Music Mixing Blog

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012!!!!

2012-01-03T12:15:00.002-05:00

Well, its January 3rd and i am already as of yesterday back into full on work mode. I can't tell you how excited i am for this year. Its going to be a huge year for me, i can feel it. I've got some big career things in the works, I don't wanna spill the beans until things become more official. There are so many great things lining up both personally and professionally and I feel incredibly energized to put in the work required to make this year the great year that it will be. I hope you are equally as excited about your own coming year. Good luck!

-Ken Lewis

2011 End of Year Recap

2011-12-30T13:06:00.003-05:00

Wow! 2011 has been an amazing, crazy, insane, rewarding, challenging, .....fill in so many more descriptors here..... year.

The world lost Steve Jobs. To me, he was the Einstein and Van Gogh of our time rolled into one. He created and helped create such beautiful and powerful technology, which has utterly transformed the way we create, purchase, and listen to music and live life, for better or worse. Godspeed Sir.

Projects. Once again, I got the call from Kanye West, this time for the Watch The Throne album. I worked on 7 songs on the album and played many different roles from Producer, arranger, musician, vocalist, and engineer. Coming off of 2010's work on My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy where i was a writer, arranger, musician, vocalist, and / or engineer on 5 Songs. Both albums are Grammy nominated this year for "Best Rap Album", and "All Of The Lights" scored 3 Nominations (I did the horn arrangement and sung backing vocals, and got my name in Lights in the video on about 7 frames, blink and you'll miss it :-)

Just Blaze called upon me three times this year, first for Maybach Music Group's title track to the "Self Made" album, then again for Rick Ross album due out early next year, i was a writer and arranger on the single "I Love My Bitches", then for the Drake album, I arranged music and choir for "Lord Knows". I cant tell you what i pleasure it is to work with guys like Just Blaze and Kanye West. Speaking of Kanye, he also just called on me to arrange horns for a song on the new John Legend album. good year indeed. And lastly, I got to play a small part on 2 songs for Lana Del Rey's upcoming album. If you dont yet know her, trust me, you definitely will. She is going to be huge. Now who have i forgotten??

Asia remains a stronghold for work for me. I mixed songs on many albums for top artists in South Korea, Taiwan, China, and Japan. A few of those artists are Kim Hyun Joong, 2AM, Cindy Yen, JPM, Olivia, Wilber Pan, Lee Seung Gi, and Kan Mi Youn. I'm sure i missed a few, there were alot. Cindy Yen was honored on MTV China as "Best New Artist", and Kim Hyun Joong just won 4 Awards as the Yahoo Asia Buzz Awards. Its always fun and challenging working on Asian pop music, but i work with some world class producers over there which makes life easy, the Korean juggernaut Steven Lee, Hitman Bang at Bit Hit Ent, and Terrence Leong at Sony Taiwan. Thanks for a great year guys, you are all the best in so many ways.

February 2011 I got to go to the Grammy Awards as a Nominee for Album of the Year for my work on Eminem "The Recovery". I also had credits on nominations for Kanye West "Power" and "The Recovery" also won a Grammy for Best Rap Album. This year i earned credits on 7 more Grammy nominations for the Feb 2012 Awards, bringing my total count to 30 Nominations. That seems like an utterly surreal number to me. Life is very good. At 18 years old i set a "lifetime" goal of earning at least one Gold Record. I have now earned 58 Gold, Platinum and Diamond records and worked on 36 #1 albums and singles. But what makes me happiest is that i have now earned Grammy nominations, #1's and gold and platinum in the following roles, producer, mixer, songwriter, engineer, arranger, musician and multi-instrumentalist, and vocalist. And i feel like i'm just getting started.

A few years ago, i really got serious about developing myself as a songwriter. When i say "developing myself" what i really mean is "being considered one of the best songwriters on the planet" - i don't set small goals for myself :-) I finished a song this year called "November Skies (11-11-11)" and placed it with new female pop artist LEA, on G Unit / G Note Records. November Skies is LEA's first single, they shot a great video to it and are pushing the single to radio in January. I do all of my music with my insanely talented production partner Brent Kolatalo. Brent and i have many more songs coming out with major artist in 2012. Its going to be a real breakout year for us as producer / writers, stay tuned!!!! We are forging some great new relationships in the music industry that could truly transform our careers (into exactly what we think they should be). I am very excited for 2012 and i feel like it could be the biggest year of my career. I think 2011 is the current reigning champion of "biggest year of my career" and formerly 2010 held that title. Being 20 years in to a major label career, it is incredibly rewarding to be continuously moving up and continuing to conquer new challenges and accomplish big new goals. 2012 will see alot more of that.

My indie work continues to stay very strong and I am blessed to be able to work with tons of very talented up and coming artists, both unsigned and on indie labels, from all over the world. They are far too many to name, but they help drive my own creativity and always present me new sonic challenges. Usually i have a fairly good recollection of all of the countries everyone is from, this year i have worked so hard everything is kind of a blur, but some of the countries would include Vietman, Norway, Sweden, Great Britain, Russia, Korea, Taiwan, Japan, China, Canada, France, Germany, India, South Africa, United Arab Emirates, Libya, US Soldiers in Afghanistan, and I'm certain i'm forgetting at least a handful of other countries. Its so rewarding connecting to people all over the world. Thank you for a great year.

Sincerely,

Ken Lewis

7 More Grammy Nominations!!!!

2011-12-01T15:48:00.001-05:00

WOW!!! The train just keeps rolling! Grammy Award Nominations were announced last night. I have credits on 7 of the Nominations!!! They are......

Song of the Year - "All Of The Lights" - Kanye West
Best Rap / Sung Duo - "All Of The Lights" - Kanye West
Best Rap Song - "All Of The Lights" - Kanye West
Best Rap Album - My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy - Kanye West
Best Rap Album - Watch The Throne - Kanye and Jay Z
Best R&B Song - Charlie Wilson "you Are"
Best R&B PErformance - Charlie Wilson "You Are"

Unfortunately, we missed for anything that would put a statue on my hands this year (i was hopeful that Watch the Throne or MBDTF albums would score an Album of the Year nomination, but the general consensus is that they each drew votes away from the other. Oh well, maybe next year.) but i cant be mad at 7 nominations this year, wow!!!! That brings my career total nominations to 30, and credits on 7 Grammy winners. This is also my first official nomination as producer (Watch The Throne).

Some years its feast, some famine, I'd call this year a Thanksgiving Feast to remember. And on top of all that, the new Drake album just debuted #1 Gold on the way to platinum in a couple weeks. I arranged music and choir for the Just Blaze produced song called "Lord Knows". big big big. Man i think this is prolly the best year of my career, or certainly one of the top 2 or 3!!!!
-Ken Lewis

Back out of Hiding - RECAP

2011-06-17T12:09:00.005-05:00

Well, i havent blogged here in forever. one of the silly main reasons was that my blog host changed the way the account is set up and i had to migrate my account to their new platform, which i couldnt figure out :-) I can work a million dollar studio like magic, but navigating stuff like this is sometimes daunting. Anyway, I'm back!!

So, since i havent posted here in a LONG time, let me give you the two minute recap of just some of the great things that have happened and are happening.

- I went to the GRAMMY AWARDS in February again as a Nominee. Album of the Year nomination for Eminem, my 4th Album of the year nomination. I also shared in the Grammy nominations for BEst Rap Album - Eminem (Winner), and BEst Rap Solo Performance - Kanye West "Power" which i am a vocalist and co-writer on. I have now earned 23 total Grammy Nominations (5 Specifically by name for Album of the Year and Record of the Year - havent won any of those yet), and 7 Grammy Winners.

- I mixed "Down On Me" Jeremih featuring 50 Cent. This single has been a chart topper for over 6 MONTHS!! WOW!! 50 Cent was here during the mix and i recorded one of his verses here as well. "Down On Me" spent 9 Weeks at #1 on the Billboard Rhythmic Singles Charts, and also peaked at #3 on the Billboard Radio Charts and #4 on the Hot 100. YES!!! Oh, and the single has sold double platinum (over 2 million)

- I have been racking up placements with major label artists as a songwriter and producer. 6 major label placements in the last few months. I dont like to talk about Who until the album's are finished. There's always the possibility that my song(s) wont make the final cut on the album, lets hope that isnt an issue :-)

- Rick Ross and the MMG Self Made album. I did alot of musical work for the Title Track, Just Blaze produced. The album went #1 on the Billboard R&B Albums Charts and #1 on the Billboard Rap Charts. YES!!! I also brought in my friend and amazing session studio drummer, Dylan Wissing, to once again play drums for me. His website is www.indiestudiodrummer.com Hire him. he's awesome. And horns were performed by Danny Flam for NewYorkBrass.com Danny is incredible and also played many horn parts on Kanye's "All Of the Lights" for me.

- Kanye. Well, where do i start with that. I'm all over the Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy album, worked on 6 songs. Power, All Of The Lights, Gorgeous, Lost In The World, Who Will Survive in America, and See Me Now. Mostly contributed as a musician, vocalist, horn arranger (All Of the Lights), and songwriter, and i got to record Beyonce's vocals on "See Me Now". I just did a little bit part on the new "Watch The Throne" album that Kanye and Jay Z are doing together. The MBDTF Album hit #1, Power was a hit single, and All Of The Lights hit #1 on the R&B singles charts.

- Just did a little bit of work for Jeff Bhasker on the new album from "FUN" on Fueled By Ramen records.

- Just mixed another #1 single for the Asian territories. Hyun Joong, former lead singer of South Korean mega group SS501 just put out a solo album. I mixed the 2 singles. The album and single instantly went #1. I think this is my 5th #1 single for major Asian markets. Pretty cool. The genius producer / writer Steven Lee captained the project. I cannot say enough amazing things about Steven Lee. He's very gifted. Other major Asian artists i've mixed for over the years include Rain, BoA, SS501, Wilber Pan, Made In China (M.I.C.) and many others.

- Kid Cudi new album, i did some music for. That album hit #1 on the R&B / Hip Hop Albums Charts. YES!!

- Man, there's just so much more going on, i could type for hours, but i need to get back to making hits.

take care
Ken Lewis
www.iproducemusic.com
www.protoolsmixing.com

Cassidy Gold #50 (or is it #51??)

2010-05-01T13:22:00.003-05:00

Wow, i havent blogged in forever. My apologies. i've had quite alot to say, but no time to say it. I'm gonna try to find time to get back on my blogging game. This is a good way to start. I just found out today that an album i worked on quite a while ago, Cassidy "I'm a Hustla" went gold!!! YEAH!!! i'velost count but i'm pretty sure thats either #50 or #51 on my gold and platinum list. With record sales in the dump, its become harder and harder to earn gold records, but i still get a few here and there, I'm lucky and grateful. So, i did a bunch of music for the song "A.M. to P.M." on the album, that was my contribution. My production partner, Brent Kolatalo, engineered the sessions (and probably added some music too) so thats his 8th Gold album. Congrats Brent!

Man, there's so much more to tell, and i havent updated my site in about a year. YIKES!! I think i'm gonna start trying to hit the blog again several times a week. Take care.

-Ken Lewis

Haiti Relief Mixing

2010-01-13T18:18:00.004-05:00

The news of the devastation in Haiti is far beyond comprehension. The early images of destruction alone pull my heart into my throat. I've already donated to the relief effort, and i suggest everyone who can donate anything directly to the relief efforts to please do so. Haiti needs you right now.

For my part, I have decided that the next two independent artists to hire me to do a mix for them, I will donate the entire mix fee to the relief effort. 100% of it for both mixes, and i will also donate the money to whatever Haitian Relief Organization the person chooses. I am just so heartbroken over what i'm seeing there that if i can stop what i'm normally doing and spend two work days relieving suffering down there in any way that i can, thats what i'm going to do.

The only caveat, you must actually tell me you are hiring me for the Haitian Relief mix.

Sincerely,

Ken Lewis

Vinda Bar, Best Wine Bar in Barcelona

2009-12-27T17:07:00.002-05:00

Just wanted to post a little diversion from the usual. I was recently in Barcelona and absolutely fell in love with the place. What a great city. the food, culture, people, weather, night life, is all exceptional. I met some great people while there, and found a wine bar in the Gothic quarter that i really loved. If your in Barcelona, definitely check out Vinda Bar, in the Gothic Quarter, not far from the Cathedral. I had a tremendous bottle of wine for about 18 Euro, and a really good one for 14 Euro. Lee, the owner, was really good at suggesting wines as well, and when i told him what i liked, everything he picked was spot on. and the food is really good too. there's my Barcelona tip!!! here's a pic from Vinda bar of my favorite wine of the trip. Spanish wine rocks!

