Jay Newman, determined to make a mark in the Electronic Music scene, has developed a distinct style that fuses elements of deep, melodic house, and techno. This commitment to high-quality music production has not only garnered attention but also defined his signature in the industry.
Photo Credit: Jay Newman – Official
In this interview, we delve into Jay Newman’s creative and technical methods, his studio setup, and his approach to mixing and mastering. We also discuss his views on music theory, his collaboration experiences, and his advice for budding producers.
Join us as we venture into the world of Jay Newman, a music producer who consistently refines his craft, enthralling listeners with each new track.
EG: Hi Jay, welcome to EG! How are you doing?
Jay Newman: I’m great, thanks. I just returned from a city break to Lyon but now I’m fully busy planning events and finishing off productions in the studio.
EG: Can you tell us, what initially drew you to music production, and how did you begin learning the ropes of producing Electronic music?
Jay Newman: I started out in the electronic music industry as a promoter/DJ but quickly learned that to further my career, production was essential. I started out making tech house as this supported the events I was running at the time but as my career advanced and my musical taste matured, I found my home in making deep, progressive, and melodic house. I learned the ropes by investing in 1-1 tuition for 1 year, making 1 record each month, big up to Reza for showing me the ropes many years ago!
EG: Can you share some insights into your creative process when starting a new track? How do you typically begin and develop a musical idea?
Jay Newman: I used to set myself a target label that I wanted to release with and try to make a record to suit that label but now I just go with my emotions and my feelings. I find I write much more powerful and meaningful records by leaning on this process!
EG: As someone who produces a variety of house music styles, how do you approach blending them in your productions?
Jay Newman: I like to think I always stay within the melodic, deep, and progressive area; I always like to stick with some softer-sounding drums as a base and then let my creativity take over.
“I used to set myself a target label that I wanted to release with and try to make a record to suit that label but now I just go with my emotions and my feelings”
EG: What software and hardware do you use in your studio setup, and are there any particular tools or plugins you find essential to your production workflow?
Jay Newman: I use Logic and I find myself mostly using Diva, Sub Boom Bass & Omnisphere the most… if I want to create some original-sounding elements, then I do like to dig out some plugins I rarely use and experiment with some different processes.
EG: How do you approach mixing and mastering your tracks to achieve a professional sound? Are there any techniques or tips you can share with aspiring producers?
Jay Newman: When it comes to the final mixdown, I always like to do this in my studio monitor headphones. It’s changed the game for me – I use Beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro.
EG: Collaboration is often key in music production; can you discuss some of your experiences collaborating with other Artists and Producers?
Jay Newman: I am currently working on a collab EP with a great artist, and we’ve got high hopes for this EP! Can’t wait to share more on this with you soon!
EG: How important do you think it is for Producers to have a solid understanding of music theory?
Jay Newman: A producer never stops learning and this is certainly an area I study daily. There are plugins to assist with things like this, like Melodine, but to know music theory is very important, especially in Melodic House.
“A producer never stops learning”
EG: What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out in music production and wants to develop their skills and sound?
Jay Newman: Experiment and spend lots of time trying out new plugins and find which one you like best then master it!
EG: Your productions often feature dynamic drum patterns and interesting synth layers, can you talk about your approach to creating these elements and how you use them to enhance your tracks?
Jay Newman: I always make sure my synths progress as my track grows, layering synths at different frequencies is always something I like to do.
EG: What are some common pitfalls or mistakes you see new Producers make, and how do you think they can avoid them?
Jay Newman: Try not to use samples for all of your tracks! Some samples are cool but if you do use samples, try to manipulate and change them so they don’t sound like other records!
Jay Newman‘s ‘With You’ is now available via Eton Messy Records. Stream and download here.
Follow Jay Newman: Spotify | Soundcloud | Instagram
