Brendan O'Brien Interview: The Unsung Hero Of Rock Music
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 22 พ.ค. 2024
- In his first ever full length interview, producer/engineer/mixer (and multi-instrumentalist) Brendan O'Brien talks about his contributions to many of the most significant records of the past generation. Check this out:
The Black Crowes, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Stone Temple Pilots, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, Rage Against The Machine, Kings X, Korn, Audioslave, Bruce Springsteen, AC/DC, Train, Incubus, Mastodon, Bob Dylan, Neil Young, The Killers, Paul Westerberg, The Offspring, Velvet Revolver etc.
Brendan is one of the most important and elusive musical icons who I have been wanting to talk to for the past 30 years. Here's my interview.
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You just cracked open a vault that interviewers have been working at for decades. Congrats Rick!
The secret is the "denim" (-;
@@HumanCarBomb ha, I didn't notice until you pointed it out, but indeed we've got the "denim bros." here don't we
this is so special!!
This is an insanely good interview. Rick is crushing it.
Dropped everything to watch this interview. Mr. O'Brien produced literally every record I loved in the '00s. Thank you Rick for highlighting an incredible creator!
lol exactly!!
Jackyl fan?
Same here, omfg, lets go!
He didn’t produce J Lo did he ?! Or Deelite ?!?
KING'S X DOGMAN!!!!
I was the engineer at Southern Tracks and worked w Bud on those records from 1995-2001. Definitely a great experience and the best environment possible to learn how to make records. I can offer a few additional technical bits. Room mics when I started were Lawson 47 and we soon after got a pair of Coles 4038’s.
Drops Of Jupiter piano was a C-24 into a Focusrite ISA pre followed by an 1178.
I wired the Y cables for toms. The split side was wired pin 3 hot. The output of the 57 was a bit lower than the 421 which provided the right balance between the two.
We used the stereo SSL channel comps for drum sub sometimes. Fatso was used a lot too.
Thanks Ryan! I remember that you worked at Southern Tracks back then. Thank you for the additional info! Hope you’re well🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
@@RickBeato Thought of one more thing you guys touched on. Overheads were always KM184 through Neves into a Summit DCL200 for compression when tracking. The meter would move just a few db max on snare hits and wouldn't necessarily be compressing cymbals.
When you say drum sub, was it on the drum bus itself or was the compression on a parallel bus?
@@jeremyeger9336 Drum Buss. The kick drum would often go directly to the main stereo LR as well as the drum buss. All other drums were sent directly to the drum buss.
Hey Ryan !! I think I may have actually bought the Latte they talk about in Drops of Jupiter !! Can’t wait to watch this. You and Brendan are still my heros.
30 years ago in 1994....in just one year Brendan O'Brien was either producer engineer and/or mixer for 4 landmark albums that year Soundgarden - Superunknown / Pearl Jam - Vitalogy / Stone Temple Pilots - Purple / King's X - Dogman ...what a legacy.. Thank you Rick for one of your finest interviews.
The fact that Mr O'Brien gave an interview this long just proves how respected Mr Beato is as a music individual. And of course, Great interview!
Rick is one of the best things that ever happened to music
Totally agree 💯
Thing is I get the impression Rick doesn’t get recognized within some factions and I always wondered why
Bcos he asks about the music rather than drama bs
I don't think he and his content cater to all fractions either. It's targetted towards individuals who are interested in the academic part of the music mixed with a little pinch of mass appeal here and there.@@nikdrown
You have more than arrived getting Brendan. It's your clout with all that you've done on this channel that is DRAWING the greats to you Rick. Well done, sir!
When he got Sting I was super impressed. . . Happy for Rick and us for getting to see these.
I'm I shock
Ditto ScottHoel
Why are you commenting that he's "arrived"? Does Rick have some insecurity about his popularity?
@@brettenatorRick literally says at the start of the interview he been trying to get this guy for years. It's cause all the label guys only go on high sub channels. And Rick towards the start of the interview again says over half of you watching the channel aren't subscribed. Lol he's begging for subs to get legends of legends like McCartney page queen frusciante Rick Ruben other music legends he got the guy from Abba last year but subs count is all these peoole care to even show up on the channel
44:04 - Red Hot Chilli Peppers
01:24:24 - Pearl Jam
02:10:00 - Rage Against the Machine
02:25:50 - Korn
02:39:00 - Soundgarden
THANKY. Going straight to the Soundgarden talk.
