Recording Studio Rockstars

Lij Shaw

Lij Shaw Interviews music producers, engineers, studio owners, and other professionals to bring you inspiring stories, tricks, and insights from the recording studio. So that you can take your recordings to the next level and become a rockstar of the recording studio yourself! - Guests: Vance Powell, Michael Beinhorn, Russell Wolff, Graham Cochrane, Joe Gilder, Björgvin Benediktsson, and many more...

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#573
Friday · 1 hr 52 min
RSR573 - Greg Giorgio - Hybrid Studio: From Deep Snares and Cue Sends to Creative Mixing Techniques
What’s the secret to capturing that deep, punchy snare sound without overdoing it? I asked Greg Giorgio about his approach to drums, and he shared how tuning and subtle miking tricks - like dampening with towels and choosing the right snare - make all the difference. It’s about working with the instrument’s natural voice. My guest today is Greg Giorgio, a producer, engineer, and mixer known for his work with artists like The National, Delta Ray, and Death Cab for Cutie. With nearly two decades working alongside producer Peter Kadis at Tarquin Studios, Greg now runs Nine Point Studios in Greenwich, Connecticut, blending technical skill with creativity. In our conversation, we explored how Greg sets up his studio for maximum flexibility - using a stereo SSL board as a summing mixer, integrating analog effects with digital workflows, and creating inspiring, workable signal paths. Greg shared his custom techniques for headphone mixes, routing, and parallel processing, emphasizing that the real magic often comes down to how you listen and respond in the moment. We delved into drum mic techniques, including how tuning, dampening, and placement contribute to that deep, resonant snare. Greg also walked through his go-to gear for drums, including big mahogany snares and the importance of not hitting drums too hard, especially when aiming for a thick, squishy sound that still feels dynamic. Plus, Greg offered insights into how he approaches distortion and saturation creatively - using parallel chains with carefully chosen plugins to add character without phase issues - and the importance of listening in context rather than soloing everything. His honesty about experimenting with routing, effects, and even unconventional room mic placements inspired me to think differently about how I work. If you’re into practical, experience-based tips for recording great drums, or curious about setting up your studio for better flow and inspiration, this episode is packed with valuable ideas. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ The next program starts September 8, 2026 – don’t wait! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/2s4TyBkzTII2wDCJTsbF1H?si=pbPxM0XaQ1mcSdhmIpWeCw If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/573
#572
August 21 · 1 hr 38 min
RSR572 - BZ Lewis - Unlocking the Emotional Power of Immersive Audio
What insights do immersive audio techniques, like Atmos, offer for emotional storytelling and how do different speaker setups influence our perception of space and emotion in music? My guest today is BZ Lewis, a producer, engineer, and mixer with over 30 years of experience. He’s earned six Emmy Awards and specializes in immersive audio, working with major brands like Apple, Google, and Sony. BZ has a deep background in both stereo and Dolby Atmos mixing, with credits spanning television, film, and music. In this episode, we dive into the practicalities of working in immersive audio, exploring how Atmos expands emotional expression in music and film. BZ shares his approach to speaker setups, balancing front, rear, and overhead channels, and discusses how spatial placement can enhance storytelling. We also get into technical gear choices, from legacy analog mixers to modern digital setups, and talk about the creative process of constructing sound spaces that resonate emotionally. Whether you're curious about Atmos workflows, myth-busting headphone playback myths, or the artistry behind spatial mixing, this chat offers grounded insights from a professional. We explore how BZ uses tools like Superior Drummer for loop creation, his favorite synths for EDM, and his strategies for managing a versatile studio setup that handles everything from podcasts to atmospheric mixes. Plus, he reflects on the importance of community events like AES for networking and learning, and how holding onto vintage gear can add character to your studio. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ The next program starts September 8, 2026 – don’t wait! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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 Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/dolby-atmos-playlist/pl.u-11zBMe3FKK4Bb If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/572
#571
August 14 · 2 hr 6 min
RSR571 Brian Moncarz - Mixing Rock Drums for Bob Ezrin, Alice Cooper & Our Lady Peace
Have you ever wondered whether a killer drum sound starts with the right mic placement and kit selection, or if it’s something you can still craft in the mix? Or maybe you’re curious about how much room tone, mic choice, and tuning actually influence the final impact of your drums? My guest today is Brian Moncarz, a Toronto-based producer and mixer who’s played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of modern rock across Canada and beyond. With credits including Alice Cooper, Our Lady Peace, and many chart-topping singles, he’s a master of capturing drums that punch through the mix and feel alive. Over the past two decades, he’s learned from some of the best, refining techniques for recording and blending drums that make recordings cut through with power and clarity. We dove deep into his approach to drum recording, from mic choices and placement to handling room acoustics - even how the best drummers can make all the difference. We also touched on how digital tools and mixing magic can enhance what you’ve captured, and the importance of understanding your room and gear as part of the process. Whether you’re tracking drums in a studio, basement, or bedroom, he highlights strategies to get that big, punchy sound that helps your record stand out. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ The next program starts September 8, 2026 – don’t wait! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/4Ko6JvRzdXoH3mDw2QqNNa?si=i_avJTBvQ3K0Lmde65SUbQ If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/571
