Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijzViDaoVljjDXyEPTIwyQ?sub_confirmation=1

In this episode of Poducer, we sit down with Die By The Sword to unpack the journey behind his music and creative process. The conversation dives into the inspiration for the name Die By The Sword and the personal philosophy behind it. We explore the intricacies of mixing and engineering tracks, the balance between simplicity and complexity in music production, and how festival culture influences the way we consume live music.

Beyond the technical side of music, we discuss reflections on artistic identity, balancing exposure with authenticity, and the evolving landscape of electronic music. DBTS shares insights about his upcoming releases, collaborations with prominent artists, and the visual storytelling behind his latest EP. Adding levity to the discussion are tangents about browsers, candy nostalgia, and even Lady, the podcast's canine co-host. 

🔗 Links & Credits
📲 Follow Die By The Sword: https://linktr.ee/dbtsbass
🎧 Listen to Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

📌 Support the Podcast: Like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth artist interviews and behind-the-scenes insights from the music industry!

Chapters:
0:00 - Intro
0:48 - What’s in a Name? The Story Behind Die By The Sword
2:53 - Lady the Podcast Dog Makes an Entrance
4:23 - The Philosophy of Living by the Sword
8:27 - Music Influences: From John Mayer to Eric Prydz
12:11 - The Cost of Festivals: A Rant on Ticket Pricing
16:13 - Chrome vs. Safari: Browser Preferences Get Heated
19:36 - The Art of Mixdowns: Perfection or Obsession?
21:03 - 🎶 "Dusted Dub"
24:19 - Building Complexity in Simplicity: A Producer's Take
25:39 - 🎶 "District"
29:12 - Scoring Soundscapes and Creative Inspiration
36:29 - How Virtual Tools Shape Music Creation
44:11 - Festival Choices and Economic Realities
51:31 - Artist Strategies: Quality vs. Quantity in Releases
59:28 - Signature Sounds and the Importance of Engineering
1:06:31 - The Value of Taking Time with Music
1:07:38 - 🎶 "Empire Business"
1:10:40 - Reflecting on EP Visuals and Releases
1:14:09 - Balancing Exposure and Artistic Vision
1:18:22 - Lady’s Compilation: The Podcast’s Loyal Guest
1:21:47 - Ableton Tips and Plugin Hacks
1:25:31 - AI and the Future of Music Production
1:33:02 - Great Songs vs. Great Mixes: A Producer’s Dilemma
1:40:57 - Relationships and Music: Finding Balance
1:44:42 - Sweet Tooth Confessions: Snacks and Nostalgia
2:06:25 - Influencers in the Wild: Social Media Observations
2:09:52 - DJing and Performing Tracks Live
2:14:11 - Shoutouts: Upcoming Releases and Family

Watch Video

Die By The Sword: Slayer, Dusted EP, Balancing Exposure and Artistic Vision, Candy Preferences

BOOM

Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijzViDaoVljjDXyEPTIwyQ?sub_confirmation=1

This week's guest is MonkeyRascal. Known for his bold, genre-defying sound, MonkeyRascal shares the story behind his name and how it reflects his mischievous and playful approach to art. From his early experiences with psychedelics to his fascination with wonky, heavily swung drum grooves, he reveals the personal journey and creative process that shaped his unique style.

MonkeyRascal talks about his love for unconventional sounds, like crunchy, saturated drums and "crummy" samples, and how he balances experimentation with anchoring grooves to keep listeners engaged. We compare his music to Cubism, explaining how fragmented and refracted elements create a “hall of mirrors” effect in his tracks. From layering reverb tails to building unconventional grooves, he reveals how his unique approach to sound design makes his music both quirky and immersive.

The conversation touches on everything from the melancholy influence of Radiohead and Flying Lotus to the clever experimentalism of G Jones and Mr. Carmack. MonkeyRascal shares how negative space, tension, and unexpected drops add emotional depth to his music, making it perfect for dance battles and headphone sessions alike. He also reflects on live performances, the evolution of bass music, and the delicate balance between chaos and structure in electronic production.

📌 Support the Podcast: Like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth artist interviews and behind-the-scenes insights from the music industry! 

