#187: THE MIDNIGHT | Tyler Lyle: Unlocking the Secrets of Synthwave Songwriting

Music Production and Mixing Tips for Beginner Producers and Artists | Inside The Mix

In this episode of Inside The Mix, host Marc Matthews engages in a profound conversation with Tyler Lyle, the singer-songwriter and one-half of the synthwave duo, The Midnight. Tyler delves into the enigmatic nature of songwriting, describing it as "a well-narrated hallucination," and likens the creative process to "trying to start a truck sitting on a block of ice."

Drawing from his folk storytelling roots, Tyler shares how he seamlessly integrates evocative lyrics into The Midnight's nostalgic synth-driven soundscapes. He contrasts the tangible aspects of music production with the abstract challenges of lyric writing, emphasizing the importance of consistent dedication—what he refers to as the "ass-in-chair method." This disciplined approach involves daily studio sessions from 10 am to 5 pm, complemented by morning routines of journaling, exercise, and meditation to foster creativity.

The synergy between Tyler and his production partner, Tim McEwan, is highlighted as a harmonious blend of prolific idea generation and meticulous refinement. Despite geographical distances, they prioritize periodic in-person collaborations to capture the irreplaceable energy of shared creative spaces.

Much of the discussion centers on Tyler's transition from confessional songwriting to crafting lyrics rich in archetypes and universal symbols. Inspired by Carl Jung's philosophies, he aims to create a shared mythological space within The Midnight's music, allowing listeners to project their meanings onto the imagery.

What You'll Learn:

• The abstract nature of lyric writing and strategies to overcome creative challenges.
• The importance of consistent routines in fostering creativity.
• Balancing prolific idea generation with meticulous refinement in collaborative settings.
• The role of archetypes and universal symbols in crafting resonant lyrics.
• Insights into blending folk storytelling with synthwave aesthetics.

For aspiring artists, Tyler emphasizes creating work that embodies truth and necessity, encouraging authentic expression over external validation. He reminds creatives that they are conduits, "ferrying ideas from one realm to this one," and underscores the significance of producing art that resonates fundamentally.

Join Marc and Tyler as they explore the depths of the songwriting process, offering invaluable insights for independent music producers and artists seeking to elevate their craft.

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1. #187: THE MIDNIGHT | Tyler Lyle: Unlocking the Secrets of Synthwave Songwriting (00:00:00)

2. The Essence of Songwriting (00:01:02)

3. Collaborative Process with Tim McEwan (00:06:02)

4. Production Setup and Vocal Chain (00:12:56)

5. Daily Creative Discipline (00:24:43)

6. Mythology and Archetypes in Lyrics (00:29:19)

7. Remote Collaboration Challenges (00:38:09)

8. Advice for Synthwave Lyricists (00:42:47)