Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
Non-stop music, whether it be for production, the stage or personal study. Being in an increasingly competitive field, you have to be on top of your game. I spend my time polishing mixes in the studio and making sure projects come back from the mastering house nothing short of outstanding. Between all that I spend my time learning the music of artists I tour with, ensuring the show goes note for note from memory. In the odd cases of having downtime, I brush up on my music theory and practice routines to stay sharp.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
Starting my own production studio was a natural evolution of working with some of the best in the industry and learning from them. After a while, you develop your own interpretation of the knowledge you’ve gained and want to have the freedom to work off of that, which is why I started Shaky J Productions. The inspiration came from many experiences, all positive, until it culminated into the confidence to go out on your own. The first album produced at Shaky J Productions garnered a Best Recording Juno nomination, which was flattering and very encouraging.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part is performing in front of fans who want to hear the music you’re playing. Watching them dance and have a good time is one of the biggest rewards a musician has, you feel like you are really adding some goodness to the world. The most challenging part is balance, knowing when to take a break, and especially knowing how to roll with the punches – it’s not always easy making a living in entertainment.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Doing exactly what I’m doing now, just on a grander scale.
What does success look like to you?
Success looks like my children living comfortably, proud of their dad.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
The most memorable moment was playing the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland. I honestly thought that it was something I would get to do later in life but my time came in 2009. That tour was comprised of some of the best shows I have ever been a part of.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Don’t let anyone try to convince you that you cannot achieve what you want no matter your dream. Anything is attainable with hard work and dedication. Stick to your vision and work as hard as you can to get there.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I try to help the homeless as much as I can by donating clothes and contributions. Some of us have it really rough out there and just need a helping hand to have a little faith that they can help themselves.
What to you is notable?
Notable to me is having an ambition with the willpower and confidence to pursue it.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
I love the combination of Android and iPad.