🔗 Links & Credits
📲 Follow MonkeyRascal: https://soundcloud.com/monkeyrascal?ref=clipboard&p=i&c=1&si=4C5D329E56C044B78FB739C4C94F2DF4&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing
🎧 Listen to Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

MonkeyRascal: Musical Cubism, Maximalist, Deviance, "Crummy" Samples

Watch the video: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijzViDaoVljjDXyEPTIwyQ?sub_confirmation=1

This week's guest is Unknown Prophet (aka Quinn), a true jack-of-all-trades who shares his journey through music production, glassblowing, and culinary arts. Quinn dives into his passion for cooking, discussing how his culinary school background influences his daily life and his love for discovering hidden food gems. Quinn opens up about his experiences balancing life as a dad while pursuing his creative passions, and exploring the complexities of the glass art scene.

On the music side, Quinn discusses his production journey, balancing creativity with financial challenges, and his relentless drive to improve. On the music side, we talk about his duo project Mystery Meat, and his deep love for Infrasound Music Festival where he’s known for bringing high energy to the crowd.

📌 Support the Podcast: Like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth artist interviews and behind-the-scenes insights from the music industry! 

🔗 Links & Credits
📲 Follow Unknown Prophet: https://www.instagram.com/unknownprophetbass/
🎧 Listen to Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

Unknown Prophet (Quinn): Last Meal, Glassblowing, Mystery Meat, Infra Sound

This week's guest is Beatdown Sound, the powerhouse duo bringing authentic Jamaican-style sound system culture to the Midwest. Chef Chux and Selectress Kinky P break down their journey from discovering dub and reggae at legendary events like Notting Hill Carnival to building their own handcrafted five-way speaker system, engineered for deep, immersive bass. They share insights into the roots of dub, the influence of icons like King Tubby and Lee “Scratch” Perry, and why their sessions are more than just parties—they’re a movement.

From curating intimate, high-energy events on Chicago’s South Side to serving up homemade patties and espresso at their shows, Beatdown Sound is redefining what a sound system experience can be. Whether you’re a reggae enthusiast, a bass lover, or just curious about the culture behind dub music, this episode is packed with knowledge, passion, and plenty of bass therapy.

📌 Support the Podcast: Like, comment, and subscribe for more in-depth artist interviews and behind-the-scenes insights from the music industry! 

🔗 Links & Credits
Listen to Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/poducerpodcast

Connect with Beatdown Sound
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beatdown_soundsystem/
Selectress Kinky P on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/selectresskinkyp/
Chef Chux on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chefchux/

Chapter:
00:00 - Intro
02:03 - First Concert Experiences: From Tribe Called Quest to Baja Punk  
03:59 - Discovering Dub & Sound System Culture  
05:13 - The Influence of Notting Hill Carnival  
09:20 - Why Sound System Music is a Spiritual Experience  
11:04 - The Moment They Decided to Build a Sound System  
13:55 - The Origins of Dub Music & Sound System Culture  
17:05 - How Jamaican Sound Systems Changed Music History  
20:05 - What Are Dubplates & Why Are They So Exclusive?  
23:41 - The Anatomy of a Traditional Sound System  
25:18 - The Role of the Selector vs. The Operator  
29:30 - Dub Sirens & Their Unique Role in Sound System Culture  
32:07 - How Dub Sets Are Different from DJ Sets  
35:37 - The Connection Between House Music, Hip-Hop & Dub  
39:47 - Why Jamaica Doesn’t Have Many Dub Sessions Today  
43:01 - The Difference Between Roots, Dub, and Dancehall 
47:41 - The Story Behind Beatdown Sound’s Name  
50:42 - How Beatdown Sound’s Founders Met  
54:58 - Running a Sound System: The Challenges & Rewards  
58:54 - Why They Serve Food at Their Events  
1:03:54 - Chef Chux Life as a Private Chef  
1:08:52 - Future Goals for Beatdown Sound & Growing the Scene  
1:14:55 - Lessons Learned from Running a Sound System  
1:17:53 - Chicago vs. Other Sound System Scenes Worldwide  
1:23:14 - The Rise of Sound System Culture in the U.S. & Mexico  
1:32:48 - Best Documentaries & Resources for Dub & Reggae  
1:34:39 - Sound System Bass Therapy & Vibration Healing  
1:46:43 - How a Sound System Experience Can Change Your Life  
1:52:44 - Playing Near the Pyramids & Crazy Travel Stories  
1:58:02 - Shoutouts & Final Thoughts  
1:59:46 - Where to Find Beatdown Sound & Upcoming Events

Beatdown Sound System: Dub History, Sirens, Bass Therapy, Roots Reggae

See Calais

Welcome to House of Beats Vol. 4, a night of electrifying beats, raw talent, and pure vibes, curated by Cozycole.g! Hosted by Poducer, this event brings together some of the most innovative producers and artists from across the scene, pushing the boundaries of sound and performance.