#570
August 7 · 1 hr 33 min
RSR570 Jordie Lane - Writing and Producing Great Songs from the Road, Circus, and Joshua Tree
What does it really take to make your best record by embracing limitations and finding creativity in the constraints? My guest today is Jordie Lane, a Nashville-based Australian indie roots artist, songwriter, and producer. With a background that includes performing at the Sydney Opera House, composing for TV comedy, and touring with legends like Billy Bragg and Old Crow Medicine Show, Jordie brings a wealth of unconventional recording experience. In this episode, Jordie shares his journey from childhood in a traveling circus to making records with makeshift gear in unconventional spaces. We discuss how embracing limitations - like working with a four-track recorder or in a space with no running water - can ignite creativity and result in unique sounds. Jordie explains his approach to building songs from the ground up, layering found objects and effects, and how physical space influences his process. We also touch on the importance of unplugging from over-processing, the power of spontaneous performances, and the role of letting accidents lead to new ideas. His stories highlight that sometimes, less gear and more vulnerability lead to the most genuine recordings. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ The next program starts September 8, 2026 – don’t wait! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/6MoEdYlleayslE6QAzEpQ2?si=V3F1rZFiQbWPoM6gaDrsGw If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/570
#569
July 31 · 2 hr 4 min
RSR569 Vance Powell - Baking It In, Atmos Truth, Tiny Amps, and One-Take Magic
What happens when you stop calling it pre-production and just start making the record? My guest today is Vance Powell, multi-Grammy-winning producer, mixer, and engineer from Sputnik Sound in Nashville - and the most frequent guest in RSR history, now returning for his seventh appearance on the show. Vance has been with us since episode RSR002, and once again he brings an incredible combination of blunt honesty, deep musical intuition, old-school engineering discipline, and hilarious real-world stories from making records with artists like Chris Stapleton, Tyler Bryant, and a whole roster of bands who trust him to capture the moment as it happens. In this episode we dig into everything from rebuilding his machine room, to why he still aligns a U47 and Coles 4038 with a flashlight, to how tiny amps make the biggest guitar tones, to why “pre-production is production,” to mixing in Atmos in a way that actually translates to AirPods. We also talk about one-take magic on Chris Stapleton’s White Horse, smashing ADR comps on the Tom Petty tribute, deep drum-room philosophy, and how Vance keeps digital rigs alive by never updating anything that’s working. And of course, Vance shares what old Vance would tell young Vance - and what young Vance would tell old Vance - about belief, timing, and the moment he should’ve left Blackbird to build Sputnik sooner. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/0aFDgLgTsWaFId0n4YSX75?si=b290f2da1b47416f If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/569
#568
July 24 · 1 hr 45 min
RSR568 Kevin White - Songs of Apollo, NASA, & Music That Went to Space
What happens when you realize the soundtrack of space travel isn’t science fiction - it’s real music carried aboard real missions? My guest today is Kevin White, Nashville educator, musician, and creator of Songs of Apollo - a documentary project that explores the real relationship between music and space exploration. This isn’t just a story about composers imagining the cosmos. It’s a story about the actual music astronauts took with them, the songs that woke crews aboard Apollo missions, the playlists that traveled beyond Earth, and how NASA engineers, mission control, and the entire space program have been influenced by music from the start. Kevin digs into decades of research, interviews, and archival stories showing how music became part of astronaut culture - from symbolizing courage and loneliness to marking historic milestones. We also talk about how the space program itself sparked new artistic movements back on Earth, shaping genres, inspiring iconic records, and influencing countless musicians. This episode is about the two-way connection between sound and space - how music helped astronauts feel human in an environment where nothing is familiar, and how their journeys, in turn, reshaped the music we make here on Earth. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com 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.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/5rDR7UqfiZkYiTgbTSKh0u?si=_HmAQjjLQCOTlrQBhMO56A If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/568
#567
July 17 · 2 hr 6 min
RSR567 Micah Tawlks - Co-Writing, Mixing, Blackbird Sessions & Capturing Ideas Before They Disappear
