The Speakers Are A Lens with Ben Rice (The National, Norah Jones, Joan Osborne)
Love Music More · hosted by Luke F. Walton (Scoobert Doobert)
Guest: Ben Rice
Watch
Listen
Topics discussed
Host note
Ben Rice has run Degraw Sound in Gowanus, Brooklyn since 2012, making records with The National, Norah Jones, and Joan Osborne, among others, and picking up an Americana Producer of the Year nomination along the way. The episode itself runs at his pace: unhurried, no rush anywhere in it.
We talk about the producers who shaped how he works, especially Gus Van Gogh, whose patience became the model for his own nurturing approach, and about how creating a comfortable, trusting space is most of the job before a single fader moves. Ben describes the producer-artist relationship as one where the artist hands over real trust, since it's their one shot at the record, and why staying as present as you're asking the band to be matters more than any plugin chain.
We close on crate-digging for the buried gem in a take, and on why, plugins or real instruments, it comes down to commitment either way.
Selected moments
- Ben introduces himself and his studio 2:10 Ben shares insights about his studio experience and his journey in the Brooklyn music scene.
- Nurturing role of a producer 4:35 Ben discusses how his experiences with different producers shape his nurturing approach to production.
- The value of communication 6:04 Exploring how the producer creates a comfortable space for artists to express themselves.
- Trust in the producer-artist relationship 8:37 Ben emphasizes the significance of trust when artists come into the studio to realize their visions.
- The balance between presence and pacing 17:04 A discussion on maintaining the pace of production while allowing creative moments to flourish.
- Crate digging for magic moments 46:23 Ben describes the thrill of finding buried gems in a recording session.
- Emotional impact of music production 22:25 The importance of emotional clarity and communication in the creation of meaningful music.
- Final thoughts on why Ben loves music 55:42 Ben shares personal anecdotes about how music has been a lifelong companion for him.
Selected excerpts
There’s one producer I worked with early on, Gus Van Gogh, who was so nurturing and took the time to be there for us... that was a positive experience that shaped my approach to production.
As a producer now, it's about creating a space where the whole band can share ideas and feel comfortable to show up.
When an artist chooses to work with you as a producer, they put so much trust and faith in you... it's their one shot to make this record.
Music has been a companion for me for my whole life... it leads to so many meaningful experiences and every day reveals something new.
You've got to be as present as what you’re asking them to be.
It's all about making a commitment, whether you're working with plugins or real instruments.
FAQ
What is Ben Rice known for in music production?
Ben Rice is known for his work with various legendary artists and his unique approach to nurturing the creative process in the studio.
How does Ben Rice enhance the recording experience for artists?
Ben focuses on creating a comfortable and trusting environment that allows artists to express themselves and realize their musical visions.
What can I learn from Ben Rice about music production?
Listeners can gain insights into the emotional journey of producing music, the importance of collaboration, and the balance between creativity and efficiency.
These pages are host notes, not a full transcript. The episode itself is on the listen links above.