comfort are critical. Ulf also shares the mission behind his band Agenda, which blends hardcore punk with political and social awareness, and discusses building his own gear, training interns, and what makes a studio truly inspiring. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com My guest today is Ulf Blomberg, a Swedish producer and engineer with a strong DIY ethos who has been making underground metal and punk/hardcore records for 20 years. He started playing guitar as a teenager and quickly fell in love with recording, experimenting with a portable cassette recorder before ever stepping into a real studio. In 2004, he co-founded HoboRec, a studio and punk label, eventually becoming the sole owner and going full-time about six or seven years ago. Having toured extensively—once playing 45 shows in 47 days across 22 countries—he deeply understands the struggles and dedication of independent bands. Known for his organic, acoustically rich productions, Ulf has recorded hundreds of albums, including Danko Jones and Wolfbrigade. He also shares his knowledge on his YouTube channel, HoboRec Recording Studio, with DIY projects like How I Made My Own DIY Ribbon Mic. Thank you to Chris Selim for the introduction! THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.adam-audio.com/ https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here! https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy  https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/ Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0ZbBcVTRe6CjdpAAUEm5zg?si=b7fd1623d3874f84 If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/517

What does it take to build the ultimate dream studio? Grammy-winning producer, engineer, and guitarist David Kalmusky returns to the show to share his journey of designing Addiction Sound Studios and how it's shaped his approach to music production. Known for his work with John Oates, Journey, Shawn Mendes, and many more, David talks about the importance of studio setups, the magic of drums and microphones in recording, and how technology has changed the way we make records. We talked about drive-by sessions, archiving sounds for future inspiration, and why it matters to always have gear ready to capture a great performance. David also reflected on Nashville's rich musical history, the legacy of instruments, and personal connections with legendary artists. In the second half, we talked about quality over quantity when it comes to instruments, the creative use of high-strung guitars, and the process of setting up an Atmos room for immersive mixing. David shared his thoughts on curating a creative space, navigating sound libraries, and how streaming has impacted music careers. We also got into the business side of things—like understanding royalties and publishing—and why internships can be such a valuable path for new producers. It was great to catch up with David and hear what he's been working on—lots of cool stuff in this episode. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com My guest today is David Kalmusky, a Multi-Diamond producer, songwriter, guitarist, mixer, and engineer. His credits include Joss Stone, Shawn Mendes, Carrie Underwood, John Legend, Keith Urban, Mickey Guyton, Mötley Crüe, Nate Smith, Warren Zeiders, Parmalee, Rita Wilson, K. Michelle, and many more. By 2025, his catalog has amassed over 40 billion streams. Let me know if you'd like any tweaks! Dave has been a guest on the podcast in episodes RSR052 and RSR371. THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.adam-audio.com/ https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here! https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy  https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/ Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2xWtNo5m9U6zq6c90Q6sz6?si=7cbe860dc3b94e79 If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/516

What's the secret to crafting a killer mix? Grammy-winning mix engineer Collin Dupuis joins us to share his insights on mixing techniques, room acoustics, and creative chaos. Known for working with The Black Keys, Lana Del Rey, Angel Olsen, he discusses the evolution of music gear, collaboration, experimentation, clarity in mixing, effective file management, and tools like Soundflow and Samply that streamline workflow. Collin talks about vintage recording equipment, the revival of classic multitrack tapes, and automation in modern mixing. He shares experiences with in-person learning, challenges working with musicians of varying skill levels, techniques for enhancing drum sounds, the importance of headphone mixes for drummers, microphone choices and design, and the historical impact of Stevens tape machines. From live-to-two-track recording to innovative mixing, Collin offers valuable insights into pushing creative boundaries. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com My guest today is Collin Dupuis, a Detroit-based multi-Grammy nominated and two time Grammy winning mixer, producer, and musician working with artists like Yves Tumor, Angel Olsen, Lawrence Rothman, Special Interest, Boy and Bear, and many others. He also plays drums in his band Zoos of Berlin. In 2024, Collin came to my studio to teach a mixing masterclass that was a ton of fun. We had a full studio of dedicated producers and engineers from near and far. We learned a ton about Collin's sophisticated mixing method, including a better understanding of how a mix template can work in your home studio and a deep dive into RX and how it can improve your mixes. Collin has been a guest on the podcast in episodes RSR252, RSR341 and RSR404. THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.adam-audio.com/ https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here! https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy  https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/ Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0WU3Rx4o79aPlCDRnq4O0m?si=abcc86915abc4b5a If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/515