What happens when you start writing, producing, and mixing like the forest, not the trees, and you leave your worries behind? My guest today is Micah Tawlks - producer, mixer, songwriter, and artist based in Nashville, working out of his home studio in Whites Creek. Micah first joined us back on RSR324, and he’s back to go even deeper into the intersection of writing, recording, and mixing. He’s known for work with COIN, Hayley Williams, Louis Prince, Judah & the Lion, The Lone Bellow, Stephen Day, Ben Rector, and many more, including immersive Atmos mixes with Matt Wallace. In this episode, we dig into how writing sessions actually unfold when they happen in your studio - the unexpected ways a simple co-write can turn into full production, vocal sessions weeks later, or a finished track if the artist or publisher decides to cut it. Micah describes the different roles he shifts between: offering lyric help when invited, contributing chords and melody, arranging on the fly, or simply running a fast demo session when that’s what the artist wants. We also talk about the balance between paid studio work and free co-writes, how he and his manager evaluate opportunities, and why some ideas need months to find their artist, while others get cut immediately. He explains what co-writing in pairs vs. groups actually feels like, why some writers don’t want lyrical collaboration at all, and how recording the first 20 minutes of small talk often captures the best emotional ideas of the day. Micah walks us through his recent engineering day at Blackbird, choosing from huge mic lockers (multiple U47s, C12s, 67s on toms, etc.), working quickly on the console, and how “fast in a big studio” still relies on the same preparation habits as working fast at home. In the writing room, we get into why clicks can kill a session, how he builds musical rhythmic loops as “human clicks,” when he performs his own time feel into a mic so the grid follows a human instead of the other way around, and how artists respond differently to tempo when the groove feels alive. Finally, we talk mixing: keeping rough mix intent intact, charging a flat rate, when to recommend another mixer, and how honoring an artist’s stylistic world guides the whole process. Micah’s advice to his younger self? Be a better listener - in the room, at the console, everywhere. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com 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.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/2Rj5j9yzADbW3n5JEBEGB1?si=f5uo4BpbSmOHkSD9_0VgEA If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/567
#566
July 10 · 1 hr 52 min
RSR566 Toby Suess - Saving Home and Pro Studios from Nashville to Nevada!
What happens when you build a studio in an industrial zone…and still end up in court for making records? My guest today is Toby Suess, drummer, engineer, and owner of Tinroof Recording in Fallon, Nevada - a studio that started as nothing more than a rehearsal space and grew into a full hybrid recording room with a killer drum sound. Toby has recorded everything from punk bands to singer-songwriters, dialed in his live room, rebuilt a broken console card-by-card, and learned how to get great drum tones using ribbons, condensers, overhead techniques, and detailed tuning. In this episode, Toby walks through the real-world evolution of building a studio on a budget - wiring rooms, treating windows, learning gear, adding outboard pres, integrating a Toft console, and figuring out how to track and mix drums with confidence. We talk about recording through compression, getting mixes nearly finished while tracking, checking phase during the mix, blending guitar mics through a Radial summing box, and why great drum recordings still start with tuning, players, and the room. And then we get into the wild part - Toby’s studio ended up in a legal battle despite having a business license and being fully located in an industrial zone. Toby shares the whole story: sheriff visits, confused neighbors, gathering decibel readings, talking to the D.A., bringing evidence to court, getting the case dismissed, smoothing things out with neighbors afterward, and eventually earning the right to operate without interruption. It’s a powerful reminder that musicians can stand up for their creative work and win. We close with mixing philosophies, self-doubt, imposter syndrome, confidence, and pushing through the uncomfortable parts of building a career - plus why his studio now attracts bands from Reno and even the Bay Area. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com 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.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/4ZzemQ39O2Q37gSFiJ2exs?si=kYYcKVRISl2p0ncl88UKBg If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/566
#565
July 3 · 2 hr 2 min
RSR565 - Jason Lehning - Mixing Vocals, Low-End Decisions, Writers’ Rooms & Keeping It Fun
What happens when you finally stop chasing every plugin and build a mix workflow that actually works? My guest today is Grammy-winning mixer, producer, and musician Jason Lehning, returning to the show after RSR074. If the name sounds familiar, it should - we’ve also had his brother Jordan (RSR104) and his dad Kyle (RSR094), the legendary producer behind Randy Travis. Jason grew up in studios and learned early on that songwriting, engineering, and mixing all feed the same creative impulse. In this episode, we dig into what it really means to build a mix template that supports musical decisions rather than cluttering your session with endless “maybe” options. We talk about Jason’s approach to vocal mixing - using parallels, dynamics, and tonal shifts to keep the performance feeling alive without over-processing it. He explains why he often duplicates vocals instead of relying on automation, how he thinks about track folders the way engineers used to think about console returns, and why an SM7 still wins sessions where expensive mics fall apart in a dense arrangement. He breaks down his low-end philosophy