Hi, I’m Greg. I’m an entrepreneur from California who makes a living producing music and sound designing for various companies. I consider myself very fortunate but trust me, nothing came by luck.
My Story
I use to be in the same boat as many aspiring producers (creatives). You know, working the 9-5 grind then coming home spending hours learning my craft and creating music, hoping that one day I’d get some placement here and there…Hoping that one day all this hard work would pay off. Hell, I didn’t even know what gear to get (when I started), I just remember hearing that Dr. Dre, as well as a few other composers, used an Akai Mpc 3000 along with a Korg Triton so… That’s what I got! I figured if they use it then it must be good.
I knew next to nothing about contracts, legalities, or what to expect $ wise. I just kept to myself and tried to perfect my craft as much as I could. I remember the 1st time someone asked me for a track… I didn’t want to sell it! I was just shocked at the fact that someone liked my work enough to use it.
I wound up ghost producing for a few majors, and by doing so I learned the importance of negotiating and having your paperwork in order. I just wish I would have listened to my manager/friend at the time, but instead (being young and cocky) I put money in front of everything. I was making between $1,500 – $2,000 a week cutting tracks, there wasn’t **** you could tell me. I was making more $$ on my own than most did with a 4-year degree.
I was ghost producing for a little over a year before the light bulb went off in my head. I was getting screwed left and right (production credits, money, etc.), and I felt it was time for me to position myself around people with different mindsets, experience, and really sit down and learn the business side of the industry. Since then I’ve had nothing but positive results. I make a great living doing what I love ‘music production’ without labels, artists, or managers.
I wanted to create a reliable resource for musicians, producers, composers, artists (regardless of skill level), etc. I want to help others to reach the level of success that I have without all the b*******. Granted, there are a lot of online production communities out there, but let’s be honest……
So Why Diy Music Biz?
Most people you run into via forums and social media don’t know what they’re talking about. A lot of them are speaking out of turn with little to no experience running a successful business. If you’re not making a good consistent living from your craft then in my opinion, you’re not qualified to give anyone advice on doing so.
Here are some topics covered on this site:
- Music Licensing – Primilary the ins and outs of landing clients that utilize your music in TV/Film and Video Games. There’s a right and wrong way to play the field. A mentor of mine told me this was the real estate of the music industry (he wasn’t lying).
- Sound Design – We cover everything basic synthesis to sound replacement. The later is good practice and very useful when landing high-end clients.
- Gear Reviews – Software, hardware there are lots of tools available today. I’ll show you what’s needed to get the job done without breaking the bank.
Where To Start?
Start with My Music Licensing Guide – It’s free. Once you’re done, email me any questions you have. I’m more than willing to help.
Keep in mind, I’m a DIY guy. I don’t believe in roadblocks, I go against the grain, I do what’s needed to do to make things happen.