It's Levels To This

It's Levels To This

Two longtime music pros (Sensei & Fatboi) go deep on what makes music great. A podcast for music producers, artists, and fans. Fatboi is a Multi-platinum, Grammy nominated, award winning producer whose credits include: Camoflauge, YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Gucci Mane, Young Jeezy, Rocko, Shawty Redd, Flo Rida, Bow Wow, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Juvenile, Yung Joc, Gorilla Zoe, OJ Da Juiceman, 8Ball & MJG, Jeremih, 2 Chainz, Nicki Minaj, Bobby V, Ludacris and Yo Gotti, Monica, Zay Smith, TK Kravitz, Future. Sensei Hollywood (a.k.a. Dan Marshall) formerly an instructor and chair of the Audio Production program at the Art Institute of Atlanta, is an accomplished musician, producer, engineer who's performed on and engineered multi--platinum records with Big Boi, Outkast, Killer Mike, Chamillionaire, Carlos Santana, Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg, Ron Isley, Lil Wayne, Trillville, Monica, and more...

  1. RUN- DMC: ROCK BOX / WALK THIS WAY Episode 13

    OCT 28

    RUN- DMC: ROCK BOX / WALK THIS WAY Episode 13

    In this episode we’re talking about RUN DMC and how their ground breaking fusion of ROCK and RAP brought bold new sounds to the cultural landscape and changed the world of music forever... Get ready rock steady cause It's Levels To This... Chapters 00:00 The Fusion of Musical Worlds01:22 The Impact of Rockbox and Crossover Genres14:52 Run-DMC and Aerosmith: A Game-Changing Collaboration20:22 The Legacy of Run-DMC and the Evolution of Hip-Hop27:42 Levels 2 This Full OUTRO.mp4 ----------------------------------------- Fatboi is a Multi-platinum, Grammy nominated, award winning producer whose credits include: Camoflauge, YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Gucci Mane, Young Jeezy, Rocko, Shawty Redd, Flo Rida, Bow Wow, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Juvenile, Yung Joc, Gorilla Zoe, OJ Da Juiceman, 8Ball & MJG, Jeremih, 2 Chainz, Nicki Minaj, Bobby V, Ludacris and Yo Gotti, Monica, Zay Smith, TK Kravitz, Future. https://twitter.com/thefatboihttps://www.instagram.com/thefatboi_/ ______________________________________________ Sensei Hollywood*  (a.k.a. Dan Marshall) is an accomplished musician, producer, engineer, and audio educator who's performed on and engineered multi--platinum records with Big Boi, Outkast, Killer Mike, Chamillionaire, Carlos Santana, Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg, Ron Isley, Lil Wayne, Trillville, Monica, and more... As an instructor and chair of the Audio Production program at the Art Institute of Atlanta, he he taught a new generation of audio engineers and producers to go on to great things in their own right.

    28 min
  2. Michael Jackson's Human Nature - PART 2

    OCT 2

    Michael Jackson's Human Nature - PART 2

    Summary In this episode, we continue our deep dive into Michael Jackson’s Human Nature, written by Steve Porcaro and featuring the guitar work of session ace Steve Lukather, both of Toto fame. We’re listening to individual tracks of the multi-track recording and learning about the music theory behind one of the all time great pop songs. Sensei and Fatboi explore chord progressions, jazz influences, and the importance of collaboration in music creation, emphasizing the creative process from initial ideas to the final product. We delve into the intricacies of music production, vocal techniques, and the creative process behind iconic songs. We also explore the significance of emulation in developing one's unique sound, the influence of legendary artists like Michael Jackson and Quincy Jones, and the evolution of recording techniques over time. The discussion highlights the importance of capturing the essence of a demo, the artistry involved in vocal arrangements, and the lasting impact of musical influences on contemporary artists. Chapters 00:00 Real-Time Collaboration in Music Production00:14 Innovative Tools for Remote Recording01:09 Analyzing Classic Tracks and Production Techniques08:17 The Role of Jazz in Modern Music Production11:20 Jazz Influences in Modern Music14:11 Articulation and Musical Complexity17:45 The Role of Instrumentation in Songwriting20:47 Demo-itis and the Creative Process23:13 Vocal Techniques and Their Impact26:35 Blending Genres: R&B, Pop, and Jazz30:40 The Art of Collaboration in Music Production34:38 Frankenstein: The Metaphor for Music Creation44:50 The Influence of Church and Jazz on Music46:02 Capturing the Essence of a Demo47:33 The Art of Emulation in Music50:20 The Journey of Finding One's Voice52:23 The Importance of Learning from Great Artists54:03 The DNA of Musical Influence55:13 The Legacy of James Brown and His Impact56:00 Understanding Lyrics and Vocal Techniques58:33 The Role of Emotion in Music Production01:01:32 The Process of Clearing Samples and Collaborations01:03:16 The Creative Process Behind PYT01:04:56 The Special Nature of Quincy Jones' Collaborations01:06:33 The Hidden Nuggets of Music Theory01:06:50 The Evolution of Recording Techniques01:08:57 The Transition from Analog to Digital Recording01:11:16 The Role of Limitations in Creativity01:13:20 The Signature of Flaws in Music Production01:15:22 The Future of Music Technology01:15:24 Levels 2 This Full OUTRO.mp4

