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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.

Music Production Podcast

David Rowell is a veteran music journalist who has worked as an editor and writer at the Washington Post for over 20 years. Stewart Copeland of the Police said "David Rowell is the kind of critic that scares us musicians. He really gets it, maybe even more than we do." 
 
David is here to talk about his new book The Endless Refrain: Memory, Nostalgia, and the Threat to New Music. In it he expores the popularity of legacy acts and tribute acts and the challenges it creates for new musicians trying to get their music heard. David raises the question "do we even want new music?" We discuss his take on the trajectory of the music industry and what it means for artists like many of us, who create original music, and our culture in general.
 
Finish-February 3-Day In-Person Workshop at Ableton's Pasadena Headquarters - https://brianfunk.gumroad.com/l/kwhsgv
 
Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube
 
Takeaways:
 
 The abundance of new music can be overwhelming for listeners. Investing in music through purchase creates a deeper connection. Nostalgic listening experiences shape our relationship with music. MTV revolutionized music consumption and artist visibility. The desire for new music is declining among audiences. Tribute bands reflect a growing preference for familiar music. Hologram performances raise ethical questions about music consumption. Nostalgia is a powerful marketing tool in the music industry. The emotional connection to music is vital for artists and fans. Venture capitalists are reshaping music consumption. Listeners are increasingly exposed to nostalgic music. Streaming services have changed how we discover music. Albums today don't linger in cultural impact as before. Tribute bands provide a living for many musicians. New music discovery requires intentional effort. Cultural references in music are becoming less shared. 
Links:
 
 David's Website - https://www.davidrowellauthor.com The Endless Refrain: Memory, Nostalgia, and the Threat to New Music - https://amzn.to/4gD4lno Wherever the Sound Takes You: Heroics and Heartbreak in Music Making - https://amzn.to/4iCgBq8 Brian Funk Website - • 
https://brianfunk.com Music Production Club - • 
https://brianfunk.com/mpc 5-Minute Music Producer - • 
https://brianfunk.com/book Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit Music Production Podcast - • 
https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: • 
PODCAST • 
- • 
https://brianfunk.com/store • This episode was edited by Animus Invidious of PerforModule - 
https://performodule.com/ 
Thank you for listening. 
 
Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!
 
And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.
 
Brian Funk

The Threat to New Music - David Rowell

It's time for Jamuary 2025! These 31 days of creativity will dramatically increase your creativity.
 
Here are some lessons, tips, and takeaways that will help you prepare to make the most of the Jamuary challenge.
 
Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube
 
Links:
 
 Music Production Club - • 
https://brianfunk.com/mpc 5-Minute Music Producer - • 
https://brianfunk.com/book My Free Ableton Live Packs - https://brianfunk.com/free-ableton-live-packs Finish February Workshop at Ableton Pasadena Headquarters - https://brianfunk.com/workshop Cuckoo on the Music Production Podcast - https://brianfunk.com/blog/2018/12/15/94-cuckoo Matthew Dicks on the Music Production Podcast - https://brianfunk.com/blog/matthew-dicks A Journey Inward • by Brian Funk - 
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/brianfunk/a-journey-inward Rectangles • by Brian Funk - 
https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/brianfunk/rectangles • Don't Lose Twice Music Production Podcast - 
https://brianfunk.com/blog/dont-lose-twice • 4 Ways to Be More Creative Music Production Podcast - 
https://brianfunk.com/blog/4-ways-to-be-more-creative Brian Funk Website - • 
https://brianfunk.com Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit Music Production Podcast - • 
https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: • 
PODCAST • 
- • 
https://brianfunk.com/store 
Thank you for listening. 
 
Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!
 
And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.
 
Brian Funk

Be 31x More Creative with Jamuary2025!

It’s time for #Jamuary2025, a challenge to make and share music for as many days as you can during January. 
 
I’ll be sharing the prompts I am giving to my Music Production Club here on the podcast. 
 
