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Matthew Weiss: In Conversation (Akon, Nicky Minaj, Swae Lee)

Discover valuable insights from audio engineer Matthew Weiss as he shares his expertise on mixing, music production, & industry trends.
Matthew Weiss

Audio engineering enthusiasts, you’re in for a treat! We recently had the opportunity to sit down with Matthew Weiss, a renowned audio engineer known for his work with Akon, Nicky Minaj, and Swae Lee and more. Weiss shares his wealth of knowledge and experience in music production and mixing in this exclusive interview.

This engaging conversation is conducted by Pete Dowsett, head of products at Relab, and delves into the industry’s current state, the future of music production, and the role of technology in shaping the soundscapes we know and love.

Take advantage of the in-depth video interview, which we’ve included at the end of this article. But first, let’s tease you with some of the highlights and insights you can expect from this fascinating exchange.

The Evolution of Reverb and Spatial Effects

Weiss and Dowsett discuss the ever-changing trends in music production, focusing on reverb and spatial effects like the Relab LX480 Dual-Engine Reverb. With the industry transitioning from a dry phase to a more reverb-heavy sound, Weiss shares his thoughts on how artists and engineers can stay ahead of the curve. He cites recent works from Beyonce, Dua Lipa, and Miley Cyrus as prime examples of this shift towards more spacious and dynamic audio environments. This evolution showcases the importance of understanding and utilizing these effects to create immersive and engaging listening experiences for audiences.

Machine Learning and the Future of Music Production

As technology continues to develop, the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in music production becomes a hot topic. Weiss offers his opinions on the potential impact of these advancements, pointing out the strengths and limitations of current tools. While acknowledging the impressive capabilities of machine learning, he emphasizes the importance of the human touch in creating truly emotive and evocative mixes.

Creating Depth and Dimension in a Mix

Weiss shares invaluable tips on achieving a sense of depth and dimensionality in a mix, emphasizing the importance of understanding the relationship between reverbs, delays, and source sounds. Finally, he discusses different strategies for using these effects to create convincing, immersive audio environments, whether you’re aiming for a subtle, natural sound or a more pronounced, stylized effect.

Advice for Aspiring Audio Engineers

As the interview wraps up, Weiss imparts some wisdom for those just starting in audio engineering. Reflecting on his journey, he highlights the importance of learning from mistakes and embracing the challenges of building a successful career in the music industry. His advice serves as a reminder that every setback and triumph contributes to personal growth and professional development, ultimately shaping each engineer’s unique path.

Don’t Miss the Full Interview

Ready to dive into the complete conversation? We’ve included the video interview below, where you’ll find a wealth of additional insights, anecdotes, and industry secrets from Matthew Weiss. As he speaks with Pete Dowsett, you’ll gain an insider’s perspective on the art and science of audio engineering and valuable knowledge that can help you stay current with evolving trends and technologies in music production.

Whether you’re an aspiring audio engineer or a seasoned professional, this interview offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a true industry expert. Take your chance to learn from Matthew Weiss as he shares his passion for the craft and his vision for the future of music production.

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