    1h 16m
  3. The Case of The Police vs. Sting

    SEP 4

    The Case of The Police vs. Sting

    Summary In this conversation, Sensei and Fatboi delve into the legal dispute surrounding the iconic song 'Every Breath You Take' by The Police, exploring the creative process behind the song, the significance of arrangement, and the implications of music royalties. They discuss the evolution of music production techniques, the influence of other artists, and the legacy of The Police and Sting. The conversation culminates in a reflection on collaboration, compensation, and the impact of money on creative partnerships. Takeaways The lawsuit centers around the royalties of 'Every Breath You Take'.Sting is credited as the sole writer, which is disputed by his bandmates.The arrangement of the song played a crucial role in its success.Demos can differ significantly from final versions, impacting the song's reception.The song's legacy continues to influence pop culture and music today.Legal disputes in music often highlight the complexities of collaboration.The evolution of music production has changed how songs are created and perceived.Sampling has become a common practice, raising questions about credit and compensation.Creative partnerships can lead to conflict, especially regarding financial rewards.Understanding the business side of music is essential for artists.  Chapters 00:00 The Lawsuit Over 'Every Breath You Take'10:17 The Original Demo vs. The Final Version19:25 The Impact of Production Choices26:23 Sampling and Royalties in Modern Music41:39 Creative Partnerships and Their Dynamics52:48 Verdict on the Lawsuit: Fair Compensation?01:08:42 Equitable Arrangements01:13:15 Final Verdict? Who Gets What?01:15:43 Levels 2 This Full OUTRO.mp4

