Interview with GabeReal

Please tell us where you are from?

Born and raised in Queens, NY. Lefrak City (N.O.R.E., Prodigy, Akinyele, Kool G. Rap) to be exact.

How did you get started in producing and when did you start taking it serious?

I started out using Sonic Foundry’s Acid 2.0 when I was 16. I bought it just to test it out. The software came with a whole bunch of loops that you could put together and make beats so I use to put different loops together and make beats that way. I guess I wasn’t really making beats, just putting sounds together. I had no knowledge of any type of keyboards, other hardware or software at that time. Eventually I started to research different kinds of equipment. My first keyboard was the Yamaha Motif I brought in 2006. I finally got all my own equipment in January of 2008. So that’s when I would say I began to make beats on the most consistent basis. Before that, I would use other studios and it was frustrating because they could kick me out when ever they wanted…lol… and I was only able to be there on a limited bases.

Have you had any formal musical training?

No training. I taught myself to play by ear by playing along to records.

Warbeats has members from every corner of the world.  Can you list some of the names you've worked with that we might recognize?

Ryan Leslie, Mysto and Pizzi. I used to make beats with Pizzi like every other day from like 2004-2005. He taught me a lot when I was starting out. We were working on a project for an artist named Trajik. Also Royal Flush, Big Pak from the Orbit Gum Commercial that’s out right now.

What are some accomplishments that you are most proud of in the production game?

When you look at the top producers like Ryan Leslie, you realize how much there is to accomplish. I feel if I stay focused and humble, and work hard, I’ll be poised for great success.  

Someone told me you track your some of your drums using FLStudio? What's your everyday equipment made of?

I do all of my drums in FLStudio. I also use Sonar 6, Acid 6, M- Audio ProjectMix, and a Roland Fantom Keyboard. I make all my beats using headphones. It’s funny. I actually got the headphones from someone who was throwing them away. They’re some old Optimus Nova 67 headphones. I swear they are the best sounding headphones I’ve ever used. They don’t even make them anymore so I hope they don’t break on me because I know I probably can’t get another pair.

 What are your thoughts on the "Hardware vs. Software" debate? Is one better?

Software is definitely more convenient in my opinion. I’m not sure if one is better than the other but I give the edge to software based on convenience. An older producer who was trying to mentor me told me that if I wanted to make it in the biz, I’d have to trade my FLStudio in for an MPC. I told him I’ll stick with FLStudio!

A lot of up and comers think they can make beats and call them selves a "producer". Can you give us your take on the difference between a "beat maker" and a "producer"?

Producers make songs. Beat makers make beats. If you want to be a successful producer you should have an input on your tracks. Like concepts, a hook, or how one should flow on the beat. I don’t really like to submit just beats. I submit Pop/R&B tracks as songs, and Hip-Hop tracks w/hooks.

Do you sell your beats online, face-to-face or both? And do you have a preference? Why?

I used to do the online thing but it’s always better face-to-face if possible. That way you avoid confusion and communication is better. I once leased a beat to an artist and the next thing I know he was selling ring tones and the mp3 like crazy. You should have some type of contract! I know it’s a hassle but it’s important.

What factors do you consider when charging for a beat?

 I let my manager handle that for the most part. When you’re new in the game you get "entry-level" pay for beats ($3,500-$5,000). If you “ghost-produce,” you can get more ($10,000-$15,000). Of coarse this applies to artists who have budgets.  But if there’s a passionate artist who just doesn’t have the funds to put up for a track. I’ll work with them.

Everyone wants their drums to bang. How do you do yours?

I layer drums sometimes. But one thing I always do is add the compressor in FL. I don’t really much more or add any other effects until I’m finished making the beat.

In your opinion, what types of things should the new/young producer concentrate on most to develop his/her skills?
 
Developing a good ear is most important in my opinion. You have to understand what sounds good and how sounds work together. After that, learn your equipment. A bit of piano skills doesn’t hurt. You don’t have to be an amazing piano player. Just basic music theory. But having a good ear is key. I’m definitely not the best keyboardist.

One of the biggest challenges is promoting one's self. How do you do that and what advice can you give our readers on that?

Try and build an online presence via social networking sites, etc. Get yourself hot, build a buzz, and make the A&R’s and execs come to you. A lot more of them are watching than you think. Networking is also very important. People are more wiling to work with someone they know, even if the person who they don’t know has the better music.

Is having a management team an important part of the equation for you?

It’s very important. As a producer you want to spend as much time as possible focusing on making music. Having a manager allows you to spend less time on the business and negotiating. It can be too stressful to handle by yourself. It’s also important to have a good lawyer.

What other producers (mainstream or underground) are you feeling the most right now?

R-Les is a genius. He impresses me all the time. Timbaland is the G.O.A.T., with respect to Dr. Dre, who’s also up there. I’m also feeling Polow Da Don, Tricky Stewart, Los Da Mystro, Swizz Beats, Max Martin, and J.U.S.T.I.C.E. League.

Do you have any upcoming projects you'd like to let us know about?

Yeah, right now I’m working on submissions for Nas’ next project. Krys Ivory, she’s next up on NextSelection. Just did a beat for Uncle Murda too. Actually had G-Unit in mind but I think he might want it. I’m also working on music for some of BET’s shows.

Before we leave you, where can we get more information about you and/or hear more of your music?

Watch me in action at www.youtube.com/GabeRealTV - Don’t forget to subscribe.

And hear some of my music at www.myspace.com/gaberealmusic

Follow me – twitter.com/gabe_real