Marcus Wiles on SoundBetter

2x Grammy Nominated Keyboardist and Producer/Songwriter. Credits include Kelsea Ballerini, Danny Gokey, Erin Kinsey, Jordan Feliz, and many others.

What's up! I'm a producer and keyboardist heavily influenced by Pop, Country, Jazz, and Gospel music. I have a wide range of experience not just in the studio as a writer, producer, and session player; but also in the live music environment as a touring Music Director, arranger, and playback engineer with over a decade of experience. I have been blessed to work with artists and on projects spanning a wide range budgets and genres, and find the most joy in partnering with creatives to help bring their vision to life.

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Credits

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Interview with Marcus Wiles

Q: Tell us about a project you worked on you are especially proud of and why. What was your role?
A: I'm very proud of my work as Jordan Feliz' Music Director. He has trusted me for years now to build his show and cultivate his band. He has allowed me a lot of creative freedom which has given me an opportunity to hone my craft not just as a producer, but as a leader. I'm very grateful for that opportunity. This has had a spill-over effect in my becoming involved in writing and producing music for him as well.
Q: What are you working on at the moment?
A: I just had a sync placement for a song I wrote and produced called "2 Wishes" that will air on Netflix's 'Temptation Island.'
Q: Analog or digital and why?
A: Both! Analog for vibes, digital for precision. You need both!
Q: What's your 'promise' to your clients?
A: I promise to give you everything I have to offer. I don't want to do anything halfway in my life.
Q: What do you like most about your job?
A: When you make one of those songs that only existed deep inside someone's heart at one point. Turning something that didn't have words to describe it into a piece of music that says so much more.
Q: What's the biggest misconception about what you do?
A: That there isn't a vulnerability that has to be present to make good art. I really believe that have the best product, we have to develop trust for each other in this process. That requires vulnerability, and sometimes perhaps even asking difficult questions.
Q: What questions do you ask prospective clients?
A: What are your influences? What are your goals for this project?
Q: What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?
A: Let's both approach this with an open mind. I'm always excited to learn from people, and I appreciate that like-mindedness when I find it.
Q: If you were on a desert island and could take just 5 pieces of gear, what would they be?
A: Assuming I can't just bring my laptop.... Nord Stage 4 Akai MPC Martin D28 My dad's old Telecaster My grandpa's old Deluxe Reverb (1972)
Q: What was your career path? How long have you been doing this?
A: I've been playing music for as long as I can remember. From playing keys in church growing up, playing sax in grade school/college, making beats in my bedroom as a kid, and now playing keys and guitar on the road as a music director professionaly, this is all I've ever known. At some point, people started referring to me as a producer, and from then on, that's probably the best way to describe what I do amongst various environments and activities. I'm 32 currently, so I guess that's how long I've been doing it.
Q: How would you describe your style?
A: Song-forward! Production and ear candy must serve the song and the message of the lyrics, not the other way around.
Q: Which artist would you like to work with and why?
A: Olivia Dean. Her sound is classic and timeless and she seems like a cool person.
Q: Can you share one music production tip?
A: When writing as a producer, it's way more important to find the song before looking for ear candy and the perfect sounds. I believe that's how many people end up only making 8 bar loops forever.
Q: What type of music do you usually work on?
A: Contemporary country, Pop, CCM, Indie pop
Q: What's your strongest skill?
A: I am very knowledgable of keyboards, synths, and music theory. I'm fortunate to have a strong foundation of learned music and gig experience for when deadlines are tight and obstacles present themselves in the production process.
Q: What do you bring to a song?
A: I have a lot of experience with independent and young artists looking for their sound. I have learned to use my skills as an accomplished keyboardist to work efficiently and navigate creative blocks.
Q: What's your typical work process?
A: Completely depends on the role I'm playing and the timeline.
Q: Tell us about your studio setup.
A: Converted bedroom with acoustic treatment, a vibey and comfortable workspace. I'm set up to track vocals, and also have an assortment of guitar and keyboards at my disposal. I regularly host writing sessions as well as tracking sessions and I primarily work out Ableton Live, but am familiar with Logic and Pro Tools as well.
Q: What other musicians or music production professionals inspire you?
A: Gospel, Pop, CCM, Contemporary Country, Jazz, Indie Rock (Mutemath is my favorite band)
Q: Describe the most common type of work you do for your clients.
A: Remote keyboard tracking/synth programming, Demo and Full productions, Live arrangements, live playback prep, national and international touring