Whether you are keeping up with the Jamuary challenge or using these prompts sometime in the future, I hope they help inspire you to make some new music!
 
Join the Music Production Club to get the downloads and access to a supportive community of fellow music makers: https://brianfunk.com/mpc
 
Good luck and have fun making music during Jamuary2025! 
 
Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube
 
Links:
 
 Brian Funk Website - • 
https://brianfunk.com Music Production Club - • 
https://brianfunk.com/mpc 5-Minute Music Producer - • 
https://brianfunk.com/book Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit Music Production Podcast - • 
https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: • 
PODCAST • 
- • 
https://brianfunk.com/store 
Thank you for listening. 
 
Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!
 
And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.
 
Brian Funk

Echoes of a New Beginning - Jamuary 1 Prompt

Andrew Lockington is a film and television composer who composed the scores for many films including blockbuster hits City of Ember, Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters, Sandreas, and Rampage, as well as hit television shows like Mayor of Kingstown, Special Ops: Lioness, and his latest Landman, starring Billy Bob Thornton. He also created the opening theme for Amazon Prime's Monday Night Hockey.
 
Andrew's work is known for its creativity and attention to detail. We spoke about some of those techniques like how he recorded in a prison for Mayor of Kingstown and used its gates, walls, bars as musical instruments. Andrew explains how this kind of extra effort can help us bring out the emotional impact in our work.
 
Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube
 
Takeaways:
 
 Andrew's recent projects showcase a diverse range of musical styles. The line between film and TV music is increasingly blurred. Creating sound palettes involves collaboration and experimentation. Embracing imperfections can lead to more authentic music. Recording in unique locations can enhance the emotional impact of a score. Music should reflect the humanity of characters, even in villains. The environment where music is recorded influences its sound and feel. Collaboration with trusted partners can uncover hidden musical gems. Storytelling through music can bridge gaps between characters and viewers. The stories behind music can enhance the emotional experience. Creating music should focus on conveying emotion rather than technical perfection. Imperfections in music can add character and authenticity. Accidental discoveries in music production can lead to unique sounds. Simplicity in recording can yield powerful results. The creative process is often unpredictable and requires openness to change. Music can evoke feelings that are difficult to quantify or replicate. Trusting one's instincts in music production can lead to profound outcomes. 
Links:
 
 Andrew's Website - http://www.andrewlockington.com Andrew on IMDB - https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0516908/?ref_=nmbio Andrew's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/andrewlockingtonmusic/ Landman Official Trailer - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zxh49-bsIk Behind the Music of Mayor of Kingstown - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mT7ylRXBcFs Amazon Prime Monday Night Hockey Theme by Andrew Lockington - https://youtu.be/JlBFl8lSWWA?si=6BnO_7_BTEHFNt58 Brian Funk Website - • 
https://brianfunk.com Music Production Club - • 
https://brianfunk.com/mpc 5-Minute Music Producer - • 
https://brianfunk.com/book Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit Music Production Podcast - • 
https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: • 
PODCAST • 
- • 
https://brianfunk.com/store • This episode was edited by Animus Invidious of PerforModule - 
https://performodule.com/ 
Join me at the in-person Finish February Workshop Retreat at Ableton's Pasadena Headquarters - https://brianfunk.com/workshop 
 
Thank you for listening. 
 
Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!
 
And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.
 
Brian Funk

Building Worlds with Music - Landman Composer Andrew Lockington

Nick Maclaren is the Chief Strategy Officer for Serato. Nick talked about his experiences as a DJ and how it lead him to become a Serato user. We discuss Serato's new multi-fx plug-in Hex FX. Nick also spoke about the technological developments that have changed DJing and music production, and the challenges that lie ahead as tech gets more and more powerful.
 
Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube
 
Links:
 
 Serato - https://serato.com Serato Hex FX - https://serato.com/hex-fx Creativity a Short and Cheerful Guide • by John Cleese - 
https://amzn.to/4hffpHG • Sarah Belle Reid on the Music Production Podcast - 
https://brianfunk.com/blog/sarah-belle-reid Brian Funk Website - • 
https://brianfunk.com Music Production Club - • 
https://brianfunk.com/mpc 5-Minute Music Producer - • 
https://brianfunk.com/book Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit Music Production Podcast - • 
https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: • 
PODCAST • 
- • 
https://brianfunk.com/store • This episode was edited by Animus Invidious of PerforModule - 
https://performodule.com/ Thank you for listening. 
Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!
 
And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.
 
Brian Funk

Serato's Nick Maclaren on Music Tech and Development

I Made Music Every Day for 15 Years - 15 Lessons

Boyan of LowHeatBeats is a music producer and educator, whose rapidly growing YouTube channel takes us behind the scenes of his process, showing us the tools and techniques he uses to create his blend of soulful hip-hop, funk, electronic music.
 
Boyan and I discuss a wide range of creative philosophies and techniques. He shares how he gets into the creative flow and uses his YouTube channel to share and develop his music making process. We discussed some of our favorite tools, including the new Ableton Move and how the consumerism around music production can inhibit our growth and creativity as artists.
 
Finish February Workshop at Ableton's Pasadena Headquarters: https://brianfunk.com/workshop
 
Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube
 
Takeaways:
 
 Creating content on YouTube was a way to share music and knowledge. Finding core tools is essential for effective music production. Explaining concepts helps deepen understanding. Collaboration enriches the creative process. Embracing imperfections adds character to music. Experimentation is vital in music creation. Ableton Move offers unique creative opportunities. Limitations can lead to innovative solutions. Working fast in the early stages is crucial. You need to take advantage of your creative moments. Most of my best tracks were done in intense sessions. The joy of music creation comes from personal expression. 
Links:
 
 Low Heat Beats Web Site - https://lowheatbeats.com Low Heat Beats YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@lowheatbeats Low Heat Beats Sample Packs - https://lowheat.gumroad.com Low Heat Beats on SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/lowheat Low Heat Beats Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lowheatbeats/ Low Heat Beats Link Tree - https://linktr.ee/lowheatbeats Ableton Move as a Sampler - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRQew7M752U Brian Funk Website - • 
https://brianfunk.com Music Production Club - • 
https://brianfunk.com/mpc 5-Minute Music Producer - • 
https://brianfunk.com/book Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit Music Production Podcast - • 
https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: • 
PODCAST • 
- • 
https://brianfunk.com/store • This episode was edited by Animus Invidious of PerforModule - 
https://performodule.com/ 
Thank you for listening. 
 
Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!
 
And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.
 
Brian Funk

Low Heat Beats on Flow, Creativity, and Sharing Your Music

Today I am speaking with Kristoffer Lislegaard and Janne Eraker of the duo Øy. Janne is a tap dancer, with contact mics attached to her shoes. Kristoffer receives the audio in his computer running sequencers, synthesizers, drum machines, and Max for Live that all respond to Janne's movements.
 
We had a fascinating conversation about how Øy collaborates and interacts musically for live performances and their new album Live. It was inspiring to learn about these new and exciting ways of creating music on both a technical and creative level. This is also the third time I've had Kristoffer on the show and it was a pleasure to hear how what was an idea last time we spoke has now become a fully realized project. Please welcome Kristoffer and Janne of Øy to the Music Production Podcast.
 
Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube
 
Takeaways:
 
 • The interaction between dance and music creates a unique performance experience.
 • Trust and communication are essential for successful collaboration.
 • The psychological aspects of performance can greatly affect the dancer's experience.
 • Recording sessions allows for reflection and discovery of new elements in their work.
 • The use of technology opens up new possibilities for sound manipulation.
 • Human expression is crucial in music, transcending technical limitations.
 • Improvisation thrives on a shared language developed through collaboration.
 • Bringing humanity into electronic music performance is valuable.
 • Engaging with audiences can deepen their appreciation for the performance.
 • Independent artists should focus on building direct connections with their audience.
 
