In The Studio - Hosted by Brad Sundberg

In The Studio With MJ

Behind the scenes studio stories from music you love, told by the people who were there. Hosted by Michael Jackson's Technical Director of nearly 20 years, Brad Sundberg.

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#50
September 29 · 32 min
Studio FAQ: The Questions I Get Asked Most
From Bubbles the Chimp to Stevie Nicks starting her sessions at midnight, there are a lot of questions people have about what really goes on in the studio. In this episode, I’m answering some of the questions I get asked the most, along with a few stories from my years in the studio. Welcome to Studio FAQ! ⭐ ITSWMJ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/inthestudiowithmj 🎟️ Upcoming In The Studio With MJ Events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ 👕 In The Studio With MJ Merch: https://www.bonfire.com/store/in-the-studio-with-mj/ 🛒 Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/inthestudiowithmj/list/3DW62CB84XFIK 📱 Follow In The Studio With MJ: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj #MichaelJackson #studiolife #mj #stevieknicks #recordingstudio
#49
September 22 · 47 min
The Man Who Helped Build Michael Jackson’s World: Brick Price
You may not know the name Brick Price, but if you are a fan of "Captain EO," "Moonwalker", "Star Trek", or countless other productions, you have likely seen his work. Brick is a miniature and special effects artist whose career has taken him behind the scenes of some remarkable film and television productions. His work with Michael Jackson included creating miniatures, special set pieces, and visual effects for projects including "Captain EO", "Moonwalker," and Neverland Valley Ranch. Brick became friends with Michael Jackson around the same time I did, and we crossed paths many times on various MJ projects, particularly at Neverland. I recently reconnected with Brick at his incredible production studio, where we had a fascinating conversation I think you're going to really enjoy. As I've said many times, there’s a lot more to Michael than just "Billie Jean" and "Thriller". Conversations like this offer a glimpse into another side of Michael’s creativity, and the many talented people who helped bring his imagination to life. Enjoy! WonderWorks Inc. https://wonderworksweb.com/page34.html/ ⭐ ITSWMJ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/inthestudiowithmj 🎟️ Upcoming In The Studio With MJ Events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ 👕 In The Studio With MJ Merch: https://www.bonfire.com/store/in-the-studio-with-mj/ 🛒 Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/inthestudiowithmj/list/3DW62CB84XFIK 📱 Follow In The Studio With MJ: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj #MichaelJackson #CaptainEO #InTheStudio #mj #Moonwalker #NeverlandValleyRanch
#48
September 8 · 23 min
Building an FM Transmitter for Michael Jackson
During the making of Dangerous, Michael loved hearing our mixes the way fans would—blasting from a car radio. So I built an FM transmitter that let us broadcast from the studio to the parking lot, turning our cars into a private listening room for the music. I'm breaking it all down in this week's podcast, enjoy! 🚀 Captain EO Studio Hangout September 12th: https://vimeo.com/event/6171743 ⭐ ITSWMJ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/inthestudiowithmj 👕 In The Studio With MJ Merch: https://www.bonfire.com/store/in-the-studio-with-mj/ 🎟️ Upcoming In The Studio With MJ Events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ 🛒 Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/inthestudiowithmj/list/3DW62CB84XFIK 📱 Follow In The Studio With MJ: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj #MichaelJackson #Dangerous #InTheStudio #MusicProduction #BehindTheMusic
#47
September 1 · 23 min
Building A High Resolution Playback System on a Budget: Part 2
Equipment used in video (Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/shop/inthestudiowithmj/list/3DW62CB84XFIK?tag=onamzbradsund-20&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_mixed_d&ccs_id=c253ff56-507e-456c-a064-fffd0ac94207 ITSWMJ Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/cw/inthestudiowithmj Upcoming events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj?lang=en #HighResolutionAudio #HiFi #AudioSystem #ProAudio #CDPlayback #AudioEngineering #AudioGear #24Bit192kHz #michaeljackson #mj
#46
August 25 · 21 min
Happy Birthday Michael! Still Topping the Charts
Every year around Michael’s birthday, I like to take a moment to celebrate the music, the memories, and the incredible legacy he left behind. This year, I was struck once again by just how strong that legacy remains. Michael continues to reach millions of listeners around the world, topping Spotify’s legacy charts and introducing new generations to his music. I can't wait to celebrate Michael's birthday in Los Angeles this weekend! Hope to see you there either in-person or via livestream. 🎥 LA Livestream Tickets: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/la-livestream-dual-events-bradx2-captan-eo-40th-93298bb5-db92894fae68 🎟️ Upcoming In The Studio With MJ Events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ ⭐ ITSWMJ Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/inthestudiowithmj 👕 In The Studio With MJ Merch: https://www.bonfire.com/store/in-the-studio-with-mj/ 🛒 Amazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/inthestudiowithmj/list/3DW62CB84XFIK 📱 Follow In The Studio With MJ: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj #HappyBirthdayMichaelJackson #MichaelJackson #MJ #Michael #HappyBirthdayMichael
#45
August 11 · 35 min
Building A High Resolution Playback System on a Budget: Part 1
