We’re looking forward to introducing you to Rodney Pino. Check out our conversation below.
Hi Rodney, thank you so much for taking time out of your busy day to share your story, experiences and insights with our readers. Let’s jump right in with an interesting one: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity, definitely. I’ve been around so many incredibly intelligent, talented, and energetic people in the entertainment industry. But I find it extremely difficult to continue working with someone if they prove to be unreliable, dishonest, or scheming. Always do the right thing, even if nobody is watching.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Like most musical teens in the 1970’s I began practicing with bands in my mom’s garage. As I began touring and recording in the 80’s and 90’s, I finally got tired of the long commutes and high cost of rehearsing and recording in Hollywood. There wasn’t much available to musicians in my neighborhood. And there was a LOT of great music coming out of the South Bay, from punk and metal, to jazz and R&B. In late 1999 I started Grooveworks in Torrance with a few partners, not only to have a place to rehearse my own music, but to make it easier for other South Bay artists.
After becoming sole proprietor of Grooveworks Studios, my wife, Meghann, and I relocated the business to Gardena. We needed a clean slate. The new location near the freeways brought in musicians from all over Los Angeles, Orange County, and the Inland Empire. Our mission was to create a clean, creative, and comfortable environment with friendly service and affordable rates. In addition to monthly lockouts and hourly rehearsals, we also began booking music video shoots, commercial filming, and live streaming events. Every year was better than the last. But like all good things, this location/lease came to an end.
In 2022, after 2 decades of leasing, we had the opportunity to buy a building in Long Beach. Along with my architect, engineers, and contractor, I put a lot of work into the design of the rooms. Many bands walk into our small rehearsal studios and laugh and say they’re bigger than most “large” rooms they’ve been in… and less expensive. As always, we are constantly adding and improving. We have a high-end recording studio with sound engineer, Jon Love; a 600 square foot studio for rehearsals, tour practice, and video shoots; and even a small shop with used music gear and vinyl records for sale. Our plans for the future include colorful murals for our exterior, a lounge remodel, new gear, and music lessons!
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who taught you the most about work?
My parents. My dad passed away when I was young, but he was a hard worker. My family has told me I’m a lot like him. I get my independence from my mom.
What did suffering teach you that success never could?
Suffering has taught me resilience, strength, and patience. I have learned things through struggling and failing that books and studying could never teach me. It’s all part of the process. I am grateful for all the physical & mental hardships I have experienced… it really showed me who my true friends are and makes me appreciate success even more.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Is the public version of you the real you?
What you see is what you get. Whether I’m performing on stage, running my business, or hanging out at home… I’ll always be the same. Honest to a fault and a terrible actor. While I don’t spend much time on social media, what I do share is a true reflection of my struggles & successes, milestones, and hobbies.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel at peace when I’m at home with my pets, or taking a long motorcycle ride along the coast.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.GrooveworksStudios.com
- Instagram: @grooveworks_studios
- Twitter: @grooveworks2000
- Facebook: @grooveworksstudios
- Youtube: @grooveworksstudios
Image Credits
All photos by Meghann Pino