too: removing anything that fights the bass, organizing the bottom octave early, and using phase, arrangement, and smart routing to keep kick and bass speaking clearly together. Jason also explains why balancing quietly on NS10s helps him find the real center of a mix without getting fooled by loudness. We also dive into the Nashville writing world - how titles and wordplay drive sessions, why so many guitars are tuned down or in E-flat, and what it actually looks like to be in a writers’ room where ideas come fast, bad lines get tossed quickly, and everyone is aiming for the same emotional center. Jason talks about working with Luke Dick (“Birthday Suit”), how even great writers have mountains of uncut songs, and why creativity depends more on vibe than perfection. We wrap with thoughts on AI, the future of songwriting, and Jason’s simple advice to his younger self: keep doing it, and keep it fun. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com 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.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/2M4JyTaCC2vd7U6cOERpup?si=8SERaORbTbSr_eV5zDSqAA If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/565
#564
June 26 · 2 hr 6 min
RSR 564 - Packy Lundholm - Writing, Producing & Recording Yourself at Home
What happens when a Chicago multi-instrumentalist with power-pop roots, psychedelic instincts, and indie-folk sensitivity lands in Nashville with a home studio, a loop pedal, and a fearless creative streak? What happens when a Chicago multi-instrumentalist with power-pop roots, psychedelic instincts, and indie-folk sensitivity lands in Nashville with a home studio, a loop pedal, and a fearless creative streak? In this episode, I sat down with Packy Lundholm - songwriter, producer, guitarist, and longtime member of I Fight Dragons, Theo Katzman's band, and collaborator with artists like May Erlewine, Woody Goss, and Kory Quinn. We talk about his move from Chicago to Nashville, how he built a recording life out of his home studio, and the unexpected freedom that comes from producing across wildly different genres. Packy shares how looping and improvisation shaped his musicianship, why writing too many verses is part of his process, and how he trims songs back to their emotional core. We dig into the art of collaboration, arranging for different artists, producing folk vs. rock vs. synth-driven pop, and why he still chases the power-pop/psych/Americana blend that first inspired him. We also get into the Track Sabbath series, his shift toward co-producing for May Erlewine, and what it means to build a career where playing, writing, and producing all feed each other. Whether you're a home-studio songwriter, a multi-instrumentalist juggling bands, or a producer trying to define your sound, Packy’s journey is packed with real-world insight, humility, and a ton of creative encouragement Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com 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.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/4N94WlerjWFUHllHe60cU7?si=11GbwseDSOm1By1MR6PeWw If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/564
#563
June 19 · 2 hr 6 min
RSR563 - Bobby Bare Jr - Why Monk Songs Come From a Disco Heart and Other Unicorn Sightings
Why do your deepest, most emotional songs come out better when you stop trying so hard? In this episode, I sit down with Nashville legend Bobby Bare Jr. - fearless songwriter, creative instigator, touring bassist for Guided By Voices, and the son of Country Music Hall of Famer Bobby Bare. This conversation is a masterclass in real creativity, free of pretension and full of joy, humor, wisdom, and truth bombs about songwriting, gear, life, ego, and the artistic process. We dig deep into Bobby’s philosophy that the most powerful songs often come from the most playful moments - not the heavy, serious headspace many writers force themselves into. He tells wild and meaningful stories, from growing up backstage at the Opry, to working with Shel Silverstein, to learning 60+ Guided By Voices songs at once, to the Dalai Lama cracking jokes at the Tibetan Freedom Concert. Bobby talks about writing on airplanes, co-writing momentum, muscle memory, the Nashville Number System, meditation, removing ego, and why melody can’t be taught. We even get into his early days selling T-shirts on tour with his dad, the lost demos at Alex the Great, tape machines popping out of record, Jason & The Scorchers, R.E.M, Walk the West, and the magic of the first spontaneous four minutes of an idea before “your brain ruins it.” He also shares insights on finishing songs, why momentum matters more than inspiration, how to cheat with an iPad without anyone noticing, producing at Ocean Way, working with Travis Harrison, and his upcoming Indiegogo to record a new album in Sweden. This one is packed with gold for songwriters, musicians, producers, and anyone trying to break out of their head and into flow. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com 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.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/1z4nv7oyqGM8BLkQckfnBn?si=9301F66ZRHGNFpBrKT0d0w If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/563
#562
June 12 · 1 hr 36 min
RSR562 - Piper Payne - Crafting Vinyl Records With Care for Indie Artists
