Producing Singer Songwriters – David Kershenbaum’s work with Tracy Chapman

Producing singer/songwriters can be a double edged sword for the producer. A singer songwriter will have very firm ideas as to the sound of a song, when it comes to laying down the tracks and developing that final mix. In Tracy Chapman’s case, David Kershenbaum was the magic ingredients needed. David’s early experience with producing the legendary album “Diamonds & Rust” (1975) for 60’s/70’s singer songwriter Joan Baez, gave David the edge in producing what would be grammy winning and mulitplatinum songs & albums. “Building the music around Tracy’s vocals” was key. I spoke with David recently and explored his craft with him.

Music Production Blog – William Stage 1

William is songwriter and musician who makes his living busking around Sydney’s Central station. He was “discovered” a few years ago by a TV producer, Kristina, who was instantly captivated by his music. Over the past couple of years Kristina and William have collaborated on writing songs, and it was through the Music Producers Forum that they found myself, and invited me to produce four initial tracks.