-Ken Lewis

VOCAL TRACKING MISCONCEPTIONS!!!!

2009-12-22T23:37:00.004-05:00

Almost Christmas!! cant wait. Still grinding on these mixes though. Current and or recent projects include Miggs (WARNER/ROCKRIDGE), Notar (TYRRANOSAURUS), J. Lewis featuring Flo Rida (INTERSCOPE), The Higher (EPITAPH), Portable Payback (UNIVERSAL), King Phaze, Linzee Starr, Lovely Hoffman, One Less Reason, Jocey, Black Lagoon, 13 Yards to Victory, Brandon Beal, Warren Dean, Jamie Wainwright featuring Craig Smart, The Accentrix, Marina Chello, Paul G featuring Akon (UNIVERSAL SA), Surefire Music Group, Trillogy, Xtortya. Whew!!! I have been BUSY. If i've been working with you and forgot to mention you, my appologies, its a little hectic right now and i'm working from memory.

OK, on to my blog. One of the BIGGEST misconceptions about audio in general, but specifically about vocal tracking in the digital world is this. If you take a vocal track, and you make a digital copy of that vocal track, THAT IS NOT A DOUBLE TRACK. Making an exact copy of ANY track does absolutely nothing except make it a bit louder (just like pushing up a fader does).

All the time, i get songs in to mix, and for instance, the lead vocal has a "double" track, which turns out to be not a double track at all. just a copy of the original lead vocal track thats labeled "LV DBL". Dear young engineers, artists, producers, people just learning, etc.... please read this blog and understand exactly what i'm saying. Same with guitar tracks, keyboards, basslines, etc... If you want a double track of something, you simply have to perform it and record it a second time. If its not feeling like a double track, then you didnt perform it as closely to the original take as you need to, try again. If it was easy, everybody would make records :-)

I hope this helps clear up a couple of my biggest pet peeve misconceptions about recording vocals. Good luck in your record making endeavours. if i can be of service to you, here I am.

Merry Christmas!!!

-Ken Lewis

VIDEO Blog- Symphony at Concertgebouw Amsterdam

2009-12-04T02:30:00.001-05:00

Wow! I just got back from Amsterdam and while i was there i had the true pleasure of seeing the Symphony perform at the legendary Concertgebouw concert hall. I couldnt film during the performance, unfortunately, but i did get some good footage at intermission. this shows basically how the orchestra is seated, what instruments go where, and shows you a great view of the Hall as well as this insane pipe organ they had. And the sound of that place with that orchestra was truly exceptional. Maybe the best sounding hall I've ever been in and I've been in many. The video gets cut a little short because the usher was coming over :-)

-Ken Lewis

Tips & Techniques - Piano Recording with MIGGS

2009-11-10T14:48:00.002-05:00

I just wrapped up production for a rock band called MIGGS on Warner / RockRidge Records. I'm finally back in New York City and beginning to mix the project, but this was recorded down in Tampa, Florida where we were recording the band. This goes thru how i recorded the piano for the record. What microphones, placements, etc... This was during the recording of piano for a song called "Damage".

Enjoy!!! -Ken Lewis

Video Blog, End of Night, Oct 28

2009-10-29T02:42:00.002-05:00

I'm just wrapping up a very long 15 hour day of production on the new MIGGS album that I'm producing (www.miggsmusic.com) for RockRidge / Warner Records..
This is just the end of night summary of the day, nothing too special. Just some insights on what a long day of record making is like, for those of you who dont yet get the supreme luxury of doing this for a living. I am lucky, but i work hard for my luck.
-Ken Lewis

Vocal Recording Chain - Nerd Blog 1 with MIGGS

2009-10-23T18:09:00.000-05:00

Ken Lewis here, currently in Tampa, Florida producing an album for RockRidge / Warner recording artist "MIGGS". Here's a short little nerd video blog for all you guys trying to learn how to record vocals, or record vocals better. I don't usually use a Distressor to compress vocals while tracking, but i am today and it sounds great. In this video blog, I'm basically just breaking down my vocal chain that i'm using to record while the singer is in the live room singing his heart out.

Enjoy!

-Ken Lewis

Tips & Techniques - Vocal Comping w/ Miggs

2009-10-22T18:28:00.002-05:00

I've been producing RockRidge / Warner recording artists "MIGGS" this month (www.miggsband.com). Lately we've been in heavy lead vocal recording mode. This video gives a little insight into the process of "Vocal Comping". Usually when i record vocals, i have the singer give me many takes, and I guide them as needed with direction before each take, then i send them away and put together all of the best pieces of each take into one final Comp Vocal.

And while i'm at it, I'm going to repost a link to an old blog posting i did from a few years ago, which covered my techniques with vocal comping in depth. I think its the most commented on and linked blog post i ever did, so here it is again. for all you producers out there wanting to learn how to record and comp vocals, or maybe get a few new tips and techniques, here ya go!!!

VOCAL COMPING BLOG

Enjoy!
-Ken Lewis

Tips & Techniques - Guitar Recording w/ Miggs PT 3

2009-10-20T21:17:00.002-05:00

Part 3 of the saga, recording electric guitars with Miggs. I am producing an album for Miggs, on RockRidge / Warner Records. We've been tracking lots of guitars (and lots of other stuff which i'll blog about). Enjoy!
-Ken Lewis

Tips & Techniques - Guitar Recording w/ Miggs PT 2

2009-10-19T13:12:00.002-05:00

Continuation of Part 1. Part 3 coming tomorrow and currently shooting more videos to post :-)

-Ken Lewis

Tips & Techniques - Guitar Recording With Miggs PT 1 of 3

2009-10-18T15:10:00.002-05:00

I am producing an album for RockRidge Records artists MIGGS MiggsBand.com. We've been recording electric guitars on the album and i wanted to do a little youtube video documenting how the process is working. this is video 1 of 3, i'll post the other 2 videos on successive days. Miggs has also been putting up their own little ongoing video documentary of the making of the album as well, some really cool, funny, and insightful footage on their own wesbite.

Enjoy!!

-Ken Lewis

Ariana Grande is vicTORIous!!!

2009-10-16T14:10:00.004-05:00

Last year I produced a 4 song EP for young prodigy Ariana Grande. Ariana is just one of those people who completely piss you off. Absolutely incredibly talented at everything she does. Unbelievable vocalist, completely believable actress, budding young songwriter, and all around super talented artist and entertainer. Like i said, don't you just hate those people who are great at everything?? Well, she's one of them. Well, I'd like to hate her, but she's so damn nice that she just wins you over.

Anyway, last year (thru early 2009) Ariana starred in the hit Broadway Musical "13 The Musical". And when that play closed, she moved to LA and began auditioning, quickly landing a co-lead role on a new Nickelodeon show coming out in January titled "vicTORIous".

Here's a link that tells a bit about the show......

vicTORIous

Oh yeah, did i mention Ariana is also signed to Sony Records? Like i said, you just wanna hate her, but you can't. Congrats Ariana on all of your success and all of the much much bigger success coming your way soon. I cannot think of anyone more deserving, nor anyone who's more fun to work with!!!!

-Ken Lewis

SOUTH AFRICAN MUSIC AWARDS

2009-10-15T14:39:00.002-05:00

A little while back, i mixed a song called "Oxymoron" for a South African pop rock artist named "Zebra & Giraffe". Well, at the time, the artist was telling me "Hey this song and this album are going to be big!!!". Well, it turns out he was REALLY right.

"Zebra & Giraffe" recently won a SOUTH AFRICAN MUSIC AWARD (SAMA) for their album "Collected Memories", and last weekend at the MTV Africa Music Awards they won "Best Alternative Artist"!!!

Big congrats go out to you, Zebra & Giraffe from a half a world away! Here is their website.....

Zebra & Giraffe Website

-Ken Lewis

Will Ferrell - Insurance Public Option PSA

2009-09-22T10:15:00.001-05:00

Will Ferrell is a genius. Watch.

Will Ferrell PSA

Enjoy!!!

-Ken Lewis

13 Yards to Victory - Album Sampler

2009-09-11T21:37:00.005-05:00

I recently completed production on a 7 song project for a Boston rock band called "13 Yards to Victory". Here's a little album sampler of four of the songs i just put together, please give it a listen and tell me what you think.

13YTV%20Album%20Sampler.mp3

I'm headed up to Boston for the day on Sunday (sept 13th) to attend their album release party and performance at The Hard Rock Cafe in Boston. Unfortunately this is a closed invite only event, but i'll be rolling deep. All my friends from Surefire Music Group in Lowell, Mass are coming with me. Surefire is one to watch for sure. But i digress.

13YTV recently put out a press release announcing the coming album that was carried by 113 MJAOR NEWS OUTLETS!!! Including USA today. unbelievable. Read the press release below.

USA TODAY ARTICLE

I encourage you to read a little bit of the press release. Its absolutely amazing and super cool what this band is doing, which is one reason i really wanted to be a part of this record. Giving back to the community and serving your Country are two damn fine qualities in anyone, let alone a young rock band.

Enjoy!!!

Ken Lewis

UPDATE>>>>> The Boston Globe just ran a story today (Sept 12), a very nice, quick read, and i got a quote and a link to my site. cool!! read it here

BOSTON GLOBE

Public Option - Health Care Explained

2009-09-09T23:20:00.002-05:00

So much disinformation is floating around about the health care reform debate. I thought I'd post up a video explaining in very simple, well thought out terms, exactly what a "Public Option" is, what it would and wouldnt do, and why it should absolutely be included in any true health care reform. Call your congressman, call your Senator. Ask them to support a Public Option in the Health Care Reform Bill. Please.

Thank you!
-Ken Lewis

A&R's Pay Attention!!!

2009-08-22T00:52:00.002-05:00

Recently i've been mixing an amazing young pop artist named Kristine Elezaj. She drips talent. I'm not going to hype her up. She can do that herself. I've mixed 3 great songs for her so far and I'm mixing a ballad next week for her thats a smash!! Watch this video, it will let you see and hear everything you need to know about this rising talent.

-Ken Lewis

"Heartless" is Double Platinum!!

2009-07-23T01:39:00.002-05:00

A friend recently told me that Kanye West's single "Heartless" just went double platinum! Holy cow! I played the staccato flute chords on the song, the ones that come in after 8 bars in the intro and pretty much musically drive the whole song. Thats me.

I also heard a rumor that Kanye is doing an insanely over the top video for "Robocop" which i assume will be his next single. Can anybody confirm this rumor or confirm that its not true? I'd really like to know, and I really dont wanna call Kanye up with some really trivial ish. Anyway, i created a whole orchestra for this song (its most prominent in the songs hooks, the big soaring orchestra that comes in in the chorus is all me). Its not just strings, I basically created just about every instrument in the orchestra for it. It was really fun and really grueling to do, but if i hear that song on the radio 5 times a day i'll be all smiles ear to ear. Ok, back to the grind here.

-Ken Lewis

PS. I've also been told that some big radio stations have already been playing "Robocop" in regular rotation. If you've heard it on your local radio station, can you drop me a line and tell me what city / station? Thanks!!!

13 Yards To Victory Update

2009-07-07T18:45:00.002-05:00

I havent blogged in a while. I am so slammed with work right now and attempting to stay really creative and really focused, and sometimes blogging is a distraction. Its been falling to the wayside lately, but hey, i'm back. I've recently been producing a great band from Boston named "13 Yards to Victory". Very talented young guys, 5 piece band, excellent songs. They were down to my studio recently to have me produce some vocals and music. To say it went great might be an understatement. We seem to click really well, and they certainly worked very hard, stayed focused and positive and really delivered great vocal performances. Days after the last session, I got the following letter below from their manager. It was very very flattering and i wanted to share.

*************************
Hi Ken-

Just a note of thanks to you for a FANTASTIC week of recording! You are clearly a breath of fresh air in the music industry as evidenced by your honest, top notch, creative, patient, invigorating and motivating sense of self. You’ve clearly earned and deserve every credit you’ve achieved. It is both an honor and a pleasure to be working with you. I thank you for the experience as do all the members of Thirteen Yards to Victory!

We are looking forward to working with you and your stellar team as this innovative project evolves and develops.

