I currently find myself seated in the concrete confines of “CVLT LA” one of numerous “Mixed-Use” creative spaces that dot the landscape of our fine city. Lots of glass-encased rooms, a big green screen, a prop motorcycle from some sci-fi flick. You get the idea.

The reason I am here, however, is to discuss the extremely valuable resource to Los Angeles and SF-area music creators: Producer’s Social.

Producer’s Social is a monthly event hosted by electronic music producers and technologists Stephan Jacobs, Stephen Walker, Mark Kingsley, and Miles Ross. Aspiring music producers arrive at the location, sign up on a list, and when it’s their turn, play a single piece of music they are currently working on. After all in attendance listen to the track, the floor is open for people to provide feedback. Honest feedback. Anyone who has tried to garner honest artistic feedback from friends & family know how difficult it can be to get true constructive criticism. For example, unless your mom is a violinist, she will likely think whatever you play is amazing, no matter how many technical errors you yourself can perceive.

That said, I find these events inspiring and invigorating. To have so many like-minded individuals all helping each other progress toward the same goal; better sounding music.

This, in my opinion, is a critical support to the aspiring producer. Having instant, honest, sometimes expert guidance with regard to the sound quality, production, arrangement, mix, and other aspects of your art is something I wish I would have had access to starting out. I can’t stress this enough; working in a bubble is only useful if you1 already know what you are doing. If you are aspiring or novice at music, you need information and feedback. Both of these can be found at Producer’s Social in spades.

I would recommend that any of my students attend this event, as there isn’t anything else quite like it.