    1h 16m
  4. EP 9  Tami LaTrell

    AUG 21

    EP 9 Tami LaTrell

    Summary Songwriter, music publisher, and business consultant Tami LaTrell is here to share her incredible journey through the music industry. We'll dive into how technology has completely changed the game, the crucial importance of understanding intellectual property, and the real challenges independent artists face in a super saturated market. Tami will also talk about founding Mezzo Agency to help artists get their royalties and unclaimed money. Plus, she shares why accountability is key for artists, producers, and publishers, and how education can help creators get paid fairly. Whether you're an aspiring artist, a seasoned pro, or just love music, Tami’s insights will give you a fresh perspective on the evolving world of music. Tami LaTrell shares her journey as a songwriter, music publisher, and business consultant in the music industry. She discusses her experiences in songwriting, collaboration, and the evolution of music production technology. Tami emphasizes the importance of understanding intellectual property and the challenges independent artists face in today's saturated market. She reflects on her inspirations, the role of gatekeepers, and the changing value of music in the digital age. Tami's insights provide valuable lessons for aspiring artists navigating the complexities of the music business. In this conversation, Tami LaTrell discusses the significant changes in the music industry, particularly the decline in earnings for artists and producers due to budget cuts and the rise of streaming. She shares her journey in founding Mezzo Agency to help artists navigate the complexities of royalties and unclaimed money. Tami emphasizes the importance of accountability among artists, producers, and publishers, and highlights the need for education in the music business to ensure that creators are compensated fairly for their work. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Tammy LaTrell07:20 The Evolution of Music Production07:33 Ownership and Copyright in Music54:28 The Importance of Education for Artists58:40 The Impact of Technology on Music Value01:00:31 The Role of Gatekeepers in the Music Industry01:02:36 Disparities in Music Royalties01:06:52 The Changing Landscape of Music Production01:12:07 The Human Experience in Music Creation01:19:04 Negotiation Strategies for Creatives01:20:37 The Birth of Mezzo Agency01:23:03 Navigating the Music Industry's Challenges01:27:49 The Importance of Claiming Royalties01:30:59 Understanding the MLC and Other Revenue Streams01:36:39 The Role of Attorneys in Music Contracts01:45:14 Creating a Win-Win Environment in the Music Business01:47:50 The Treasure of YouTube and Royalties01:48:22 Legacy Artists and Unclaimed Money01:49:21 The Shift in Music Consumption01:50:31 Accountability in Music Publishing01:51:26 Building a Supportive Music Community01:53:50 The Importance of Business Acumen for Creators01:54:58 Continuous Learning in the Music Industry01:56:17 Finding Hidden Revenue Streams01:57:48 The Role of Clubs in Music Revenue02:01:38 The Need for Music Registration Inspections02:03:17 The Ecosystem of Music Relationships02:09:57 Sustaining the Music Industry02:10:25 Lightning Round with Tami LaTrell02:11:55 Levels 2 This Full OUTRO.mp402:12:39 1_33_ intro  tami, fatboi, sensei _ aug 18, 2025_levels_2 this.mp4

    2h 13m
  5. FUNK THAT BREAKS THE RULES

    AUG 6

    FUNK THAT BREAKS THE RULES

    Summary In this conversation, Sensei and Fatboi delve into the intricacies of funk music, exploring its foundational rules and how certain artists, particularly Prince and The Time, have successfully broken these rules while still maintaining the genre's essence. They discuss the importance of musicianship, the role of rhythm, and the challenges of identifying the 'one' in complex musical structures. The dialogue highlights the evolution of funk and its lasting impact on modern music, emphasizing the creativity and innovation that define the genre. In this engaging conversation, Sensei and Fatboi explore the evolution of the music industry, reflecting on nostalgic memories of music retail, the impact of social media on stardom, and the importance of authenticity in music. They pay tribute to cultural icons like Ozzy Osbourne and Michael Jackson, discussing how their unique styles and approaches broke musical norms and left lasting legacies. The duo emphasizes the need for mystique in the modern music landscape, contrasting it with the oversaturation of social media presence. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Funk and Music Projects01:34 Breaking the Rules of Funk05:59 The Genius of Prince and the Time10:37 The Evolution of Funk and Musical Directing16:04 The Importance of Timing in Music20:57 Locating the One in Funk Music25:00 Understanding Rhythm and Timing in Music30:41 The Influence of Iconic Artists35:19 The Evolution of the Music Industry38:14 Authenticity in Music and Performance41:46 The Impact of Social Media on Artist Mystique52:10 The Value of Artistic Presence54:13 The Evolution of Music Consumption57:35 The Mystique of Superstars01:00:53 The Impact of Iconic Collaborations01:03:19 The Legacy of Michael Jackson01:07:14 The Cross-Genre Influence in Music01:10:46 The Enduring Appeal of ABBA01:13:31 Levels 2 This Full OUTRO.mp4