Kind regards,

Fred (Manager 13YTV)
*************************

-Ken Lewis

BRilliant Use of Autotune

2009-05-30T20:15:00.001-05:00

This is one circumstance where i think AutoTune has been used briliantly and creatively. I'd like to make records with this guy.
Enjoy!
-Ken

Art, Painters, Sculptors, Cathedrals

2009-05-27T01:37:00.003-05:00

I just found this article, "The 101 Most Important Painters of All Time". Quite a coveted list to be on I'm sure. Anyway, I thought i'd post the article

101 Most Important Painters Of All Time

for you to check out. Growing up, i was bored with art, it didnt move me, i wasn't interested, etc... Turns out i just hadn't seen the right stuff yet. Growing up in Cincinnati, Ohio can certainly come with its share of vanilla. I went to college in Boston and discovered the Boston Museum of Fine Art, and that was pretty cool, but when a major Monet exhibit came to the Museum, i went to see and i was blown away. maybe 100 of his master works. huge paintings covering half a wall sometimes. Thick coarse brush strokes that made much more sense to the eye looking from 30 feet away than from 5 feet away. I was hooked right then and there. Monet remains one of my favorites.

I love art, but i'm basically a sucker for the Masters. I dont really care who painted what, and i dont personally care to know the deep meanings that the painter is trying to convey. I just know what catches my eye and what i like. Artists like Picasso I'm torn. some of his works i really dig, and some i'm like "OK, i see thats the nose, thats the eye, but its just not doing much for me".

My favorite living painter is Paul Guy Gantner, and I am very fortunate to have one of his large paintings on my wall. I still smile every time i walk past it, and i still think its as beautiful as the day i got it. Art makes me happy... physically, smiling, happy. I truly enjoy it.

One of my favorite dead painters is Salvador Dali. He's just about the only painter who can make me like pastels (usually i like muted and earthy tones). His work is intense and challenging, imaginative, insane, bizarre, all wrapped into one. I got to see the biggest Dali Masterworks collection ever assembled at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. over 200 of his big paintings, plus sculptures, sketches, you name it. amazing amazing stuff brought from galleries and private collections all over the world for this exhibit. Now i have my own Dali wood etching. Its a collectors piece, but in the grand scheme of things, a very small one. I just love it because its Dali and its beautiful, I'll have it til i die, along with my Gantner. This is the one i have....

Dali - Purgatory 33

Like i said before, I really am just a sucker for the masters. Some of my favorites are Monet, Van Gogh, Pissarro, Michelangelo, Da Vinci, Rubens, Renior, Rafael, Rembrandt, Seurat, Botticelli, I also love the sculpture of Rodin, Michelangelo, and a whole bunch of others i dont remember.

Funny, I also LOVE European Cathedrals, though i'm not religious. I can spend hours in them. Of course partly because of the amazing acoustics of those spaces. I was in Munich, Germany and wandered into a Cathedral there around 6pm. a boy's choir was beginning to sing and the chuch organist was playing the massive pipe organ. the Cathedral must have had about a 6 second long reverb, the sound just floating endlessly in the air like angels. Some of my favorite Cathedrals are The Notre Dame in Paris (because of the amazing gargoyles!!!), Westminster Abbey in London is MASSIVE, and dead people are buried under the floor and you cant help but walk on them, kinda cool in a weird way. Kings are buried there.

In Florence, Italy, the Santa Croce Cathedral is (all things considered) a fairly unassuming place as Cathedrals go, except for the fact that dozens of incredibly historic and famous figures are in tombs there in the main room, one next to the other, Dante, Michelangelo, Rossinni, Galileo!!!!! Holy cow. So many more. just to be in the same room with "them" was pretty inspiring. Their ghosts must have great parties. Pretty much everywhere in Europe I go, if there's a big Cathedral, its on the route. Maybe i'm getting a little bored with them lately, i mean there's only so many you can see before you've seen enough for a while, but mostly still they are awe inspiring from an artistic and acoustic standpoint.

So, I'm rambling, and i have mixing to do, and my break time is long over. time to get back to work. If you are not yet familiar with many of the names in this post. Start googling!! or better yet, if your in a major city with a good art museum, go check it out. I'll give you one secret. Art museums can be overwhelming. A part of you is always saying "i've got to see everything", or "How can i just walk right past this painting, its in a museum for gods sake, it must be good right?". The trick to enjoying museums is to learn to walk right past the stuff you dont care about until something catches your eye. Dont even slow down. normal walking speed until your eye tells you to stop, then enjoy THAT. Just about every museum just has way too much stuff, find the stuff that moves you and spend your time there.

-Ken Lewis

6 in 13

2009-05-05T23:36:00.002-05:00

What a run i've been having lately!! I havent been blogging much at all lately, which is too bad, i like to do it, but it might give you some insight into just how busy i am right now. complete craziness! First a NOTAR project update. The album is coming together beautifully. I am so proud to be a part of it (I'm producing, mixing, writing, performing, etc...). Most of the production is done, and I'm now finished with 5 songs, mixes and all. I feel like a Matador. I cant wait to let people start hearing the album, SO GOOD!!!!!

So....6 in 13. yep. I've worked on six #1 Albums in the last 13 months. Holy CRAP!!! I'm pretty happy about that. Not sure if there's ever been a 13 month stretch of my career that i could say that about. Though there have been 2 different times where i worked on 3 of the Top Ten Billboard albums. Thats a pretty crazy feeling as well. Anyway, this current run includes Danity Kane, Day 26, Young Jeezy, Kanye West, Notorious Soundtrack, and NOW Vol. 30.

Alas, (i said it, alas) i have more big news on the horizon. don't wanna jinx it. So much good stuff happening right now. I really feel like the planets are beginning to align and much of what i've worked so hard for the last several years laying the groundwork for is beginning to come to fruition.

Oh, one of those things, that is current public knowledge is 15 year old Ariana Grande. I produced four songs for her late last year. She is utterly awe inspiring to watch perform and to hear sing. Like a young Christina Aguilaria who can also act. Ariana finished a run on Broadway in January and then went out to LA. She was recently cast in an as yet to be titled Nickelodeon series that i think comes out in August. The show will make a pilot run of six episodes (i could be making that up, not sure) and hopefully (probably) the show will get picked up for a full season. She's also currently negotiating a contract with a major label, and if that label has any sense they will sign her in a heartbeat. No worries though, if that label doesnt sign her, she's already got significant other interest from other majors. This girl is on her way and its no surprise to me, she's gifted, driven, and has a great support network. I'm glad I'm a part of it.

OK, now I've REALLY got to get back to the mix currently on my console. another great song, and I'm inspired.

-Ken Lewis

MUST WATCH

2009-04-29T02:08:00.003-05:00

It has been WAYYYY too long since i blogged, but i saw this video tonight and damn near cried it was so moving. Things like this remind me how much i love music. This is so brilliant, i wish i would have thought of it. I'm not gonna give it away, you just gotta watch. Enjoy!!

STAND BY ME

-Ken Lewis

Notar & Counting Crows

2009-02-19T21:08:00.002-05:00

Well, I eluded to it in a previous blog. Now that I've got one song completely done and mixed, and about 12 more songs going in various stages of development or mixing, I feel comfortable blogging about this project. I am currently working with an exceptionally talented artist name NOTAR. You could call Notar a rapper, and in some ways thats spot on accurate, but I really like to just think of him as an artist. Musically, this project is a true combination of rock and hip hop. There are songs with straight up down south hip hop drums and loud raw rock guitars on top. Notar is an accomplished musician (trumpet), so its easy for us to speak in a musical language creatively, we can talk the language of hip hop, or rock, or music in general, which makes my job of producing so much easier and more creative. As songs get finished and posted, I'll give you links.
So, the team behind this record could be considered a bit of a dream team. Bruce Kirkland of Tsunami Entertainment is on board consulting on the non studio stuff. Bruce and Cael Kirkland connected me to the project, thanks guys!!!! The General behind the project is none other than Adam Duritz, lead singer of Counting Crows, and he is Executive Producer of the album. Adam signed Notar to his record label, Tyrannosaurus Records (one of my favorite record company names ever!!). Adam also performs on one of my very favorite songs on the album, called "Stranger", a very timely song about Iraq. Adam sings the hooks, Notar tackles the verses. As much of a pleasure as its been to work with Notar, its truly an honor to be working with Adam Duritz, as i am a big fan of Counting Crows and have seen them perform live more than any other label artist.
Side Story..... sometime back in the 90's, my friend Mike Habig came to NYC for work and i went in to have some dinner with him. On the way to his hotel, someone asked me if i wanted to buy scalped Counting Crows tix. They were playing at Hammerstein Ballroom right around the corner from the hotel and Mike and i decided, what the hell, we'll go. Neither of us were really fans at the time. that all changed. The show was being recorded for a live album called "Live Across A Wire" and it was also being broadcast live on MTV's Live at the Ten Spot. Lets just say that if you find the recording of "Round Here" from that concert album, well...... it probably changed my life. Counting Crows are one of the most musical bands on Earth. Anyway, that show changed my life. So, you can guess that while i dont think i've ever been star struck by anyone, it is immensely fun to be working with Adam Duritz to make this Notar record. With some luck and plenty of hard work, hopefully we'll be able to make Notar as big a household name as the Counting Crows. I think he possesses the talent.
Last weekend i brought in the lead singer of rockers "Silvertide" to sing a hook for Notar's album. OK, if you dont know who silvertide is, www.myspace.com/silvertide just listen to Walter's voice. then imagine him belting a raspy powerful rock vocal over a grimey hip hop beat. gave me chills. There are also rumors that Chris Carraba, the singer of Dashboard Confessional, might come in and sing a hook as well. And maybe if we're luck we'll get Adam on one more hook on the record. but dont get it twisted, Notar can sing a bit himself, and he tackles a few singing hooks himself very well. Notar's album will be called "Devil's Playground" and all of the songs on the record kind of fit that mood and theme, life on the dark side.
Anyway, keep your ears open for Notar. I've been brought to this project to bring it home. There are about ten songs that have been started but not finished, that i'll be doing (am currently doing) additional production on, and many songs that we're starting from scratch that i'm producing, and of course I'll be mixing the whole record as well. And i'm doing some writing on it, especially on the songs i'm producing. So far its coming out really hot and i'm very excited to be working on the record. I'm sure it'll be a running theme on this blog for the duration of the project, which could go for another month or two. Stay tuned!!!
-Ken Lewis

Kanye's "Heartless" is #2 Single in the Nation!!

2009-02-18T21:13:00.002-05:00

For those who havent read my blog recently, I played the staccato flute in "Heartless" that is the main drive of the song. "Heartless" hit #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Charts this past week. YEAH!!!

-Ken

"Welcome To Heartbreak" - Kanye Video

2009-02-18T21:01:00.003-05:00

Hello all,
I just saw that Kanye West posted the brand new video for his song "Welcome To Heartbreak", which i played piano on and also added a synth melody line at the end of the song. Lyrically, this is my favorite song on the album and I'm so glad to be a part of it! The video is an amazing feast of visual effects. Here's a link for you to watch the video. Make sure to leave em a comment and tell him that whoever played that piano line has magic fingers :-)

Welcome To Heartbreak - Video

Enjoy!

-Ken Lewis

Man On Earth Showcase. BE THERE!!!

2009-02-06T14:18:00.002-05:00

I produce an awesome NYC indie band called "MAN ON EARTH". Their big Music Industry Showcase is next Thursday, 7:30pm at Mercury Lounge in NYC. If you are an A&R, Manager, Label person, etc... You want to be at this show. Man On Earth just released a new album (produced & mixed by me :-) called "The Time Spent Wondering". You can check them out at MySpace.com/ManOnEarth. Watch the video's for "All We Want" and "Hold Your Breath and Brace For the Crash". This band has so much amazing stuff going on that i cant tell you everything here. Come to the showcase on Thursday and check them out!!!
Thanks!
-Ken Lewis

Still Hangin Tough on the Charts.