What do you actually need to know BEFORE you press your vinyl record… and what mistakes will totally ruin it? In this episode, Piper Payne returns to take us way deeper into the real-world physics, workflows, and decisions behind vinyl mastering and pressing. We dig into how your mixes translate onto a lacquer, why the inside of a record behaves differently from the outside, and what you should never do with high-frequency content, fades, or waveform clipping if you want your album to play back clean. Piper walks us through mastering decisions that happen long before a lacquer is ever cut - from sequencing songs for the side A/B layout, to choosing what belongs near the inside groove, to dealing with transient-heavy material. We talk about how vinyl masters differ from digital masters, why certain modern productions literally "can’t be cut," and how Piper preps mixes so she can create both vinyl- and digital-optimized versions without having to redo a full master. We also dig into the realities of running Physical Music Products, her independent pressing plant in Nashville. Piper explains realistic costs for pressing records, what 250-unit short runs look like, why PMP maintains fast 5–7 week turnarounds, and how they protect indie artists from being bumped by major-label orders. We get into pre-sales, special editions, distribution challenges, shipping logistics, recycled vinyl, and how PMP now handles merch, drop-shipping, and fulfillment to help artists actually profit from physical releases. Finally, Piper shares practical advice on handling, storing, and cleaning your vinyl once you’ve made it - including heat warping, inner groove distortion, groove guard, dust sleeves, jackets, mold issues, and even why some records can recover after a warp and some can’t. She also covers creative fundraising ideas, how fans influence color pressing choices, and why vinyl is still the only format where artists control quantity, pricing, and revenue directly. This episode is packed with real-world mastering and pressing knowledge you won’t get anywhere else. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com 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.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/6QRbUHGE73GJs2e6CuN2Ai?si=2f5bd18788fb4f2e If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/562
#561
June 5 · 2 hr
RSR 561 - Kortney Grinwis - From Viral Drum Videos to Full-Time Musician Touring The World
What happens when your drumming videos blow up online… and suddenly you’re touring the world behind your own band? Hi Rockstars, it’s your host Lij Shaw. In this episode, I sat down with Nashville drummer and creator Kortney Grinwis, one half of the alt-pop duo Chapel, to talk about her journey from posting drum videos on the internet to building a full-time career on the road. Kortney shared how she developed her sound, her creative identity, and the instincts that guide her as both a drummer and artist. We talked about what it’s really like coming up in music today - navigating the industry, learning to trust yourself, and creating your own opportunities even when the traditional path doesn’t fit. Kortney opened up about the challenges she’s faced as a woman in the business, how she shaped her role in Chapel, and how embracing creativity (instead of chasing perfection) helped her evolve her drumming technique and overall artistic voice. We also got deep into the collaborative side of making records and touring. Kortney broke down how she approaches drum parts that actually serve the song, how Chapel works together to build grooves and arrangements, and why staying playful and experimental keeps the whole process fun. From life on the road to finding confidence behind the kit, Kortney’s story is a reminder that success comes from following the spark, trusting your instincts, and building the community around your music. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com 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.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/32lxAhAEcxNXR1GUXt9Xfg?si=woHh3rQaQh6UCxJPLA68Hg If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/561
#560
May 29 · 1 hr 42 min
RSR560 - Mike Meiers - Stop Writing for Your Band - Start Writing for Real Opportunities
What happens when you stop chasing the band dream… and start writing songs that actually work in the real world? Hi Rockstars, it’s your host Lij Shaw. In this episode, I sat down with songwriter, producer, and sync-music mentor Mike Meiers to dig into how he went from traditional band life to building a sustainable career writing music for film, TV, ads, and beyond. We talked about how understanding the emotional core of a song is the number-one skill that determines whether your music connects - not just with listeners, but with supervisors, editors, and collaborators. Mike breaks down how modern production tools, templates, and writing habits can either help you communicate emotion… or get in the way. Mike also shared what it really looks like to set personal creative goals, get organized, and make consistent progress as an artist - including how coaching reshaped his career, helped him find his voice, and taught him to create opportunities instead of waiting for them. If you’ve ever felt stuck writing the same songs, or unsure how to grow beyond the band model, Mike’s perspective will definitely light a spark. And of course, we dug into the world of sync licensing - how it works, why it’s not “selling out,” and why learning to adapt to new musical styles can completely broaden your creative reach. Along the way, Mike breaks down the modern role of a producer as not just a technical problem-solver, but as emotional support, creative partner, and guide for the artist in the room. This is a great episode for anyone wanting to write better songs, improve their workflow, and carve out a real career path in today’s music industry. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com 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.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/show/2rD0VXFeAx2CEqf7cU34EL?si=4745688e073b4133&nd=1&dlsi=cfd03886002d43e4 If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/560
#559
May 22 · 2 hr 15 min
RSR559 - Pat Sansone - Playing and Songwriting with Wilco, Autumn Defense, and Big Star Quintet.
