by Brian Funk
An exploration of music production through informal discussions about technique, philosophy, gear, and creativity. Hosted by Brian Funk, a musician, songwriter, teacher, and Ableton Certified Trainer.
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🇺🇲
Publishing Since
3/5/2017
Email Addresses
1 available
Phone Numbers
0 available
April 9, 2025
<p>Chad Shank is a songwriting teacher and music producer. Chad teaches songwriting at Berklee Online and runs At Home Songwriting, where he helps students learn how to write songs in their own authentic style and voice. Chad’s YouTube channel, At Home Songwriting, is filled with songwriting tips and exercises.</p> <p>Chad and I spoke in-depth about songwriting, lyric writing, and overcoming creative blocks. Chad shared techniques and strategies he uses in his music and teaches his students.<span class= "Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Listen on</span> <a href= "https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/music-production-podcast/id1212124420"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Apple</span></a>,<span style= "font-weight: 400;"> </span><a href= "https://open.spotify.com/show/2R5hFhExyUzbI7jD7eauck"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">Spotify</span></a>, <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLk4jo7_Rx2-2mjUoTXTL4u0iUH5_XqBYi"><span style="font-weight: 400;">YouTube</span></a></p> <p><strong>Links:</strong></p> <ul> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">At Home Songwriting YouTube - <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/@athomesongwriting">https://www.youtube.com/@athomesongwriting</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">At Home Songwriting Website - <a href= "https://athomesongwriting.thinkific.com">https://athomesongwriting.thinkific.com</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chad's Pro Writer Group - <a href= "https://athomesongwriting.thinkific.com/bundles/ProMembership">https://athomesongwriting.thinkific.com/bundles/ProMembership</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chad's Music - <a href= "https://chadshankmusic.com">https://chadshankmusic.com</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Chad on Instagram - <a href= "https://www.instagram.com/northloopsongwriter">https://www.instagram.com/northloopsongwriter</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Andrea Stolpe on the Music Production Podcast - <a href= "https://brianfunk.com/blog/andrea-stolpe">https://brianfunk.com/blog/andrea-stolpe</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Writing Better Lyrics by Pat Pattison - <a href= "https://amzn.to/423Iyky">https://amzn.to/423Iyky</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Brian Funk Website -</span> <a href="https://brianfunk.com/"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">https://brianfunk.com</span></a></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Music Production Club -</span> <a href="https://brianfunk.com/mpc"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">https://brianfunk.com/mpc</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">5-Minute Music Producer -</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href= "https://brianfunk.com/book">https://brianfunk.com/book</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - <a href= "https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit">https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Music Production Podcast -</span> <a href="https://brianfunk.com/podcast"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">https://brianfunk.com/podcast</span></a></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code:</span> <strong>PODCAST</strong> <span style="font-weight: 400;">-</span> <span style= "font-weight: 400;"><a href= "https://brianfunk.com/store">https://brianfunk.com/store</a></span></li> <li>This episode was edited by Animus Invidious of PerforModule - <a href="https://performodule.com/" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">https://performodule.com/</a></li> </ul> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Thank you for listening. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And don’t forget to visit my site</span> <a href="https://www.brianfunk.com/"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">https://BrianFunk.com</span></a> <span style= "font-weight: 400;">for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Brian Funk</span></p> <p> </p>
March 25, 2025
<p>William Garrett is a mixing and recording engineer and producer, and studio builder and manager. He managed a studio for Sony in New York City for 15 years and was Senior Music Producer for Spotify Singles, recording and mixing more than 900 tracks that have<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span>over 10 billion streams to date. William has worked with countless artists like Jack White, Miley Cyrus, Shania Twain, John Cale, Cyndi Lauper, The National, Norah Jones, Elton John… the list goes on and on… it might have been easier to mention who he hasn’t worked with!<span class="Apple-converted-space"> </span></p> <p>William shared his story from humble beginnings sweeping the floor of a studio to working with some of the greatest artists of all time. </p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Listen on</span> <a href= "https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/music-production-podcast/id1212124420"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Apple</span></a>,<span style= "font-weight: 400;"> </span><a href= "https://open.spotify.com/show/2R5hFhExyUzbI7jD7eauck"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">Spotify</span></a>, <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLk4jo7_Rx2-2mjUoTXTL4u0iUH5_XqBYi"><span style="font-weight: 400;">YouTube</span></a></p> <p><strong>Takeaways:</strong></p> <ul class="css-h4c1sf"> <li><span class= "MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil e1de0imv0">William started his career sweeping floors in a recording studio.</span></li> <li><span class= "MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil e1de0imv0">He learned valuable lessons from observing Aerosmith and Carly Simon.