Music Production Podcast Brian Funk

Francis Preve is a sound designer, producer, and synthesizer programmer. He programs factory presets for the leading synthesizer manufacturers including Sequential, Roland, Korg, Oberheim, Serum, and many more. He is the Section Lead of Digital Composition at Austin Community College. Francis releases sound packs through his company SympleSound. His latest release, Serum Models, turns the popular synthesizer into a hyper-realistic physical modeling synth.
In our 4th conversation on the Music Production Podcast, Francis discusses his new pack, Serum Models, and explains how physical modeling synthesis works. We go deep into his work as a sound designer and Francis gives thorough explanations of a variety of synthesis concepts. We also talk about his work as an educator and some student success stories, along with the traits those students exhibit in his classes. It's a wide-ranging and deep conversation with one of the world's best sound designers!
Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube
Takeaways:
The development of new Serum models and physical modeling and sound design. The process of creating and marketing sound packs. The psychology of sound creation involves a deep connection to the subtleties of music and the ability to differentiate musical elements. Learning to differentiate musical elements is a transformative experience that opens up new dimensions in music appreciation and understanding. The impact of music theory on creativity and the ability to enjoy music without over-analyzing it. The role of technology in music education and the importance of learning by playing and experimenting. The differences between analog and digital synthesis and the unique characteristics of each. The concept of aliasing in sound and its impact on audio quality. The use of images to create wavetables in synthesizers and the exploration of sound design through experimentation.  The significance of presets in synthesizers Passion is a key factor in determining success in a career. Limitations can enhance creativity and problem-solving in music production. Technology, such as AI and software, has both benefits and ethical considerations in music creation. Teaching and mentorship play a significant role in shaping the future of music production and the industry. Links:
Francis' Site - https://www.francispreve.com Symplesound - https://www.symplesound.com Francis' Serum Preset Collections including Models- https://xferrecords.com/preset_packs/manufacturers/francis-preve Synthtopia on Serum Models - https://www.synthtopia.com/content/2024/05/06/francis-preve-releases-serum-models-preset-expansion-library/ Francis on MPP #38 - https://brianfunk.com/blog/2017/10/30/38-francis-preve-sound-designer-educator Francis on MPP #98 - https://brianfunk.com/blog/2019/1/29/98-francis-preve-2-sound-design-synthesis-vanlife Francis on MPPP #273 - https://brianfunk.com/blog/francis-preve-3 Francis' Clients (wow!) - https://www.francispreve.com/clients Sara Landry - 
https://djmag.com/features/sara-landry-hard-technos-high-frequency-priestess Shadowstar - 
https://www.beatport.com/artist/shadowstar/873086 CHKLTE - 
https://ra.co/dj/chklte/biography Shreddward - https://www.shreddward.com/ Josh Davidson (Kepler North)- https://www.instagram.com/kepler_north Jeff Rona - https://liquidcinema.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
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
 
 

Tyler Manning and Jordan Dale are part of Boredomfighters, a nonprofit that brings music-making and collaboration to kids across the United States. Boredomfighters conducts workshops, assemblies, and "Instrument Gardens" to empower young people to create music on the fly using modern production techniques.
Tyler and Jordan spoke to me about their work in Boredomfighters and how they've been inspired by inspiring young people to create music. They share their techniques to help participants feel safe to drop inhibitions and have fun creating music together. The principles they share apply to any musical situation. We had a blast talking about their work and listening to music their audience created at a recent event.
This episode is sponsored by Baby Audio, makers of incredible music software. Use the code MPP15 to save 15%! https://babyaud.io 
Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube
Takeaways:
Engaging in music production and creative expression through simple rules, examples, and creative constraints. Encouraging vulnerability and the impact of technology on music education and creativity. The importance of fostering intrinsic motivation and creativity in young learners. The challenges and opportunities in engaging and inspiring young people to explore music and creative arts. The significance of role models and exposure in shaping musical interests and aspirations. The value of creating an ideal learning environment for music exploration and self-expression. The use of vocal prompting and chat GPT in music workshops with kids. The importance of capturing the energy of a space through music. The ripple effect of their work and the empowerment of people to do similar workshops in their communities. Links:
Boredomfighters - https://www.boredomfighters.org/ Boredomfighters Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/boredomfightersfoundation/ Boredomfighters YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@theboredomfighters Boredomfighters SoundCloud - https://soundcloud.com/boredomfighters 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

Dex Green is a Nashville-based producer, engineer, and songwriter. He recorded his new album, Imaginary War, by himself, playing every instrument. Dex has worked with artists like Elvis Costello, Margo Price, and Collective Soul. His work has been nominated for a Grammy.
Dex and I spoke about his work and the lessons he's picked up from recording countless acts in various genres. He discussed the process of recording his new album Imaginary War. Dex shared how he's combined philosophies and concepts from jazz studies, playing in punk and ska bands as a teenager, and recording top artists in Nashville.
Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube
This episode is sponsored by Baby Audio. Use the code MPP15 to save 15%! https://babyaud.io 
Takeaways:
Dex's unconventional path to producing his album as a solo artist The impact of personal experiences on artistic expression and creative decisions The evolution of music and the influence of different genres on contemporary music The challenges and rewards of writing and recording a solo album The importance of finding the right key and voice for musical compositions The importance of limitations in the creative process The role of music production software in modern music creation The significance of recording techniques in shaping the sound of a track The impact of ska bands on the music scene The creative process and songwriting in music production Links:
Imaginary War by Dex Green - https://3sirens.ffm.to/imaginarywar Dex's YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@dexgreenmusic Dex on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/chickensplease/ "It's Only the End of the World" by Dex Green - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YjAJ-ALijt0 Dex's Credits on Discogs - https://www.discogs.com/artist/1078981-Dexter-Green "What Makes This Song Great: Walking on the Moon" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VVZFkI9HgJY Waves Space Rider - https://www.waves.com/plugins/space-rider 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