From smooth R&B grooves to high-energy beat sets, this volume features an incredible lineup, including Kangstro, 87th, Fest, Dopeche, Evan Dawkins, vincebyvince, Billy Winters, Na Bonsai, SpazzX, and the legendary B4Lasers. Whether it’s finger drumming, live remixes, or soulful vocals, House of Beats is all about showcasing the artistry behind the music.

🎧 Featured Performances & Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro by Cozycole.g & Jerry
01:21 – Kangstro https://www.instagram.com/kangstro_
18:57 – 87th https://www.instagram.com/eightyseventh_
34:58 – Fess Grandiose https://www.instagram.com/fessgrandiose
58:37 – Dopeche https://www.instagram.com/dopeche1
1:17:29 – Evan Dawkins https://www.instagram.com/evandawkins_
1:32:57 – vincebyvince https://www.instagram.com/vincebyv1nce
1:50:35 – Billy Winters https://www.instagram.com/billywinters
2:21:37 – Na Bonsai https://www.instagram.com/na_bonsai
2:44:58 – SpazzX https://www.instagram.com/j_mcspazz
3:05:23 – B4Lasers https://www.instagram.com/b4lasers

🎙 Stay Connected:
🔗 Follow Poducer: https://www.instagram.com/poducerpodcast/
🔗 Follow Cozycole.g: https://www.instagram.com/cozycoleg/

🚀 Drop a comment, like, and subscribe to support the movement! Let us know which set was your favorite. See you at the next one! 🎶🔥

House of Beats Vol. 4: Curated by Cozycole.g

This week's guest is Pete Mac, a Chicago-based producer who fuses classic soul and jazz records with modern drum programming. Pete Mac shares his approach to crafting smooth, laid-back instrumentals, discussing everything from his crate-digging workflow to mastering and live performance tips.

Learn how Pete Mac balances creativity, experimentation, and technique while staying grounded in the art of sampling and live performance. Whether you’re an up-and-coming producer or a seasoned fan of hip-hop production, this conversation provides valuable insights into sample flipping, sound design, and the importance of community in Chicago’s vibrant music scene. 

Don’t forget to enter the CEMC ticket giveaway by filling out the form below and following the instructions for your chance to win!

🎟️ CEMC Ticket Giveaway: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfob50fBHX5YNOXyjKixJgsvNXHzEqm4355Myqzh6Xn4yb7LQ/viewform?usp=sharing
🎤 Follow Pete Mac:  @petemacbeats  
🎧 Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

Chapters:
00:00 - Intro & CEMC Ticket Giveaway Announcement 
01:22 - Introducing Pete Mac & House of Beats 
03:07 - Live Beat Session #1 & Production Breakdown
07:25 - Pete Mac’s Journey into Beat-Making
10:58 - Sampling, Vinyl Digging & Creative Process
15:44 - Balancing Creativity, Routine & Discipline 
22:03 - Making Music for Passion vs. Monetization 
29:35 - Chicago’s Music Scene & Community Vibes
34:34 - Flip Kit, Sample Packs & Future Plans
37:27 - Producer Challenges & Beat Battles Idea 
44:53 - Q&A: Fun & Unexpected Topics 
1:07:27 - How Pete Masters His Beats & Favorite Plugins
1:12:07 - Producers That Inspire Pete Mac
1:20:01 - Final Thoughts & Shoutouts

Pete Mac: Chicago Beat Scene, Sampling Techniques, Mindset & Philosophy

This week's guests are Keota and K.L.O In this episode, we break down how each of them got started with music—from Keota diving into electronic production at 15 “as a joke” to K.L.O's obsession with turntablism. They also share the story of their first performances, their biggest festival inspirations (like that legendary infrasound “swamp” year), and the gear and techniques that define their signature sounds.