</span></li> <li><span class= "MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil e1de0imv0">Sight lines in the studio are crucial for band communication.</span></li> <li><span class= "MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil e1de0imv0">Vulnerability in the creative process can derail a session.</span></li> <li><span class= "MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil e1de0imv0">The Boston music scene provided a rich environment for growth.</span></li> <li><span class= "MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil e1de0imv0">Transitioning to New York was a significant step in his career.</span></li> <li><span class= "MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil e1de0imv0">Building relationships in the industry is key to success.</span></li> <li><span class= "MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil e1de0imv0">Every session is a learning experience, regardless of the artist. Recording technology has evolved significantly over the years.</span></li> <li><span class= "MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil e1de0imv0">Creative limitations can enhance the music-making process.</span></li> <li><span class= "MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil e1de0imv0">Time constraints often lead to more focused and energetic recordings.</span></li> <li><span class= "MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil e1de0imv0">The spirit of spontaneity can lead to unique musical moments.</span></li> <li><span class= "MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil e1de0imv0">Mixing is an art that requires both skill and intuition.</span></li> <li><span class= "MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil e1de0imv0">Experimentation is key to discovering new sounds.</span></li> <li><span class= "MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil e1de0imv0">Reading the room is crucial for producers to facilitate creativity.</span></li> <li><span class= "MuiTypography-root MuiTypography-bodyMedium css-9y6kil e1de0imv0">The vibe in the studio can significantly impact the outcome of a session.</span></li> </ul> <p><strong>Links:</strong></p> <ul> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Many Talents of William Garret - <a href= "https://www.mixonline.com/recording/music-production/the-many-talents-of-william-garrett"> https://www.mixonline.com/recording/music-production/the-many-talents-of-william-garrett</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">William's Instagram - <a href= "https://www.instagram.com/electracraft/">https://www.instagram.com/electracraft/</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Spotify Singles - <a href= "https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DWTUm9HjVUKnL">https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DWTUm9HjVUKnL</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">The Secrets of Spotify's Studio - <a href= "https://youtu.be/jEJ3e3Kma0g?si=qsr22jPwwcKSw2ll">https://youtu.be/jEJ3e3Kma0g?si=qsr22jPwwcKSw2ll</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ultimate New York Studio with Andrew Masters - <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5kI8urq374">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5kI8urq374</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Inside Spotify at Mateo Studios - <a href= "https://www.mixonline.com/recording/music-production/inside-spotify-at-mateo-studios"> https://www.mixonline.com/recording/music-production/inside-spotify-at-mateo-studios</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Brian Funk Website -</span> <a href="https://brianfunk.com/"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">https://brianfunk.com</span></a></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Music Production Club -</span> <a href="https://brianfunk.com/mpc"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">https://brianfunk.com/mpc</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">5-Minute Music Producer -</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href= "https://brianfunk.com/book">https://brianfunk.com/book</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - <a href= "https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit">https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Music Production Podcast -</span> <a href="https://brianfunk.com/podcast"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">https://brianfunk.com/podcast</span></a></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code:</span> <strong>PODCAST</strong> <span style="font-weight: 400;">-</span> <span style= "font-weight: 400;"><a href= "https://brianfunk.com/store">https://brianfunk.com/store</a></span></li> <li>This episode was edited by Animus Invidious of PerforModule - <a href="https://performodule.com/" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">https://performodule.com/</a></li> </ul> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Thank you for listening. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And don’t forget to visit my site</span> <a href="https://www.brianfunk.com/"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">https://BrianFunk.com</span></a> <span style= "font-weight: 400;">for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Brian Funk</span></p>
March 11, 2025
