INTERVIEW: Salvione on music production

Salvione is a skilful DJ and music producer that has been making a name for himself as of late. With live performances at top venues like Cielo, Pacha, Output, Avant-Gardner, as well as gigs alongside names like Loco Dice, Dubfire, Eats Everything, Apollonia, just to name a few. His perfect blend of House, Funk and Tech, brings forward a powerful sound and style that keeps the party going.

As he keeps busy with his weekly radio show ‘Elevated Radio’, his time in the studio working on new music and the setup of his music production coaching program ‘Elevate Your Sound Academy’, we invited Salvione to tell us his very own tips and tricks regarding music production. Check out our interview with Salvione below.

Hi Salvione, how are things going?

Hi, I am doing well. Thank you for having me. How are you?

Great thanks! What set of gear do you think is ideal for setting up a home studio?

Honestly, you don’t need much. Yes, I have a lot of gear but with all of the technology today you can make great music with just a laptop and headphones. I know plenty of producers in the top 100 on Beatport that make music with a computer, a midi keyboard, and entry level speakers. Having limitations can really help to spark creativity. I don’t want anyone to get deterred from starting to make music because they think they need an elaborate setup.

Which DAW would you recommend to someone starting their music production journey?

I am a very big fan of Ableton Live but any DAW is good. It’s more about what you do with it than the DAW itself. I know Ableton can seem intimidating but I really do like how it unlocks my creativity compared to other DAWs but that’s just my personal opinion. You have to find what works best for you.

Which plugins would you say are essential for music production?

There are so many good plugins that are native to the DAWs that you really can create quality music with stock plugins. Personally, I use a lot of Sound Toys plugins as they sound great and are very versatile. I also use Steven Slate and UAD plugins for mixing.

Do you think it’s necessary or important to learn music theory or know how to play an instrument in order to produce music?

I don’t think it’s necessary or important to know how to play an instrument in order to produce. I took piano lessons for years when I first started producing and it definitely helps but I don’t think it is necessary. However, I think learning music theory should be a top priority for those learning to produce music.

You can try the trial-and-error approach but it can be very time consuming and frustrating. Understanding music theory allows you to get the ideas out of your head and into the DAW with ease. Making music without knowing theory is like driving to a place without directions. Even just a basic understanding goes a really long way.

What would you say is the best starting point for producing a track?

Anywhere! It all depends on the day and the inspiration. Sometimes I start with the drums. Sometimes the bass. Sometimes it’s the sample. But process is important. I work in a similar way each time because having a process and routine is important.

I believe it was Kobe Bryant who said “Creativity comes from structure. When you have structure, then you can be creative. if you don’t have structure, you’re just aimlessly doing stuff.” Routines ease our cognitive burden so we have more space for creativity. This is why process is something I teach in my music production program.

What are your thoughts on sampling? Do you have any recommendations?

I think house music was built on sampling so it will always have a place in this culture. As far as recommendations, go with whatever inspires you but just try to make the sample yours in some way.

Do you think it’s necessary to know how to mix and master your own music?

It is not necessary to mix your own tracks but it is definitely helpful to be able to get your music sounding polished enough to send to labels. A great mix can’t make a bad track good but a bad mix can definitely make a great track bad. You can always pay someone to mix your music but it can become costly if you’re turning out tracks. In terms of mastering, the label is typically going to get it mastered prior to release so you should just know how to make it loud enough to sound good when sending to labels or playing it in a club.

Are there any recommendations of books, YouTube channels or tutorials, courses or websites where beginners can learn from?

There are so many that are out there it’s hard to even keep track these days, but I am a strong supporter of taking courses. That is one thing that I always loved about music production is that there is always something new to learn no matter how long you have been doing this or how good you are. I’ve taken many courses throughout the years in many different places which is why I am starting my own music production coaching program which is the most comprehensive program you’ll find in one place.

Once you’re beyond the basics and have an understanding of Ableton this will help you finish more, release ready music through creative efficiency, commanding composition which includes the very important music theory I mentioned before, and intentional arrangement. If anyone wants more information on Elevate Your Sound Academy they can reach out to me on socials.

What would you say is the best thing to do when struggling to find inspiration?

It may be contrary to what most think, but the answer is that you should take a break. You can’t force creativity. You can’t will it to happen. It comes by letting the ideas flow through you, so when you’re struggling to find inspiration, step away from the DAW. Go listen to different genres of music, go take a walk in nature, go have fun and let your mind be free.

Check out Salvione’s latest single Move With Me below