52 Cues Podcast

In this episode, Dave Kropf explores lessons from Star Wars that can be applied to production and library music. He discusses the importance of using references effectively, the developmental journey from novice to expert, and the balance between artistry and commercial viability. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/7yFNZFZ7uqk 00:00 - Intro & welcome 01:28 - Weekly check-in 08:03 - Main Topic: 5 Career Lessons I Learned From Star Wars 10:31 - #1: The force is all around us 19:04 - #2: You progress from Padawan to Jedi master 26:35 - #3: There must be balance in the force 33:23 - #4: There will always be trench runs 38:34 - #5: We need someone in our lives who say "no" 48:58 - How to join the 52 Cues community 50:24 - This week's Expedition 52 cue 53:06 - Outro Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

In this episode of the 52 Cues podcast, we explore "superpowers"—those innate skills that emerge naturally and effortlessly. We talk about recognizing these abilities, understanding their value, and applying them effectively within the production music industry to ensure both success and personal fulfillment in your career! Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/8dEbZDy3OgE 00:00 - Intro & welcome 05:36 - Weekly check-in 12:12 - Main Topic: What's Your Superpower 25:30 - Finding your superpower and leveraging it for production music 36:03 - What if your superpower isn't production music friendly? 38:10 - How we deal with our "Kryptonite"? 44:13 - The "What's Your Superpower" composer quest 47:00 - How to join the 52 Cues community 48:03 - This week's Expedition 52 cue 50:24 - Outro Join the "What's Your Superpower" Composer Quest going on now at 52 Cues! https://my.52cues.com/spaces/13451427 Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

Tune in as Dave Kropf hosts music producer Jelle Dittmar in a dynamic episode of the 52 Cues Podcast. Explore how online networking catapulted Jelle into a major album deal with an LA music library, plus uncover the secrets to forging lasting industry relationships. Learn about the role of live elements in music production, advances in remote collaboration technology, and Jelle's dedication to mentoring the next generation of talent. Perfect for composers at any stage, this episode is packed with actionable insights to fuel your musical journey. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/NTwgRCS-4SA Find Jelle Dittmar online: https://www.jelledittmar.com Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

Parkinson's Law states that work expands to fill the time available for its completion. In this episode, Dave discusses how this concept applies to the world of production music, and how it impacts efficiency, decision-making, and creativity in music production. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/5i2nXHdbh6I 00:00 - Intro & welcome 02:02 - Weekly check-in 09:49 - Main Topic: How Parkinson's Law Impacts Composers 12:15 - #1: Efficiency 15:36 - #2: Decision making 17:27 - #3: Productivity 18:57 - #4: Motivation 21:53 - #5: Creativity 25:08 - Outro and how you can join the 52 Cues community Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

In this episode, composer and publisher, Timothy Andrew Edwards, shares insights from his journey in production music, emphasizing the role of networking, creativity, and organization. He discusses balancing work with personal interests and the need for multiple income streams. Join us as we discuss the importance of standing out through originality, effective organization, and building trust in the industry. Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/CZl_U3IzDW0 00:00 - Intro & welcome 01:53 - Weekly check-in 09:06 - Main Topic: Interview with Timothy Andrew Edwards 23:28 - Thoughts on building industry relationships for folks starting out 31:14 - The importance of coaching and mentoring 40:50 - How can composers balance quantity and quality? 48:40 - The challenges of work / life balance 55:19 - Outro and how you can join the 52 Cues community Reach out to Tim via email tae at theteam-llc dot com Tim on Instagram https://www.instagram.com Tim on IMDb https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1597994 Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

On this episode, I welcome Chuck Milan who shares insights into the evolving role of sync agents, music libraries, and the legal intricacies involved in music production and distribution. We chat about the challenges and strategies for artists looking to navigate the sync licensing landscape, and Chuck shares his perspective on the balance between artistic integrity and commercial viability along with the future directions of music licensing. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/Z29vCV5qJs0 Milan Marketing https://milanmarketing.net Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

In this episode, Dave welcomes Jeff Hargrove back to the podcast. They catch up on Jeff's progress in the past year, including his success in getting placements on CBS Sports and signing with multiple libraries, along with his experience starting a YouTube channel and the next steps in his career! Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/35vAVbOW188 Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

In this episode, Dave explores some common bottlenecks that can impede our workflow and creativity. From finding motivation, choosing the right sounds, to mastering the technicalities of music production, Dave helps you navigate these obstacles, including setting routines, utilizing music briefs, and managing the balance between creative and technical tasks. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/VitSKTQ8ofE 00:00 - Intro & welcome 01:52 - Weekly check-in 11:23 - Main topic: Where are you getting stuck? 12:55 - #1: Motivation 17:05 - #2: What should you write? 24:06 - #3: Choosing your sounds 30:15 - #4: Musical form and structure 37:42 - #5: Mixing and mastering 43:51 - #6: The tedious minutiae of the business 48:07 - Outro and how you can join the 52 Cues community Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

