Today we’d like to introduce you to Max Collier.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
At the ripe age of 12, I started taking guitar lessons and began recording music when I was 15. While the music was definitely horrendous at first I started getting my bearings on how to record live instruments, affect samples, and make songs sound like finished products that I was proud of. Today I write and record music (both for myself and for others) in my home studio “Scaredy Cat Studio” in the Arts District of Downtown LA.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
I would argue more of my mistakes have lead me to where I am now than my successes. I feel like I am consistently learning how to “not” make the lightbulb and it helps me find out what I don’t want to do/don’t like. The issue with putting out music (or any art form really) is that it’s a highly personal piece that you’re jettisoning out into a medium (the internet) that is inundated with tons of other people just like you (in my case long haired, bearded, white boys) and you have to convince them that your piece is the “best.” The biggest, recurring struggle is to not give it all up. When you put something out and no one responds or they tell you it sucks you have to chock it up as a loss, learn from mistakes, and apply it to your next project. That and finger blisters.
We’d love to hear more about your work and what you are currently focused on. What else should we know?
My production style is definitely rooted in “retro revival.” I love the sound of compressed drums, warm guitars, tape echo vocals, and modulation. However, I want to avoid pulling a full Greta Van Fleet and release music that sounds like it is actually FROM the 70’s. Finding that mix of “warm tape” production with modern day writing (catchy melodies, shorter songs, different instrumental expression, etc.) is a both rewarding and fun way to go about making tunes. I think in a world of drag and drop drum patterns and repetition, the hazards of recording live instruments and toying with gear from decades ago helps make modern tunes pop and catch the ear in a sea of beep boops.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
At this point in life, success would be having my rent and living expenses paid solely off of my music. In the grand scheme, I think true success for a musician is three decades of good work (not top albums, but just steady release of quality music whether it’s your own or helping someone else). Not settling for a single #1 song and instead focusing on having a career (and sound) that defines you as an artist is the way to leave a legacy.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 6507761894
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/maxcolliermusic/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maxcolliermusic/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/maxcolliermusic
- Other: https://maxcollier.bandcamp.com/
Image Credit:
Rebecca Schulman
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