WCA #507 with Ebonie Smith – Memphis Upbringing, Education, Atlantic Records, Administrative Proficiency, and Multitasking As A Necessity

My guest for this episode is Producer/Engineer/ Composer Ebonie Smith, who currently holds the esteemed roles of senior audio engineer and producer at Atlantic Records. Ebonie has worked on projects for The Hamilton Cast Album, Janelle Monae, Sturgill Simpson, and Jason Mraz.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• Memphis Upbringing and Tri-State Area
• Radio and Musical Influences
• Transition from Sports to Music
• College Struggles and Musical Pursuit
• Technological Fascination and Audio
• Barnard College Audio Tech Job
• Pursuit of Music Technology
• Parental Expectations vs. Music
• NYU and Advanced Music Studies
• Career Start at Atlantic Records
• Evolution from Editing to Producing
• Hamilton Cast Recording Involvement
• Creating an Incubator Program
• Move to Los Angeles Decision
• Differences Between NYC and LA
• Atlantic Records Role Transformation
• Producing Unique Label Projects
• Challenges in the Music Industry
• Importance of Administrative Proficiency
• Balancing Multiple Creative Roles
• A Continuing Passion for Audio
• Multitasking Is a Necessity
• Full Control of the Signal Chain

Matt’s Rant: Making Opportunity For Yourself

Links and Show Notes

• Ebonie’s Site

Credits

• Guest: Ebonie Smith
• Host: Matt Boudreau
• Engineer: Matt Boudreau
• Producer: Matt Boudreau
• Editing: Anne-Marie Pleau
• WCA Theme Music: Cliff Truesdell
• Announcer: Chuck Smith

Interview Video