Today we’d like to introduce you to Shell Enns.
Hi Shell, 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?
I got my start mixing front-of-house across the Southeast—small venues, churches, festivals—whatever gave me a chance to learn. I was obsessed with making every mix feel intentional and creating impactful moments in every song. Along the way, I had the opportunity to work with artists like J. Cole, Rick Ross, and Keith Sweat, which gave me early insight into the level of excellence the industry demands. Eventually, I brought that passion into the studio and built Crown Studios in Jackson, Mississippi from the ground up. It became a space where artists could feel safe to create without limits, and over time, it grew into a positive force for our artistic community—bringing people together, fostering collaboration, and helping talent from all backgrounds be heard.
From there, things began to grow. I went on to work with artists like Snoop Dogg, Big K.R.I.T., Trae Tha Truth, Dear Silas, and Cookiee Kawaii, and contributed to projects for HBO, Amazon, RCA, Preach Records, and Toucan Cove. Over time, I discovered that my specialty lies in unlocking the most authentic performances during production sessions—helping artists tap into something real. I have a deep love for live tracking with multiple instruments in the studio, capturing the energy of a full room of musicians and the nuance of each take. World-class engineering feels like a rare art form these days, and it’s something I remain deeply passionate about preserving and pushing forward.
Now based in Los Angeles, I continue to mix and produce while building relationships with both independent artists and major labels. Every step of the way, I’ve focused on staying authentic and letting the work speak for itself.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like most people building something from the ground up, I had to learn through a lot of trial and error. In the early days, I wore every hat—engineering, producing, managing sessions, even handling the business side—all while trying to keep the creative energy flowing. There were times when money was tight or the work felt thankless, but I kept showing up and trusted that the consistency would eventually pay off. I’m so grateful I did.
Building Crown Studios in Mississippi wasn’t easy either. Resources were limited, and there weren’t many blueprints for how to run a world-class facility in a smaller market. But I believed in the vision—and in the talent around me. Moving to L.A. came with its own set of challenges. Starting fresh in a bigger, more competitive environment pushed me to double down on my work ethic and find new ways to stand out. Lately, I’ve been really focused on mixing, and I take on production work when the bandwidth allows.
But every struggle along the way has sharpened me. They taught me how to trust myself, stay grounded in my values, and keep evolving without losing what makes my approach unique.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I believe what sets me apart is the way I intuitively blend pursuing technical excellence with real emotional intention. I come from a background that values musicianship and live instrumentation, and I apply that same standard of care to every session. Whether it’s a major label release or an indie artist’s debut EP, I give it the same level of attention, honesty, and energy. I believe world-class engineering should be passionate and artist-centered—and that mindset continues to shape everything I do.
No matter what genre space I’m in, I like the records to feel punchy and impactful. I really want the listeners to feel something when they hit play.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Absolutely—I’m always looking for ways to stay sharp, both creatively and mentally. Pensado’s Place, in particular, has had a big influence on me as an engineer—it’s inspiring to hear how other top-level mixers approach their craft and stay innovative in an ever-evolving industry. I also recently finished Rick Rubin’s book The Creative Act: A Way of Being, and I took so much from it. His approach to creativity, presence, and trusting the process really resonated with me and helped me reconnect with why I do what I do.
Outside of the studio, I spend time journaling, riding my Harley to reset, and getting out in nature as much as possible. I also make time every day to slow down with a cigar—it’s become a ritual where I focus on being mindful and re-centering my intentions. That kind of balance helps me stay grounded and bring my best energy into every project.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shell.enns?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sepik.mangi?mibextid=wwXIfr
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shell-enns-17aab1122?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