2009-01-29T19:23:00.002-05:00

Well, I cant complain. I worked on the #4 & #5 albums in the country again this week with Kanye West 808's & Heartbreak and The Notorious Soundtrack, and the Kanye single "Heartless" that i performed on dropped from #3 to #4 on the Hot 100 singles charts this week, and "Heartless" was the Greatest Airplay Gainer on the charts as well. I've got several things in the works right now that could break big soon, Lee Carr, Marina Chello, Small Town Sleeper, and a couple more things. keeping my fingers crossed for a great 2009. It sure feels like its going to be a great year so far!
-Ken Lewis

Console in Pieces

2009-01-29T19:18:00.002-05:00

This happened a few months ago, but i just looked at the picture today and thought it would be an interesting thing to post a picture of. A few months ago, a power supply in my console blew up. Unfortunately, to fix this problem, i had to take apart most of the console, which was a heart wrenching experience. Thought you might want to see what an SSL console in pieces looks like.

-Ken Lewis

NOTORIOUS #1

2009-01-22T11:57:00.002-05:00

Its quite a nice week for me on the Billboard charts. This week, Kanye West's "808's & Heartbreak" album falls from #3 to #5 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Charts, and his single "Heartless" stands pat at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Charts. But the big news this week is the debut of the NOTORIOUS SOUNDTRACK, which hit the Billboard Top R&B / Hip Hop Albums Chart at #1, as well as the Billboard Top Soundtracks Chart at #1, and also nods at #4 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart. This is my 27th #1 album of my career, what a great way to start the year!

-Ken Lewis

DIAMOND CONFESSIONS

2009-01-19T04:25:00.002-05:00

Finally. I have waited patiently. So patiently. The Usher "Confessions" album just went DIAMOND (10 Million sold in the USA). That record has been sitting at 9 million sold for the longest time!!! this is my first Diamond Album, and the way records aren't selling anymore, it will most likely be my last. One is plenty enough for me. I can't wait to get the plaque for it. I've been holding out on ordering it until the album crossed the Diamond threshold and now that it has i think i need to get a retardedly big plaque for it. On Confessions, i worked on a song called "Throwback", one of my favorite songs of my career. I mixed it, and also did some vocal recording on the song with Usher, and i played guitar on it as well. Boy the good news just keeps rolling in!! Not even 3 weeks in yet and 2009 is charging out of the gates.

-Ken Lewis

"HEARTLESS" jumps to #3!!!

2009-01-17T13:22:00.002-05:00

Also an Honorable Mention to "Heartless" for capturing the #1 Spot on the RINGTONE CHARTS with "Heartless". I don' think i've ever worked on a #1 Ringtone before!

-Ken Lewis

Surefire Music Group - Songwriting Sessions

2009-01-16T17:41:00.002-05:00

Yesterday (Thursday) i did a 16 hour writing session with the producers and songwriters of Surefire Music Group from Boston, Ma. WOW, these are some incredibly talented cats. Yesterday they rolled in seven deep, and everyone contributed. First off, they drove down from Boston for a one day writing session in NYC and drove home at 5am after we wrapped the session. Thats hard core. The last time they came down several months ago, they got pulled over in Rhode Island and their car got impounded. Instead of going back to Boston, which was much closer than NYC, they rented a car and continued on their trip down to New York. THAT is dedication. So it comes as no surprise to me that the Surefire guys have been scoring label placements left and right lately. They produced 9 songs on the up coming star studded Lisa 'Lefteye' Lopez tribute album due out January 27th. They also placed 3 songs with Marina Chello (Bad Boy / Crazy Joint), and 5 songs with the Hulkster's daughter, Brooke Hogan. I heard the songs. Brooke Hogan is no joke! Great songs and she's an excellent singer and songwriter.

I think we will definitely place some of the songs we wrote yesterday, those are some talented cats! So, expect big things in 2009 from Surefire Music Group, as well as my own production team, The Skywalkers (me, Brent Kolatalo, and possibly one more soon!).

-Ken Lewis

Lee Carr - Jive

2009-01-14T04:16:00.003-05:00

Lee Carr was over to the studio today to wrap up mix revisions on another one of his potential singles. His current single "Breathe" (which i mixed here) is currently building momentum at radio. That song is a SMASH!!! hear it at his website MySpace.com/LeeCarr

Lee also played me a new song of his (cant tell you the name yet) that absolutely blew me away. If everyone does their job (and i'm certainly doing mine), Lee Carr should be a household name by summertime. I'm about 9 mixes into his album at this point. Almost done with the album.

Oh so much more going on. too much to tell, and too many things floating up in the air right now, but wow, i feel good about this year!

-Ken Lewis

My Next Two Hits - Marina Chello

2009-01-12T04:18:00.004-05:00

I'm currently (among many other things) mixing an album for new artist Marina Chello. Marina is the first artist signed to Bad Boy Records President Harve Pierre's imprint label "Crazy Joint Records". Harve hired me to mix Marina's entire album (we're four songs in at this point) and we just finished mixing the first and second singles. "Whats Done is Done" and "Sideline". You can hear them on Marina's Myspace page, MySpace.com/MarinaChello

I believe "Whats Done Is Done" was produced by Mario Winans and Harve Pierre, and "Sideline" was produced and written by Adam Messenger and Naseri. I've also started mixing a few songs on Marina's album produced by the incredibly talented Boston production & writing team "Surefire Music Group", check them out HERE

I think "Sideline" is an absolute SMASH HIT. Dont get me wrong, I really like "Whats Done Is Done" as well, but i think "Sideline" is going to be the one that makes Marina Chello a household name. take a few minutes and give her a listen, and drop her some love on her MySpace page and tell her i sent you! What a great start to the year! And on top of this, the NOTORIOUS SOUNDTRACK comes out this Tuesday and the movie Friday. I have a very special mix on that album as well. "One More Chance" by Biggie featuring his son CJ, as well as Mary J Blige and Faith Evans. Pinch me please.

-Ken Lewis

Kanye's Heartless Cracks Top 5!!

2009-01-03T15:18:00.002-05:00

What a great way to start my New Year!!! "Heartless" jumps to #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart!

2008 - Auld Lang Syne

2008-12-31T17:34:00.000-05:00

Another year has passed us by. Where does the time go?! 2008 turned out to be quite a great year for me career-wise. This years highlights included scoring four #1 albums!!! (Danity Kane, Day 26, Young Jeezy, Kanye West). On top of that, i mixed a Top Ten Billboard Single, "Damaged" - Danity Kane, and played on another Top Ten single "Heartless" - Kanye West.

To start 2008 off, i bought an SSL mixing console, which has been a great investment. I've worked with many great artists this year, and at my own studio, I've mixed songs this year by (or featuring) Danity Kane, Day 26, Lee Carr, Fabolous, Joe Budden, The Game, Sullee, Busta Rhymes, Donnie Klang, Marina Chello, Notorious BIG (Notorious Soundtrack), Ariana Grande, Josh Xantus, Jadakiss, Ben's Brother, Joss Stone, Bizzie Bone, King Phaze, DMX, Sheik Louche, Stylez P, KK Alese, Beenie Man, Bounty Killer, Sizzla, and I'm sure I'm forgetting someone. In addition, I mixed an album here for Asian mega-star "Rain". I also created alot of music here for three songs on Kanye's new "808's & Heartbreak" album and worked on Jeezy's album here too. And i've done mixes elsewhere featuring Rick Ross, Fat Joe, P Diddy, Mario Winans, and others. As i'm writing this off the top of my head, i'm sure i'm forgetting some great label clients, but wow! What a year!!!!

That all doesnt even scratch the surface of some of the great indie projects I've been fortunate enough to be involved with in 2008. Start to finish, this has truly been a great year, and I have loved every minute of it. Having said all that, i think 2009 is going to top 2008. I dont know how for certain yet, but i have very high hopes for 2009, and every bone in my body tells me its going to be a phenomenal year. I'm really excited about a new artist I'll be developing, as well as some seriously awesome songwriters i've been working with. Watch out for my Skywalkers Production team to have a serious breakout in 09. I was also recently contacted by one of my musical idols about doing some production and mixing for an artist he is developing. I wont say who he is until the gig fully materializes, which should be soon, but lets just say that round here we stay up very very very late. And i'll leave it at that. I am VERY excited about that project, as it might also include another one of my favorite artists as a guest appearance. All i can do is Breathe in for Luck.

2009 should start off with a bang credit-wise as i will have my first big release of the year on January 13 with the NOTORIOUS SOUNDTRACK. I'm hoping to add to my current tally of 48 Gold & Platinum records with that Soundtrack, and i hope to finally surpass 50 by the end of the year. I got 4 more plaques this year so two more for 2009 doesnt seem like an insurmountable goal to achieve. Lee Carr's album on Jive Records could certainly bring me to 50. Watch out for Lee's new single "Breathe" which i mixed here. it is a GREAT song and should be a big hit if Jive does their job, and the album will hopefully be a big hit as well. Its truly a collection of great songs, which i rarely say, but he's really got some heat on that album, with plenty of singles to follow "Breathe".

2009 should also see the release of the first single and album by "Small Town Sleeper". they are signed to my production company as well as Upper11 / Fontana Records. I developed them and got the band their record deal then produced and mixed their album "Conversations". Check it out on itunes! The label is gearing up to go to pop radio with STS's first single "Backseat", a song that I've known could be a big hit from the first moment i heard the acoustic demo. Small Town Sleeper has already toured with Daughtry as well as Candlebox and has shared the stage with many other big big artists. Hopefully 2009 will see them capture the spotlight we've all worked very hard to get them.

So, now i'm off to enjoy my New Year's Eve with family and friends!!! I hope your 2008 was healthy, happy, and prosperous, and that your 2009 brings you all of the success and happiness you are striving for. I know it will bring that and so much more for me.

Happy New Year!!!

-Ken Lewis

Christmas Card

2008-12-24T22:19:00.003-05:00

Well, its Christmas Eve. This is the night my family always celebrates Christmas, so we've already had our Christmas dinner and opened some presents, but i wanted to send out a special Christmas Card to you, my family, friends, clients, co-workers, and everyone i've worked with this year. Thats ALOT of people!!! So, Merry Christmas to all of the artists, musicians, vocalists, producers, engineers, managers, label people, songwriters, blog readers and everyone else who has made this year such a memorable and exceptional year.

I really wanted to get Christmas cards out this year, but just about every minute of every day for months on end has been going from this mix, to that production, to this performance, to that songwriting session. Don't get me wrong, these are WONDERFUL problems to have. Being too busy in this business is truly a blessing, and fortunately for me, i still very much love what i do, thanks in large part to all of the genuinely great people i get to work with and around all the time.

So, i know this is kind of cheating, but its the best i could do this year. To all of you, have a very Merry Christmas!!!

-Ken Lewis

Kanye "Heartless" at #7

2008-12-20T00:38:00.002-05:00

Those staccato Flutes that come in right after the intro and basically keep time thru the song. Thats me. How could you bee so Heartless........

BMV is #1 in Macendonia

2008-12-14T14:13:00.002-05:00

Recently i finished production and mixing of an album by Icelandic pop rock artist "BMV". BMV has been busy promoting the album worldwide, and i just got word that the single "Runaway" is #1 in Macedonia of all places!!! For those geographically challenged, Macedonia is a small country in Europe bordered by Greece, Bulgaria, Albania, and Serbia & Montenegro.

Radio 106, the biggest station in the country, is spinning "Runaway" 14 times a day!!!! Holy Cow! You can hear "Runaway" and several other songs on BMV's myspace page at MySpace.com/BMVsounds

You can also buy the song straight from his MySpace page if you really like it. Don't be shy! Here's a screen capture of the Macedonia Chart. Quite an impressive list of artists beneath him :-)

-Ken

#1

2008-12-07T20:09:00.004-05:00

808's & Heartbreak

2008-11-27T09:54:00.002-05:00

Kanye West's new album, "808's & Heartbreak" came out Monday and is set to debut #1 on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Chart next week (my 4th #1 album of the year - Danity Kane, Day 26, Young Jeezy). However, the title of the album holds special meaning to me, at least the HEARTBREAK part, because, once again, my work is all over the album, but my name is missing completely from the credits. UGH. This happened to me as well on Gold Digger which i created music for, but my name was absent from the credits.

I contributed music to "Heartless" (the steady staccato flute is mine), "Welcome to the Heartbreak" (the piano line is me), and My biggest contribution to "808's...." is on the song "Robocop". There's a string section that starts the song, its a simple steady marching string section. Thats not me. Thats Larry Gold's string section. when the chorus comes in ("OK, OK, OK, you'll never stop it now") the big soaring orchestra in that section is all 100% me. and the orchestral music underneath the "Cause I dont want a Robocop...." is also all me.

