Perspektives: The R3SET with Mike WiLL Made-It
Digest
This podcast features producer Mike WiLL Made-It discussing his career reset after losing his hard drive, detailing his journey of rebuilding, embracing new sounds, and focusing on business acumen. He shares insights into the music industry, the importance of innovation, collaboration, and building a legacy. The conversation also touches upon personal growth, mentorship, financial investments, and navigating industry perceptions. Interspersed are segments promoting other podcasts like "It Girl," "Love Trapped," and "Spirit Daughter," as well as highlights from the iHeartRadio Music Awards 2023. The discussion emphasizes resilience, authenticity, and the power of a strong team, with Mike WiLL Made-It reflecting on his evolution as an artist and entrepreneur.
Outlines
Podcast Introductions and Music Industry Insights
Introductions to various podcasts including "It Girl" with Bailey Taylor, "Love Trapped" focusing on a paternity scandal, and "Spirit Daughter" discussing astrology. Also features the "Stuff You Should Know" podcast playlist and highlights from the iHeartRadio Music Awards 2023.
Mike WiLL Made-It's Creative Reset and Evolution
Mike WiLL Made-It discusses his career "reset" after losing his hard drive, the process of rebuilding his sound and studio, and the importance of patience and perspective. He reflects on strategic resets, the benefits of creative pauses, and learning from industry icons.
Navigating Industry Perceptions and Building a Production Company
The conversation delves into navigating industry perceptions, the challenges of innovation in music, and the founding and vision behind Ear Drummerz production company. It covers building a team, the multifaceted nature of production, and shifting motivations.
Teamwork, Business Acumen, and Early Career Struggles
Mike WiLL Made-It emphasizes teamwork, sacrifices for collective success, and his early career challenges navigating the music industry without representation. The segment covers the first joint venture deal with EMI and the importance of a strong foundation.
"It Girl" Podcast Returns and Industry Anecdotes
Bailey Taylor announces the return of the "It Girl" podcast. Questlove shares a unique interview experience with Jamie Lee Curtis. Other podcast segments include "Spirit Daughter" on astrology and "Love Trap" revisiting a paternity scandal.
iHeartRadio Music Awards Recap and Mike WiLL Made-It's Evolving Sound
A recap of the iHeartRadio Music Awards is provided. Mike WiLL Made-It discusses the evolution of his music, his trap sound, and collaborations with a new generation of artists.
The Producer's Perspective: Challenges and Dedication
Mike WiLL Made-It addresses perceptions of being difficult to work with, linking it to his drive for innovation. He draws parallels between music and golf, emphasizing hard work, focus, and trust.
Ambition, Guidance, and Overcoming Adversity
Mike WiLL Made-It reflects on his ambition to lead the music game. The discussion highlights the importance of male guidance, parental figures, and resilience in overcoming adversity, drawing inspiration from parents' strength.
Upbringing, Creative Authenticity, and Collaboration
The impact of a female-dominated upbringing on men is discussed, alongside the evolving music landscape and the importance of creative authenticity. The power of collaboration in creating impactful music is emphasized.
Global Collaborations and Artistic Vision
The speaker discusses personal growth, creative competition, and expanding horizons through global collaborations with artists like BTS and Jennie. They focus on their creative path rather than external perceptions.
Highlighting Talent and The Power of "Versus"
The speaker discusses platforms like "Versus" that showcase artist versatility and praises Hit-Boy's involvement, emphasizing that participation guarantees a win by highlighting talent.
Early Hustle, Regional Perceptions, and Community Support
The speaker shares stories of early hustle, pressing CDs, and navigating regional stereotypes in Atlanta. They emphasize the importance of community support from "believers" and use the metaphor of growth from seed to tree.
Financial Prudence, Family Roots, and Diverse Upbringing
The speaker discusses past financial struggles, the importance of financial discipline, and their diverse family background. The influence of a diverse upbringing on artistic vision and collaborations is explored.
Parental Influence, Real Estate Investments, and Style
Gratitude is expressed for parents' hard work, acknowledging being the first generation of wealth. Guidance in real estate investments and the impact of personal style and confidence on presence are discussed.
Experiencing Life and Creative Control Through Ownership
The speaker uses the analogy of driving different engines to illustrate diverse life experiences. Owning studios and buildings provides freedom and uninhibited creativity, connecting investments to empowerment and a personal reset.
Mentorship, Building Legacies, and Industry Evolution
Advice from mentors on investing in real estate and listening to experienced individuals ("OGs") to build legacies is shared. The evolution of the music scene, contrasting past and present, is discussed.