Why does the rough mix always feel like the real song - and how the hell do you get that magic back without ruining it? In this episode, Pat Sansone and I go deep into the lifelong puzzle of mixing: why the first tracking rough has all the energy, how chasing it can make you crazy, and why mixing is really more like photography than engineering. Pat walks through how his visual art - Polaroids, slide film, CMYK vs RGB, Lambda printing - has taught him to trust instinct, appreciate imperfections, and approach mixes like developing a print rather than fixing a file. We talk about turning the screen off while playing a mix, the weird phenomenon of hearing a song differently once another person walks into the room, and why limitations make better records. We also dive into Pat’s history with The Autumn Defense, Wilco, and the Big Star universe. Pat shares memories of making The Green Hour and Circles at my house - dragging the JH-16 up the stairs, tracking G-Whiz in the basement, and writing “The Answer” face-to-face with John Stirratt twenty feet from where we sat for this interview. He explains how the new Autumn Defense record Here and Nowhere came together after an eleven-year break, why Creative Workshop became the perfect studio for it, how Teddy Morgan helped capture tones, and why he still records acoustic and vocal together whenever possible. We get into gear, mic choices (KM84s, SM58s, Sony lavs), the struggle of acoustic/vocal bleed, and the random chaos of synths, plugins, and sessions that don’t open right years later. Pat also talks about his photography book Noticing, his Infinity Mirrors ambient synth album, and how wandering with a camera unlocked the same creative freedom he felt as a teenager with a Korg Poly-6. He explains how Nashville re-energized his creative life - from running into Robyn Hitchcock in the cereal aisle at Turnip Truck to singing ooohs at Brendan Benson’s studio the next day. We share memories of New Orleans, Chicago, analog tape, Pro Tools Mix+, transferring Birdy on the Moon tracks, losing Josh Shapera, and the role Creative Workshop played in Pat’s “Nashville phase two.” By the end, we’re talking Big Star, Eggleston photographs, orchestral arrangements, radio DJing, and why slide film and tube mics scratch the same itch. It’s a wide-open conversation about creativity, sound, light, limitations, mistakes, rough mixes, and how to stay inspired for a lifetime. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com 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.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/0ZJrYkHqfDba4iL2InbLk9?si=HndgYrlWRzGusV2yOwzVag If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/559
#558
May 15 · 2 hr 14 min
RSR558 - Bleu McAuley - Sync, Songs, Survival, & The Future of Making Records
What happens when you sit down with a songwriter who’s done everything from early fan-funded records, to major-label pop, to K-pop, to sync, to teaching songwriting at Berklee - and ask him what really matters in the studio today? Bleu McAuley and I go deep into the intersection of creativity, workflow, sync licensing, AI, and staying inspired at a time when music creation is changing fast. We start with his early days in Boston, learning four-tracks and alternate tunings, following Ducky Carlisle around Room 9 From Outer Space, and eventually being pushed by producer John Fields to take a real swing in Los Angeles. Bleu talks about shaping his voice as a solo artist, capturing inspiration quickly, and why most of the battle in the studio is simply removing friction. We dig into sync: how commercial music is its own ecosystem, why high-dollar sync often has nothing to do with the pop charts, and how entire micro-genres exist only inside advertising. Bleu breaks down the difference between library production music and custom sync, how briefs actually work, what trends supervisors follow, and how studying commercial catalogs (not Spotify playlists) changes your instincts. He explains why inspiration disappears in moments, why setups must be instant, why inspiration beats fidelity, and how he builds his studio workflow - from synth routing to outboard to leaving drums mic’d up permanently - so artists never lose the spark. In the second half, we talk about AI’s impact on music production and why it’s already reshaping expectations, budgets, and the perceived value of human-created work. Bleu predicts that production music will be “decimated,” that executives are already asking “can’t you just AI that?”, and why musicians must prepare for a world where non-AI work has to be obviously human. We talk cassette 4-track records, reel-to-reel inspiration, talent that shines through limitations, and why unique sonic imperfections may soon become a calling card. Bleu also breaks down vocal technique, why control matters more than range, and why producers should avoid technical talk during emotional takes. Finally, we look at career longevity, creative spaces, studio setup philosophy, and what advice he’d give his younger self (hint: invest early, learn piano, and chase control over perfection). Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com 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.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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 Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/bleu-production-highlights/pl.u-KVXB2eLtm8P9My If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/558
