Songwriting isn't just about inspiration; it's also about understanding the basics, piece by piece, fitting all elements together to create the song we love. In this episode, Xylo chats with ICMP Songwriting Professor, Sophie Daniels, about the creative process of songwriting and understanding the basic structures in creating a song. Follow Sophie Daniels & ICMP Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libertysmother Website: https://www.sophiedanielsmusic.com/...

Producers have their own way to really be creative and make detailed music arrangements exactly how they want, but have you ever wondered how they dynamically control various aspects of a mix to enhance the overall sound? In this episode, Xylo chats with Grammy-nominated and MOBO award-winning mixer and engineer, Clinton McCreery, about automation and the important things and tips to note on how to use it effectively in your mixes. Follow Clinton McCreery Instagram:...

In today's music industry, boundaries have been continuously pushed to move traditional music expression to a whole new level. But have you ever wondered how artistry and engineering have been seamlessly merged to achieve this? In this episode, Xylo chats with pioneering inventor-producer-performer, Lia Mice, on the creative process of instrument making, innovating more sustainable instrument designs, and integrating digital and physical instruments to make them more accessible and inclusive,...

It is no secret that musicians face numerous challenges within the industry, but how deeply do we truly understand these shortcomings, especially the changes required to instigate meaningful progress and envision a future where inclusivity, respect, and protection prevail? In this episode, Xylo chats with ISM Senior Policy & Campaigns Officer, Naomi McCarthy, on the realities of discrimination in the music industry and the persistent challenges faced by musicians across various...

3D sound nowadays has been offering a more open and dynamic sonic experience to listeners, but have you ever wondered how this sound that envelops you from all directions has been transformed? In this episode, Xylo chats with multi-platinum and Grammy Award-winning mixing engineer, Jacob 'Biz' Morris, about the essence of spatial audio, the unique aspects of its mixing process, and how it enhances the listening experience, whether through headphones or in a room with multiple...

Cultivating inspiration and adapting to different perspectives is always necessary in the ever-expanding world of music, but what really is the relationship between creativity and psychology in terms of music production, engineering, and composition? In this episode, Xylo chats with Grammy Award-winning audio engineer, music producer, and arranger/composer, Natalia Milanesi, about collaborating with artists of diverse personalities, overcoming creative blocks, and the delicate balance between...

Let's celebrate 100 episodes together! In this special edition episode, Xylo Aria chats about where the podcast and MPW started 4 years ago and the journey to getting where it is today. Numerous audience questions were submitted for the episode which Xylo also answers during the episode. We want to say a huge thanks to our listeners for sticking with us for the journey :) Enter the 100th Episode SE Electronics DM6 Microphone Giveaway here! https://forms.gle/fQ7cgLjq3uhRZr779 Become a...

The trend of infusing compositions with familiar tunes has already become popular nowadays but how do you really navigate the complexities of collaboration and credit that comes with it? In this episode, Xylo chats with multifaceted artist and producer, Raphaella, about how interpolations work and how exactly are splits negotiated in this creative process. Follow Raphaella: https://www.instagram.com/raphaellamusic/ Check out our biggest online event called "Master Your Music" here:...

Achieving an exceptional sound in your mixes begins with selecting the right microphone for each instrument but how do you really capture the true brilliance of every note in your music. In this episode, Xylo chats with award-winning audio engineer and Shure Incorporated Product Specialist, Paul Mc Whirter, on the different microphone techniques in recording and the secret to achieving real great sound in your mixes. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulthesoundguy/ Check out our...

It is always a key factor in getting your low-frequency mixes right especially when your music is on different platforms, but have you ever thought about how to determine, control, and harmonize these foundational tones? In this episode, Xylo chats with award-winning Canadian mix engineer, composer, audio engineer, and Izotope's video team manager, Geoff Manchester, about how to determine low frequencies and ways and tips to control and mix them. Follow Geoff Manchester: YouTube:...

Musical landscapes have continuously evolved with the rhythm of technological advancements, but have you ever wondered how these profound changes revolutionized music from across different eras, from the early days of recording to today's digital age? In this episode, Xylo chats with five-time Grammy Award-nominated Electronic Music pioneer dubbed as "America’s First Female Synth Hero", Suzanne Ciani, about technological changes and evolution in music, embracing change and adapting &...

Creating a stellar make-or-break mix is essential, especially when your music travels through different streaming platforms. In this episode, Xylo chats with recording and mixing engineer, Sam Loose, about the factors and considerations crucial for delivering top-notch sound, tailored for platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and more. Follow Sam Loose YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/samlooseaudioengineer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/n_a_studios/ Download MPW's Getting Started...