When i say all me, I created it all. A basic breakdown of the instrumentation i used, all from sample libraries, alot from IK Multimedia's Miroslav Philharmonik, as well as East West Quantum Leap Symphonic Orchestra Platinum, and some of my other EXS 24 Logic sound libraries. Basically an entire orchestra, 1st violin section, 2nd violin section, viola section, cello section, double basses, french horns, trumpets, trombones, flute, piccolo, oboe, clarinet, english horn, harpsichord, tympani, orchestral snare, glockenspiel, and bassoon. It took me about 9 or 10 days to create it all, as there are several different passages, and lets face it, trying to create a full orchestra that fools the ear is quite an undertaking if you want it to sound real. Of course, Kanye sped up the orchestra, which also raised the pitch by 300 cents, so if you want to hear exactly what it sounds like at its originally created speed and pitch, you'll have to slow the record down, just like slowing a vinyl record down to drop the pitch by 300 cents. In fact, when i get back to my studio, i will take a clip from the chorus and do just that, and post it here for listening. I'd love to post a clean file of only the orchestra, but while i did all of the work, the record company owns all of the rights to it, so I can't really do that.

I was called in to work on the songs very near the completion of the album. In fact, as soon as i would finish something, and Kanye would approve it, I would send it straight off to Manny Marroquin in LA so he could drop it into the mixes (I think Manny mixed the whole album). I hope and suspect that the lateness with which i was called to contribute is why my name got left off, as i assume the credits and artwork had already gone to press. I was literally working on this album the first week of November and it was released on November 24th, which is virtually unheard of in the record making world. Though actually, the same time frame happened when i was working on Young Jeezy's album, and they managed to get me properly credited.

All i can say about it is that i love the album, and I'm very proud to be a part of it, but it is utterly depressing to not be properly credited for my work time and time again. People like me survive and thrive from the credits we earn, and when that credit is left off, its like taking money straight out of my pocket from lost future work. I will still of course put the credit on my discography, but the millions of albums that should have my name in them, won't. What can i say, Welcome To The Heartbreak.

-Ken Lewis

Joe Budden brings The Game

2008-11-17T03:43:00.004-05:00

I just finished mixing the first single on Joe Budden's upcoming album. The song is called "The Future" and it features The Game as well. I did some mixing on The Game's first album "The Documentary", and also mixed a track that he rhymed on from Cuban Link's last album, so this is the third time i've gotten to mix him. Joe Budden and i go back to his first Def Jam album as well when i mixed 3 songs for his album. I've done lots of mixing for Joe over the years and I think he's one of the most lyrically gifted rappers on earth. The Game is no joke by any means either. I heard a mix tape a while back that The Game was on and he must have rhymed for about 5 minutes nonstop, no hook, just a straight verse, blazing hot.

Anyway, this song should actually start hitting clubs by the end of the week, and i imagine they'll start rolling out radio promo by the new year. Keep an ear out for it, i love the song! Tomorrow i have to wake up crazy early and mix a very special song for Bad Boy Records. I'm not sure if i can talk about it yet, so i'll hold off on details til i know its safe, but i'm excited about it. A great way to start off the week!

-Ken Lewis

Ariana Grande's Leading Lady Debut on Broadway

2008-11-15T16:49:00.003-05:00

What a week. Let me back up to July. In July i began producing 14 year old Ariana Grande. Envision the voice of Christina Aguilara with loads of charisma, excellent acting skills and stage presence, etc... I produced 4 songs for her which are getting mastered in a couple days. they came out spectacular, i'm very happy with them. Well, Ariana is also in the cast of the new critically acclaimed Broadway play "13" the Musical. Envision the Junior School version of High School Musical, except more honest and realistic and you have "13". Nothing against High School Musical at all, but you know, its Disney, there are only so many subjects they can honestly tackle without the Disney censor.
Anyway, out of over 7,000 kids who auditioned for the play, Ariana was cast as "Charlotte" and she also understudys the lead role of "Patrice". Well, last night was Ariana's time to shine. She got the call 3 hours before curtain that Friday Nov 14th would be her debut as Patrice in the leading role. She has understudied the role for a couple months, but has never had a full rehearsal with the cast, so there was plenty of tension and anticipation as to how well the show would go and how she would handle the pressure and opportunity. Well. Lets back up to Wednesday night.

Wednesday night i saw "13" for the first time, with Ariana in her cast role as "Charlotte" which she totally rocked. and I got to see the regular Patrice lead (her name escapes me but she's fantastic). So, from the Wednesday show, i knew how the Patrice role was supposed to be played and could compare Ariana's performance in the role on Friday night. Ariana ROCKED the lead role of Patrice and her lead debut! She flawlessly stepped into the role and onto the stage last night and hit every note, every cue, every stage position like she was born for the role. Scary good. I think this girl hasa very bright future, she's one to watch, and i'm lucky i get to watch from up close. check her out at Myspace.com/arianagrande and check out "13" at www.13themusical.com

-Ken Lewis

Man On Earth Climbs to #1

2008-11-15T16:42:00.003-05:00

Well, its been a crazy month, and i havent been blogging much. Just trying to keep one step ahead of my never ending workload. First, CONGRATS President-Elect Obama!!!
Man On Earth, the indie rockers from New York City who's new album "The Time Spent Wondering" i recently produced, just told me their first single "All We Want" is currently in its 3rd week at #1 on Amarillo's FM rock station, KACV. The single officially went for ad's nationwide on November 3rd so we'll see pretty soon how the rest of the country feels about them. Check out the video of their single "All We Want" on Youtube at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65TEz6a88HQ

-Ken Lewis

President-Elect

2008-11-05T00:21:00.000-05:00

This is a great night for America.

-Ken Lewis

I Voted!!!!!! Did You?

2008-11-04T06:45:00.002-05:00

6:45am, Tuesday November 4th. I just got home from casting my Ballot for Barack Obama. I'm very excited! Get out there and vote today! OK, i've really got to go to sleep now.

-Ken Lewis

Vote Tuesday

2008-11-03T03:27:00.003-05:00

Hey You. Yes, you American 18 or older reading this right now. Vote Tuesday. Don't be a slacker and blow it off. If you don't vote, you relinquish your right to bitch about our Government for the next 4 years, so get out and vote! Preferably for Obama, but hey, if you've decided on McCain aint nothing i can say thats going to change your mind that the last two months shouldn't have done.

And i leave you with my favorite little website. Its only funny because there's a real thread of truth thru alot of it, but mostly, its just funny. Click around on everything, and click things more than once. I didn't stop laughing for about ten minutes.

www.PalinAsPresident.com

-Ken Lewis

McCain Tax Cuts

2008-10-29T14:12:00.002-05:00

Just to set the record straight on John McCain. Maybe his memory is fading in his old age and McCain doesnt even remember what his own positions were 4 and 8 years ago. And of course I dont think McCain has yet figured out that there's this thing called the internet that can stream video of recorded interviews done 8 years ago, so people can hear, in his own words, what McCain's former positions on taxes have been, and what he's trying to say about Obama's tax plan now. Please watch. This is interesting.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c3AvZqYC4mw

-Ken Lewis

Closing Arguments

2008-10-28T00:45:00.002-05:00

"Closing Arguments - Obama"

I have longed to be inspired by my President, inspired by my Country. Its been a long time since i have. Barack Obama inspires me. Not just because he gives a good speech. But because he leads by example, and he asks the citizens of this great nation to contribute to our Nation's well being. As he put it, after 9/11, George W Bush told us to go shopping. He never asked us to sacrifice, to contribute to our nations wellbeing, nothing, just go shopping. He didnt tell us to conserve energy, buy more fuel efficient cars, recycle, invest in green energy. Nothing. In fact in 2001, George Bush, via his Press Secretary said "The President believes that it is the American Way to drive your big SUV's and consume more than the rest of the planet, it is our God given right as Americans". Imagine if, after 9/11 he declared "in ten years, we need to rid ourselves of dependence on foreign oil". Imagine where we would be as a nation right now!!!! Instead we are 8 years behind the curve. There are so many things about this Government that need to be changed. Barack Obama is the man for the job.

I'll leave you with these few little facts. Barack Obama was still paying off his student loans when he became a US Senator. In other words, he was Middle Class. 1 house, 1 car. Joe Biden is the second to lowest earning US Senator. He makes $245K a year total. His wife teaches and earns $66K. On the Eastern Seaboard, that is Middle Class. John McCain and his wife, incidentally, are worth approximately 100 Million. Cindy McCain earned over 4 Million dollars in 2007 alone. They own a jet, over a dozen cars, 9 houses. Does anybody honestly believe this man has a clue what working class American's are going thru? He is surrounded by Lobbyists. His campaign is run by two of the biggest lobbyists in Washington. Obama does not take a single cent of lobbyist money.

Anyway, Barack gave a powerful substantive speech today in Canton, Ohio. His "Closing Argument" for his candidacy. Here is a link to the speech on YouTube. Its a half our of your time extremely well spent. Enjoy. and on November 4th, get out and VOTE!!!

"Closing Arguments - Obama"

-Ken Lewis

Conservatives For Change

2008-10-23T19:07:00.001-05:00

Please take 2 minutes and go to this website

ConservativesForChange.com

-Ken Lewis

Man On Earth rocks KACV FM in Amarillo

2008-10-22T14:26:00.003-05:00

Man On Earth, the indie rockers from New York City who's new album "The Time Spent Wondering" i recently produced, just told me their first single "All We Want" is currently up from #3 to #2 most played song on Amarillo's FM rock station, KACV. The single is officially going for ad's nationwide on November 3rd. You can check out Man On Earth at the link below, or watch their video for "All We Want" on Youtube. Here are the links!

MySpace.com/ManOnEarth

ALL WE WANT - Music Video

Enjoy!

Ken Lewis

Colin Powell Endorsement

2008-10-19T15:28:00.002-05:00

Colin Powell on Meet The Press

For those of you who haven't seen it, this is a must see. First off, if you don't know exactly who Colin Powell is, He was Secretary of State under George W. Bush, Colin Powell was also Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during the 1st Gulf War, as well as a National Security Advisor during Bush Senior's administration. Powell is one of the most accomplished and respected Republican's in the Nation. I have always held great personal respect for him and I was disappointed when he decided not to run for President in 2000. I think he would have made a great one.

Today on "Meet The Press", Powell gave one of the most eloquent, well thought out, well delivered endorsements i've seen, and he put his full support behind Senator Barack Obama for President. This is 7 minutes long and it is an absolute must see. Keep in mind, Powell is a highly respected War hero and elder Stateman, and a Republican.

Colin Powell on Meet The Press

-Ken Lewis

what a week

2008-10-11T04:24:00.003-05:00

I haven't stopped working in weeks. Holy cow. I really thought tackling this much work for this long would steer me toward burnout, but it seems to be having the opposite effect. I wake up every morning lately energized to make another record, nail another mix. I don't know where my energy and focus is coming from but I'm sure glad i have it. 5:30am on a Friday night after a very long day of work. Time to call it a night and wake up tomorrow to tackle a new day. Hope your all doing well too.

Ken Lewis

Register to VOTE - Deadline this week!

2008-10-05T17:44:00.003-05:00

OK, if you are 18 or over in America, and not yet registered to vote, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR!!! Register right here right now, in 3 minutes. Then its done, and you can vote. If you dont vote, you forfeit your right to bitch about our politicians and political system, and who wants to give up that right??!!

3 minutes. READY....... GO!!!!!!

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER TO VOTE!

Thanks!
-Ken Lewis

PARTY TONIGHT in NYC!! FREE BAR and a GREAT BAND

2008-10-03T14:59:00.001-05:00

Hey friends,
Ken Lewis here. Come join me tonight (Friday Oct 3rd) in NYC at Crash Mansion for the album release party for New York City indie rockers "Man On Earth"! I've worked hard with the band over the last year producing their new album "The Time Spent Wondering" and tonight they debut it to the world. Man On Earth is also performing at 10:30pm.

There's a FREE open bar from 9pm to 10pm, so i'll be feeling great by showtime. Man On Earth will be joined on stage tonight by very special guest Matt "Doctor" Fink, keyboard player for Prince & The Revolution. Matt played on the first TEN Prince albums!!! Dr Fink played on the album and will join the band for their set on stage tonight.

Crash Mansion is downtown at 199 Bowery Street, a few blocks south of Canal Street on the lower east side.

