Music Producers: The Seers of Sound
Music Producers: The Seers of Sound
Producer Highlight 2ND PREZ
Written & Interview by Coach Mozingo
Scott Storch
Dr. Dre
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Butch Vig
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Mike Dean
Producers play a pivotal role in the music industry, serving as the architects behind the creation and success of a song or album. Their importance lies in transforming raw musical ideas into polished and marketable products. A producer's expertise is multifaceted, encompassing musical, technical, and creative skills that elevate the final product.
I had the honor of catching up with Texan producer 2ND PREZ to talk all things music, the inspiration behind his production style, and carving his way into the industry.
2ND PREZ is a Houston, Texas-based producer no stranger to the Texan sound. He spent his formative years from 1991 to 2001 residing on the west side of Houston until an unfortunate incident occurred in 2000, destroying their family home. Consequently, his parents relocated the family to a double-wide trailer nestled in the remote backwoods, roughly an hour and a half away from Houston.
Over the past eleven years, he has been a resident of various areas in East-Central Texas. His experiences in these regions have undoubtedly shaped his perspective and enriched his understanding of the diverse landscapes and communities within the state.
Conversations with coach
ft. 2ND PREZ
What genre of music do you produce?
3rd Coast 808’s-SouthBap
What is your musical background, if any?
[I] Grew up playing instruments and singing in the Church band Sunday morning and Wednesday nights. [My] Dad taught me what he knew on Guitar and Keys at a young age. […been] Beatboxing since [my] earliest memories, banging on pots and pans, homemade drum sets as a kid.
Do you remember where your interest in music came from?
Definitely my parents. Their mix of music tastes exposed me to almost every genre at a young age. Once I got into their vinyl and tape collections it was a wrap. My dad especially since he plays guitar.
Who introduced you to hip-hop?
Batman Forever Soundtrack 1995! Method Man “The Riddler”. Parents bought me that and Space Jam soundtrack.
How would you describe your working style?
Almost always working alone building something from top to bottom. But I have collaborated with some of the best and I’ve been blessed to learn from them.
How have you cultivated your work-life balance?
By stopping myself sometimes. Just taking time to recuperate from working two jobs. And returning to the music when I’m ready. I know I’m going to make the music I truly aim to make when I’m able to give my whole mind to what I’m doing, and I’m not physically or mentally drained. When I’m not making music, I’m spending time with my girl and my family or watching 90’s movies.
How important is taking care of your mental health for your creative process?
It’s very important. It’s a daily struggle but I’m learning and just trying to take my lessons as they come.
Tell me about some of your favorite projects you’ve worked on to date.
Definitely Summer Rooster! To lock in with [Elevator] Jay and make a whole body of work was a dream come true. I was already a huge fan so I couldn’t believe it when he messed with my beats like he did.
Also, getting to work on this song from Spice-1’s Platinum O.G. album called “Doing what the Players Do” featuring Too $hort and the late great Pimp C through an unreleased verse. The legendary producer N.O. Joe brought me in to play some instruments on that track and I’m forever grateful, that’s a super special one for me.
The last one I’ll mention is co-producing this song on Z-Ro’s Rohammad Ali album in 2020 called “Mo City Texas”. The homie Trakksounds, who is another prolific legend, brought me in to collaborate on that and it was definitely a big moment for me.
One of his sources of inspiration is DJ Screw, particularly his innovative approach to album production. He admires the unique sound and vibe that DJ Screw created, revolutionizing the mixtape culture and leaving an indelible mark on the hip-hop scene. He also finds inspiration in the collaborative magic between Pimp C and N.O. Joe and as individuals.
You highlighted DJ Screw as one of your main inspirations. What are some additional Projects or other producers that you are inspired by?
“Organized Noize and Earthtone's work on [Out]Kast's first three albums also hold a special place [amoung] my musical influences. Their production skills and artistic vision have played a pivotal role in shaping OutKast's sound and pushing the boundaries of hip-hop.”
“A few more iconic producers like as Big K.R.I.T., Pete Rock, Dr. Dre (especially during the N.W.A. era and the release of "The Chronic" in 1992), and Marley Marl [have shaped my passion as well].”
What does success look like for you?
Any time some music comes out that I worked on, it’s all worthwhile. Just being able to work with truly special artists making different music you won’t hear anywhere else.
Producers possess a keen musical ear and an in-depth understanding of various genres and styles. They collaborate with artists to refine their vision, offering valuable insights and guidance throughout the creative process. Producers are adept at selecting the right instruments, arranging compositions, and shaping the overall sound to ensure coherence and appeal.
Their expertise in sound engineering allows them to strike the delicate balance between different instruments, vocals, and effects, resulting in a polished and sonically pleasing end product. Truly seeing sound.
Special thank you to 2ND PREZ for sharing his story and experience. Be sure to follow him on Social Media at:
In celebration of 50 Years of Hip-Hop — Check out my Ode to Southern Hip-Hop inspired by the Summer Rooster Album, produced by 2ND PREZ.