Where is Black Crows in the 3hr interview, as trying to figure what track Brendan did his legendary Solo…🎶🎸
1:09:00 Stone Temple Pilots
Fuck yeah thank you@@siddharthkotwal8823
@@GrahamHole-ip3wz At 37:55 Brendan (Bud) O’Brien admits to one of THE BEST southern rock licks in ROCK N ROLL HISTORY (playing the solo on Hard to Handle by the Black Crowes). 🤘🤘🤘
Brendan O'Brien always seemed so enigmatic because of how little we heard or saw from him, but it turns he's the most down to earth guy in the world. Great interview
This was a great interview! He’s helped steer some of the greats w musical ingenuity!
That guy has so much energy. Like just drank an energy drink, adderall energy. Naturally. What a guy. I really relate to his way of speaking as clearly as possible. He says what he means down to the word. He also functions under high expectation. I love that
you can see how Brendan is a no bullshit guy as well, he liked to get records done, doesn't like wasted energy or inertia. he definitely has the overachievers energy and passion and drive, it's very clear to see. such a gift to rock n roll fans truly, it's insane how many amazing records he worked on.....
you mention it and now it makes sense why you never heard from him. he's a down-to-earth no-nonsense guy, and how many of those kinds want to do interviews yet somehow stay that way?!
Didn't know that about the Black Crowes solo. That's always been one of my favorite solos. Just about perfect.
Yeah, me neither! Dang.
*_That was definitely something I was never aware of. I just always assumed it was the younger Robinson brother._*
_Brendan can definitely shred._
Yea man. It was cool to hear the whole solo and you know that solo; every lick. Had no idea this dude did it.
Not good, believe me. Not good.
Had to learn this when I was a kid my uncle taught me guitar and one week it was take this tape home don't come back until you've learned this solo
Always thought it was very tasty even when I was 12
Wow, I had absolutely no idea he played the solo on Hard to Handle.
I lived in Atlanta and remember hearing about the solo. Atlanta was the place to be back then. All those guys were in the clubs playing great. Fun times.
Now all the fans who are obsessed with Marc Ford being in the band can be obsessed with Brendan being with the band instead…😂
I remember hearing that he did. Steve Gorman might have mentioned it in his book.
And you can hear Leslie West's influence on that, always loved that solo😊
Same! That’s easily one of the coolest and most iconic solos ever. Such swagger. I know it’ll be stuck in MY brain forever. 😂
In 2005/6ish, my band "The Sudden Rays" recorded at Southern Tracks with Karl Egsieker. After studying under Brendan for years, Karl was about to leave for CA to make his way as a producer. As a parting gift to Karl, Brendan and Mike Clark (former beloved owner of Southern Tracks) allowed Karl to record a band of his choosing which happened to be us. We were recording our record at the same time that Bruce and The E Street Band were recording Magic. We "snuck" in to STs between their sessions. And, as an extra bonus, Brendan even played keys on two of the tracks. Unassuming, professional, kind, and committed are the words that come to mind when I think of my very brief time with Brendan at Southern Tracks. Sadly, shortly after the session, the band disbanded as the guitar player/ lead vocalist left town for a "real" job. But, that time in my life was magic and meeting Brendan was a highlight of my musical life.
As it would happen, I am now playing bass in a project that Darren Dodd, the drummer of Rick's band, "Billionaire", is recording drums with. And, Darren, as it turns out, and I both used to play drums in the band, Dropsonic. Small world. Though, sadly, I've never met Rick throughout my musical endeavors. When he is ready to do a video on obscure Atlanta musicians that no one has heard of, I am ready! ;-)
Dogman deserves so much more recognition. Thank you so much for not skipping it
Thank you for mentioning King’s X. Awesome band !
Agreed. Dogman and Ear Candy are my two favorite King's X albums.
Brendan was the producer, engineer, mixer on many of the albums that became the soundtrack of my teen years. Thank you Rick for another amazing interview. Safeguarding music history with every new interview.
This.
Since age 12, I've read this guy's name on the back of CDs I bought. Pearl Jam, STP, Soundgarden, RATM... I never even had a face with the name. Brendan is so brilliant and prolific, yet so anonymous. Fantastic interview! Thank you for this, Rick - such a treat!
Same. What a trip
Really cool interview and loved his take on PJ
These are the words I was looking for. I completely agree. Our faceless hero isn’t faceless anymore.
Behind every successful man, a lot of times is a woman that inspires him and understands the family goals. Sounds like Mrs. O’Brien deserves as much credit for the success. It’s awesome to hear about how supportive she is.