    1h 14m
  6. JUN 3

    DJ Montay - How To Produce a Diamond Record - for Flo Rida, T-Pain & Oomp Camp

    In this episode we talk to DJ Montay, the hit-making producer behind Flo Rida's 'Low.' ft. T- Pain, We'll explore his journey from DJ to producer and how Oomp Camp shaped Atlanta's music scene.  We’re digging deep and talking technical, as he lays out his workflow to produce DIAMOND* Records... (*Diamond = 10,000,000 units sold!) Get ready, cause It’s Levels To This DJ Montay, is a Diamond certified, Grammy Award-nominated record producer and songwriter, who has worked with artists such as Flo Rida, T-Pain, Akon, Future, and Migos. He has a producer credit on Flo Rida's "Low”, which was one of the most successful singles of the 2000s. DJ Montay has had his productions featured on films such as Step Up 3D, Stomp The Yard, and Norbit. Chapters 00:00 The Rise of DJ Monte and Mixtape Culture03:08 Transitioning from DJing to Production06:03 The Work Ethic Behind DJing08:58 The Evolution of DJing and Production Techniques12:09 Oomp Camp and the Atlanta Music Scene14:54 Creating Street Anthems and Club Classics17:56 Navigating the Music Industry and Staying Relevant20:53 The Impact of Sampling in Music Production24:06 The Creative Process of Beat Making27:03 The Legacy of 'Get Low' and Its Influence31:10 The Evolution of Music Distribution34:50 The Rise of Flo Rida and Crossover Hits37:58 The Impact of Streaming on Music Revenue46:00 Navigating Changes in the Music Industry49:59 The Role of Live Performances in Artist Success56:06 The Mixtape Culture and Its Legacy59:50 The Influence of Leadership in Music Production01:02:04 Championing Unsung Heroes in the Industry01:04:53 Navigating the DJ to Producer Pipeline01:07:59 The Evolution of Music Trends and Production01:10:53 Sampling and the New Generation of Artists01:14:07 Appreciation for Legacy and New Interpretations01:14:57 Rapid Fire Questions: Insights from the Pros From Turntables to Tracks: DJ Montay's Journey Through Hip-Hop History Join us for an electrifying conversation with DJ Montay, a true pioneer who's witnessed the Atlanta music scene evolve firsthand. In this episode, Montay takes us on a journey from his early days spinning records to becoming a master music producer, sharing invaluable insights into the grind of DJ culture and the challenges of the ever-changing music industry. Discover how mixtapes became the lifeblood of Southern hip-hop, propelling artists and sounds into the mainstream. Montay pulls back the curtain on the creative process behind hit records like "Get Low," revealing the dedication and artistry required to craft iconic tracks. He shares his wisdom on staying relevant in a fast-paced industry while remaining humble amidst success. We also dive deep into the evolution of music distribution, from the era of physical media to the dominance of digital streaming. Learn how this shift has impacted artist and producer revenue, and how the rise of crossover hits, like those by Flo Rida, reshaped the landscape. The enduring power of live performances and the legacy of mixtape culture are also explored, highlighting their continued influence on the industry. Finally, we discuss the intricate dynamics of music production, the crucial role of leadership in shaping the industry, and the evolving relationship between DJs and producers. Montay emphasizes the importance of recognizing unsung heroes in the music scene and the challenges faced by new artists today. We even touch on the impact of sampling on music and our appreciation for legacy artists, all culminating in a rapid-fire segment that offers unique personal insights from DJ Montay himself. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from a legend! Hit subscribe and turn on notifications so you don't miss future episodes. #DJMontay #AtlantaHipHop #MusicProduction #MixtapeCulture #MusicIndustry #GetLow #FloRida #MusicEvolution #Podcast ------------ Fatboi is a Multi-platinum, Grammy nominated, award winning producer whose credits include: Camoflauge, YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Gucci Mane, Young Jeezy, Rocko, Shawty Redd, Flo Rida, Bow Wow, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Juvenile, Yung Joc, Gorilla Zoe, OJ Da Juiceman, 8Ball & MJG, Jeremih, 2 Chainz, Nicki Minaj, Bobby V, Ludacris and Yo Gotti, Monica, Zay Smith, TK Kravitz, Future. https://twitter.com/thefatboihttps://www.instagram.com/thefatboi_/ ______________________________________________ Sensei Hollywood*  (a.k.a. Dan Marshall) is an accomplished musician, producer, engineer who's performed on and engineered multi--platinum records with Big Boi, Outkast, Killer Mike, Chamillionaire, Carlos Santana, Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg, Ron Isley, Lil Wayne, Trillville, Monica, and more... He was formerly an instructor and the chair of the Audio Production program at the Art Institute of Atlanta where he taught a new generation of audio engineers and producers to go on to great things in their own right. https://www.instagram.com/senseihollywoodhttps://twitter.com/senseihollywood.