#557
May 8 · 1 hr 50 min
RSR557 - Teresa Knox - Reviving Leon Russell’s Church Studio & the Tulsa Sound
What happens when you rescue a forgotten studio that once shaped American music history - and bring it roaring back to life? This week, I sat down with Teresa Knox, the powerhouse entrepreneur and preservationist behind the rebirth of The Church Studio in Tulsa, Oklahoma - the legendary home of Leon Russell, the early Shelter Records family, and the roots of what became known as the Tulsa Sound. Teresa shares the entire arc of this wild journey: from collecting Leon Russell Slurpee cups as an 8-year-old kid, to buying the abandoned church sight unseen, to rebuilding it from the ground up and restoring it as a world-class studio, museum, archive, and engineering school. We talk about the stunning history embedded in the building - the 1915 hand-built sanctuary, the 1972 Leon-era renovations, and what it really takes to preserve a place where so many iconic recordings were born. We dig deep into the music: Leon’s time in the Wrecking Crew, his explosion after Mad Dogs & Englishmen, recording with George Harrison at the Concert for Bangladesh, and his early influence on players like Elton John and Glen Campbell. Teresa shares stories from the Shelter Records years - Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers arriving as Mudcrutch, J.J. Cale, The Gap Band, Phoebe Snow, Willis Alan Ramsey, Freddie King, and even Bob Marley & The Wailers turning the place into a Jamaican party. She walks us through the official Church Studio playlist, the discovery of original artifacts inside the walls, and why preserving the stories of these musicians matters just as much as preserving the building itself. Finally, we talk about the reconstruction: shoring up a collapsing foundation, solving electrical noise and RF issues, preserving historic architecture while building a modern studio, restoring a Neve 8068, installing two EMT 140 plates, and designing a hybrid analog/digital workflow. Teresa also explains how The Church Studio now trains new engineers through its hands-on vocational school, hosts sessions with top artists, runs a nonprofit to support musicians, and continues the legacy of Leon and the Tulsa Sound through events like CarniFest. Her passion for preservation, community, and world-class sound makes this one of the most inspiring studio stories I’ve ever heard. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ The next program starts May 11, 2026 https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK30 to get 1 month free of NI 360! https://www.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/6BLaSUX1juRYH6jHHTfa6k?si=nZtNPzHDSXi0bVQnpSU43A If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/557
#556
May 1 · 2 hr 2 min
RSR556 – Steve Genewick – The Majesty of Turning Spinal Tap Up to Eleven in Atmos
What happens when you finally get to mix Spinal Tap in Dubly Atmos? You turn it up to 11, of course! My guest today is Grammy-nominated engineer and mixer Steve Genewick, joining us from his Atmos room in Los Angeles to walk us through the wild, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt process of capturing and mixing the new "Spinal Tap II: The End Continues" soundtrack and album. In this episode, Steve talks about working directly with Christopher Guest, Michael McKean, and Harry Shearer; recording their live vocals; tracking the band as a real rock group; and assembling a full dubly Atmos experience that honors the original film while pushing the new one into immersive territory. We dig into the whole workflow - from the Beyerdynamic M500 ribbon mics he labeled as Nigel, David, and Derek… to tracking full songs live at The Village… to mixing the concert sequences for the film… to remixing "Break Like the Wind" in Atmos using the original 1990s analog tapes that had to be transferred from tape box track sheets. Steve also talks about Spinal Tap's actual backstory, the improvised nature of the films, working directly with Rob Reiner, and why the guys are not in character in the studio - except when it's time to sound "more Nigel." We also go deep into Atmos and orchestral recording, Steve's work on classic jazz records (Miles Davis, Art Blakey, Freddie Hubbard), his remixing of the "Jaws" and "Jaws 2" soundtracks, and how immersive music translates between speakers, earbuds, and soundbars. Steve explains LFE strategy, subwoofer layouts, mixing bass into objects, and why a great Atmos mix is not about flying things around the room — it's about clarity, space, and emotional impact. And yes, we do talk about Stonehenge… the pizza pedal… the cheese guitar… and whether mixing break like the wind is allowed in the control room. