Defy Recordings

So happy to finally share this. New (and debut) album from artist Sydney Lett. We’ve been working together for almost a year, and in that time have accomplished many things, including getting her started here in NYC. We’ve produced a few singles, that will be out later this year, but in the meantime, she played her first show in New York last Summer at The Bitter End. Thankfully we recorded it, because the show was amazing. Sydney is a master performer, and accompaniment from Marc Copely and Lorenza Ponce was just perfect. No autotune, overdubs or AI, just three performers meshing together as well one could. Album is out on February 17, and will be available everywhere. #sydneylett #liveatthebitterend #newyorkcity

Here’s what we’ve been working on for the last few years with Sir Paul. It was amazing to reunite with director Morgan Neville as well. You’re going to love this. #paulmccartneyandwings #morganneville

As this year closes, there have been many things to celebrate, and many lessons learned. It’s important to focus on what you did right, and continue along that path. Once you know what you really want, it does simplify things. If this year was more challenges and steps backward, then you have some work to do. Either way, keep moving, and don’t wait on someone else for your happiness. It’s down to you and you alone to get this right, because when you do, all those things you thought were impossible are actually within your reach. One fascinating revelation I wanted to share, is having been in the music industry for as long as I have, I’ve learned that I can go into any thrift or vintage store, and if they sell music, there will be titles there that I have worked on. Sounds like nothing, I know, but when I think of the thousands upon thousands of hours spent in studios over decades, it’s incredible to think of the reach that music truly has, and I’m grateful to be part of so many titles that have been a part of peoples lives all this time.

38 years. I moved to NYC on this day in 1986. I knew no one here, but knew that I wanted to make records. So that is what I set out to do, and did. No regrets, and a few million mistakes later, I’m still here. It’s been an incredible journey and I’m not done yet. What an honor and privilege to be part of so many records, and call the best artists and musicians in the world, friends. #grateful #music #art

Always cool recording with the best players. Today was percussionist Franco Pinna, with a project for composer Aaron Berkson at Reservoir Studios in New York. #music #engineer #composer #film #studiolife

I never take for granted the privilege of working with legendary artists and future legends. Being part of their creative process means you’re in the right place at the right time. Recognizing this is the best way to step your game up, and using these lessons in all that you do means everybody wins. Who are you working with this week? #artist #music #producer #engineer #studiolife

May seems to be mostly mixing and mastering here so far. I’m always up for recording sessions. The bigger the better! Are you recording anything cool this week? #recording #mixing #mastering #studiolife

40 years ago I watched a documentary that would change my life. As much as I knew what I wanted to do, I had no idea what that even looked like. In the early 80’s you could read album liner notes or interviews about people talking about recording sessions, that was about it. In 1984 U2 released “The Unforgettable Fire”. As a fan, the album was an instant favorite, but this documentary was IT. Finally, I had a reference, a motivation, a purpose and a reason to leave home. 40 years later, I’m grateful to do what I love with artists from all over the world. And yes, I still have a VCR

It’s a new week. What kind of songs are you working on? #producer #engineer #music #studiolife

I’m grateful that I started my career before we needed to be camera ready at all times for social media. To think of all the times we made mistakes when no one was watching and we weren’t being filmed 24/7. What a relief to know we got through it and came out the other side a bit wiser and with some dignity intact. I feel for those starting out now. Be easy on yourself. You won’t be perfect every time. You’re going to get it wrong. That’s okay. We’ve all been where you are. The trick is to get it right the next time. Don’t be sorry, be better.

We just mastered our 499th album today. Who wants to be the 500th? defyrecordings.com/shop/