Check out Man on Earth at Myspace.com/manonearth

See You Tonight! Come say hello!
-Ken Lewis

This Needed to be Said

2008-10-02T02:46:00.002-05:00

Click Here - Watch This Important Speech

Wow, this really needed to be said. Damn, did this ever need to be said, especially by somebody in a position of power and respect. This is a speech from AFL-CIO's Richard Trumka. This really needed to be said.

If you care about this election, and you really should, please watch this speech.

Thank you

-Ken Lewis
PS. are you registered to vote yet? What are you waiting for??? Click Here to Register Online in 3 Minutes

Cheney Tells the Truth About Iraq

2008-09-28T01:10:00.002-05:00

I know this administration is almost gone, but the next administration will either keep us fighting in Iraq or pull us back to a marginal force. I for one was against invading Iraq since before we went in. I never thought it was a good idea. I said to my family, who supported the invasion, 3 days before the invasion "This will be a quagmire and alot of Americans will lose their lives and Saddam isn't worth it right now". This Administration also said the war, in TOTAL, would cost us less than ten billion. It now costs ten billion a MONTH, and economists say it's long term effect could cost 3 TRILLION. This war has now lasted longer than World War II.

If you still somehow support the Iraq war, please watch this video, and tell me our leaders did not know what they faced if we invaded Iraq. This is an interview with Dick Cheney (who served in Bush Senior's administration during the first Gulf War, which i did support). This is 1994, and he sounds like he's got a crystal ball into how the current Iraq war has played out. Remember, this interview is from 1994.

1994 Dick Cheney Interview Video

They knew. We went in anyway. John McCain will keep us fighting there. If you haven't yet registered to vote, the deadline is approaching quickly. I posted a blog last week with an easy link to Register to Vote online. it takes 3 minutes. Do it. Then vote on November 4th.
-Ken Lewis

Mixing "RAIN" aka Jung Ji Hoon

2008-09-24T15:57:00.002-05:00

I havent been blogging much lately. There's a reason, i have been swamped with great songs to mix. If you don't know who "Rain" is, you are most likely not Asian. I think it would be safe to call Rain a mega-star in Asia. Rain is a Korean pop star (also film star - he had a major role in"Speed Racer"), model, actor, etc... He is very popular throughout Asia, especially in Japan, China, and Korea.

Time Magazine placed Rain on their "100 Most Influential People In The World" list for 2006, and last year he sold out Madison Square Garden 5 nights in a ROW. He was even on the "Steven Colbert Show".

I am currently mixing Rain's new album, due out in October. I've finished 4 mixes so far and (though i cannot understand alot of the lyrics) i am really impressed with the album. I think they are shooting a video to the first single right now. I'll keep you posted!
-Ken Lewis

Economics & the Presidential Campaign

2008-09-23T01:18:00.002-05:00

Suffice it to say, as happened to alot of people, I watched helplessly last week as alot of my financial wealth (i use that term loosely, i am anything but wealthy), but i watched alot of my own financial wealth vanish. Fortunately, some of it came back this week with the market bounce. One thing it definitely did do is make me read and listen to anything and everything about the economy, past, present, and future. What the many causes of the meltdown were and who might best fix it. Its no secret I am a strong Obama supporter, but i didnt get there by accident. I got there by absorbing every bit of knowledge on every candidate, democrat and republican, and formed a decision. I personally think Obama is by far the strongest candidate, for whatever thats worth.

I just read a great article on the current crisis. you should read it. all of you. read it twice. The most striking message of the article is basically who surrounds themselves with better people, draws from their experience and expertise, then makes the right decision. I think John McCain is terrible at it, as was demonstrated by picking Sarah Palin, the governor of the 3rd smallest state (by population) in the country, who has been in office just over 18 months, and her only experience before that was as mayor of Wasilla, Alaska, population 7,000. I've been there. Is this the caliber of person you want a heartbeat away from the presidency? Is this the caliber of person you want filling Dick Cheyney's shoes? Yikes. Anyway, back to the economy. Please read this article, its excellent. knowledge is power.

Economy Article

Ken Lewis

REGISTER TO VOTE!!!!!!!!

2008-09-14T14:15:00.002-05:00

Barack Obama just posted the coolest webpage. It makes registering to vote very quick and easy, only a few minutes. It also lets you check to make sure you are still registered to vote, and will even tell you where your closest polling station is to go and cast your vote.

All of this is critically important moreso this election than any in my adult lifetime. I also encourage you, if you are already registered, to check and make sure you still are (only takes a couple minutes, I checked my own). There has been a HUGE purge of people's names off of voter roles in many states this year, which is currently being investigated. But your name might be one of those purged, dont take it for granted.

SO. REGISTER... VOTE!!! Preferably for Obama, but ya'll can make up your Obama own minds :-)

Here's the link

REGISTER-TO-VOTE

Every eligible American should cast their vote this year for whoever you choose!

Thank you.

Ken Lewis

Two Top 20 Albums!

2008-09-12T12:41:00.002-05:00

OK, so the new Young Jeezy album debuted at #1 this week selling 253,000 copies! SWEEEEEET. I created the intro of the album which is a collage of TV news broadcasts, only it was created from scratch, not sampled, and made to sound like a bunch of TV broadcasts. Much harder to create than you might think. Took me about 24 hours. The album "The Recession" is Jeezy's second #1 album, and my 25th #1 album. Also hitting the charts this week is the new Donnie Klang record which debuted at #19! So for the second time this year, i have two albums in the Top 20. Exciting stuff. and there is even more super great stuff coming out this year for me. More on that later.

-Ken Lewis

Pictures From Ireland

2008-09-10T08:54:00.004-05:00

(Click on the pictures to enlarge) After flying into Dublin, I drove to the Medieval town of Kilkenny (you bastards!!) and the first thing i saw upon arrival in Kilkenny was a giant can of Guiness on wheels. I thought for a moment i had died and this was heaven, then the giant beer drove away and i realized it was Hell. Actually Kilkenny was a very cool town.

This is the 13th Century Gothic Cathedral of St Canices in Kilkenny. I've never seen a graveyard like this right out in the Cathedral front lawn, and i thought it was beautiful with all of the Celtic Crosses and leaning gravestones.

The Angel of St Canices. I just thought this statue was beautiful and haunting at the same time. Also note the size of the stone used to build St Canices. Thousands of small to medium size rocks all hand laid. I don't think I've ever seen a Cathedral built in this fashion, and I've seen ALOT of Cathedrals!

Dromoland Castle. This was my HOTEL in County Clair, a bonafide 17th Century castle converted to a hotel. I stayed in the oldest part of the castle and the vibe was really amazing.

The Cliffs of Moher on the western coast of Ireland. These are the highest cliffs in Europe, rising 700 feet at their highest point. Pictures can't begin to do justice so such an awe inspiring place.

These are the ruins at the Rock of Cashel. this fortress Cathedral dates back to the 11th Century. I wish i could show you more of this place, but its so massive that its hard to capture the depth of it with a few pictures, so here's a single shot. This is atop a high hill which slopes down steeply on all sides. I'm sure the location was picked as much for its defensibility as it was a place that could be seen from tens of miles away.

To Dublin at last! OK, so i'm a sucker for Cathedrals, I know I know. This is Christ Church Cathedral in Dublin. Its a beautiful structure but fairly unremarkable on the inside as European Cathedrals go.

And of course, the reason everybody comes to Dublin, the beer! The Guiness Brewery is in Dublin, and they offer tours, which of course i had to take! This is my pint of Guiness at the end of my tour. Yum. Not my favorite beer, but i certainly enjoy it.

Ireland is a beautiful and very green country. I've driven hundreds of miles from East to West, North to South, and its simply green everywhere! Hence, i'm sure, the national colors. I have also noticed the very talented singers that Ireland seems to spawn. Virtually every singer i've heard from Kilkenny to County Clair to Dublin has been really excellent, whether they are singing traditional Irish folk songs or belting out covers or singing originals. And Dublin seems to be a very musical city, much like New Orleans. Often you'll see an accordion player on the street, or a duo with acoustic guitars, or mixed instruments with fiddle and banjo. Even on a Sunday night in Temple Bar, great live music was everywhere. Cheers to Ireland!

-Ken Lewis

KILKENNY - You Bastards!

2008-09-08T06:47:00.002-05:00

No, I'm not in South Park, I'm in Kilkenny, Ireland. Or, well, i was yesterday. So, i discovered a sport i've never heard of before called "Hurling", and as it turns out, Kilkenny are the best Hurlers in the world! No, its not some crazy drinking game, its kind of like Rugby and Field Hockey combined, and is actually alot of fun to watch. Kilkenny just won the All Ireland finals for the 3rd year in a row. The town of Kilkenny is a quiet little place dating back to Medieval times. I had dinner and drinks in a restaurant founded in the 1200's. Also saw Kilkenny Castle which at one point was the capitol of Ireland and at another point was subject to English cannonfire so much so that one wall of the castle was obliterated. Doesnt seem like a big deal until you know that the castle walls are 9 feet thick at their narrowest point!

I left Kilkenny and drove to the spectacu....... ummm... wait a minute Ken, did you say you are DRIVING in Ireland? Yes, driving, on the wrong side of the road in a stick shift. Talk about alot for the brain to keep straight.......drove to the spectacular Cliffs of Moher, the highest cliffs in Europe. I promise i'll post pics of all this stuff, its worth seeing. Now its on to Dublin!

-Ken Lewis

Jeezy is #1 on the Charts

2008-09-08T06:45:00.001-05:00

Young Jeezy's new album "The Recession" dropped this week and will cruise easily to the #1 spot on the Billboard Top 200 Albums Charts next week. Early sales figures put first week sales at 250,000 units! Half way to gold in one week, not too bad at all! Have you bought the record yet? Well, if so, my work is the very first thing you hear on the album. Track #1 The Recession Intro was completely created by me. Its basically a series of TV Newscasts talking about the current economy and the looming recession. Well, they would be TV Newscasters if they weren't hired and scripted by me. Its not easy at all to get authentic voices for these things, so i did what any smart guy would do and enlisted 4 voiceover pro's. The hard part was really getting all of their very well recorded voices to then sound like they were coming out of a series of TV sets in different living rooms across the nation. Hopefully i pulled it off well.

This album will be the 25th #1 Album of my career! Only 16 years into making major label records and I'm already a quarter of the way to my goal :-) The scarey thing is there are guys out there who probably have worked on 100 #1 albums. Just give me some more time. This is the 3rd one for me THIS YEAR, so its been quite a successful year so far. And there's more great releases to come!

-Ken Lewis

Young Jeezy & Donnie Klang Drop This week

2008-09-08T06:44:00.000-05:00

Well, i've been a little quiet and not blogging lately. Its not that there's nothing to talk about, its that my workload has reach insanely epic proportions and i'm working very hard to keep up. This week was a GREAT week for me for album releases. My name graces the liner notes of two of the biggest albums of the week, Def Jam's Young Jeezy and Bad Boy's Donnie Klang, the solo artist from Making the Band. I did very different things on both albums.

For Donnie Klang, I mixed his first single "Take U There" which is doing very well, and mixed 6 more cuts on the record at both my own studio and at Daddy's House Studios in Manhattan. I also had the distinct pleasure of playing guitar for super producer Seven on a song called "Love In Stereo". So when you hear the wailing slow guitar bends, thats me. I really like Donnie's record and its a good listen start to finish.

I haven't had a chance to listen to Jeezy's album, but if you've heard it, my work is the very first thing you hear. I always love it when i get to work on either the first cut on a record, or the title track, or the first single. It always ups the cool level just a bit. On Jeezy's album, I was actually called in to create an authentic sounding TV newscast to set the record off. The album is called "The Recession" and all of the TV voices are talking about the current economy and the recession, except it was all created by me with alot of help from some great pro voiceover people. It was a lot of fun to create and much more challenging than i thought it would be. Enjoy it!

The World Changed Tonight

2008-08-29T03:56:00.003-05:00

Did you see it? you know.... IT. THE OBAMA SPEECH The acceptance speech that Barack Obama delivered at the DNC Convention tonight in front of 84,000 people. Its now 6 hours after the speech and I...am...still... speechless. 4 years ago, i felt strongly about electing John Kerry primarily because this country couldn't take another 4 years of Bush / Cheney. 4 Years Later...Tonight, I feel like about 100 times stronger about the feeling that this nation MUST elect Barack Obama to lead us. We have been without leadership for 8 years. 8 IS ENOUGH.

