Working Class Audio

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt welcomes back mastering engineer Maor Appelbaum (originally on WCA #062)to discuss his career, his approach to mastering across genres, and how he adapts to new technology. Maor has worked on projects for artists such as Faith No More, Yes, and Meat Loaf. In This Episode, We Discuss: Genre-specific mastering approaches Creating and collaborating on new analog hardware Strategies for effective client communication Building and maintaining long-term professional relationships The value of being part of a collaborative team in the audio process Links and Show Notes: Maor Appelbaum Mastering WCA #062 with Maor Appelbaum Matt's Rant: The Value of Independent Clients Credits: Guest: Maor Appelbaum Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt reconnects with engineer and studio owner Jeremy Goody, who was last featured in Episode 85. Jeremy has worked on VO projects for Microsoft, Nuance, Google, Seasonal Visions, and music projects for John Santos, Anticon, and Winfred E. Eye. In This Episode, We Discuss: Studio Rebranding Battling Cell Towers Building Faraday Cages Shifting to Voice Recording Podcasting Links and Show Notes: Jeremy's Studio 25th Street Recording John Vanderslice on WCA Adobe Podcast Tools Neutrik EMC Series Filmic Double Take Essentialism on Audible (I really like this one) The Compound Effect on Audible Switch on Audible Day Trading Attention on Audible Credits: Guest: Jeremy Goody Host/Engineer/Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell The Voice: Chuck Smith

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt reconnects with Grammy-winning producer and engineer J.J. Blair, last featured in Episode 96. J.J. shares the challenges of building a state-of-the-art recording studio in the Hollywood Hills and offers insights from his popular "Microphone Mondays" series. He also opens up about his recent heart surgery and recovery, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing health in a demanding profession. J.J.'s impressive credits include producing and mixing the Grammy-winning album Press On by June Carter Cash, engineering Rod Stewart's Grammy-winning and #1 Billboard album The Great American Songbook, Vol. 3, and engineering and mixing Joanna Connor's #1 Billboard Blues album, 4801 South Indiana Avenue. In This Episode, We Discuss: "Microphone Mondays" series Building a state-of-the-art recording studio Acoustic design, soundproofing, and the science of great studio environments Incorporating vintage and modern gear, including a custom Rupert Neve console Adapting production techniques for genres from Motown to modern rock Reflections on heart surgery, health, and maintaining resilience in the industry The importance of studying hit productions and what makes songs stand out J.J.'s experience with social media success and connecting with audiences Links and Show Notes: J.J. on Instagram J.J.'s Website Credits: Guest: J.J. Blair Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell

In this episode of Working Class Audio, Matt talks with Paul "Willie Green" Womack, a producer, engineer, and professor based in Brooklyn, NY. With nearly two decades of experience, Willie shares his passion for hip-hop production, teaching, and building meaningful connections in the studio. Having worked with renowned artists such as Armand Hammer, The Roots, The Alchemist, and Wiz Khalifa, Willie provides an insider's perspective on balancing artistry with the technical demands of audio production. In This Episode, We Discuss: Teaching Hip-Hop History and Vocal Production Remote Education and In-Person Dynamics Building a Studio in Brooklyn Mentoring Upcoming Artists Bridging Creativity and Technical Expertise The Role of Community in Creative Spaces Balancing Work and Passion Projects The Unique Challenges of Teaching During COVID Willie's Journey from Engineer to Educator Matt's Rant: Blank Spaces Links and Show Notes: Willie Green's Website Credits: Guest: Paul "Willie Green" Womack Host: Matt Boudreau Engineer: Matt Boudreau Producer: Matt Boudreau Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell