#218 - Dana Nielsen Part 1 - The Art of Studio Diplomacy

Secret Sonics

Grammy-nominated recording engineer and producer Dana Nielsen reveals the crucial "soft skills" that elevate great engineers above the rest. Drawing from his experiences working with industry giants like Rick Rubin, Rihanna, Adele, Linkin Park, Red Hot Chili Peppers (and countless more), Dana shares insights on reading the room, adapting to artists' needs, and navigating studio dynamics. He offers practical advice on creating the right studio vibe, knowing when to speak up, and balancing creative exploration with real-world constraints. This episode is packed with valuable lessons for both aspiring and seasoned professionals on becoming an indispensable collaborator in the music production process.
Topics we discuss:

• The importance of being a "good hang" in the studio
• Adapting to different artist personalities and preferences
• Knowing when to speak up and when to stay quiet in various studio roles
• Balancing creative exploration with time and budget constraints
• The value of mentorship and learning from experienced professionals
• Navigating the delicate balance between technical and interpersonal skills

To learn more about Dana - https://www.dananielsen.com/
Download our free guide: "The Future-Proof Mixing Engineer: 8 Essential Skills for 2024 and Beyond" - https://mpe-ebook.benwallick.com/future-proof-mixing
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Secret Sonics - https://www.instagram.com/secretsonics
Ben - https://www.instagram.com/benwallickmusic/
Carl - https://www.instagram.com/carlbahner/
Dana - https://www.instagram.com/danafrio/
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This episode with edited by Gavi Kutliroff - https://www.instagram.com/pleasant_peasant_music/