In this episode of Recording Studio Rockstars, I sat down with the legendary David Botrill—Grammy-winning producer and engineer behind iconic albums by Tool, Peter Gabriel, King Crimson, Muse, and more. David's journey began in a small Canadian studio run by Bob Lanois, where he learned to be indispensable in the room. From there, he went on to work with Daniel Lanois, Peter Gabriel, and Real World Studios before stepping out on his own. We talk about: The evolution of his ambient and world music influences Building a custom studio for Atmos mixing Embracing imperfection in music Band dynamics, remote collaboration, and pre-production tips His hands-on carpentry work and how it shapes his approach to sound This episode is packed with wisdom for producers, engineers, and anyone passionate about capturing real emotion in the studio. Don't miss this conversation with one of the greats! Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com My guest today is David Bottrill, a three time Grammy Award winning Producer/Engineer/Mixer and has had over 15 million copies of his work sold worldwide. He has worked with a diverse spectrum of prolific artists, such as Peter Gabriel, Smashing Pumpkins, Tool, Muse, Silverchair, King Crimson, Godsmack. and Rush. David has also worked with some of the most influential world musicians, noteably Youssou N'dour and Baaba Maal of Senegal, and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan of Pakistan. David spent 20 years living in the UK, followed by a term in New York, but has settled back in Canada, where he has a mixing studio. Even still, David still spends much of his time working in the US and abroad. Thanks to Brian Murphree at SoundPorter Mastering for making this happen! THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.adam-audio.com/ https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here! https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy  https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/ Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4rABNr5EoaZ8S7hJSMCXMm?si=017e4b84ae674701 If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/514

Is AI changing the future of music production? In this episode, I sit down with Bobby Owsinski, renowned producer, author, and music industry expert, to explore the evolving role of AI, mastering, and the creative process. We dive into the latest edition of Owsinski's Mastering Engineer's Handbook, the importance of reference tracks, and the challenges of self-mastering. Our conversation covers the adaptability of professional songwriters, the resurgence of traditional song structures like bridges, and essential mixing techniques. We also discuss the significance of mono mixing, the roles of engineers and producers, and how the legacy of the music industry continues to shape modern production. Bobby and I explore the fallibility of memory in music history, the evolution of guitar tone and equipment, and the impact of technology on sound. We discuss the future of immersive audio, particularly in theatrical settings, and share insights on discovering new music, staying engaged with diverse sounds, and the importance of content creation and organization. If you're looking for expert insights on mastering, mixing, and navigating the changing landscape of music production, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways! Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com My guest today is producer and engineer Bobby Owsinski, one of the best-selling authors in the music industry, with 24 books that have become staples in audio recording, music, and music business programs worldwide. His titles include The Mixing Engineer's Handbook, The Music Business Advice Book, and The Musician's AI Handbook. A contributor to Forbes as a category expert on the new music business, Bobby's industry blogs have won numerous awards, and he's appeared on CNN and ABC News as a music branding and audio expert. His highly-rated Inner Circle podcast is now in its 10th year, with over 500 episodes featuring top guests from across the music industry. Bobby Owsinski was featured in RSR010, RSR395 and RSR458 episodes. THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.adam-audio.com/ https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here! https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy  https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/ Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/35qyOhVhDyTtol0MGSyCjf?si=7f4e7901c3a94ec5 If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/513

In this episode of Recording Studio Rockstars, Lij Shaw and Dr. Ford explore what really goes into music production—from songwriting and vocal techniques to how social media is shaping the industry. They discuss the importance of staying flexible, much like in jiu-jitsu, and how AI can be a helpful tool while still emphasizing the human touch. Dr. Ford shares stories from his journey, including studio setup, maintaining health, and balancing creativity with hustle. It's a conversation about teamwork, adaptability, and pursuing what truly makes you passionate about music and life. Tune in for an insightful and inspiring discussion on making great music today. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com My guest today is Daniel Robert Ford, also known as "Dr. Ford," an 11-time award-winning and 8-time iTunes #1 record producer and mixer. Originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, he studied at Musicians Institute in Hollywood before making Nashville his home. With a passion for country music and working directly with artists, Dr. Ford has built a successful career producing records for clients in Nashville and internationally. Now, with the opening of his second commercial studio, he continues to expand his reach. Outside the studio, he's an avid weightlifter and a purple belt in Jiu-Jitsu at Gracie Barra Franklin. Dr Ford has been a guest on the podcast in episodes RSR136, 218 and 367. THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.adam-audio.com/ https://www.phantomfocus.com/category-s/149.htm https://www.makebelievestudio.com/mbsi Get your MBSI plugin here! https://RecordingStudioRockstars.com/Academy  https://www.thetoyboxstudio.com/ Listen to the podcast theme song "Skadoosh!" https://solo.to/lijshawmusic Listen to this guest's discography on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4cpjIff1g4Lwdld3Fz5OGa?si=61b9462116db42f6 If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/512