INTERVIEW: Neal Pogue

As a casual daily music listener, it’s easy to take for granted why your favorite songs sound so good. All you know is that when you turn the volume up and hear the rattling bass that gets you hyped or the crisp blend of choruses, to which you sing along in the shower, they transport you elsewhere on an album’s journey. Developing a new curiosity about how critical mixing and engineering impact music’s final product, I recently discovered a fascinating world that’s as much artistic as it is technical which deserves utmost respect. Delving into my favorite albums and songs throughout the years with this lens, one name popped up over and over again- Neal Pogue.

Reading more about his talent and unique approach to the craft, when I saw producer, mixer and engineer Neal Pogue’s name on NAMM Show’s schedule, I knew I’d want to connect. A seven-time Grammy winner, he was recently nominated for his work on Kali Uchis’ “Orquídeas” and Kaytranada’s “Timeless” which also included a Best Dance/Electronic Recording nom for Witchy” featuring Childish Gambino. From his start working with Randy Jackson to his breakout work with Outkast and TLC to his brilliant work with Tyler the Creator, Doja Cat, Common, Janelle Monae, George Clinton, Stevie Wonder, Nicki Minaj and Steve Lacy, his impressive discography speaks for itself. While at NAMM this year, I chatted with Neal Pogue about his prolific career and was great to meet a dope, real, down to earth and interesting music professional as I’d thought he’d be. Peep the interview soundclips below and visit Neal’s site for more info on his latest work!