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ The next program starts May 11, 2026 https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK30 to get 1 month free of NI 360! https://www.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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 Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/playlist/steve-genewick-atmos-mixes/pl.u-76oNkrMF1JKbp If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/556
#555
April 24 · 1 hr 50 min
RSR555 - Matt Boudreau - From Stereo to Atmos: Revolutionizing Audio Mixing
What if your mix engineer secretly backed up every session in triplicate just so your grandkids could remix your demo in 2085? In this episode, I’m joined by my brother from another podcast, Matt Boudreau - veteran mixer, Atmos trailblazer, and the host of Working Class Audio. Matt’s credits include immersive mixes for Green Day, Alanis Morissette, and the theme for Real Time with Bill Maher, plus stereo magic on artists like Deafheaven. We kick things off recapping our AES Long Beach hang - complete with acai bowl addiction, barefoot sandbox airport vibes, and panels on everything from Japanese air-traffic AI to studio fire insurance. Matt shares how a late-night HBO downmix request accidentally birthed his simultaneous stereo/Atmos workflow, and why he now mixes midrange balance on tiny single-cone speakers before touching highs or lows. We dive into the art of collaboration: why you should wait 48 hours before sending mix notes, how to handle clients who keep salting the same sandwich, and the spreadsheet revision system that’s saving everyone’s sanity. Matt drops hard-earned wisdom on trusting your gut with red-flag clients, charging retrieval fees for 20-year-old sessions, and why “if it doesn’t exist in three places, it doesn’t exist.” We geek out over plugins (Gullfoss, Sonible Smart EQ, the return of Echo Farm), archiving nightmares, and why AI is great for laundry but still can’t feel heartbreak like a human. Whether you’re mixing in a bedroom or a living-room Atmos rig, this chat is pure gold for anyone who wants their tracks to outlive the hard drive. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ The next program starts May 11, 2026 https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK30 to get 1 month free of NI 360! https://www.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/6tdfm7hqzhn1o8PA65I7N0?si=81dbS2cgQLO0d7M3C0vSWQ If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/555
#554
April 17 · 2 hr 2 min
RSR554 – Ronan Chris Murphy – Modern Songwriting Knight Writing Medieval Melodies in Ancient Italy
What happens when a tree destroys your home and studio - and it leads you to a new creative life across two continents? In this episode, I talk with Ronan Chris Murphy, the world-traveling producer, engineer, and artist known for his work with King Crimson, Steve Morse, and Tony Levin, and for teaching hundreds of musicians how to finish their records through his Recording Bootcamp and RIPA Festival of International Sound. Ronan shares how losing his home and studio in the mountains north of Los Angeles became a turning point that reshaped his creative life - leading him to rebuild from scratch in the Berkshires of Massachusetts and a medieval hill town in Italy. We dig into how his surroundings inspire creativity, how he balances his own artistic work with client projects, and why finishing creative ideas matters more than chasing perfection. We also talk about building community through workshops and retreats, finding joy in collaboration, and creating music that connects people across cultures. Along the way, Ronan offers hard-won advice on protecting your studio and data, trusting your creative instincts, and staying productive when life throws you curveballs. Ronan’s story is a reminder that art, resilience, and curiosity can keep us inspired - no matter where we make our records. Get access to FREE mixing mini-course: https://MixMasterBundle.com THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS! http://UltimateMixingMasterclass.com https://usa.sae.edu/ The next program starts May 11, 2026 https://www.izotope.com Use code ROCK10 to get 10% off! https://www.native-instruments.com Use code ROCK30 to get 1 month free of NI 360! https://www.spectra1964.com https://gracedesign.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/7EVNgxULrlqKpykk9MDT8B?si=w9unZYn_QPi8EZp3It6yww If you love the podcast, then please leave a review: https://RSRockstars.com/Review CLICK HERE FOR COMPLETE SHOW NOTES AT: https://RSRockstars.com/554

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