AI is getting really good at generating realistic and emotional music. Where will this leave music-makers? 
Today we discuss how we can ensure that we remain relevant in the face of an AI music takeover!
Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube
Links:
Rolling Stone AI Song - https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/suno-ai-chatgpt-music-soul-of-the-machine-1234992365/ Jeff Leisawitz on the Music Production Podcast - https://brianfunk.com/blog/jeff-leisawitz-2 Forest Far by Project Nairb - https://open.spotify.com/album/1pS6U9EJbSvM8lDc1xdPEE Some Good Evil - https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/somegoodevil/some-good-evil Micro Cassette Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/2019/3/15/micro-cassette-ableton-live-pack 100-Year-Old Piano Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/tape-piano VHS Vapor Machine Ableton Live Pack - https://brianfunk.com/blog/vhs-vapor 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
 

Mikas is the creator of We Make Dance Music, a site of music resources for producers. On his podcast, Live Electronic Music Tutorials with Mikas, he creates tracks in real-time, sharing tips and techniques along the way. The result of each episode becomes a template viewers can purchase on WeMakeDanceMusic.com. 
This is the second time Mikas and I spoke on the Music Production Podcast. Immediately I was reminded of his passion and impressive work ethic. As a new father, Mikas discussed the importance of staying consistent and scheduling time to work on his music career. He spoke about how we can take small actions on a regular basis to complete major goals. Mikas also had some powerful thoughts on authenticity and honesty in art and how that can lead to deeper connections with your audience.
Listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube
Takeaways:
Consistency and dedication are key in pursuing creative endeavors. Limited time can increase productivity and focus. Focusing on strengths while working on weaknesses can lead to better results. Learning and growing as an artist is important, regardless of experience. Daily practice and challenges like Jamuary can lead to significant progress. Platforms like We Make Dance Music provide opportunities for musicians to make a living. Community and collaboration are important in the music industry. Success is the result of intentional action and consistent effort. Putting in the work and showing up consistently is more important than waiting for inspiration or relying on luck. Building relationships and connections requires effort and vulnerability, but it can lead to meaningful experiences and personal growth. Real, tangible experiences are important in a world dominated by technology. Taking breaks and engaging in physical activities can help maintain focus and perspective. Honesty, authenticity, and providing value to others are key in building meaningful relationships. Links:
We Make Dance Music - https://www.wemakedancemusic.com/en/ Live Electronic Music Tutorials with Mikas Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/1SzmnEScpNBHCTJb3cqubN WMDM YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@Wemakedancemusicstudios WMDA Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/wemakedancemusic/ Mikas' First Time on the Music Production Podcast - https://brianfunk.com/blog/2018/8/25/75-mikas-creator-of-we-make-dance-music 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

Jeff Leisawitz is a musician, producer, coach, college songwriting professor, and author. His new book The Magical Impact of Storytelling explores how creatives can connect with their audiences and produce more meaningful work with effective storytelling. 
It was great to have Jeff back on the Music Production Podcast to discuss how we can use storytelling to make better music. We talk about how writing about the specific helps illuminate the universal. Jeff shares famous stories that have helped hit songs connect with listeners. We discuss dealing with the inner critic and the concepts of The Golden Repair, The Hero's Journey, and Head, Heart, and Hands. 
Takeaways
Storytelling in music has the power to create emotional connections with listeners. Specific details in storytelling can make a story more relatable and memorable. Balancing the specific and the universal in storytelling can create a deeper emotional impact. Limitations and experimentation can lead to unique and creative musical experiences. Being vulnerable and authentic in expressing emotions through music is essential. Accompanying songs with stories of their creation can add depth and interest to the music. Having a unique story and perspective is crucial for musicians to stand out in a saturated market. The Hero's Journey can serve as a template for creating compelling narratives in music. Embracing imperfections and using them to create something beautiful can add depth and character to music. The inner critic can be seen as a collaborator rather than an adversary, providing valuable feedback and pushing for improvement. Listen on Apple, Spotify, Google, YouTube
Links:
Jeff's Site - https://jeffleisawitz.com The Magical Impact of Storytelling - https://amzn.to/3QNSCYJ Complementary Coaching Session with Jeff - https://jeffleisawitz.com/coaching/ Not F*ing Around - https://amzn.to/3QJyqXS Jeff's YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYewSq3WO-mEy3JwcOuHedQ Jeff's Music - Electron Love Theory - https://electron-love-theory.com Jeff's 1st Appearance on the Music Production Podcast - https://brianfunk.com/blog/jeff-leisawitz Rolling Stone AI Song Went Viral - https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/suno-ai-chatgpt-music-soul-of-the-machine-1234992365/ 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