Making BIG Records with Phillip Broussard Jr. (Red Hot Chili Peppers, Adele, Eminem, Muse, Slipknot, Rick Rubin, etc...)
Love Music More · hosted by Luke F. Walton (Scoobert Doobert)
Guest: Phillip Broussard Jr.
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Topics discussed
Host note
Phillip Broussard Jr. has engineered and produced for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Adele, Eminem, Muse, Slipknot, and Rick Rubin sessions: and the through-line across all of it is live capture: setting up the band so they can actually communicate with each other, running the room so the performance has somewhere to go.
We cover the full production chain: pre-session prep (the day before matters as much as the day of), how he decides on drum sounds with the mix already in mind, when tape adds something digital doesn't, phase correction approaches, and what capturing authentic performances actually requires technically. It's a session-room conversation from someone who has done this at the highest level.
Selected moments
- The importance of a live recording approach 1:35 Phillip discusses the necessity of capturing live elements in the studio, emphasizing how a live band setup influences the overall sound.
- Setting up for a recording session 2:55 He elaborates on the preparation process, including how they arrange the band for optimal communication and performance.
- Deciding on drum sounds 14:55 Phillip explains his philosophy on auditioning different drum sounds based on the song's needs and the band's requirements.
- The balance between recording quality and creativity 21:33 He highlights the importance of balancing technical aspects with allowing creativity to flow freely during sessions.
- Using parallel processing in mixing 45:30 Discussion on how Phillip employs parallel processing techniques to achieve a desirable mix while retaining flexibility.
- The emotional impact of performances 60:18 Phillip emphasizes the significance of capturing genuine emotional performances over technical perfection.
Selected excerpts
Once we figure out what that will be, then we'll go in...
Typically, the day before, start setting up. We'll go out with a...
It's like Christmas lights; one bulb goes out and just blows up...
Typically, I would always recommend to go to the source first...
At the end of the day, I think it always is about the service of the music...
FAQ
What recording techniques does Phillip Broussard Jr. use?
Phillip uses live recording techniques, careful microphone placement, and prepares the studio environment to capture authentic performances.
How does Phillip Broussard Jr. choose drum sounds for a recording?
He chooses drum sounds based on the needs of the song and collaborates with the drummer to find the best fit.
What are Phillip's views on tape vs. digital recording?
Phillip believes tape offers a unique handling of transients and harmonics that can enhance musicality and emotional impact.
Curated notes only — no public transcript. Listen on the links above.