Was thinking the same thing
no, women usually bring a man down from his true potential. that's a scientific fact. she simply didnt get in the way.
Rick -
I wanted to drop you a line to say how much I appreciate the VERY IMPORTANT and VALUABLE contribution that you are making to our culture.
I grew up loving music, studied recording engineering and was fortunate enough to find myself working in a major NYC recording studio in the 2000s. It felt like I got into that world right at the end of an era, but was so fortunate to experience working with great gear, tape machines, engineers, producers and artists.
So much of the art and science of this stuff is passed down as an oral tradition, as you know. I felt almost despondent that it was being lost forever as most first class commercial recording studios were being wiped off the face of the earth, and music was getting worse and worse.
I don’t think there’s anyone who is doing more to preserve all of this important knowledge than you. It is truly GOLD. I’m filled with gratitude for that. Please keep up the GREAT work.
Zack
Thanks Zack!
Cool! I saw a 12-year-old Brendan play a gig at a backyard party for a church youth group in Dekalb County in about 1974. Great to hear all this.
I remember when I came home and put Evil Empire of RATM on my dad's stereo for the first time. The moment the drums of 'people of the sun' kicked in, blew my mind. It sounded so natural like I was standing next to the band in the rehearsal room. No one has accomplished that feeling. Massive respect. I salute you, Brendan O' Brian 🫡
The same thing happened to me when I heard Pearl Jam's "Vs." the first time. In high school, a friend played "Go" on the sound system in our gym. I heard the drum intro and I was like "whoa, whoa, whoa, who is this?" "It's the new Pearl Jam." I made him start it over. Those drums blew my mind. There's no producer with a catalog like Brendan O'Brien's.
@@knew_man man, 'Go' is so awesome! I really like VS as well!
Dude i had that exact feeling when i put EE on with headphones at hmv in the 90s. That drum sound, then when the bass kicked in, ill never forget that!
@@acem1230 Exactly! 💛
One hundred percent. So much power and energy but with that hip hop low end.
Brendan is an absolute legend! He also produced "Crack the Skye" from Mastodon. This album is a masterpiece!
Thank you Mr. O’Brien for agreeing to sit for this conversation. As someone who grew up on the music he had a hand in creating, this was such a joy to watch. Having questions posed by someone as knowledgeable and experienced as Rick, clearly contributed to this. Thank you both!
For a guy that doesn't do any interviews, he's a super interesting person who talks well and has some amazing stories. It's actually criminal he doesn't share more tbh.
Actually I see it as proof of sanity!
His work speaks for him!
That's what makes this epic.
I have never seen a picture, let alone a video of O'Brien. He's one of those guys that you wonder if they exist or if they are just a legend. Im stoked for this
Yeah when he said to watch it in segments, I thought yeah there's no way in hell that's happening. I've been waiting on this for a long time.
Brandan O'Brien's total absence from public appearances over the decades (i.e. photos or interviews) has created such an aura of myth and legend for me. I've been a huge fan of his work since hearing Blood Sugar Sex Magik in 1991 and then I noticed his name was on everything of significance, back to back classic records. His work is just so extensive as well as being universally recognised as being outstanding.... yet not one photo or video interview in all that time did I see!
Rick has created such pulling power, this interview alone is a testament to that, let alone the countless legends who have appeared on Rick's channel.
He's in the Trippin' On A Hole In A Paper Heart video.
He walks through the kitchen and stares at the camera right at the end of the guitar solo.
You can literally find multiple interviews on TH-cam
@@BobbyGeneric145 Nothing even close to this one, Bobby.
Thank you Rick and Brendan for this. My 51 year old self absolutely loved it and my 20 year old self from 1993 sends his regards as he wakes up after passing out listening to conversations about some of his favorite records of all time were made!!
Good guys get the gig. Not one bad word about any person Brendan worked with or for. He maybe doesn't like interviews but he's a natural: engaging, honest, self-effacing and introspective.
The more I think about it, the more it becomes clear that Brendan is one of the most important strangers in my life. Getting all those bands to make all those recordings sound the way they do - I’m incredibly grateful for his expertise and work.
I've said this before. That TH-cam plaque is not cutting it anymore, Rick deserves a Grammy or a spot in the Rock and Roll HoF. 🏆
Lol. Grammy? Dude doesn't need a Grammy. Those people that "give
grammys" gave Jethro Tull a best metal performance "grammy." That's gotta say something about those folks that give grammys lol. I'm sure Mr Beato isn't try to please the grammys
Or the hall of sham lol
100 % second this
This guy is so cool, normal and expert. I will also add: super professional and no BS. He reminds me of Rick! These guys could be great friends and the interview shows it. Very warm and open. Thank you again, Rick. You’ve become the preeminent interviewer of musicians and producers in the world and we’re all richer for it. Thank you again!
