After 20 years of experience working with digital audio, I’ve come to realize not much has changed. Yes, the gear has improved considerably but the fundamental concepts of recording have remained the same since the very beginnings of recorded sound.  Historically, the format has never been important to consumers.  It can be a wax cylinder, 2 inch tape, LP record, cassette, CD, MP3 and now streaming.  What IS important is that the message be conveyed as it was intended.  Whether our message is one of emotion through the music we write, or motivation to buy a product or service.  We all want to be heard.  Some of the earliest recordings still inspire us today not because of the type of mics, preamps or converters they used.  It was because the message was genuine and it was recorded by an engineer that knew how to use the available equipment to its fullest potential.

Throughout the years I’ve worn many hats that make the producer and engineer I am today.  From singer-songwriter, bass player, touring musician and private instructor to present day where I produce national radio spots and write music in the advertising industry.  All of these hats are valuable to my career when it comes to all things in audio production.  However, it’s my “listening” hat that I rely on the most.  After all, it was the passion I have as a listener and music lover that lead me to what I am today.

I look forward to creating with you!

 

Josh McCutcheon, founder of Hard Left Productions