Conversations with Jonathan Smith

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jonathan Smith.

Hi Jonathan, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Jonathan Smith, professionally known as TheRealJonSmith, is a Los Angeles based multi-genre music producer, songwriter, mixer, musician, composer, and session drummer. In 2024, Jonathan officially joined the Multi-Platinum rock band Puddle of Mudd as their new drummer, bringing his studio brilliance and explosive stage presence to a band ready for its next act.

Formerly based in Nashville, Jonathan continues to work with many of the city’s top professionals, often collaborating remotely.

TheRealJonSmith has toured the world performing with Multi-Platinum Selling, Multi-Grammy Award-Winning, major label, and indie artists. He’s performed in arenas, stadiums, coliseums, theaters, small clubs, and just about anywhere possible. Jonathan has spent many years recording with world-class musicians in recording studios in Nashville, Los Angeles, NYC, and London. Notably, Jonathan produced a project at Abbey Road Studios in London, the most famous studio in the world.

Songs TheRealJonSmith has written, produced, recorded, mixed, or played on have been recorded by artists, released as singles and album cuts on Atlantic Records, Universal Records, EMI, Interscope, placed in network television shows on ABC, Discovery, MTV, NBC, etc., as well as a recent placement in a Universal Pictures feature film and soundtrack.

Luna Halo, Jonathan’s former band, was signed by Rick Rubin (American / Columbia Records), and Taylor Swift recorded the band’s song “Untouchable” on her ‘Fearless: Platinum Edition Album’. In addition to being an original member, Jonathan also produced two EPs for the band.

Over the last 20 years, Jonathan has operated several of his own private studios in Nashville, Hollywood, Santa Monica, and most recently Native South Studios, a commercial multi-media studio in Westlake Village, California.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Jonathan’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Transitioning from Nashville to Los Angeles meant adapting to a new music scene and establishing himself in a different market. It wasn’t long however for Jonathan to get new production, songwriting, mixing, and session drummer opportunities, eventually attracting a producer manager, formerly a Senior VP of A&R at Interscope Records. Building Native South Studios from the ground up required not only financial investment but also a deep understanding of the industry’s evolving needs. Balancing his roles as a performer, producer, and studio owner demanded resilience and adaptability. Despite these hurdles, Jonathan’s unwavering commitment to his craft and his faith have been guiding lights.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Jonathan’s professional life is a tapestry of diverse musical endeavors. As a music producer, songwriter, engineer, mixer, session drummer, touring drummer, and / or multi-instrumentalist, he’s collaborated with artists like Puddle of Mudd, Luna Halo, Hayley Kiyoko [Produced and co-wrote “Movie Star” for Universal Pictures “Jem and the Holograms”], Blake Shelton, Kevin Max [Member of 10x Platinum Selling dcTalk], Michael Sweet [Stryper], Karen Fairchild [Little Big Town], Kirk Whalum, Claude McKnight [Take 6], Michael English, etc.

Notably, Jonathan produced, recorded, mixed, and played drums on Kevin Max’ “Between The Fence And The Universe” immediately following Kevin’s first solo album debut on Virgin Records, produced by legendary guitarist Adrian Belew [David Bowie / King Crimson / NIN]. Jonathan a.k.a. TheRealJonSmith was brought back onboard to produce, record, mix, and also play bass, drums, etc. on a follow up EP for Kevin Max entitled “Crashing Gates”, with a third full – length remix project utilizing Jonathan’s session stems entitled “Cotes d’Armor”.

Additional production, as well as film / tv placement credits span genres and include work with Universal Pictures, Interscope Records, Sony Records, Atlantic Records, Warner Brothers Records, Discovery Channel, ABC, NBC, to name a few.

At Native South Studios, Jonathan has created a haven for artists, offering a space equipped with world-class analog equipment and the latest modern technology. The studio regularly hosts rehearsals for mega platinum selling band Puddle of Mudd and serves as the production home for high-profile podcasts, including David Duchovny’s “Fail Better” and Craig Shoemaker’s “Still Standing Up”.

Jonathan’s versatility extends to his YouTube channel, where he shares insights into drum tracking, production techniques, and genre-crossing grooves. His ability to seamlessly transition from rock to pop showcases his deep musical fluency and commitment to continuous growth.

What makes you happy?
For Jonathan, happiness is rooted in his relationship with God and his unwavering passion for music. He believes that his musical talent is a divine gift, and he strives to honor that gift through dedication and hard work. Whether he’s on stage with Puddle of Mudd, producing tracks at Native South Studios, or mentoring aspiring musicians, Jonathan finds joy in every facet of his musical journey. His gratitude for the opportunities he’s been given fuels his desire to give back and inspire others.

When not working in a dark studio, riding his Harley Davidson through the canyons and up the PCH in Malibu brings a lot of joy to the TheRealJonSmith, reconnecting him with nature.

Jonathan Smith’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and purpose. From his earliest days in his home state of North Carolina, a decade and half run in Nashville, to his current home in Calabasas, CA, Jonathan exemplifies what it means to live a life dedicated to music. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring musicians and a testament to the power of faith and hard work.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.therealjonsmith.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealjonsmith
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/therealjonsmith
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/therealjonsmith-jonathan-smith-0b78b870/
• Twitter: https://x.com/TheREALjonsmith
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@therealjonsmith1
• Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/native-south-studios-thousand-oaks
• Soundcloud: https://g.co/kgs/kp7C9iV
• Other: https://www.nativesouthmedia.com/

Image Credits
Ieva Georges