My name is Wayne Dwyer and I’ve been working
in the music business for 20 years. (I personally don’t think the words
music and business should be forced together into the same phrase, but
that’s one of the faults of the world we live in.)
My first paid gig was when I was hired as sound
engineer for a Montreal cover band. I was given a few tips, maybe a 3 hour
lesson by Jim, the departing sound man. I learned a lot from him(mainly
how to drink) but mostly I worked by the seat of my pants.
After I’d been touring with them for about a year,
the guitar player got a better offer and gave 2 weeks notice. Their bassist,
who I’d played with in high school, asked me if I was interested in joining.
The next thing I knew, it was 4 years and about 150,000 miles later, and
I’d just about had it with touring. It’s just as well, the rest of the
guys felt the same way and the band broke up.
That began the next phase of my life, setting up
a home studio and working on my songwriting. I was working at a pro audio
retailer at the time, so at least my equipment purchases were made affordable.
I then hooked up with the band Sneaky James and worked on our
album, Plan B. The project was produced by SCI Productions, who at the
time were Gary Moffett (ex April Wine guitarist) and Bill Szawlowski (engineer
for April Wine, Mahogany Rush, Pagliaro…). That’s what hooked me on studio
work, I was fascinated by the process and the feeling in the room. I worked
with Sneaky untilthe early 90's when titanic forces (or so it seemed) ripped
the band limb from limb.
I then met country artist/songwriter Andrew Henderson.
We collaborated on the writing of his album and flew to Nashville
to record it. Andrew’s connections (and a bundle of cash) managed to get
us Garth Brooks’ studio band (including Milton Sledge, Bruce Bouton, Mike
Chapman, and Chris Luzinger). Now that was a real learning experience.
One of the tunes got to #2 on a radio station in Belgium. (go figure)
Since then, I’ve run my own studio (with my partner Gary), and record
label.
I plan on using this page to write tips about all
elements of the business ( as I see it) and answer any questions you might
have, so let me know!
Email Wayne
Tips # 1 Strings
SNS Music