The quest - create a cue with the provided bowed cymbal samples, much like a sushi chef expertly prepares their ingredients! This challenge encouraged participants to slice, dice, stretch, and creatively manipulate the samples in any way imaginable, transforming these sounds into something uniquely theirs, and showcasing their ability to innovate and design sound with precision and creativity. Voting is open through March 10! https://www.52cues.com/vote Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/agcNaFTRIqA Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

In this week's episode of the 52 Cues podcast, we dive back into the topic of AI, spurred by OpenAI's recent release of their text-to-video engine, Sora, which presents both stunning and unsettling advancements in AI-generated content. Dave reflects on the rapidly evolving capabilities of AI in creative industries and stresses the importance for composers to elevate their craft beyond the low-effort, easily replicable content that AI is beginning to master. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/4dpVR2I4pV4 00:00 - Intro & welcome 01:45 - Weekly check-in 11:31 - This week's topic: We Need To Talk About AI... Again 12:01 - AI-generated video is here 18:44 - Who could be affected by AI-generated music first? 27:21 - How should we handle the advent of AI in music? 37:11 - Outro and how you can join the 52 Cues community OpenAI Sora https://openai.com/sora Will Artificial Intelligence Ever Replace Composers? 52 Cues Podcast, 2022 Week 28 https://youtu.be/DEW5fAjfM3Y AI Generated Videos Just Changed Forever Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast launched! Start for FREE Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

In this episode of the podcast, we welcome Frank and TC from the Music Interval Theory Academy, who introduce a groundbreaking approach to music composition. By focusing on a three-step composing process that veers away from traditional music theory, they offer new creative strategies and methods that not only challenge conventional composing techniques but also opens up a world of innovation for composers and musicians alike! Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/9TI9jeddzt8 00:00 - Intro & welcome 02:05 - Weekly check-in 10:35 - Frank and TC from The Music Interval Theory Academy 12:45 - The 3-Step process for composing 24:07 - How is music interval theory different? 37:29 - The problem with composing and editing at the same time 39:20 - TC's thoughts on intervalic thinking vs diatonic theory 42:50 - How do you balance the interval process with keeping the music usable? 45:41 - More about the Music Interval Theory Academy 54:07 - Where to find Frank and TC online 57:05 - Outro and how you can join the 52 Cues community Music Interval Theory Academy https://musicintervaltheory.academy Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

Join us for a special Ready For Sync? LIVE! event where I give feedback on cues from the 52 Community! Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/wG0GUg2wPJs Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

Today, Dave welcomes synth guru, Jon Audio ( @jonaudio ) and they delve into the world of synthesizers, discussing favorites like Zebra, Omnisphere, and Vital, highlighting the importance of user-friendliness, third-party support, and learning through presets. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/6Jp263rPPbE 00:00 - Intro & welcome 01:52 - Weekly check-in 06:47 - Software synths demystified with Jon Audio 09:00 - Overcoming the "fear factor" of programming synthesizers 10:42 - What is an oscillator? 14:00 - FM synthesis basics 15:01 - What is an LFO (Low Frequency Oscillator)? 17:50 - What is granular synthesis? 19:52 - What is physical modelling synthesis? 22:18 - How should people get started with synthesis? 26:55 - Jon's "Mount Rushmore" of favorite synths 41:29 - Thoughts on synth presets as sounds and learning tools 52:00 - Outro and how you can join the 52 Cues community Find Jon on YouTube https: Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

Pursuing a career in any creative industry, whether it's production music, film scoring, game music, or even being a painter, is filled with uncertainty. What fears keep you up at night? What are you afraid of? In this episode, I unpack six different fears that you might be struggling with and give you some tips on how to overcome them! 00:00 - Intro & welcome 01:48 - Weekly check-in 06:50 - What are you afraid of as a creator? 09:28 - #1: Fear of financial instability 16:40 - #2: Fear of non-sustainability 19:48 - #3: Fear of irrelevance and becoming unoriginal 22:32 - #4: Fear of failure 26:29 - #5: Fear of networking 29:56 - #6: Fear of obsolescence through technology 38:50 - Outro and how you can join the 52 Cues community Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

Join me as I welcome 52 Cues Family member, Shane Jensen, who in addition to being an accomplished musician was also once a professional golfer. In this episode we discuss how his time on the links has translated to his time in the studio and what lessons can be learned by learning golf. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/FQ1Z1bI_vPs 00:00 - Intro & welcome 01:48 - Weekly check-in 08:02 - Interview with Shane Jensen 09:18 - Shane's thoughts on being a lifelong learner 12:26 - Shane's life as a professional golfer The parallels between golf and production music: 16:24 - #1: Learn to use the basic tools for the job 25:32 - #2: Have a strong foundation 30:01 - Shane's advice for folks new to golf 31:30 - #3: Enjoy the process and the small wins 38:20 - #4: How to deal with hazards and roadblocks 49:31 - #5: Find a good mentor you resonate with 57:37 - Outro and how you can join the 52 Cues community Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