Rick, three hours with this Hero aren't enough. Please make another one. Thank you so much. I'm 45 and this guy has made all my CD collection.❤
❤
This stuff is incredible, Rick. I've been following you for years now, but the level, the quality of the content you're creating is immeasurable. I knew Brendan clearly, as a sound engineer, being an audio journalist myself. But listening to the stories, the details, without delving too much into "technical" details, but with such relaxed tones, stories of studio studies, production choices behind mixes, reverbs, guitar racks, they're priceless capsules of music culture. I expect a series, a movie, a content put on support that will remain for future generations. You're doing quality work, which I, like most of us followers, believe is unfindable online. It comes naturally to you, and to me as a viewer, it feels like I'm in the room with you chatting. Thank you.
Thank you!🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Finally the Holy Grail of interviews! One of my favourite records Brendan worked on is Mirror Ball by Neil Young and Pearl Jam as backup band. Great pure rock.
Love that album, I'm sure he played a bunch or keys on that one I wish Rick had asked him about working with Neil and PJ
That album BLISTERS. Gonna dig it out this weekend.
Such a good album... gonna go listen to it again now 🤣
Would have been nice to have got a little more info on the recording of Mirrorball, all 4 days of it! That must have been a real challenge to get an album done in that time, and what a magnificent album it turned out to be.
Fantastic, Rick! I've been wanting to hear Brendan interviewed for 30 years. He's been a huge influence on my style of recording and mixing. It was so cool to see how humble and down to earth he is. And thank you, Brendan, for agreeing to this interview with Rick and for being so generous with your time and insights.
I got to meet Brendan in Austin TX at SXSW.
The bands on our little tour coming from Los Angeles were good bands.
I was the sound guy on the tour.
First time I ever did sound outside in a big space and It was great because there were no stupid resonance/feedback problems.
Anything I wanted to do on the console, the program at the mix position would just react as expected... so, it was easy and fun.
Brendan had The Band and myself at his table upstairs on the patio for the 57 Records party.
Interesting experience to be at "The Table" where it seemed everyone was looking.
Good party, good tour, good stories. Then back to Los Angeles to keep working in studios for me.
My music life was cool and interesting and I had my time around some very good people including Mr O'Brien. (Briefly)
Lovely Interview Rick. Thank You!!
I’m so glad you brought Dogman into the conversation. By doing so, you gave King’s X a little more of the credit and recognition that they deserve. But this whole interview made me realize that Brendan produced like 90-95% of the records that I loved in the 90’s. Which is amazing. So kudos to you Rick. You hit the jackpot with this interview. Congrats.
King's X has been my favorite band for over 30 years, and Dogman is my favorite album by Dug, Ty and Jerry. Why that album didn't explode in popularity after its release in 1994 still boggles my mind. It's still in my top five albums of all-time and should have given King's X massive popularity.
Back in the day when MTV played music they broadcasted Woodstock 94
King's had the prime time set (first band with lights on the first night of the weekend)
After a stellar set that was seen by millions....
Ty said they were selling 300 hundred or so a week
DOGMAN was always the CD you found at the resale shop.
But now everyone and their mother claims it as an influence.
It still holds up incredibly well.
@@davedecker1725 I watched that interview with Ty. When you think about it, as to why they never went to the stratosphere in terms of popularity and Dogman not selling a gazillion copies. You can think about 10 or more different reasons those things never happened. Bad management, the Christian stigma they had at the time, their music being way ahead of their time etc. But I think it was that the stars weren't aligned for them. They had everything. The music. Brendan taking their sound to a whole new level, the band's chemistry etc. But still. It didn't happen. And when you listen to an album like Dogman that still sounds as fresh as it was released 30 years ago, the whole situation defies any logic. Completely mind boggling.
@@ultrasuede7757Kings X were an awesome band BUT at the time the Christian Rock connection was a turn off for a lot of people.
Its a shame that such a good band was overlooked for reasons that had nothing to do with the quality of the music.