Social Media Illusions, Atlanta's Scene, and Artist Relationships
The impact of social media creating an illusion of instant success is discussed. The blend of competition and collaboration in Atlanta's music scene is highlighted, along with the importance of direct artist relationships.
Atlanta's Global Sound and Collaborative Songwriting
The speaker asserts Atlanta's global music influence stems from its collaborative spirit. Early collaborative songwriting processes in Atlanta are described, emphasizing a unified and energetic atmosphere.
Music Discovery and Adapting in the Industry
The speaker explains how music discovery occurred through word-of-mouth and local buzz before widespread digital access. Observing industry movements and adapting strategies is emphasized.
Producer's Role, Visual Presentation, and Authenticity
The visual aspect of being a producer and its influence on perceptions is discussed. The importance of authenticity, avoiding clickbait, and leading by example are highlighted.
Misconceptions and Evolution of Atlanta's Music Scene
The speaker addresses misconceptions about Atlanta's music scene, emphasizing originality and hard work. The evolution of Atlanta's sound, from "dirty" to cleaner mixes, is discussed, highlighting the importance of originality.
Producers as Artists and Rapper-Producer Dynamics
The blurring lines between producers and artists are discussed, affecting the rapper-producer relationship. Mutual respect and shared vision are emphasized for creative integrity and enjoyment.
Early Studio Experiences, Shared Success, and Style
The speaker shares early studio experiences, highlighting encouragement to build confidence. The importance of shared success, looking good, and feeling confident is emphasized, influenced by lifelong style commitments.
Hip-Hop Culture, Envy, and Inner Peace
Hip-hop culture's emphasis on newness and shared appreciation for material elements are discussed. Navigating envy and the phenomenon of intimidation by others' success is addressed, stressing that true confidence comes from within.
Ignoring Negativity and Maintaining Artistic Integrity
The speaker discusses dealing with negativity by ignoring it and focusing on inner peace. The significance of a producer's tag and maintaining artistic integrity, letting the music speak for itself, is highlighted.
Collaboration, Overcoming Obstacles, and Achieving Peace
The power of collaboration in creating the best songs is reiterated. The speaker acknowledges negative influences but emphasizes rising above them to maintain focus and achieve peace amidst life's turbulence.
Self-Worth, External Factors, and Community Values
Listeners are encouraged to disregard negative opinions and embrace self-worth. The impact of external factors on personal growth is discussed, emphasizing self-awareness and focusing on personal growth over external conflicts.
Community, Shared Values, and Life's Challenges
The significance of community and shared values is discussed, emphasizing uplifting others. The nature of peace is reflected upon, acknowledging life's challenges and the importance of resilience and a positive outlook.
Understanding Perspectives and Focused Effort
The speaker discusses observing and understanding different perspectives, emphasizing empathy. Recognizing inner strength and the value of time and focused effort are highlighted for fulfillment and success.
Upcoming Music Releases and Community Initiatives
Upcoming music releases, including the "Reset" project and new collaborations, are announced. The second annual "Made It Day Classic" tournament and the launch of the "Made It Pro" golf brand are promoted.
Commercials, Brand Collaborations, and Album Details
Upcoming commercials and brand collaborations are mentioned. The "Reset" album is described as featuring new collaborations and fresh energy, with a focus on creative direction and impact.
Authenticity, Leading by Example, and Returning to Reality
The speaker discusses avoiding clickbait, maintaining authenticity, and leading by example. The intention to return to authenticity and acknowledge reality is expressed, emphasizing self-awareness and genuine engagement.
"It Girl" Podcast: Redefining Success and Transparency
Bailey Taylor reiterates the purpose of "It Girl," focusing on redefining success for women. The importance of transparency in the industry, sharing both positives and negatives, is emphasized.
Questlove's Unique Interview and Personal Anecdotes
Questlove recounts a memorable and unconventional interview with Jamie Lee Curtis. A personal anecdote about wanting to ask someone how they knew something hints at a significant realization.
"Spirit Daughter" Podcast and Aquarius Traits
Jo Wintersteen introduces "Spirit Daughter," discussing astrology and natal charts. The speaker recounts an encounter with an Irish traveler and discusses Aquarius traits like freedom-loving and unique perspectives.
Unconventional Partnerships and Astrological Influence
The speaker's astrological placements influence an unconventional approach to partnerships. The episode is recommended for those interested in personal transformation and integrating astrology with creativity.
"Love Trap" Podcast Teaser and Paternity Scandal Details
A teaser for "Love Trap" introduces the paternity scandal involving Clayton Eckard. Allegations of test tampering are confirmed, and the role of internet detectives in uncovering deception is highlighted.
iHeartRadio Music Awards Recap and Album Collaborations
A recap of the iHeartRadio Music Awards, including hosts, honorees, and performers, is provided. Discussion includes unexpected album collaborations and the talent of Sid Sriram.