<p class="p1">In this episode of The Music Production Podcast, I sit down with musician and songwriter <span class= "s1"><strong>Jean-Paul Vest</strong></span>, the driving force behind Last Charge of the Light Horse. We talk about the evolution of songwriting, the impact of place and sound on music, and the delicate balance between control and spontaneity in the creative process. Jean-Paul shares his approach to writing, how his songs take shape over time, and the unexpected ways music resonates with listeners. We also dive into the role of nostalgia, the value of quiet spaces, and why playing music with friends is one of the greatest joys of being a musician.</p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Listen on</span> <a href= "https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/music-production-podcast/id1212124420"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Apple</span></a>,<span style= "font-weight: 400;"> </span><a href= "https://open.spotify.com/show/2R5hFhExyUzbI7jD7eauck"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">Spotify</span></a>, <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLk4jo7_Rx2-2mjUoTXTL4u0iUH5_XqBYi"><span style="font-weight: 400;">YouTube</span></a></p> <p class="p1"><strong>Main Topics Discussed:</strong></p> <ul> <li class="p2"><span class="s1"><strong>Songwriting and Identity</strong></span> – How artists evolve over time and whether they should brand themselves or stay fluid in their musical identity.</li> <li class="p2"><span class="s1"><strong>Letting Creativity Flow</strong></span> – The challenge of balancing technical skill with raw inspiration and why stepping back can lead to better songs.</li> <li class="p2"><span class="s1"><strong>Sound and Place</strong></span> – How environments, from noisy cities to quiet deserts, influence musical perception and creativity.</li> <li class="p2"><span class="s1"><strong>The Role of Collaboration</strong></span> – Learning to trust bandmates and fellow musicians rather than dictating every detail.</li> <li class="p2"><span class="s1"><strong>Reinvention in Music</strong></span> – How artists like Beck and XTC reinvent themselves and what we can learn from their approach.</li> <li class="p2"><span class="s1"><strong>Music as a Personal Archive</strong></span> – Songs as layered stories, much like a “palimpsest,” revealing new meaning over time.</li> <li class="p2"><span class="s1"><strong>Field Recording and Natural Soundscapes</strong></span> – Using organic sounds in music and the impact of noise pollution on creativity.</li> </ul> <p class="p1"><strong>Key Takeaways:</strong></p> <ul> <li class="p4"><span class="s1"><strong>Step Back and Let the Song Lead</strong></span> – Trying too hard to control the songwriting process can stifle creativity. Let ideas develop naturally.</li> <li class="p4"><span class="s1"><strong>Your Environment Shapes Your Sound</strong></span> – Whether it’s a reverb-heavy church or the silent stillness of a desert, soundscapes influence the way music is made.</li> <li class="p4"><span class="s1"><strong>Not Every Song is an Autobiography</strong></span> – Just because a song is personal doesn’t mean it’s literally about the songwriter. Sometimes, music is a character study.</li> <li class="p4"><span class="s1"><strong>The Right Audience Makes a Difference</strong></span> – Playing in an intimate setting vs. a bar can completely change how a song is received.</li> <li class="p4"><span class="s1"><strong>Music is a Long Game</strong></span> – Success isn’t just about radio play; it’s about the relationships and experiences built through music-making.</li> </ul> <p><strong>Links:</strong></p> <ul> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Last Charge of the Light Horse - <a href= "https://lastcharge.com">https://lastcharge.com</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">In the Wind by Last Charge of the Light Horse - <a href= "https://lastcharge.com/music/in-the-wind/">https://lastcharge.com/music/in-the-wind/</a></span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">"Imaginary Friend" by Last Charge of the Light Horse - <a href= "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdBHlirBKtE">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdBHlirBKtE</a></span></li> <li class="p1"><span class="s1">Instagram:</span> <a href= "https://www.instagram.com/lastchargeofthelighthorse/">https://www.instagram.com/lastchargeofthelighthorse/</a></li> <li class="p1"><span class="s1">Bandcamp: <a href= "https://lastcharge.bandcamp.com/">https://lastcharge.bandcamp.com/</a></span></li> <li class="p1">The Sound Book: The Science of the Sonic Wonders of the World <span class="s1">by Trevor Cox</span></li> <li class="p2"><a href= "https://amzn.to/3XGP4ei">https://amzn.to/3XGP4ei</a></li> <li class="p2">The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows <span class="s1">by John Koenig -</span> <a href= "https://amzn.to/3XL75rR">https://amzn.to/3XL75rR</a></li> <li class="p2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Some Good Evil - <a href= "https://somegoodevil.com">https://somegoodevil.com</a></span></li> <li class="p2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Brian Funk Website -</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href= "https://brianfunk.com">https://brianfunk.com</a></span></li> <li class="p2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Music Production Club -</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href= "https://brianfunk.com/mpc">https://brianfunk.com/mpc</a></span><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></li> <li class="p2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">5-Minute Music Producer -</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href= "https://brianfunk.com/book">https://brianfunk.com/book</a></span></li> <li class="p2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - <a href= "https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit">https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit</a></span></li> <li class="p2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Music Production Podcast -</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href= "https://brianfunk.com/podcast">https://brianfunk.com/podcast</a></span></li> <li class="p2"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code:</span> <strong>PODCAST</strong> <span style="font-weight: 400;">-</span> <span style="font-weight: 400;"><a href= "https://brianfunk.com/store">https://brianfunk.com/store</a></span></li> </ul> <p>This episode was edited by Animus Invidious of PerforModule - <a href="https://performodule.com/" target="_blank" rel= "noopener">https://performodule.com/</a></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Thank you for listening. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">And don’t forget to visit my site</span> <a href="https://www.brianfunk.com/"><span style= "font-weight: 400;">https://BrianFunk.com</span></a> <span style= "font-weight: 400;">for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Brian Funk</span></p> <p> </p>
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