Songwriting isn't just about inspiration; it's also about understanding the basics, piece by piece, fitting all elements together to create the song we love. In this episode, Xylo chats with ICMP Songwriting Professor, Sophie Daniels, about the creative process of songwriting and understanding the basic structures in creating a song. Follow Sophie Daniels & ICMP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libertysmother Website: https://www.sophiedanielsmusic.com/ https://www.libertysmother.com/ IC...
Apr 18, 2024•36 min
Producers have their own way to really be creative and make detailed music arrangements exactly how they want, but have you ever wondered how they dynamically control various aspects of a mix to enhance the overall sound? In this episode, Xylo chats with Grammy-nominated and MOBO award-winning mixer and engineer, Clinton McCreery, about automation and the important things and tips to note on how to use it effectively in your mixes. Follow Clinton McCreery Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cli...
Apr 04, 2024•42 min
In today's music industry, boundaries have been continuously pushed to move traditional music expression to a whole new level. But have you ever wondered how artistry and engineering have been seamlessly merged to achieve this? In this episode, Xylo chats with pioneering inventor-producer-performer, Lia Mice, on the creative process of instrument making, innovating more sustainable instrument designs, and integrating digital and physical instruments to make them more accessible and inclusive, es...
Mar 21, 2024•36 min
It is no secret that musicians face numerous challenges within the industry, but how deeply do we truly understand these shortcomings, especially the changes required to instigate meaningful progress and envision a future where inclusivity, respect, and protection prevail? In this episode, Xylo chats with ISM Senior Policy & Campaigns Officer, Naomi McCarthy, on the realities of discrimination in the music industry and the persistent challenges faced by musicians across various demographics....
Mar 07, 2024•36 min
3D sound nowadays has been offering a more open and dynamic sonic experience to listeners, but have you ever wondered how this sound that envelops you from all directions has been transformed? In this episode, Xylo chats with multi-platinum and Grammy Award-winning mixing engineer, Jacob 'Biz' Morris, about the essence of spatial audio, the unique aspects of its mixing process, and how it enhances the listening experience, whether through headphones or in a room with multiple speakers. Follow Ja...
Feb 22, 2024•31 min
Cultivating inspiration and adapting to different perspectives is always necessary in the ever-expanding world of music, but what really is the relationship between creativity and psychology in terms of music production, engineering, and composition? In this episode, Xylo chats with Grammy Award-winning audio engineer, music producer, and arranger/composer, Natalia Milanesi, about collaborating with artists of diverse personalities, overcoming creative blocks, and the delicate balance between gu...
Feb 08, 2024•47 min
Let's celebrate 100 episodes together! In this special edition episode, Xylo Aria chats about where the podcast and MPW started 4 years ago and the journey to getting where it is today. Numerous audience questions were submitted for the episode which Xylo also answers during the episode. We want to say a huge thanks to our listeners for sticking with us for the journey :) Enter the 100th Episode SE Electronics DM6 Microphone Giveaway here! https://forms.gle/fQ7cgLjq3uhRZr779 Become a member of M...
Jan 25, 2024•29 min
The trend of infusing compositions with familiar tunes has already become popular nowadays but how do you really navigate the complexities of collaboration and credit that comes with it? In this episode, Xylo chats with multifaceted artist and producer, Raphaella, about how interpolations work and how exactly are splits negotiated in this creative process. Follow Raphaella: https://www.instagram.com/raphaellamusic/ Check out our biggest online event called "Master Your Music" here: www.musicprod...
Jan 11, 2024•35 min
Achieving an exceptional sound in your mixes begins with selecting the right microphone for each instrument but how do you really capture the true brilliance of every note in your music. In this episode, Xylo chats with award-winning audio engineer and Shure Incorporated Product Specialist, Paul Mc Whirter, on the different microphone techniques in recording and the secret to achieving real great sound in your mixes. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulthesoundguy/ Check out our biggest onl...
Jan 10, 2024•51 min
It is always a key factor in getting your low-frequency mixes right especially when your music is on different platforms, but have you ever thought about how to determine, control, and harmonize these foundational tones? In this episode, Xylo chats with award-winning Canadian mix engineer, composer, audio engineer, and Izotope's video team manager, Geoff Manchester, about how to determine low frequencies and ways and tips to control and mix them. Follow Geoff Manchester: YouTube: https://www.you...