Brendan shouldn't be so down on himself over Dogman's lack of commercial success. The band were a hard sell to the masses. They were a band of overt Christians (though not marketed as a Christian band, their early lyrics definitely identify them as such), with one member (Doug) beginning to express doubts with his faith around this time. "Pillow" from this album conveys this pretty strongly. So, much of their original fan base began to abandon them, while they were still seen as "that Christian band" by potential new fans.
But none of the above changes that fact that Dogman is a classic album (it's in my top 20 albums of all-time), and is loved by so many serious music fans. It got me through a very dark time in my life, and was my best friend for several months. It is still one of the most raw, painful, honest albums I have ever heard.
Finally!!! You're fucking crushing it with the interviews the last couple years Rick, keep it up!
I remember noticing Brendan's name on the back of some of my favourite albums in the early 90s. I always loved the sound: crunchy, raw, guitars. Not over produced or a ton of reverb. Real timeless rock albums. After a while I ended up seeking out albums he produced, almost like a stamp of quality.
Much gratitude & Congratulations. Also, a huge thank you to Mr. O’Brien for doing the interview & for his openness. On my 2nd watch. I’m 56 and listening to my favs with a new ear/focus.
"Brendan O'Brien is undoubtedly the greatest rock producer of all time. He has managed to create perfect sounds on every record he's worked on, a true deity. In my childhood, I would see his name on every album whose sound I admired and would envy him. Now, with over 1000 credits in recording and mixing, I've learned many things just by listening to Brendan O'Brien's recordings, even though we've never met. Rick, you've conducted a perfect interview; I watched it breathlessly. Thank you for honoring such an important deity."
🙌🏼👊🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
hocam daha haklı olamazdın tebrik ediyorum
Who is this quote from?
@@BobbyGeneric145 @cagantunali
Lol I was looking for it myself @@BobbyGeneric145
Wow! Andy Wallace next please!
I agree. He produced probably my favorite album. Soup by Blind Melon
Yes please! And Alan Moulder.
And Flood!
And Flood!
Oh yes, Andy is a huge name and so many fantastic records!
What Brendan & Eddie did to fix Better Man, and this story of how it happened (removing the drum/swell build at the very first chorus as how it was played live in 1994 before it was released), is a game changer. Same with how he minimized but still kept all of DaveA’s drumming on Daughter (by putting a small kit in the auxiliary room)…. those are masterclass examples and strokes of genius that made those songs and Vs and Vitalogy the band’s best-ever-studio-work.
What an amazing interview… speaks to Rick’s expertise in music and as an interviewer.
According to Dave A, they had a great sounding version of the album, much like Vs. until they fired Dave and ruined the drum sound.
@@sticksman1979 Vs remains my favorite album of all time… and Dave IS that record. But, I think the direction the band went on Vitalogy, and post-Dave is why they’re still around today.
Power Up is the best AC/DC album since Back in Black. It took Mr O'Brien three tries to get them there but he did it. I wish he would write about about his experiences with Angus, Brian and the team going into the studio to record Black Ice (their longest ever album), Rock Or Bust (their shortest ever album) and, of course, Power Up (one of their very best). Thanks for your hard work Brendan, we can only guess the technical, musical and instrumental skills as well as commercial instincts and conversational talents that this remarkable man is blessed with. Godspeed!
If only he could remaster Blow up your video, Fly on the wall and Who made Who!
*"Brendan O'Brien" produced* *some of the most influential* *& classic albums from the* *90's & beyond* 😎✌️👏
*Thank You*
*"RICK BEATO"*
*for this interview* 🙏❤
king's x is enough for me to mention. i love their sound.
My all-time favorite band.
Dogman is THE album for me! 🤘
@@markcowpairlucky amazing sound!
Just missed them here in New York a little while back, very annoyed at myself for that. They were a band I want to delve into more. I remember some of the early stuff the sound was grabbing me by the tinnitus.😜
Seriously They need more mention
@@rehakaranfilDamn right! Dogman was my intro to King’s X. Heavy with groove and soul. Just the way i like it!
Rick… thanks for the interview! Brendon… wow… also appreciate you participating in the interview. Seriously, this was amazing to hear the backstories and tech info. Keep rocking!!!
That was PHENOMENAL. He’s definitely my “recording hero”. Every single mix or album he ever did I loved. Music doesn’t sound like that anymore. Dry, punchy, unabashed drums, bass and guitars with stellar vox right out front. Everything these days is drowned in reverb. Not to mention mixed on a MacBook. Would love to sit and watch him work for a few hours in my life. This may be the closest I’ll ever get.
King's X Dogman; Pete Droge and the Sinners; Dan Baird; Blackberry Smoke; the unsung heroes of Brendan's work. Just the best. Thanks Rick!