I want a President who can not only speak in public without stuttering or stammering or embarrassing our nation, but a President who can speak and inspire this nation and its citizens, who can inspire the world. A President who can lead us back to truly being the greatest country on Earth.

I want a President who led as president of the highly respected Harvard Law Review in college, not a C Average Yale student (Bush) or potentially worse, a student (John McCain) that by his own words graduated FIFTH FROM THE BOTTOM of his class at the Naval Academy.

I want a President who knows how many houses he has (Obama owns 1, and will soon be moving into a new White House), John McCain when asked did not know how many houses he owned. Turns out John McCain owns 7 or 8 houses, but then who's keeping track right? Obama was still paying off student loans until he wrote his first book when he was in Congress. John McCain is worth at LEAST 36 Million and some estimates put it at 100 Million.

I want a President who challenges our Nation to be better, not a President who in time of war said thru his spokesman on May 7, 2001......

REPORTER: Does the President believe that, given the amount of energy Americans consume per capita, how much it exceeds any other citizen in any other country in the world, does the President believe we need to correct our lifestyles to address the energy problem?

MR. FLEISCHER: That's a big no. The President believes that it's an American way of life, and that it should be the goal of policy makers to protect the American way of life. The American way of life is a blessed one. And we have a bounty of resources in this country.

I want a President who cuts my taxes (Obama will cut taxes for 95% of Americans- AKA "The Middle Class", as opposed to Bush / McCain who gave and will continue to give HUGE tax cuts to the rich as well as huge tax cuts and subsidies to big oil companies when they are posting profits....PROFITS... not gross earning, after taxes profits EACH QUARTER, every three months of 10 BILLION DOLLARS. PROFIT!!! and we are giving THEM tax cuts. Oh my god.

I could go on for a long time. Most importantly, i feel like Obama is a born leader who will not only lead us, but surround himself with highly competent people in his administration, unlike the current Republican who appointed the head of The International Arabian Horse Association to lead FEMA. No wonder the Katrina New Orleans disaster happened. While "W" and McCain ate birthday cake on the deck of a carrier 2 days after New Orleans was under water, they left it to Brownie to tend to New Orleans and Brownie was hundreds of miles away eating steak.

OK... If you are still reading either you are already firmly on the Obama train or are at least keeping yourself open to the idea. So, on that note, if you missed Obama's speech tonight, PLEASE..... PLEASE PLEASE..... for the sake of your country and yourself, spend the next 45 minutes watching a great American speech. He actually starts about 2:30 minutes in. Enjoy.

I found it posted here....

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/08/28/barack-obama-democratic-c_n_122224.html

OBAMA SPEECH

-Ken Lewis

Introducing Young Jeezy

2008-08-12T01:51:00.003-05:00

So, i just finished creating the intro for the new Young Jeezy album. Its always a little extra special when you get your name on track #1, or the single, or the title track. In this case, just track #1. I'll take it. Not gonna spill the beans on what it is just yet, probably not at all what you think. I didn't mix it, (well, i mixed my part of it) i just created it, but it turned out to be quite an undertaking. Hopefully this will be another plaque on my wall. This is shaping up to be a fantastic year.

On another note, have any of you been watching the Olympics!!!! WOW! That Men's Swimming 4X100 Freestyle Relay was one of the all time best races i have ever watched in any sport ever. Sorry France, you might think twice about trash talking next time :-)
And the US Men clinching Bronze in the Gymnastics Team Competition was really awesome to watch. China was incredible. So much more to come i'm sure. Well, back to mixing. Gotta stay focused so i can take a few minutes a day to watch some Olympics!
-Ken Lewis

Josh Charles Tonight in NYC - 8/6/08

2008-08-06T04:16:00.003-05:00

Recently i had the distinct pleasure of mixing an album by artist Josh Charles. ( www.JoshCharlesMusic.com ) Josh describes his sound loosely as "NoTown", a fusion of New Orleans influences, Motown influences, soul, and modern pop. (i'm sure thats not exactly accurate, but you get the general idea, and there are songs posted on his website). At its core, the album has really great, memorable songs, with performances equally captivating. However, where the band truly shines is live on stage, and tonight they'll be playing at the Cutting Room in New York City at 8pm sharp. The Cutting Room is at 24th street between Broadway and 6th Ave. Go see them. I'll be there cheering!

Lots of great things have been happening for Josh, and i'm sure many many more are to come. Of special note, one of my favorite bass players in the world, and old friend, Paul Frasier, is on bass with Josh tonight. I've worked with Paul on many projects, most notably Paul played on the David Byrne album "Look Into the Eyeball" which i recorded and mixed, and played on a couple songs myself. Paul is truly amazing, as is the rest of the band. If your at the show, look for me and say hello! And if you miss the show, then check out the music on Josh's website, and let me know what you think of the mixes :-)

-Ken Lewis

Best Ears In The World

2008-07-28T03:44:00.002-05:00

I just thought this story was so inspirational and kind of reminded me of the show "Heroes" only in real life. I tend to think that we get a glimpse into our evolution 10,000 years into the future (if we make it that far) with people like Autistic Savants. The human brain and the human body are capable of doing the most unbelievable and extraordinary things, but almost always because they are highly crippled in some other way. Watch this kid (he is not autistic) who has developed echo location abilities, much like dolphins and bats have. He is also blind since the age of 2. This kid has the most incredibly tuned in pair of ears on the planet. If he ever wanted to be a mix engineer, the rest of us might just hang it up. Enjoy!!

Best Ears In The World

here's a bonus. one of my favorites. Daniel Tammet, a savant, but amazingly not autistic. There's an hour long documentary on him, this is just a 4 minute excerpt. the full documentary is simply beyond belief. This 4 minute clip is also pretty astounding. Like i said, this seems to me that a handful of people on Earth have unlocked the evolution of the human brain and body and are giving us a glimpse of what our distant future as a species might hold. Imagine if everyone could do these things!!!!

Daniel Tammet - Math and Language Savant

Enjoy!
-Ken Lewis

Death of a Great Man

2008-07-25T21:30:00.002-05:00

For those of you who do not know you Randy Pausch is, you owe it to yourself to learn who he is and to watch his "Last Lecture". Randy Pausch was a researcher and lecturer at Carnegie Mellon. Several months ago, he was diagnosed with terminal Pancreatic cancer, and today, Friday, July 25, 2008, it claimed his life. I could give you 100 reasons why you should know and care who he was, but instead, you owe it to yourself to spend one hour of your life watching his "Last Lecture". He is one of the strongest, most inspirational people I've ever heard. If you dont have an hour to spend, I've included a ten minute version of his Lecture which he gave on the Oprah show, just as inspiring. I promise you, it will change you. Rest In Peace Randy.

Randy Pausch Last Lecture - 1 Hour

Randy Pausch Last Lecture - 10 Minute Ver.

-Ken Lewis

Video Blog from Monday night 7-21-08

2008-07-25T00:56:00.002-05:00

Hey there!
So i fired up my webcam Monday night and rattled off a new little video blog. Just a general update really, not much of a tech blog but thats coming in a day or so. So, if you're bored and have 7 minutes to kill, kick back and catch the update!

-Ken Lewis

PMP WORLDWIDE - Interview

2008-07-22T14:24:00.002-05:00

I just did a really nice interview with PMPWorldwide.com

They run a great website for producers (PMP= Producers Market Place), so if you are an aspiring urban producer, check out the site and while you are at it, check out my interview, its a pretty good read. Its on the main page at....

www.pmpworldwide.com

and while your at it, you can check out my own producer page on PMP

The Skywalkers Producers

Enjoy!

-Ken Lewis

Returning to Daddy's House Studios

2008-07-16T18:53:00.003-05:00

Last Tuesday i returned to Daddy's House Studios, the recording home of Bad Boy Records, to continue mixes on MTV Making The Band solo artist, Donnie Klang. I mixed 2 songs last week, and so far two more songs this week, and I'm about to begin another mix now (8pm Wednesday evening). I already mixed Donnie's fist single "Take U There", which Donnie recently shot a hot hot HOT video to. The single should be dropping early next month to coincide with the new season of Making The Band on MTV, which i think starts in early August. As Diddy has already announced, this coming season will be "Making the Tour", as the cameras have been following Danity Kane, Day 26, and Donnie Klang out on tour. No cameo's for me this season, my 15 seconds (literally) of airtime last season was all she wrote.

So, this is also the return of the incredibly high track count mixes. The one i just finished had over 192 tracks!!! The one i'm about to start is equally daunting. Donnie's got some really hot songs on this album, I'm really proud to be working on it. Its always fun making records you think will be hits. Hell, i get to make records for a living, its hard NOT to have a fun day :-)

And on that note, my next mix is ready, back to work for me.

-Ken Lewis

5th From the Bottom

2008-07-15T21:08:00.001-05:00

Please watch this video on YouTube.com

I could not believe my own ears.

5th From the Bottom - Video

-Ken Lewis

Arianna Grande Production - Day 1

2008-07-03T23:24:00.003-05:00

This week on Wednesday i started production with a new artist named Arianna Grande. Arianna just turned 15 and what can i tell you about her except that she's got one of the best voices I've ever recorded and she's soon to be starring in an ensemble cast on Broadway for a highly anticipated new play called "13" making its Broadway debut in October! Yeah, I'd say she's got alot going for her. Not the least of which is charisma that just lights up a room.

So, I'll be producing 4 songs with her, and yesterday we started on the 1st of the 4. We did some songwriting on a new song and completely reworked it. Its coming along really well, but has a long ways to go, and it will get there. I co-wrote all 4 songs I'm producing with her and I'll be enlisting my two very talented staff guys, Brent Kolatalo, and Cooper Anderson to co-produce 3 of the 4 songs with me. I am REALLY excited about this project and I think Arianna is just going to bring magic to these songs.

Just for clarification, this project sounds NOTHING like a broadway singer. Its definitely pop, i guess leaning towards rhythmic pop, maybe along the lines of Rihanna or Natasia Bedingfield, in that general vein without sounding like either of those two artists. I'm sure i'll be blogging more about it as these songs develop and this project evolves, but we're off to a great start!

-Ken Lewis

Lee Carr Mix Session

2008-07-03T23:17:00.004-05:00

I just finished an all day mix session at my studio with the amazingly talented Jive Records artist Lee Carr. Lee and I just put the finishing touches on the final mix of Lee's next single. I'm not sure if i'm supposed to reveal the title of the song just yet, so I'll err on the side of caution and simply tell you that this song is a SMASH and you will most definitely be hearing it on the radio soon! We also recalled a mix for an artist Lee Carr is producing named Tezzy. Lee is also co-owner of Third Lane Records and Tezzy is Third Lane's newest signing. So, I mixed Tezzy's single last week, but tonight after Lee's single was finished, we pulled up Tezzy's single for about an hour and put some nice polish and shine on it and its ready to go! What a day! I think i am going to go out to my favorite diner, sit and have a nice meal and a tall glass of German beer and enjoy the rest of my night. Its 12:30am now. Oh, so i guess that means HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!!!!! its the 4th of July!

-Ken Lewis

Beast of the Beats II

2008-06-30T13:29:00.002-05:00

Yesterday (Sunday) was the iStandardproducers.com "BEAST OF THE BEATS II" and there were i think 20 producers who were winners of previous Monthly Beat Battles from NYC, Philly, Chicago, and Atlanta, who all came together to battle it out for some pretty awesome prizes and supreme bragging rights. The competition was heated as everybody brought their best shots.

When the dust cleared, producer "The Letter C" stood atop the rubble as the winner of Beats of the Beats II. A very big congrats goes out to The Letter C, and as i was a sponsor of the event, The Letter C also wins a free mixdown from me. I wish i could offer a free mix to all of the producers as they were all incredibly talented. The top 4 winners were

1. The Letter C
2. JPat
3. Canei Finch
4. El Boogs

Some of my other personal favorites included PersuaZion, Pyro, and the Rockstars, but man, everybody really had some heat. The event was at a club in Manhattan called "Touch", which just had a monsterous sound system and a nice stage area. The judging panel included industry heavyweight Dave Lighty - A&R at Jive Records, and Pete Rock, whom i recorded his Soul Survivors album with. I havent seen Pete in 10 years! though we worked together on "Dogs of War" for the Ghostface Killah "Fishscale" album. Also, much to my complete surprise, Just Blaze was in the building, which i didnt know at first and apparently i walked right past him when i went over to say hi to Pete Rock and totally missed Just Blaze. When i found out Just was there, i went back to and caught up with him for a good half hour, I havent seen him in a while, though not long ago we did a bit of work together on the Saigon project.