TikTok is a powerhouse for artists looking to gain visibility and connect with a vast audience, but how do you really thrive on this dynamic platform? In this episode, Xylo chats with TikTok’s Artist Partnership Specialist for Australia and New Zealand, Tait McGregor on how to grow on TikTok by staying on top of TikTok trends and improving your TikTok content. Tait McGregor's Newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/21b791d972c1/tiktok-au-music-sign-up Join our three, 3-hour workshops called...

Your journey as an artist is not only about your music; it's also about who you are and how you present yourself to the world. In this episode, Xylo chats with Melbourne-based PR and Hunger Digital founder, Laura Semple, about exploring the key elements of authentic artist branding and how to create effective content strategy. Visit Hunger Digital's website: https://www.hunger.digital/ Join our three, 3-hour workshops called EmpowHer Sound Workshop Series which are step-by-step guides to...

Creating rich orchestral sounds from the comfort of your own home studio is a dream for many composers and arrangers, but how do you achieve high-quality orchestral sounds without the need for a grand concert hall? In this episode, Xylo chats with London-based soprano, composer, and producer, Helen Noir, about producing realistic orchestral sounds of quality using your Sample Libraries. Visit her website: https://www.helennoir.com/ Distrokid has kindly offered all MPW listeners a 30%...

The journey for musicians with disabilities often involves unique obstacles and triumphs, but how do they navigate their careers amidst the challenge? In this episode, Xylo chats with music industry consultant & Tibi Access founder, Dina Basille, about tips on how to expand disability awareness and enhance accessibility in the music industry. Follow Tibi Access: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tibiaccess/ Website: https://www.tibiaccess.com/ Join our three, 3-hour workshops...

Collaborating with renowned DJs can be a game-changer in your music career, but how exactly can you make these collaborations happen? In this episode, Xylo chats with singer-songwriter & vocal producer, Sarah de Warren, about practical tips and expert advice on how to successfully team up with major DJs, and how to craft music that resonates with their style to be able to build a mutually beneficial partnership. Follow Sarah de Warren: Facebook:...

Changing your music style midway through your career can be a bold move. But how do you handle this shift in genre? In this episode, Xylo chats with London-based singer, songwriter & producer, Lilly Ahlberg, about shifting genres and sound, and advice on how to successfully navigate through this change in the middle of your music journey. Follow Lilly Ahlberg: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lillyahlbergmusic Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lillyahlberg/ Twitter:...

Touring is a monumental step for any artist in getting yourself and your music to be known, but how do you actually plan and set up your very first tour? In this episode, Xylo chats with New York-based Singer-Songwriter, Producer & Engineer, and owner of A Diamond Heart Production, Vanessa Silberman, about the considerations and steps involved in touring, and her ways and tips in organizing your first tour. Follow Vanessa Silberman: Instagram:...

Data has become essential in today's digital age for businesses, creators, and artists alike, but have you ever wondered how musicians effectively utilize streaming platforms, social media, and audience insights to discover their target audience? In this episode, Xylo chats with Chartmetric's Business Development Manager, Michelle Yuen, on how to leverage data to identify the target audience, the potential problems musicians should be aware of when using audience data, and tips on when and...

In the music industry today, Spotify playlists hold an incredible ability to launch artists to new heights but have you wondered how these musicians can secure a spot and get their music featured on these influential playlists? In this episode, Xylo chats with Spotify Music Editor, Hannah Brewer, on the curation, criteria, and tips on how to maximize your chances when submitting for Spotify playlisting. Distrokid have kindly offered all MPW listeners a 30% discount off the first year of...

It's fascinating how the music industry offers a chance for aspiring artists to fulfill their dreams, but have you ever wondered how and when things become tricky, especially when it comes to record deals? In this episode, Xylo chats with Taylor Swift's former manager and Music Industry Blueprint founder, Rick Barker, about record deals, their pros and cons, and the important factors artists should think about before deciding to take on a record deal. Grab a free ticket to MPW's largest free...

Good music has this incredible ability to captivate and deeply impact emotions, but have you ever wondered how these pieces were structured and created? In this episode, Xylo chats with Jazz Singer, Pianist & Youtube Sensation, Aimee Nolte, about chords and how they play a crucial role in reaching listeners on a deep emotional level. Grab a free ticket to MPW's largest free event of music production masterclasses, Master Your Music Live - London here (tickets are limited):...

Have you ever wondered how producers control and combine multiple audio signals in the process of sound recording, reproduction, or music production as a whole, despite the convenience of producing audio in single tracks using DAWs? In this episode, Xylo chats with AMS Neve Product Specialist, Joe Heaton, about mixing desks, its purpose, and the common processes done with it. Become a member of MPW: https://musicproductionforwomen.com/membership