In this episode, I break down one of my personal high-resolution audio and CD playback systems, including the components I selected, how they connect, and why they work together. Over the years, I’ve worked with and owned a wide variety of power amps, speakers, receivers, mixers, preamps, and studio monitoring equipment, but this particular system is focused on achieving accurate, punchy, professional-level sound without spending a fortune. The complete budget hi-fi system delivers what I consider excellent CD playback for just over $700 USD, all-in. I've used these simple techniques to build multiple playback systems for Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones, and Elizabeth Taylor. I hope this episode helps you realize that high-resolution, studio-quality audio can be more attainable than you might think! Equipment used in video (Amazon): https://www.amazon.com/shop/inthestudiowithmj/list/3DW62CB84XFIK?tag=onamzbradsund-20&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_mixed_d&ccs_id=c253ff56-507e-456c-a064-fffd0ac94207 ITSWMJ Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/cw/inthestudiowithmj Upcoming events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj?lang=en #HighResolutionAudio #HiFi #AudioSystem #ProAudio #CDPlayback #AudioEngineering #AudioGear #24Bit192kHz #michaeljackson #mj
#44
August 4 · 57 min
Inside Michael Jackson's Tours with Brad Buxer
A conversation with an old friend is always fun, especially when that old friend is Michael Jackson's musical director, Brad Buxer. Brad pops into my events every now and then, so I thought it would be fun to dig deep into what it was like to tour with Michael and be part of one of the biggest productions in music history. I'm very well versed in working with Michael in the studio, on video shoots, and at Neverland, but traversing the globe with him was something I never got to do. This conversation was filmed in front of a live audience, and we took a stack of great questions from them! Thanks for watching, and as always, I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments. If you enjoy these conversations, please subscribe for more stories from the studio and beyond. Brad Buxer Livestream August 29th: https://tinyurl.com/yeywjhmt ITSWMJ Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/cw/inthestudiowithmj Upcoming events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj?lang=en
#43
July 28 · 28 min
Vinyl Battle 5: "HIStory"
It's time for another battle to determine the best-sounding version of "HIStory"! We have vinyl, Spotify, and CD, but this time I'm bringing a new fighter into the ring: Qobuz. Of course, these results are purely my opinion, and I welcome your thoughts in the comments. It made for a fun and slightly ear-opening battle! Thanks for tuning in! ITSWMJ Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/cw/inthestudiowithmj Upcoming events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj?lang=en
#42
July 21 · 1 hr 51 min
Tony Black: From Michael Jackson to Alicia Keys
For most people, Tony Black is known for his incredible work as a Grammy Award-winning producer with artists like Alicia Keys, Jay-Z, and many of the biggest names in New York hip hop and R&B. But for me, Tony and I go back to our days working together on Michael Jackson's "HIStory" album. In this episode, we reminisce about our time with Michael before diving into Tony's remarkable career and the New York studio scene of the '90s. While my musical roots were rock, pop, disco, and gospel, Tony was in the world of hip hop and R&B - and has some amazing stories to share. I had a great time learning from Tony, hearing his stories, and comparing our experiences in the studio. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did. Tony's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/TonyBlackNYC Tony's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blacksby/ ITSWMJ Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/cw/inthestudiowithmj Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj?lang=en
#41
July 14 · 23 min
Neverland Valley Ranch Sound Systems
Michael Jackson's Neverland Valley Ranch had a lot of hidden technology to help make it the remarkable place that it was, including many concert-grade sound systems in the amusement park. I had the privilege of building these sound systems, so in this week's episode I break down some of the unique ways I accomplished this. I hope you enjoy and I hope to see you for the full Virtual Tour Of Neverland livestream this Saturday! We are hosting two to better accommodate different time zones, choose the one that works best for you! Virtual Tour Of Neverland Tickets: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ ITSWMJ Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/cw/inthestudiowithmj Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj?lang=en
#40
July 7 · 47 min
Brad Buxer Reviews the Michael Movie
A few weeks ago Brad Buxer and I talked about how fun it would be to watch the "Michael" movie together, so while we were in Berlin we made it happen! This was Brad Buxer's first time watching the movie, so right after it ended we had a conversation debriefing and hearing his thoughts with a live audience! Thank you to Marcos Cabotá for filming this interview and to SAE Institute Berlin for hosting us. And thank you to the ITSWMJ Berlin guests who watched the movie with us and asked some great questions as well! Enjoy hanging out in the studio with us! ITSWMJ Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/cw/inthestudiowithmj Upcoming events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj?lang=en
#39
June 30 · 31 min
Vinyl Battle 4: “Dirty Diana"
This week, I'm putting "Dirty Diana" to the test in another Vinyl Battle! How does Spotify compare to CD and the original Bad vinyl? Join me as we explore the trade-off between convenience and quality in today's music world. Enjoy hanging out with me in the studio! Give Kids The World: https://www.gktw.org/ ITSWMJ Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/cw/inthestudiowithmj Upcoming events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj?lang=en
#38
June 23 · 47 min
Because of Michael
