The Manifesto, a Toronto festival, delivers an interview with producer 9th Wonder as he talks about the degree of assertiveness that separates producers from beatmakers, the rise of producers as MC’s, and the importance of studying the cultural history of hip-hop. The role of a producer is like the role of a quarterback. We take … Read more
The Heatmakerz, Rsonist and Thrilla, discuss how the duo started in production, recording their first track, and crucial steps in the development of their careers. The two also talk about some of perils of the music business, the influence of DJ Premier on their sound, and preferred production equipment. Production Setup: Akai MPC 4000 Akai … Read more
DJ Premier and Pete Rock take care of sound check and give an interview before performing at the Manhattan Records 30th anniversary celebration.
DJ Clark Kent runs down his list of top 5 favorite producer, then gets down to the essence of The Neptunes’ production methods and style. I think The Neptunes might be the best producers because they actually make whole records.
Producer Boi-1da appears on Much Music to discuss his approach to working with various artists such as Drake, Eminem, and Dr. Dre. The 23 year old producer reveals that he consistently spends a few hours each day to create 2 to 3 beats. [via IllRoots]
Raven of Brooklyn Bodega interviews Buckwild of D.I.T.C. to discuss his history of starting as a DJ, working with Lord Finess, then moving on to becoming a producer. During the interview Buckwild highlights his deep vinyl collection (20,000 to 30,000 records), the various types of producers and styles, and the common thread of music appreciation … Read more
Producer Terrace Martin opens up his home studio to discuss growing up as a young musician in Los Angeles and being a recording gear head. Later on the producer runs down some of the specific gear he regularly employs during recording including Telefunken AK47 and Sony C-800G microphones. Music and art has always had a … Read more
The legend himself, No ID breaks down how he created the instrumental for Jay Z’s “D.O.A. (Death of Autotune)” using Maschine by Native Instruments. After explaining his start with the E-mu SP1200 and Akai MPC 60, No ID further explains setting up his sound and making sure that it remains the way he intended. … Read more
Detroit producer Black Milk stops by Grind Music Radio to his various career moves, artists and groups that he’s worked with in the past, moving from production to MC’ing, and first meeting J Dilla and the influence that the late producer had on his career and work.
Once again, DJ Premier drops an interview and reminds all of us about the rules and guidelines for producing, DJ’ing, and music creation. The producer talks about up coming projects with KRS-One, Grand Puba, Ice-T, and Q-Tip on his label Year Round Records while emphasizing the importance of independent music. DJ Premier also gives his … Read more