We get candid about the music industry, talking pay transparency, headliner vs. opener fees, and how Keota once organized a show where everyone anonymously voted on how to split the entire budget. K.L.O updates us on his longtime collaborator Mike (Osmetic) from Colony Productions—who’s currently recovering from a serious medical procedure—and how their community is coming together to support him.

The Manifesto
https://keota-tunes.net/manifesto
https://keota-tunes.net/manifesto-2

📩 Subscribe for more interviews with top producers & artists!
👍 Like, comment & let us know who you’d love to see on the next Poducer episode

🎟️ CEMC Ticket Giveaway: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfob50fBHX5YNOXyjKixJgsvNXHzEqm4355Myqzh6Xn4yb7LQ/viewform?usp=sharing
🎤 Follow Keota: https://keota-tunes.net/?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAabUmPr3x9nT2_q4J8Vz7TTmpDQ1QBw1CBHrr2DLrj4ysbXFghOlB3MvR48_aem_IB0ffCc6PQfqRNeNc3Mtlw
🎤 Follow K.L.O: https://linktr.ee/K.L.O?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaZ1b-OQ7z1ulv3UTlpIGUkUGnvQB0t8CKgW5zddf9SYfgdRrMD2TtcjlmE_aem_uNRh5kdXcXRiDNbMOIA2tw
🎧 Follow NSW: https://linktr.ee/nsw_presents
🎧 Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast
Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

NSW x Poducer EP 2: Keota & K.L.O — Pay Transparency, Community & Creative Grit

In this week's episode we sit down with Deafadil, a producer and 3D artist who’s worked with some of the biggest names in bass music, including Subtronics, Marshmello, and SVDDEN DEATH. We dive into his journey as a music producer, how he got into designing visuals for top-tier artists, and how he balances creativity across multiple disciplines.

We also explore the world of 3D printing, the importance of branding, visual identity, and social media presence in the music industry. Whether you're an aspiring producer, DJ, or creative looking to expand your skill set, this conversation covers everything from sound design techniques in Serum and Rift to the role of AI in digital art and animation. 

📩 Subscribe for more interviews with top producers & artists!
👍 Like, comment & let us know who you’d love to see on the next Poducer episode

🎟️ CEMC Ticket Giveaway: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfob50fBHX5YNOXyjKixJgsvNXHzEqm4355Myqzh6Xn4yb7LQ/viewform?usp=sharing
🎤 Follow Deafadil: https://www.deafadil.com/
🎧 Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

Deafadil: Music Production, 3D Printing, Visuals for Subtronics, Marshmello & SVDDEN DEATH

Minneapolis-born, LA-based producer Shrimpnose joins Poducer for a raw, emotional, and hilariously insightful deep-dive into his music, life, and creative journey. From learning drums as a kid and growing up a metalhead, to becoming a staple in the lo-fi/post-dubstep scene and collaborating with legends like Daedelus and Gold Panda — this is Shrimpnose

We talk:

🦐 How he got the name “Shrimpnose” (it’s not what you think)
🎸 Playing guitar upside-down as a lefty
🎶 The emotional weight behind albums like A Ghost from a Memory
🌊 What inspired The World Pushed Against You
🎤 Singing on his tracks & overcoming insecurities
💪 Boxing, VR, and staying grounded in LA
👣 The legacy of Low End Theory & the Minneapolis electronic scene

Plus, we vibe out to "Cherish" and “River Still Runs,” unpack the idea of timeless music, and share some laughs about poop rap (yup). It's real, it's reflective, and it’s everything you’d want from a Poducer episode.

🎟️ CEMC TICKET GIVEAWAY
We’re giving away a pair of tickets to the Chicago Electronic Music Conference — enter via the link in the description!

👇 Drop a comment if this one hit you in the feels, made you laugh, or taught you something new. And let us know who you want to see on next.

