What an excellent deep dive - I like how you explained his philosophy that the mark of a talented producer isn’t just their sonic sense, but their understanding of how artists work best in the context of all their options.
I can only echo what Dan and Reid have said, Ellen.....this was a really excellently-culled collection of Todd quotes which shines such a keen light on the under-told story of Todd's philosophy and process of how he does what he does in the studio! There was so much here that was new to me, and it's stuff I've always wanted to know, but I wasn't motivated to do the digging! I'm glad you were! And, thanks!
It's as much a learning journey for me as it is for everyone reading it. I'm driven by the fact that I want to know it too, and because I forget what I read so quickly, putting it in an article provides a way for me to capture it where I can refer to it.
Plus, I think that he is a role model for others in that he seems to have 'figured out' the music industry and a way to operate within it that has worked for him as an artist among other artists operating as a producer. Agree or disagree with his approach, I think it's worth studying as an example.
Well said! From a sports fan's POV, I call Todd a "player's coach": As a successful recording artist (and more so as his career went forward), he certainly easily got and kept the respect of those who hired him. Better get used to his tactics, you prima-donnas (I loved that Todd-to-Dolls reprimand you found!--what a scream!)...Todd ain't here to play, yo!
I can also relate to your "read/forget, write/refer" angle....I know I'm a member of that club!
Thanks for this summary and so much great research!
Thanks, Dan. I'm really interested in how the music industry works, so that made it fun rather than a slog.
What an excellent deep dive - I like how you explained his philosophy that the mark of a talented producer isn’t just their sonic sense, but their understanding of how artists work best in the context of all their options.
Thanks, Reid. Have to agree, it's an interesting take he has. Perhaps one reason he's been effective and successful.
I can only echo what Dan and Reid have said, Ellen.....this was a really excellently-culled collection of Todd quotes which shines such a keen light on the under-told story of Todd's philosophy and process of how he does what he does in the studio! There was so much here that was new to me, and it's stuff I've always wanted to know, but I wasn't motivated to do the digging! I'm glad you were! And, thanks!
My pleasure, Brad, and thanks for the kind words.
It's as much a learning journey for me as it is for everyone reading it. I'm driven by the fact that I want to know it too, and because I forget what I read so quickly, putting it in an article provides a way for me to capture it where I can refer to it.
Plus, I think that he is a role model for others in that he seems to have 'figured out' the music industry and a way to operate within it that has worked for him as an artist among other artists operating as a producer. Agree or disagree with his approach, I think it's worth studying as an example.
Well said! From a sports fan's POV, I call Todd a "player's coach": As a successful recording artist (and more so as his career went forward), he certainly easily got and kept the respect of those who hired him. Better get used to his tactics, you prima-donnas (I loved that Todd-to-Dolls reprimand you found!--what a scream!)...Todd ain't here to play, yo!
I can also relate to your "read/forget, write/refer" angle....I know I'm a member of that club!
Player's coach is a great way to think of it!