    1h 22m
  7. MAY 8

    Grammy Nominated Engineer Scott Taylor - Travis Scott's Creative Force

    Today we’re talking to grammy nominated engineer Scott Taylor, AKA Scotti He’s leveled up from my Audio 101 class to the top of the charts working with J.I.D. Rae Sremmund, and Travis Scott The student has become the teacher, so get your pencils ready It’s levels to this Summary In this engaging conversation, the speakers reflect on their experiences in the music industry, emphasizing the importance of authentic teaching, studying the greats, and navigating the studio environment. They discuss the journey from being a student to becoming a professional, the significance of building relationships, and the role of confidence and trust in collaboration. The conversation also touches on managing egos, the art of communication, and the value of sharing knowledge in the creative process. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of the music industry, discussing the importance of hard work, humility, and the ability to adapt in a fast-paced environment. They share personal experiences from long studio sessions, the significance of wearing multiple hats, and the evolving landscape of music in the face of technological advancements like AI. The dialogue emphasizes the value of collaboration, learning, and teaching within the creative process, while also reflecting on past successes and future aspirations. Chapters 00:00 The Impact of Authentic Teaching03:00 From Student to Professional: A Journey in Music05:58 The Importance of Studying the Greats08:53 Navigating the Studio Environment12:01 Building Relationships in the Music Industry15:02 The Role of Confidence and Trust in Collaboration18:07 Ego Management in Creative Spaces21:08 The Art of Communication and Feedback23:53 Teaching and Sharing Knowledge in Music27:04 Creating a Positive Vibe in the Studio34:53 The Studio Experience: Time and Ego Management40:53 The Journey of Hard Work and Humility46:50 Wearing Multiple Hats in the Music Industry52:31 The Evolution of Music and the Role of AI01:01:47 Reflections on Success and Future Aspirations ______________________________________________ Fatboi is a Multi-platinum, Grammy nominated, award winning producer whose credits include: Camoflauge, YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Gucci Mane, Young Jeezy, Rocko, Shawty Redd, Flo Rida, Bow Wow, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Juvenile, Yung Joc, Gorilla Zoe, OJ Da Juiceman, 8Ball & MJG, Jeremih, 2 Chainz, Nicki Minaj, Bobby V, Ludacris and Yo Gotti, Monica, Zay Smith, TK Kravitz, Future. https://twitter.com/thefatboi https://www.instagram.com/thefatboi_/ ______________________________________________ Sensei Hollywood*  (a.k.a. Dan Marshall) is an accomplished musician, producer, engineer who's performed on and engineered multi--platinum records with Big Boi, Outkast, Killer Mike, Chamillionaire, Carlos Santana, Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg, Ron Isley, Lil Wayne, Trillville, Monica, and more... He was formerly an instructor and the chair of the Audio Production program at the Art Institute of Atlanta where he taught a new generation of audio engineers and producers to go on to great things in their own right. https://www.instagram.com/senseihollywood https://twitter.com/senseihollywood. *F.K.A. ThundaDan

    1h 6m

About

Two longtime music pros (Sensei & Fatboi) go deep on what makes music great. A podcast for music producers, artists, and fans. Fatboi is a Multi-platinum, Grammy nominated, award winning producer whose credits include: Camoflauge, YoungBoy Never Broke Again, Gucci Mane, Young Jeezy, Rocko, Shawty Redd, Flo Rida, Bow Wow, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony, Juvenile, Yung Joc, Gorilla Zoe, OJ Da Juiceman, 8Ball & MJG, Jeremih, 2 Chainz, Nicki Minaj, Bobby V, Ludacris and Yo Gotti, Monica, Zay Smith, TK Kravitz, Future. Sensei Hollywood (a.k.a. Dan Marshall) formerly an instructor and chair of the Audio Production program at the Art Institute of Atlanta, is an accomplished musician, producer, engineer who's performed on and engineered multi--platinum records with Big Boi, Outkast, Killer Mike, Chamillionaire, Carlos Santana, Mary J. Blige, Snoop Dogg, Ron Isley, Lil Wayne, Trillville, Monica, and more...