Sid Sriram's Talent and Upcoming Projects
The speaker praises Sid Sriram's adaptability and vocal performance. Upcoming albums with Swae Lee and Sid Sriram are announced, along with a gospel-influenced track with CeeLo Green.
Grammy Win, Marketing Genius, and Moving Forward
Reflection on winning a Grammy and recognizing genius and marketing prowess. Fond memories of "Bank" and his marketing genius are shared, emphasizing the importance of conversation and moving forward.
Album Congratulations and The Power of Believers
Congratulations are extended for a new album and projects. The speaker expresses pride in seeing peers succeed and emphasizes the importance of belief over negativity, attributing current success to believers.
Shared Moments, Dedication, and Producer's Worth
Vivid memories of shared moments and dedication to the craft are recalled. Bank's encouragement and the speaker's value as a producer are highlighted, along with a period of recharging and self-realization.
Understanding Perspectives and The Motivation for Success
The importance of understanding others' perspectives and the drive to achieve greater success is highlighted. The motivation to succeed is framed as doing it for oneself and the collective support system.
Anticipation for the New Album and Its Impact
High expectations are set for the new album, predicted to be a "no skips" project. The immediate reaction to its quality, hardness, and unfamiliarity is anticipated.
Evolution of Projects: ATL to R&B and Avoiding Sequels
The evolution of projects from "ATL" to "R&B" is detailed, exploring melodic rap. Initial reluctance towards sequels is discussed, influenced by a conversation with Andre 3000.
Embracing the "Reset" for Ransom 3
Collaboration with Derek on videos leads to the idea of a "reset," prompting a new approach to "Ransom 3." The concept of "reset" (R3-SCT) is defined as a fresh start for the series.
"Ransom 3": A Reset and Pride in New Music
"Ransom 3" is presented as a "reset," signifying a refreshed continuation. The speaker expresses immense pride in the latest album, considering it their hardest and most impactful work.
"Calvin's Football for the Heart" and DJ Support in Atlanta
The track "Calvin's Football for the Heart" is making waves in Atlanta, receiving strong support in clubs from DJs. Gratitude is expressed to Atlanta DJs for breaking the new music.
Atlanta as Creative Soil and Final Encouragement
Atlanta is described as the fertile ground where creativity and music thrive. The speaker encourages listeners to stay focused, ignore negativity, and maintain peace.
Self-Belief, Handling Negativity, and Grandfather's Wisdom
The message is to believe in oneself, ignore detractors, and focus on personal peace and growth. Advice is given on handling negative energy and avoiding pointless arguments, drawing from grandfather's wisdom.
Perseverance, Success, and Upcoming Announcements
The encouragement is to persevere and see endeavors through to completion. The speaker aims to be a living testament to success. The album "Reset" is released, and a tournament and tour are announced.
Episode Wrap-up and "It Girl" Podcast Introduction
The episode concludes with a mention of "Perspectives with Big Bank." Bailey Taylor introduces "It Girl," a podcast exploring the lives of influential women shaping culture.
Challenges and Integrity for Women in Industry
The "It Girl" podcast discusses pressures and expectations for women, emphasizing staying true to oneself. Women often face underestimation, requiring them to work harder without compromising integrity.
"Love Trap" Podcast Recap and Internet Detectives
A recap of the Clayton Eckard paternity scandal highlights an alleged hoax and investigation. The role of internet detectives in exposing a pattern of deception involving multiple men is emphasized.
"Spirit Daughter" Podcast: Astrology and Intuition
Jill Wintersteen discusses astrology, natal charts, and intuition with guest Krista Williams, focusing on embracing change. Pisces intuition and Capricorn's strategic power moves are highlighted.
iHeart Radio Music Awards Recap and Hosts
A reminder about enjoying music and listening on iHeart radio. Ludacris hosts the awards, with John Mellencamp and Miley Cyrus receiving special honors.
iHeart Radio Music Awards Performances and Appearances
A list of performers at the iHeart Radio Music Awards is provided, including Alex Warren, Kehlani, and TLC. Taylor Swift's appearance is noted, along with other guests.
"Stuff You Should Know" - ThinkSpring Playlist Promotion
Josh from "Stuff You Should Know" promotes the "ThinkSpring" podcast playlist, encouraging outdoor activities and connection with nature.
End of Transcript
The transcript concludes.
Keywords
Reset
A period of intentional pause and reflection to re-evaluate goals, strategies, and personal well-being, often leading to renewed focus and creativity. It involves stepping back from routine to gain perspective and make necessary adjustments.