Anyway. What a night. Congrats to all the producers and Kudos to Don Di Napoli and J Hatch of istandardproducers.com for putting on such a high profile and well run event!

-Ken Lewis

Viva Espana!

2008-06-30T13:27:00.002-05:00

Congrats to the Spanish National Soccer Team who won the Euro Cup 2008 Tournament on Sunday beating Germany 1-0. A very enjoyable match in which Spain clearly dominated the German squad on both offense and defense. Sorry Ramon, my team won :-)

-Ken Lewis

ESPANA!!

2008-06-27T02:43:00.002-05:00

I only saw the second half of the match, but Espana really dominated Russia in the Euro 2008 Semi Final today, beating them 3 -0 to advance to the finals. Beautiful goal scoring and offenseive play in general. Spain faces Germany on Sunday for the Cup Finals! Germany, you know I love you, but I'm picking Spain to win it all. Ramon, who are you picking? :-)

-Ken Lewis

Small Town Sleeper Enters the Charts!!!!

2008-06-26T02:48:00.002-05:00

Ohio Pop rock band "Small Town Sleeper", signed to my production company and Upper 11 / Fontana Records is finally on the charts. This has been a long time in the making to say the least. I met the band in 2000 (yes 8 years ago) and began developing them. I got them signed in 2006 and began producing their debut album which we finished in March of 2007.

Their first single "Backseat" has now been serviced to radio and is starting to make its presence felt. hopefully this is just the very beginning of a long chart run. "Backseat" debuted last week on the"CHR / Top 40 Indicator" chart last week at #37 and climbed to #36 this week. I've included a screenshot of the chart. Most notable is who's on the charts next to them. American Idol, David Cook, at #38, Taylor Swift at #32, Maroon 5 at #28. I'd say they are in excellent company indeed. You can listen to (and buy) "Backseat" on the band's myspace page, www.MySpace.com/SmallTownSleeper

Give it a listen! I am extremely proud of this album. (there are also Listen clips on my home page).

-Ken Lewis

Germany Denies The Turks!

2008-06-26T02:42:00.002-05:00

Did anyone see the Euro Cup 2008 Semi Final Soccer match, Germany against the Cinderella Turkish squad. WHAT A MATCH!!! I thought Turkey dominated most of the game, and certainly had more scoring opportunities, but they did dodge a bullet with a flagrant foul in the penalty box that went uncalled, and would have been a penalty kick. Turkey trailed late in the game 2-1, and tied it up with several minutes left in the match. Just as it looked like overtime, Germany scored an amazing goal to win the match 3-2. Congrats Germany and good luck in the finals! Turkey, what can you say, they've had the most amazing tournament of any team and should be immensely proud as a team and nation. they played a great game tonight. -Ken

No End In Sight - You MUST Watch This

2008-06-23T22:19:00.002-05:00

My production partner recently saw a documentary on the Iraq war called "No End In Sight". He was so moved by it that he told me i absolutely MUST watch it. So i just watched it, and I am now telling you, YOU MUST WATCH THIS. Rent the movie. Steal it from the internet. but watch it. It gives such deep insight into the (complete lack of) post war planning, and generally breaks down in shocking detail how everything in Iraq got so beyond fucked up. This is a not a Bush bashing propaganda film. It mostly relies on direct interviews with major players behind the scenes. The people who were there, knew what they were doing, or didnt, and either did not have the resources, or the man power, or were fired and replaced with completely incompetent people, or were sidelined while the Bush Administration made incredibly blunderous, short sighted, mistakes that led us down the path we're still on. I cannot begin to describe to you how the impact this film will (should) have on you, only that you, as an American, owe it to yourself to be much better informed than you currently are. Here's a link to the film trailer, and I have also provided several other links to additional articles and additional interviews with some of the people interviewed for the film.

No End In Sight - Film Trailer

interview with the Director

Video Interview with Colonel Paul Hughes

Sincerely,

-Ken Lewis

Sign O' the Times

2008-06-22T23:13:00.002-05:00

Give this article a quick read.

Gas Prices Thwart Indie Band Tours

On an unrelated note, a big congrats to Spain who advanced to the Semi Finals over Italy today! They play Russia in the semi final for Euro Cup 2008 Soccer!

-Ken Lewis

Costs Of War

2008-06-21T12:41:00.003-05:00

Please take 60 seconds out of your day to watch this. With over 4,100 US Soldiers dead, tens of thousands wounded, almost $600 Billion spent to date (mostly borrowed money from China) with projections of 3 TRILLION in costs. What are we gaining from occupying Iraq?

Costs Of War

Thanks for watching

-Ken Lewis

Heartbreak Kids

2008-06-20T17:37:00.002-05:00

Wow, what a finish!!!! I just watched the Croatia Vs. Turkey Quarterfinal match for the Euro Cup 2008. WOW! It was 0-0 into the second overtime period. Croatia scored late in the period which looked like it would certainly clinch the game. But Turkey was not to be denied, as they have been the comeback kids all tournament, Turkey scored the equalizer goal in stoppage time at the very end of the second overtime to throw the game into Penalty Kicks. UNBELIEVABLE!!! Well, if that wasn't unbelievable enough, Croatia missed 3 of 4 Penalty Kicks, and Turkey made all of their first 3 Penalty kicks to win the match. I know the whole country of Croatia must simply be heartbroken and at the other side of the pendulum, all of Turkey must certainly be partying like its 1999! Congrats Turkey! You get to face Germany in the Semi's. Yikes!
-Ken Lewis

Danity Hangs Tough!

2008-06-20T17:33:00.002-05:00

THis weeks "Damaged" update report. All of the singles chart positions for Danity Kane's hit single "Damaged" have held even.

Billboard Charts.....

Pop 100 Airplay #3 (last week #3)
Pop 100 Singles #5 (last week #5)
Hot 100 Airplay #8 (last week #8)
Hot 100 Singles #14 (last week #13)

Go DK go!

-Ken Lewis

Gas Prices - Explanation

2008-06-19T21:28:00.002-05:00

OK, here's a bit of info for you as to why gas prices are so high and how they might stay that way....... or not. It gets REALLY interesting around 6 minutes in, but is definitely worth watching the whole 10 minute clip.
Knowledge is Power.

High Gas Prices - Video

-Ken Lewis

A Little Something to Brighten Your Day

2008-06-19T04:13:00.002-05:00

OK, probably only real Star Wars fans will appreciate this, but i imagine thats ALOT of people. I am one of them, just call me Kenobi.

These are clips from "Robot Chicken", which in my view might just be the best show on television. The #1 clip has got to be the 2 best minutes of TV ever created.

Star Wars - Watch Clip #1

ENJOY!

-Ken

PS. Portugal plays Germany today!!! Euro Cup 2008! I've got a bit of Portugese blood in me, so I've got to go with my ancestry.

Who's Watching Soccer? Euro Cup 2008

2008-06-17T19:44:00.002-05:00

Congrats go out today to Italy for its 2-0 smackdown on France, which advanced Italy to the Quarter Finals along with The Netherlands from their group. Better luck next year France, you know i love you. I'm looking forward to watching Sweden play Russia tomorrow as well as Greece against Spain. I love soccer. I played year round my whole life from 6 years old until i was 22 (when i moved to NYC). I also got to attend several matches during the 1994 World Cup in America, where i saw, among other games, Bulgaria beat the mighty Germany!

Who else is watching the Euro Cup?
-Ken Lewis

Damaged @ #3!

2008-06-12T14:55:00.002-05:00

This weeks chart update on Danity Kane "Damaged"

Pop 100 Singles Airplay - #3 (up from #5!!)
Pop 100 Singles - #5 (up from #10!!)
Hot 100 Singles Airplay - #8 (last week #8)
Hot 100 Singles - #13 (down from #12, peaked at #10)

Damaged Remix featuring Fabolous

2008-06-12T02:29:00.002-05:00

I just finished mixing Danity Kane's "Damaged" Remix featuring rapper Fabolous. Its basically the same version as before but with a section added for Fab to rhyme over. Of course as usual, Fab spit fire on the track. Keep your ears open for this to hit radio soon. Bad Boy usually makes this stuff happen pretty quickly.
I'm also in the middle of mixing 6 songs for new Jive R&B artist Lee Carr. This dude is gonna be a star. I love every song I've mixed so far. His current single "Stilettos" is on the radio now (i did not mix that song, i came into the project after it went to radio). More about this project later.
-Ken Lewis

Ouch $70 For Gas!

2008-06-10T16:21:00.004-05:00

Damn. I just paid $70 to fill my gas tank. I can't believe it. I thought it was bad a few months ago when it was costing $50 to fill the tank. (in Europe last fall it cost me over $100 per fill up). Is it the worthless US Dollar? The Oil men in the White House? War destabilizing the Middle East? Stock market speculation and manipulation driving up the price? Increased demand from India and China? A complete lack of a US Energy Policy, or the fact that people like Kenneth Lay (Enron) helped write the Energy Policy with Dick Cheney (who is still heavily invested in Halliburton)? Lack of investment in alternative energies?

Did you know the US Senate recently stripped all tax credits for renewable energies out of the latest energy bill? UN F-ING BELIEVABLE. There's the Big Oil Lobby at work buying Senate votes, spineless Democrat and Republican alike. Did you know we still PAY US Tax dollars to the oil companies for subsidies for oil exploration, at the same time that they are posting PROFIT, after taxes, of TEN BILLION DOLLARS a quarter!! (Thats 3 months, ten billion in profit). So, we subsidize oil, and we dont subsidize renewable energy.

When Bush entered office, he pledged to give 9 Billions dollars over 4 years, mostly to the big 3 automakers, to research clean transportation alternatives. 9 billion. You might as well spit into the wind (the wind we arent harnessing for energy). Conversely, the Congressional Budget Office estimates that the United States spends approximately 9 Billion dollars a month to wage war in Iraq. Imagine if 8 years ago, our answer to Saddam was "keep your F'ing oil, we wont need it in ten years" and then we spent 50 or 100 billion building Solar farms, Wind farms, clean burning coal factories (yes you CAN burn coal completely cleanly, we just dont do it). We could have been well on our way to ending our dependency on foreign oil by now. Instead we are 8 years behind and paying $4 for a gallon of gas. Europe of course is laughing at us because they pay almost double that for gas, but across Europe you see small cars, and wind farms generating power.

Just thought i'd vent and maybe drop some info for people to think about. I'd love to hear what you have to say. leave a comment.
-Ken Lewis

Zaho - French indie Success!!!!

2008-06-06T03:16:00.002-05:00

Last year i mixed a song called "Dima" for an independent French Canadian artist named Zaho (she sings in French). "Dima" became the title track to her album which was picked up by EMI International for distribution. EMI launched the album in France and so far it has done very well. I just got a letter from the producer of the song i mixed, asking me to mix her next single. Here is an excerpt from the letter...

......Hi Ken,
Things are going pretty well for Zaho, her first single has been hovering at #3 physical sales for a few weeks now (#1 on some digital platform as well), the single has been #1 on Skyrock, the #1 urban radio in france and we are in the 10th most played track in the national airplay. the album is not doing bad at all at all either and we just finished shooting the 2nd video for her next single in order to boost those as well. Everybody's unanimous, "Dima" is the best sounding track on the album (and a good 4th single).........

This is why i love my job. Congrats on all the success so far Zaho, and hopefully much more coming your way. If you would like to hear Zaho, her website is www.myspace.com/zaho

enjoy!
-Ken Lewis

Damaged Holding On

2008-06-05T17:46:00.002-05:00

THis week's Billboard Charts just came out. Danity Kane's single "Damaged" is hanging on tight at the top of the charts. Here's a run down. (i mixed 5 songs on the album including "Damaged")

"DAMAGED"
Pop 100 Airplay - #5 (last week #5)
Pop 100 Singles - #10 (Last week #9)
Hot 100 Airplay - #8 (last week #8)
Hot 100 Singles - #12 (last week #11)

"Welcome to the Dollhouse"
R&B 100 Albums - #30 (debuted at #1 and is now Gold)
Top 200 Albums - #95 (debuted at #1 and is now Gold)

Day 26 - Album is current #48 on the R&B 100 Albums (i mixed the 1st single "Got Me Going" and 4 more songs on the album)

-Ken Lewis