If you've watched any music production tutorials out on YouTube, I guarantee you you've at least heard this man's voice. My guest joining me today is a singer, a songwriter, producer, music educator, the senior creative lead at Reason Studios, Ryan Harlin, and chat about everything from how he found himself making Reason tutorials, how Reason fits into his workflow, and how the banjo (of all things) is one of his true passions! Watch this episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/s0OyQLj4RHQ Web: https://ryanharlin.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/ryanharlin_ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RyanHarlin Harmony Playground: https://ryanharlin.com/harmony-playground Walker Creek Music Camp: https://walkercreekmusiccamp.org Reason: https://www.reasonstudios.com https://www.youtube.com/reasonstudios 00:00 - Intro & welcome 01:49 - Weekly check-in 06:42 - Interview with Ryan Harlin 13:29 - What are some of the big attractions of Reason? 24:38 - Thoughts on the impact of the Reason Rack plugin 32:33 - How does Ryan approach learning and using new Reason instruments? Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

Whether it's getting rejected from a client, ghosted from a publisher, getting placements that pay pennies to the dollar, or never getting placements at all, this gig can be pretty brutal at times. So how do we deal with that? This week, I thought it would be a really good idea to have another 52 Cue Family roundtable and talk about handling discouragement. A huge thanks to Jesse Carrigan, Rolf Schild, Mark Justin, Michael Sinay, Kristopher Smith, Cory Lavine, and Ralph Martin for joining me on this episode! Watch this Episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/PPqNNr0pTNc 00:00 - Intro & Welcome 02:38 - Weekly Check In 08:34 - Handling Discouragement Family Roundtable 52:53 - Outro and how you can join the 52 Cues community Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

Mentors and coaches can play a huge role in guiding you along your career journey, but how do you know when you need one, and what should you look for when looking for a mentor? Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/7hUVOk1mv0w 00:00 - Intro & welcome 02:05 - A small change to our YouTube Vlog format 03:04 - Weekly check-in 04:33 - This week's Expedition 52 cue: "Shanghai And Dry" 09:25 - Why you might need a mentor 16:58 - #1: Relevant experience to where you want to be 22:14 - #2: Their teaching ability and feedback style 31:13 - #3: Do they have an established professional network? 38:10 - #4: The investment for their services 43:37 - #5: Are your personalities compatible? 48:48 - Outro and how you can join the 52 Cues community Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

Join me as I take a look back on the ups, downs, and challenges of 2023 while also looking forward to what's to come for me and the channel for 2024! Watch this Episode on YouTube https://youtu.be/gvC6_eCKZ_U Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!

Join me for a special episode marking my 50th birthday, where I reflect on my journey from aspiring band director to becoming a production music composer and educator. I share insights about my 30-year marriage with Shannon, my career transitions, and the lessons I've learned about maintaining work-life balance and embracing personal growth. Watch this episode on YouTube! https://youtu.be/VNGMWz4vdgo 00:00 - Intro & welcome 02:40 - Am I where I thought I would be? 06:41 - Some of my proudest achievements 13:08 - How have I changed over the years? 18:21 - Am I where I want to be? 22:35 - What legacy do I want to leave behind? 27:54 - What lessons have I learned along the way? 36:48 - What's next? 43:47 - Outro and how you can join the 52 Cues community Cymbal SFX - Bowed! Elevate your soundscapes with Cymbal SFX - Bowed—a masterful collection of 68 unique bowed cymbal performances, meticulously recorded for tension-filled tracks and cinematic trailers. Now available exclusively at Production Music Tools! https://productionmusictools.com/products/bowed-cymbals-by-52-cues Join the 52 Cues Album Accelerator – a self-paced program with over 6.5 hours of video content, discussion threads, articles, and resources which guides you through the entire process of creating a production music album. Plus you’ll receive a 90-minute, one-on-one session to listen through your album and discuss strategies for library placement. Head over to 52cues.com/accelerator to sign up today! Support the Show. Join the 52 Cues Community for FREE! – https://52cues.com Be a 52 Cues FRIEND – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290656?bundle_token=b6502231ec464e7fbe3205c28c27269d&utm_source=manual Join the 52 Cues FAMILY – https://my.52cues.com/plans/290660?bundle_token=ba116c19700ddb0183c85c707a4a558a&utm_source=manual One-on-one coaching sessions and video critiques also available! – http://52cues.com/coaching. Note: Links may be affiliate links which generate a small commission but at no extra cost to you!