Dec 14, 2023•42 min
Musical landscapes have continuously evolved with the rhythm of technological advancements, but have you ever wondered how these profound changes revolutionized music from across different eras, from the early days of recording to today's digital age? In this episode, Xylo chats with five-time Grammy Award-nominated Electronic Music pioneer dubbed as "America’s First Female Synth Hero" , Suzanne Ciani, about technological changes and evolution in music, embracing change and adapting & naviga...
Nov 30, 2023•53 min
Creating a stellar make-or-break mix is essential, especially when your music travels through different streaming platforms. In this episode, Xylo chats with recording and mixing engineer, Sam Loose, about the factors and considerations crucial for delivering top-notch sound, tailored for platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and more. Follow Sam Loose YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/samlooseaudioengineer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/n_a_studios/ Download MPW's Getting Started Checklis...
Nov 16, 2023•33 min
TikTok is a powerhouse for artists looking to gain visibility and connect with a vast audience, but how do you really thrive on this dynamic platform? In this episode, Xylo chats with TikTok’s Artist Partnership Specialist for Australia and New Zealand, Tait McGregor on how to grow on TikTok by staying on top of TikTok trends and improving your TikTok content. Tait McGregor's Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/21b791d972c1/tiktok-au-music-sign-up Join our three, 3-hour workshops called EmpowHer Soun...
Nov 02, 2023•41 min
Your journey as an artist is not only about your music; it's also about who you are and how you present yourself to the world. In this episode, Xylo chats with Melbourne-based PR and Hunger Digital founder, Laura Semple, about exploring the key elements of authentic artist branding and how to create effective content strategy. Visit Hunger Digital's website: https://www.hunger.digital/ Join our three, 3-hour workshops called EmpowHer Sound Workshop Series which are step-by-step guides to help yo...
Oct 19, 2023•44 min
Creating rich orchestral sounds from the comfort of your own home studio is a dream for many composers and arrangers, but how do you achieve high-quality orchestral sounds without the need for a grand concert hall? In this episode, Xylo chats with London-based soprano, composer, and producer, Helen Noir, about producing realistic orchestral sounds of quality using your Sample Libraries. Visit her website: https://www.helennoir.com/ Distrokid has kindly offered all MPW listeners a 30% discount of...
Oct 05, 2023•50 min
The journey for musicians with disabilities often involves unique obstacles and triumphs, but how do they navigate their careers amidst the challenge? In this episode, Xylo chats with music industry consultant & Tibi Access founder, Dina Basille, about tips on how to expand disability awareness and enhance accessibility in the music industry. Follow Tibi Access: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tibiaccess/ Website: https://www.tibiaccess.com/ Join our three, 3-hour workshops called Empow...
Sep 21, 2023•32 min
Collaborating with renowned DJs can be a game-changer in your music career, but how exactly can you make these collaborations happen? In this episode, Xylo chats with singer-songwriter & vocal producer, Sarah de Warren, about practical tips and expert advice on how to successfully team up with major DJs, and how to craft music that resonates with their style to be able to build a mutually beneficial partnership. Follow Sarah de Warren: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sarahdewarrenmusic/ I...
Sep 07, 2023•37 min
Changing your music style midway through your career can be a bold move. But how do you handle this shift in genre? In this episode, Xylo chats with London-based singer, songwriter & producer, Lilly Ahlberg, about shifting genres and sound, and advice on how to successfully navigate through this change in the middle of your music journey. Follow Lilly Ahlberg: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lillyahlbergmusic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lillyahlberg/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/...
Aug 24, 2023•26 min
Touring is a monumental step for any artist in getting yourself and your music to be known, but how do you actually plan and set up your very first tour? In this episode, Xylo chats with New York-based Singer-Songwriter, Producer & Engineer, and owner of A Diamond Heart Production, Vanessa Silberman, about the considerations and steps involved in touring, and her ways and tips in organizing your first tour. Follow Vanessa Silberman: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vanessasilbermanoffici...
Aug 10, 2023•37 min
Data has become essential in today's digital age for businesses, creators, and artists alike, but have you ever wondered how musicians effectively utilize streaming platforms, social media, and audience insights to discover their target audience? In this episode, Xylo chats with Chartmetric's Business Development Manager, Michelle Yuen, on how to leverage data to identify the target audience, the potential problems musicians should be aware of when using audience data, and tips on when and where...