Production Company
An organization that provides services related to the creation of media content, such as music, film, or television. This includes managing talent, overseeing projects, and handling business operations.
Music Industry
The ecosystem of businesses and individuals involved in the creation, production, distribution, and sale of music. It encompasses artists, labels, publishers, and various support services.
Collaboration
The act of working together with others to create or achieve a common goal. In music, it involves artists, producers, and songwriters joining forces to produce new tracks or albums.
Innovation
The introduction of new ideas, methods, or products. In music, innovation can refer to developing new sounds, production techniques, or ways of distributing music.
Legacy
Something that is passed down from one generation to the next, such as traditions, values, or achievements. In the context of music, it refers to an artist's lasting impact and influence.
Hard Drive Loss
The accidental or intentional loss of data stored on a computer's hard drive. This can result in the loss of creative work, personal files, and important information, necessitating data recovery or starting over.
Mental Recharge
The process of taking time off from demanding activities to restore mental and emotional energy. This can involve rest, relaxation, and engaging in activities that promote well-being.
Parental Guidance
The influence and role of parents or guardians in a child's upbringing, emphasizing the importance of positive role models and consistent support for healthy development.
Resilience
The ability to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness. In the context of the podcast, it refers to the capacity of individuals and families to bounce back from challenges like divorce and start anew.
Q&A
What is the significance of a "reset" for creatives?
A reset allows creatives to pause, reflect, and re-evaluate their work and life. It helps in gaining fresh perspectives, overcoming creative blocks, and developing new strategies, ultimately leading to renewed energy and innovation.
How did Mike WiLL Made-It's hard drive loss impact his career?
The loss of his hard drive was initially devastating, causing him to lose years of musical work. However, it prompted him to embrace a "reset," leading to new equipment, a fresh sound, and a renewed focus on business and personal growth.
What is the role of a production company like Ear Drummerz?
A production company like Ear Drummerz manages the creative and business aspects of music production. It involves building a team, fostering talent, overseeing projects, and ensuring the successful creation and release of music.
Why is innovation often perceived as difficult in the music industry?
Innovation challenges established norms and comfort zones. Artists and producers who introduce new sounds or methods may face resistance because the industry often favors familiarity, making it difficult for groundbreaking ideas to be immediately accepted.
What lessons can be learned from Mike WiLL Made-It's career journey?
His journey teaches the importance of patience, resilience, embracing challenges, building a strong team, and maintaining a clear vision. It also highlights the value of adapting to industry changes and continuously evolving one's craft.
What is the significance of having positive parental figures, especially fathers, in a child's life?
Positive parental figures, particularly fathers, provide crucial guidance, support, and role modeling. Their presence can significantly impact a child's development, self-esteem, and overall well-being, even in challenging family circumstances like divorce.
How has the music industry evolved, and what is the importance of artistic authenticity?
The music industry is constantly evolving, with a current trend towards playing it safe and imitating others. Artistic authenticity is vital, encouraging artists to create original work that reflects their unique vision and values, rather than conforming to trends.
What role does collaboration play in creating successful music?
Collaboration is key to creating impactful music. By bringing together diverse talents and perspectives, artists can produce innovative and resonant work that might not be possible individually. The best songs often emerge from this synergistic process.
How has the speaker's approach to music and business evolved with their success?
With success, the speaker has expanded into record labels and production companies, focusing on releasing their own music and collaborating globally. They aim to recapture past passion while embracing new creative challenges and directions.
What are some of the challenges and opportunities in the global music market?
The global music market offers opportunities for international collaboration but also presents challenges in navigating diverse cultural landscapes. The speaker has experienced success working with artists like BTS and Jennie, highlighting the reach of music beyond borders.
Show Notes
The Black Effect Presents... Perspektives with Bank!
In this special episode of Perspektives with Bank, Big Bank sits down with super-producer Mike WiLL Made-It for a powerful conversation about creative growth, resilience, and navigating the music industry at the highest level. Mike WiLL opens up about losing a hard drive filled with unreleased music and how that setback forced a necessary creative reset, reshaping his mindset around patience, legacy, and long-term vision. He reflects on building success without a traditional team early on, emphasizing the importance of self-belief, collaboration, and staying grounded through both wins and challenges.
The discussion also explores the evolution of Atlanta’s music scene, the importance of originality, and the role of producers in shaping global culture. Mike WiLL shares insights on finding peace under pressure, embracing reinvention, and the power of community, while previewing his upcoming project R3SET (releasing March 20)—a body of work that reflects his growth, perspective, and next chapter.
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