🔗 LINKS
🎧 Listen to Shrimpnose: https://linktr.ee/shrimpnosetour?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaaHObFKzwwV-U-ayEobSm6Nw2tqcW68cenymuiXxkAKooIN57A_hQoB79E_aem_MGLn3jyS4RyL5hzxdNeHfg
📸 Follow Shrimpnose: https://www.instagram.com/shrimpnose/
🎟️ Enter CEMC Ticket Giveaway: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfob50fBHX5YNOXyjKixJgsvNXHzEqm4355Myqzh6Xn4yb7LQ/viewform?usp=sharing
📱 Poducer IG: https://www.instagram.com/poducerpodcast/
🌐 More: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

#Shrimpnose #Poducer #MusicPodcast #LoFiBeats #ElectronicMusic #BassMusic #Ableton #Daedelus #GoldPanda #FlyingLotus #MusicInterview #LAProducers #CEMC #LowEndTheory

Shrimpnose: How Music, Memory & Emotion Shape Every Beat

In this episode, we sit down with Chicago artist Boy Maj, fresh off the release of his album PREMIUM VIBES Vol. 1. We go deep on what it means to create PREMIUM VIBES—not just as an album title, but as a mindset. From his roots playing French horn to building immersive live shows, Maj shares what it takes to be intentional with your art in a world full of distractions.

We also get into what it’s like working behind the scenes at Shure, helping shape the way creators interact with technology, and how storytelling, design, and community all play a part in making something truly premium. Whether it's crafting a music release, building a brand experience, or just vibing with friends, Maj brings a thoughtful approach to everything he does. This one was a joy to record—tune in and enjoy the ride.

Links:
Listen to Boy Maj: https://linktr.ee/boymaj?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafH5idBx2plutYrgSsUYRVijqffWdQwZ7qes3e-MysA3w8yFiZ32dD_MMjHZw_aem_v1O_cz5-kPKsnfyG9TMnsQ
Follow Boy Maj: https://www.instagram.com/theboymaj/
Enter CEMC Ticket Giveaway: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfob50fBHX5YNOXyjKixJgsvNXHzEqm4355Myqzh6Xn4yb7LQ/viewform?usp=sharing
Poducer IG: https://www.instagram.com/poducerpodcast/
More: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

Chapters:
00:00 Preamble
03:04 Meet Boy Maj + how the name stuck
08:07 Cultural identity
15:16 Chicago eats
20:00 First concerts – Aaron Carter to Blink‑182
32:20 Track spotlight: “Spicy Girl” (funk‑pop breakdown)
48:06 Track spotlight: “Before I Get to Meet You” + songwriting
54:44 “For Life” – wedding song & Love Is Blind placement
1:06:54 Current Artist Listens
1:16:05 Premium Vibes
1:23:40 Working at Shure 
1:50:18 Activations” 101 – how brand marketing really works  
1:58:56 Revolution, male friendships & why long‑form matters  
2:06:04 Star Wars deep dive
2:14:10 Gaming chat
2:24:08 A life‑changing live show & upping performance goals  
2:31:27 Shout‑outs, where to find Boy Maj & wrap‑up

Boy Maj: PREMIUM VIBES, Shure Mics & The Power of Creative Friendship

We sat down with Maj, Marketing Manager at Shure, to talk about the legacy and innovation behind one of the most iconic microphones in audio history — the SM7B. From Michael Jackson recording Thriller to modern podcasters and The Weeknd’s vocal chain, this mic’s journey is wild.

Links:
Follow Boy Maj: https://linktr.ee/boymaj?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAafH5idBx2plutYrgSsUYRVijqffWdQwZ7qes3e-MysA3w8yFiZ32dD_MMjHZw_aem_v1O_cz5-kPKsnfyG9TMnsQ
Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

Working for Shure l The Microphone Everyone Uses (And Why)

Artie Do Good dives into the philosophy of himboism, exploring the rise of emotionally intelligent masculinity in modern culture. From Dragon Ball Z's Goku to Chris Hemsworth’s Thor, we break down the core traits of the modern himbo: strength, kindness, and a blissful lack of ego.

Artie shares how working with kids in the age of Andrew Tate has influenced his perspective on masculinity, and why he’s embracing the “himbo” identity as a way to promote compassion, vulnerability, and self-awareness. We also touch on the need to shatter outdated gender norms, and how big-hearted energy just might help save the world.

Links:
🎶 Follow Artie Do Good: https://www.instagram.com/artiedogood
💿 Listen on Bandcamp: https://artiedogood.bandcamp.com
🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

Himboism Explained: Emotionally Intelligent Masculinity

Medicine Place joins Poducer live at Sound Haven 2024 to share stories about his musical roots, cultural background, and the path that led him from college basketball to becoming one of the tallest DJs in the game. We talk about his first concert (Beyoncé in Miami), growing up on a reservation, and how the name “Medicine Place” represents something deeper than just music.

