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July 10, 2006
Crazy Week
It’s the start of what looks to be a very busy week. Not that I’m complaining, mind you, its weeks like this that help “keep the doors open.”
Today I will have two high-powered singers in my studio at the same time: Kevin Watson (Kevin J) and Rhonda Mallard (or “Miz Rhonda” as I call her.)
I’m working on their respective CDs at the same time, and they are singing on each other’s projects.
I’ve known Miz Rhonda since 1990, and hers ("Hearts Full of Love") was the first complete album that I arranged and produced, back in 1993. It was, of course, a great learning experience for both of us. Back then, we had to do most of the pre-production here, and then go to a larger studio to record vocals and instrumental overdubs.
Fortunately, with her current project, we are doing everything “in house” (literally!)
I go back and listen to that CD, and think: “Well some of that holds up pretty well (Rhonda wrote some outstanding songs for that project) but the drum programming! The synth sounds!” They’re not bad, just a little dated, and my skills as a drum programmer have definitely improved.
I have always been grateful to her for entrusting me with such a big project when I didn’t have much of a track record at the time.
She has also personally recommended me as an arranger and recording engineer to more people than anyone else in our musical family. We gained several musical family members, folks who have recorded in our studio, as a direct result of her efforts.
One musician she personally brought to me is Kevin Watson.
Kevin is a talented singer in the “America Idol” mold (but thankfully not as florid vocally) and a strong songwriter. He has already recorded a full-length CD project here, “Without You.” This new project of cover songs will feature contemporary versions of some classic hymns, as well as a few modern songs.
Recording sessions are anything but boring when these two get together. Kevin is like a little brother to the ebullient Miz Rhonda, and she teases him unmercifully. But Kevin can give as good as he gets. It’s all in good fun, and no one’s feelings ever get hurt, but I do have to work to keep them on track occasionally.
Even though this is a busy week, there is much I want to write about. I’ll just have to get up a little early!
Posted by leon at July 10, 2006 12:36 PM