Jul 27, 2023•33 min
In the music industry today, Spotify playlists hold an incredible ability to launch artists to new heights but have you wondered how these musicians can secure a spot and get their music featured on these influential playlists? In this episode, Xylo chats with Spotify Music Editor, Hannah Brewer, on the curation, criteria, and tips on how to maximize your chances when submitting for Spotify playlisting. Distrokid have kindly offered all MPW listeners a 30% discount off the first year of their an...
Jul 13, 2023•41 min
It's fascinating how the music industry offers a chance for aspiring artists to fulfill their dreams, but have you ever wondered how and when things become tricky, especially when it comes to record deals? In this episode, Xylo chats with Taylor Swift's former manager and Music Industry Blueprint founder, Rick Barker, about record deals, their pros and cons, and the important factors artists should think about before deciding to take on a record deal. To experience LALAL.AI's AI neural network t...
Jun 29, 2023•41 min
Good music has this incredible ability to captivate and deeply impact emotions, but have you ever wondered how these pieces were structured and created? In this episode, Xylo chats with Jazz Singer, Pianist & Youtube Sensation, Aimee Nolte, about chords and how they play a crucial role in reaching listeners on a deep emotional level. Grab a free ticket to MPW's largest free event of music production masterclasses, Master Your Music Live - London here (tickets are limited): https://musicprodu...
Jun 14, 2023•38 min
Have you ever wondered how producers control and combine multiple audio signals in the process of sound recording, reproduction, or music production as a whole, despite the convenience of producing audio in single tracks using DAWs? In this episode, Xylo chats with AMS Neve Product Specialist, Joe Heaton, about mixing desks, its purpose, and the common processes done with it. To experience LALAL.AI's AI neural network to extract vocal, instrumental, drums, bass, piano, electric guitar, acoustic ...
May 31, 2023•40 min
Most of the unforgettable songs and albums that capture our interests showcase the essence and emotion of a performer's voice but have you ever wondered how these favorites achieve that polished and captivating sound? In this episode, Xylo chats with MPG & Grammy Award-winning producer, Lorna Blackwood, on what vocal production is, the most common issues a vocal producer encounters in every session, and finding improvements to reach one's vocal potential. Follow Lorna Blackwood: https://www....
May 18, 2023•33 min
In the world of film and television, dialogue is a crucial element that can make or break a scene but have you ever wondered how movies and TV shows achieve flawless dialogue, even in the most challenging filming conditions? In this episode, Xylo chats with IFTA Nominee and ADR Recordist, Emma Butt, on what ADR is, its importance in every movie and TV show production, and the different roles of an ADR recordist behind the scenes of post-production in the film and TV industry. Follow Emma Butt: h...
May 04, 2023•41 min
Soundtracks that accompany the visuals from a film help capture emotions and enhance scenes, but have you ever wondered how this music is created from the initial concept to the final product? In this episode, Xylo chats with film and visual media composer, Adele Etheridge Woodson, on the process of creating a film score, her go-to techniques in producing her compositions, and tips on how to improve your skills as a film score composer. Follow Adele Etheridge Woodson: https://www.instagram.com/a...
Apr 19, 2023•31 min
Your voice is a unique and powerful instrument, but it can sometimes be challenging to tap into its full potential especially if you lack confidence. In this episode, Xylo chats with award-winning singer-songwriter turned vocal coach and founder of VoxTape Studios, Lara Chapman on the biggest issues about confidence in performing, and her tips and techniques on how to successfully shape and build your vocal skills and develop your confidence as a vocalist. Follow VoxTapes Studios Instagram: http...
Apr 05, 2023•45 min
Having all the trendy tools is a big plus in creating your own music, but have you ever felt so restricted in your production that you get stuck in a production limbo even with all these resources? In this episode, Xylo chats with London-based writer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Jacob Attwooll on his ways and tips to being creative with your productions, how to keep up with the latest trends in the music scene, and how to deal with all the limitations as a producer and a songwriter. Foll...
Mar 22, 2023•33 min
Music has been an essential aspect of gaming as it stimulates a very engaging mood among the players, but have you ever wondered how this music was developed and created? In this episode, Xylo chats with award-winning audio director and Soundcuts owner and founder, Adele Cutting on the different styles and genres of game music and how to develop the skills in creating game music. Follow Soundcuts: https://www.instagram.com/soundcutsltd/ Contact Soundcuts here: https://www.soundcuts.net/ Distroki...
Mar 09, 2023•33 min