020. Greg David, Part 2: Finding Balance, Collaboration, and the Power of Live Performance

Today, we sit down with the multi-talented Greg David, a guitarist, music producer, and engineer.

In the second part of our interview with Greg David, we explore his approach to compression, live performance, and the nuances of working with other musicians. As a guitarist-turned-producer, Greg shares how his experience playing in live settings continues to inform his production process. We discuss the importance of dynamics, understanding when less is more, and the need for musicianship in an age of technology-driven production. His recent work includes various collaborative projects, along with building a home studio to cultivate a space where creativity can thrive.

Throughout the episode we discuss:

• How Greg’s understanding of compression evolved and why less is often more.

• The importance of live performance in shaping his production style.

• The role of collaboration and why involving other musicians can elevate your work.

• Greg's insights on how technology has changed the way we approach production.

• The significance of maintaining authenticity and feel, even in the digital age.

• Tips on maintaining consistency when working with multiple elements in a mix.

• How limitations can actually enhance creativity.

• The challenges and rewards of building a home studio from scratch.

• The influence of sync licensing on Greg's career and how it allows him to stay creative.

• How playing with musicians has helped him understand the dynamics of a live performance.

Three Gems From This Conversation:

1.  Collaboration Elevates Creativity: Working with other musicians not only enhances your sound but also opens you up to new ideas and approaches.

2. Embrace Limitations: Having fewer options can lead to more focused and creative decisions, ultimately helping you find your unique sound.

3. Simplicity Is Powerful: Sometimes, stripping back your production to its essentials can create a more impactful and authentic sound.

Timeline:

0:00 - Intro

1:26 - Understanding Compression

4:08 - The Art of Mixing

7:01 - Less is More

9:54 - The Importance of Collaboration in Music

13:14 - Developing Sonic Taste and Aesthetic

16:07 - Creating Movement in Drum Programming

18:45 - Sync Licensing

30:27 - Exploring New Musical Projects

32:14 - Quick Hits: DAW Preferences and Mixing Techniques

34:07 - Quick Hits: Influential Albums and Their Impact

35:30 - Quick Hits: Best Music Purchase Under $100 (Shure stereo mixer)

38:04 - Overcoming Habits That Hinder Creativity

40:48 - Encouraging Musicianship and Live Performance

43:09 - Inspiration from Other Artists

46:08 - Drum Sounds as an Art-form

List of References from the Interview:

Music:

• "Dark Side of the Moon" by Pink Floyd

• "Uptown Special" by Mark Ronson

• "Voyager" by Moonchild

Products:

• Native Instruments Maschine

• Ableton Live

• Shure Stereo Mixer

• Zulu Two-Inch Tape Emulator

Connect with Greg David:

• Instagram: @gregory_david_gtr

• Spotify: Gregory David

• YouTube: @Gregorydavidmusic

Connect with Toru:

• Website: torubeat.com

• Instagram: @torubeat

• YouTube: @torubeat

• Spotify: Toru

• Apple Music: Toru

Credits:

This episode was co-produced, engineered and edited by Matthew Diaz. From ProducerHead, this is Toru, and in a way, so are you. Peace.