The first record that I’d been a part of, in the Nashville area, was with Barry Blair (of Audio Adrenaline fame). In the spring of 2000, a group of guys headed to the Spring Hill area of Nashville to record a full-length record. I’d learned a TON about the recording process on this trip. Including this one nugget that’s stuck with me throughout the years. Barry had seen the gear that we’d brought in to record. Fender Squire guitars, completely underachieving amps, and a drum kit that’d fall apart. We were…embarassed. He then turned and noticed our jealousy of his many guitars and boutique amps. They were sitting next to his Dove awards and gold records. He said the words that have set the stage for my producing/recording career.

“If the song, or your music in general, calls for a Squire Strat to be played through a Gorilla amp, then that’s the sound that we need. If you’re untrue to your nature, your audience will know!”

So, in the times that you’re struggling to suppress the jealousy of others’ careers, take a look at what makes you unique and be excited about getting the best out of who you are!

– DM