June 25th is one of those days when I always remember exactly where I was when I heard the news of Michael's passing in 2009. In this episode, I do a bit of reminiscing about the many amazing things that happened as a result of my friendship with Michael. I make it a point not to dwell on the sadness of loss, but rather to celebrate the incredible talent he shared with the world. And the irony that the Michael box office numbers could surpass $1 billion on or around June 25th is not lost on me. Rather, it puts a bit of a smile on my face—just like seeing his music all over the charts again. I hope you'll consider hanging out with me In the Studio. Give Kids The World: https://www.gktw.org/ ITSWMJ Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/cw/inthestudiowithmj Upcoming events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudio... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj?lang=en
#37
June 16 · 1 hr 29 min
John Van Nest Shares About the Making of Off the Wall
I had a great conversation with acclaimed recording engineer John Van Nest about the heartbreaking reason he was brought in during the final weeks of production on Off the Wall. He first told me this story a few years ago, and I've wanted to share it with you ever since. This episode is dedicated to Steve Conger, who should have been there to see this incredible album through to its completion. Thanks to John for sharing this tragic backstory behind one of my favorite Michael Jackson projects. ITSWMJ Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/cw/inthestudiowithmj Upcoming events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj?lang=en
#36
June 8 · 36 min
Chicago Is Charting: The Deep Cut That Crashed the Hot 100
"Chicago" was never released as a single - but thanks to TikTok and the Michael biopic, it's debuting on the Hot 100 for the very first time, alongside a slew of MJ classics charting around the world! The movie, the music, the excitement... and the grumblers. Join me In The Studio to recap the week!" Give Kids The World: https://www.gktw.org/ ITSWMJ Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/cw/inthestudiowithmj Upcoming events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj?lang=en
#35
May 29 · 52 min
Brad Buxer Shares Stories About “Heal the World”
Bradx2 is back! I had a great convo with my close friend Brad Buxer discussing our work with Michael Jackson and the song "Heal The World." Brad really is like a brother to me as we spent so many years working together, I had a great time catching up with him! We will be reuniting in person in just a few weeks in Berlin for one of my "In The The Studio With MJ" weekends at SAE Institute! We will share lots of stories, music, laughter and memories the weekend of June 26th - 28! In the meantime I hope you'll enjoy my conversation with MJ's Musical Director of many years - Brad Buxer! Upcoming events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj?lang=en
#34
May 23 · 43 min
Unique Music Systems for Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones
Music on a train? Sure, I can do that. A mobile entertainment system to travel with Michael Jackson on tour? Easy enough. A voice-controlled system that matches the music and lighting to your mood? Let’s give it a go. I’ve built some unique music systems for entertainment legends, and I thought it might be fun to share a few stories. Plus, we’ll recap the box office numbers for the Michael movie and cover a few other topics. Pour yourself a glass of your favorite beverage and hang out with me In The Studio for a few minutes! Upcoming events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj?lang=en (Note: when I mention the Mitsubishi X850 I actually meant the Mitsubishi X-80)
#33
May 15 · 39 min
A Conversation with Seth and Margareta Riggs
Seth Riggs is a rock star behind the rock stars. He worked as a vocal coach for everyone from Ray Charles to Barbra Streisand to Stevie Wonder, but of course, his decades of work and friendship with Michael Jackson are what he is best known for. Seth and his lovely wife, Margareta, continue to work together as vocal coaches to this day. They were kind enough to have a conversation with me, reflecting on Seth’s 95 years of life, music, and amazing experiences. I appreciate the time they took to share so many memories. Enjoy! The Riggs Vocal Studio: theriggsvocalstudio.com Follow Seth and Margareta: YouTube: www.youtube.com/@sethriggs-margaretariggs Facebook: facebook.com/SethRiggsMargaretaSvenssonRiggs Upcoming ITSWMJ events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj?lang=en
#32
May 8 · 28 min
The Time I Played Jenga with Michael Jackson
One of my favorite photos of Michael and me is the one where we’re playing Jenga in the studio. It was a true candid moment of us just having fun between sessions. There were countless of these moments, but only few caught on film. Because of a certain "Twister" scene in the “Michael” movie, I wanted to share this story and let everyone know just how much fun we all had together in the studio — as well as how competitive Michael was. Enjoy the story, along with a few other thoughts I have on this week’s episode! Upcoming events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj?lang=en
#31
May 1 · 44 min
Vinyl Battle 3: “Michael: Songs From The Motion Picture”
The "Michael" movie has officially been out for a week and seeing you guys show up and drive those box office numbers despite the critics has been incredible to witness. Michael's fans are truly like no other! In this week's episode I did another Vinyl Battle, this time comparing "Don't Stop 'Til You get Enough" and "Bad" from the “Michael: Songs From The Motion Picture” album and the original "Off The Wall" and "Bad" albums. Join me as I break down what makes each of these records hit the way they do, and how they compare to the movie soundtrack. Finally, I wanted to answer a few questions from last week's episode, and ask you guys a few questions as well. Please comment and share your thoughts, and what you think of the "Michael" soundtrack as well. Enjoy! Upcoming events: https://inthestudiowithmj.ticketbud.com/ Follow us on social media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inthestudiowithmj/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inthestudiowithmj/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@inthestudiowithmj?lang=en

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