Time… It's a resource we can never reclaim. Each second lost is gone forever, making time one of the most valuable assets we have. As a seasoned recording, mix, and master engineer with 24 years of experience, I understand the immense value of time—each second is an investment. Over the years, I've poured countless hours and thousands of dollars into perfecting my craft and equipping my in-house studio with the best technology available. From high-end microphones and peripherals to the latest software and plugins, I've spared no expense in pursuing excellence.

However, despite this dedication, I've found myself increasingly disillusioned with the music industry. Like artists and producers, studio engineers have dreams and aspirations. We long for recognition, the opportunity to work on major projects, and to be celebrated for our unique contributions to the music we help create. Unfortunately, the industry often overlooks the critical role of the engineer. Instead of entrusting their projects to seasoned professionals, many artists opt for a DIY approach, often relying on inexperienced friends with subpar equipment.

This trend not only undermines the quality of their music but also deprives professional engineers of the credit and opportunities they deserve. It's frustrating to see projects we've meticulously crafted handed off to amateurs, only to be diluted and degraded. This practice is, in essence, a form of plagiarism, robbing us of our rightful place in the industry.

The pandemic served as a wake-up call, prompting me to reassess my career trajectory. I realized the need to pivot towards markets that offer greater recognition and financial stability. I've since shifted my focus to social media editing and film post-production—areas where my skills are not only valued but also properly credited. These projects come with bigger budgets, consistent work, and the assurance that my contributions will be acknowledged.

Working with recording artists has taught me a hard lesson: they often lack the consistency and commitment needed for long-term success. The DIY era has flooded the market with cheap, low-quality setups, driving down the cost of studio time and making it difficult for established engineers to compete. As someone who values quality and expertise, I cannot afford to lower my standards.

Today, I selectively work with a small circle of artists who truly appreciate my craft. They trust me with their masters, respect my work, and push their projects without seeking additional tweaks. This focus allows me to maintain the integrity of my work and continue to grow my brand in more rewarding directions.

In conclusion, abandoning recording artists was not an easy decision, but it was a necessary one. By redirecting my talents towards markets that offer proper recognition and financial stability, I can ensure that my time and efforts are well spent. For those who continue to value and seek my expertise, I remain dedicated to delivering the highest quality sound possible.