Links:
 
 Øy Website - https://www.oyduo.com Øy Live - https://www.kristofferlislegaard.com/faircamp/live/ Øy on Bandcamp - https://oyduo.bandcamp.com/album/live Kristoffer Lislegaard - https://www.kristofferlislegaard.com #BeYourOwnPlatform - https://www.kristofferlislegaard.com/blog/2023-12-20-be-your-own-platform/ Kristoffer on the Music Production Podcast #138 - https://brianfunk.com/blog/2019/11/16/kristoffer-lislegaard-on-sgrows-new-album-and-live-performance-music-production-podcast-138 Brian Funk Website - • 
https://brianfunk.com Music Production Club - • 
https://brianfunk.com/mpc 5-Minute Music Producer - • 
https://brianfunk.com/book Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit Music Production Podcast - • 
https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: • 
PODCAST • 
- • 
https://brianfunk.com/store • This episode was edited by Animus Invidious of PerforModule - 
https://performodule.com/ 
Thank you for listening. 
 
Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!
 
And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.
 
Brian Funk

Øy - Composing Live Music Using Dance

In this episode of The Music Production Podcast, I sit down with musician and songwriter Jean-Paul Vest, 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.
 
Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube
 
Main Topics Discussed:
 
 Songwriting and Identity • – How artists evolve over time and whether they should brand themselves or stay fluid in their musical identity.
 Letting Creativity Flow • – The challenge of balancing technical skill with raw inspiration and why stepping back can lead to better songs.
 Sound and Place • – How environments, from noisy cities to quiet deserts, influence musical perception and creativity.
 The Role of Collaboration • – Learning to trust bandmates and fellow musicians rather than dictating every detail.
 Reinvention in Music • – How artists like Beck and XTC reinvent themselves and what we can learn from their approach.
 Music as a Personal Archive • – Songs as layered stories, much like a “palimpsest,” revealing new meaning over time.
 Field Recording and Natural Soundscapes • – Using organic sounds in music and the impact of noise pollution on creativity.
 
Key Takeaways:
 
 Step Back and Let the Song Lead • – Trying too hard to control the songwriting process can stifle creativity. Let ideas develop naturally.
 Your Environment Shapes Your Sound • – Whether it’s a reverb-heavy church or the silent stillness of a desert, soundscapes influence the way music is made.
 Not Every Song is an Autobiography • – Just because a song is personal doesn’t mean it’s 
literally • about the songwriter. Sometimes, music is a character study.
 The Right Audience Makes a Difference • – Playing in an intimate setting vs. a bar can completely change how a song is received.
 Music is a Long Game • – Success isn’t just about radio play; it’s about the relationships and experiences built through music-making.
 
Links:
 
 Last Charge of the Light Horse - https://lastcharge.com In the Wind by Last Charge of the Light Horse - https://lastcharge.com/music/in-the-wind/ "Imaginary Friend" by Last Charge of the Light Horse - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YdBHlirBKtE Instagram: • 
https://www.instagram.com/lastchargeofthelighthorse/ Bandcamp: https://lastcharge.bandcamp.com/ The Sound Book: The Science of the Sonic Wonders of the World • 
by Trevor Cox https://amzn.to/3XGP4ei The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows • 
by John Koenig - • 
https://amzn.to/3XL75rR Some Good Evil - https://somegoodevil.com Brian Funk Website - • 
https://brianfunk.com Music Production Club - • 
https://brianfunk.com/mpc 5-Minute Music Producer - • 
https://brianfunk.com/book Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit Music Production Podcast - • 
https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: • 
PODCAST • 
- • 
https://brianfunk.com/store 
This episode was edited by Animus Invidious of PerforModule - https://performodule.com/
 
Thank you for listening. 
 
Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!
 
And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.
 
Brian Funk

Songwriting, Creative Flow, and The Natural World with Jean-Paul Vest

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 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! 
 
William shared his story from humble beginnings sweeping the floor of a studio to working with some of the greatest artists of all time. 
 
Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube
 
Takeaways:
 
 William started his career sweeping floors in a recording studio. He learned valuable lessons from observing Aerosmith and Carly Simon. Sight lines in the studio are crucial for band communication. Vulnerability in the creative process can derail a session. The Boston music scene provided a rich environment for growth. Transitioning to New York was a significant step in his career. Building relationships in the industry is key to success. Every session is a learning experience, regardless of the artist. Recording technology has evolved significantly over the years. Creative limitations can enhance the music-making process. Time constraints often lead to more focused and energetic recordings. The spirit of spontaneity can lead to unique musical moments. Mixing is an art that requires both skill and intuition. Experimentation is key to discovering new sounds. Reading the room is crucial for producers to facilitate creativity. The vibe in the studio can significantly impact the outcome of a session. 
Links:
 
 The Many Talents of William Garret - https://www.mixonline.com/recording/music-production/the-many-talents-of-william-garrett William's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/electracraft/ Spotify Singles - https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DWTUm9HjVUKnL The Secrets of Spotify's Studio - https://youtu.be/jEJ3e3Kma0g?si=qsr22jPwwcKSw2ll Ultimate New York Studio with Andrew Masters - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p5kI8urq374 Inside Spotify at Mateo Studios - https://www.mixonline.com/recording/music-production/inside-spotify-at-mateo-studios Brian Funk Website - • 
https://brianfunk.com Music Production Club - • 
https://brianfunk.com/mpc 5-Minute Music Producer - • 
https://brianfunk.com/book Intro Music Made with 16-Bit Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/16-bit Music Production Podcast - • 
https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: • 
PODCAST • 
- • 
https://brianfunk.com/store • This episode was edited by Animus Invidious of PerforModule - 
https://performodule.com/ 
Thank you for listening. 
 
Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!
 
And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.
 
Brian Funk

William Garrett - From Sweeping Floors to 10 Billion Streams

Nick Culbertson is a musician and app developer who runs Moby Pixel, a mobile app creation studio. He designs game and music apps for iOS, and also produces a wide range of educational and entertaining YouTube videos. He has just released Overdrive Synth for iOS, which combines classic synthesizers with guitar overdrive and distortion pedals.
 
Nick goes in depth about his app development process. His new app, Overdrive Synth, combines his experience as guitarist, budding synthesist, and app developer. We had a great conversation about his work and how building interesting sounds helps us create music with personality and character.
 
Listen on Apple, Spotify, Stitcher, Google, or watch on YouTube
 
Show Notes:
 
 • Moby Pixel - 
http://www.mobypixel.com/ • Overdrive Synth - 
http://www.mobypixel.com/overdrivesynth • Nick's YouTube - 
https://www.youtube.com/c/mobypixel/featured • Jeff Cooper on the Music Production Podcast - 
https://brianfunk.com/blog/jeff-cooper • Matthew Fecher on the Music Production Podcast - 
https://www.brianfunk.com/blog/2018/6/30/66-matthew-fecher VHS Synth iOS App - https://audiokitpro.com/vhssynth/ • VHS Bundle Ableton Live Pack - 
https://brianfunk.gumroad.com/l/vhsbundle Brian Funk Website - • 
https://brianfunk.com Intro Music Made with Baby Baby Grand Ableton Live Pack - • 
https://brianfunk.com/blog/baby-baby-grand-ableton-live-pack Music Production Club - • 
https://brianfunk.com/mpc 5-Minute Music Producer - • 
https://brianfunk.com/blog/5minute Music Production Podcast - • 
https://brianfunk.com/podcast Save 25% on Ableton Live Packs at my store with the code: • 
PODCAST • 
- • 
https://brianfunk.com/store 
Thank you for listening. 
 
Please review the Music Production Podcast on your favorite podcast provider!
 
And don’t forget to visit my site https://BrianFunk.com for music production tutorials, videos, and sound packs.
 
Brian Funk

#289: Building Apps and Learning Synthesis with Nick Culbertson

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