This episode touches on Native tradition, the healing power of sound, learning from elders, and how Electric Forest changed everything. Plus shoutouts to Snake Blood, Big Bird, and the Wiggles.

📍 Recorded live at Sound Haven Festival 2024
🎙 Hosted by Jerry Valakas | Poducer: The Podcast for Producers
👉 Follow Medicine Place: https://linktr.ee/medicineplace?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAacPFX-Mjflt8TOprinTwU8TkTedkZSqoyuDxPaIj0ZVFpvqw3TDm6nsbd0-0A_aem_N5o15RTfhTkISNKczg3qvg
🎟️ Grab your tickets for Sound Haven 2025 now at Had the chance to catch up with the homies EAZYBAKED backstage at Sound Haven 2024. We talk about their first concert (Mac Miller + hotboxed arenas), early inspiration from Wiz Khalifa’s day-to-day vlogs, and what it feels like to play iconic venues like Red Rocks and the Ogden Theater.

They share stories from the road, what it’s like being in full creative control right now, and how wild their Shambhala set was last weekend. There’s some Swiftie talk, too—don’t ask, just watch.

📍 Recorded live at Sound Haven Festival 2024
🎙 Hosted by Jerry Valakas | Poducer: The Podcast for Producers
👉 Follow EAZYBAKED: https://linktr.ee/eazybaked?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAadJIOMbGZF-r5kBmOvJVt2k18ZVokto4BQbIhFK7aazo3cWx65InJuTU2OS4w_aem_itILm9OPprQrQUk-1VIg7Q
🎟️ Grab your tickets for Sound Haven 2025 now at https://soundhavenfestival.com/

Medicine Place at Sound Haven 2024

In this episode of Poducer, recorded live at Summer’s End Smokeout, we sit down with Manic Focus. The genre-bending producer who has built a reputation on soulful beats, heavy grooves, and an unfiltered approach to storytelling through music.

From his first concert memories to the dynamics of working with his brother as both manager and creative partner, Manic Focus opens up about the honesty, trust, and tension that shape his art. We dive into his unique production style, how he avoids chasing trends by designing sounds with swing and swagger, and the lessons he’s learned from years of performing on stage.

He also speaks candidly about living with bipolar I, how music serves as his medicine, and why being open about mental health matters not only for himself but for the wider community of fans and artists. Along the way, we touch on his biggest live inspirations, creative rituals, and what it means to keep growing while staying true to your sound.

🎧 Listen to Manic Focus: https://manicfocus.com
📲 Follow Manic Focus: https://www.instagram.com/manicfocus
🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

Chapters:
00:00 – First Concert Memories (Pretenders & B-52s)
01:12 – Working With His Brother as Manager
04:23 – Early Inspirations & Making Beats
05:42 – Sound Design, Wobbles, and Avoiding Trends
10:41 – Music, Mental Health & Bipolar I Journey
12:40 – Game-Changing Concert: Moby’s Play Tour

The Podcast for Producers

Summer's End Smokeout 2025: Manic Focus

In this episode of Poducer, we sit down with Charlie Heldman — Chicago-based artist, producer, and founder of Windy City Wavs, a grassroots music production collective dedicated to building community, fostering creativity, and supporting independent artists.

Charlie opens up about his journey from his early teenage band days to developing his own R&B-inspired sound — blending sweet lyrics with soulful, sexy beats. We explore his approach to growth as an artist, the role of collaboration in shaping his music, and how consistency and community feedback have fueled his development.

Beyond music, Charlie shares his perspective as a studying therapist, reflecting on mental health, empathy, and the importance of creating safe spaces for expression. He talks candidly about navigating self-doubt, learning to shift negative self-talk, and balancing passion with purpose.

📲 Follow Charlie Heldman: https://www.instagram.com/cbbeatsofficial/
🌊 Learn more about Windy City Waves: https://www.instagram.com/windycitywaves/
🎙️ Follow Poducer: https://linktr.ee/poducerpodcast

Charlie Heldman: Building Community, Creating R&B Vibes & Finding Balance

Writer/Multi-Instrumentalist/Producer. 
I'm out here writing some sad songs about stuff.

The Podcast for Producers



Watch on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijzViDaoVljjDXyEPTIwyQ?sub_confirmation=1

Art by: www.henryfeldman.com

New tracks tagged #Poducer