Dogman crushes!!😊
Dogman is one of the best-sounding albums of the 1990s.
Dogman is the best album of the 90s.
Dogman’s a huge smash in the face. That sound was insane !! One of best sounding records of the 90’s.
With all the great records he’s worked on, I was praying when the Jackyl discussion came up, he would drift into BBS a bit.
Man, I don't even know where to start. Brendan O'Brien is a hero for all of us who love 90s and 2000s rock, and Rick you are our hero for doing this! Also it needs to be said, you are great at interviews in the way that you let the other person speak. So many hosts constantly interrupt and it kind of spoils the interview. Much respect Rick, thank you for these videos, cheers!
Bill O'Reilly 😣😩
Time constraints. that's why they do it. most interviewers are trying to (or NEEDING to) keep things under an hour, or however long. There's no time limit here though, these interviews are anywhere between 45 minutes-3 hours. It's just 2 experienced professionals having a good conversation. And one of them happens to have a bunch of well thought-out questions for the other lol
Love how Mr. O'Brien always gives credit to the musicians for the tones and sounds.
One thing not totally conveyed in this amazing interview is just how unbelievably great a musician Brendan is. Ask any band or artist who had ever been in the room with him and they will tell you…he’s always the best musician in the room. Especially on guitar bass or keyboards but he also plays drums. He is just one of the musical dudes ever. His technical skills are huge but it’s his feel and tone and groove and ability to find the right part and melody that is truly extraordinary
And he’s just the nicest dude which also explains so much of his success. Talent plus a great dude plus some good breaks and then his incredible work ethic.
He’s just the greatest. Thanks so much for this talk, Rick. I know you appreciate his work so much and it shows in the questions.
Ive always heard that too... by any chance do you know any other tracks thatyou could recommend i listen to to check out his guitar playing?
@@SteveR5954 a few i can think of, the michael penn record "resigned" and a record by a band called the thorns, brendan played bass on both of those plus some keys. if you check out trey anastasio's solo album called "shine" brendan played bass, drums, keys, some guitar. dan baird's record "buffalo nickel" brendan played guitars. i think he probably played on the wallflowers record he did because he also toured with them a little bit playing guitar.
@@SteveR5954 you could also check out the sons of the sea album brendan did that with brandon from the band incubus. brendan played pretty much most things on that album. and i know brendan played a ton of guitars, keys, bass, etc on the last two chris cornell solo albums that he produced.
@@crestiferj2689 cheers - thats awesome... thank you for the leads!
@@crestiferj2689 check out Dan Baird on Letterman from 92... best vid ive found of Brendan playing so far
Upon Albini's passing I could not help but reflect upon "where is Brendan O'Brien" because he 'owned' me back in the day (every LP that moved me I checked the fine print and he was there). THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR THIS INTERVIEW !!!!!!
I worshipped this man in the 90's. If I flipped an album over and read his name I bought it!
This is the greatest interview in the history of interviews. I'm 41 now and Brendan played an enormous role in helping to soundtrack my formative years. It's almost like finally seeing a mythical figure in human form. Thank you so much, Rick. This meant a lot.
Watching this interview has taken me weeks. Not because it isn’t completely fascinating but because of all the times I had to go listen to all the songs as they came. The work of this man is truly beyond. His dedication to perfect engineering without robbing the artist of their essence is something that is lost today. Today’s producers squeeze all the soul out. Brendan got that what he was working with was beautiful and he did all he could to make sure that beauty wasn’t lost in production. Just genius.
Fantastic. The Midas touch in the studio. I’ve said it before Rick; it’s high time you brought in king’s X for an interview- you have the influence and pull to introduce them to a new generation- they deserve it
YES YES YES YES!!!!!!
Agree 100%!
Absolutely.
Preach! I want a band interview, and also interviews with Dug, Ty and Jerry. This must happen!
yes yes yes!
Thanks so much for getting King's X in there. Such an underrated band.
Yes, please bring him back!
What a "normal" guy, and I mean that as a compliment. He remembers nearly everyone and gives them their dues for their part in his success. Fascinating insight into the practices, politics, technology and characters of a past time, which will never be seen again.
Industry folk know all these amazing “behind the scenes” guys and rightly admire them. What makes this channel amazing is giving these cats the wider admiration from average folk that they deserve! Bravo!!
Rick, this is unbelievable. You're a legend for bringing this to us. Thank you! (and thanks Brendan!)
The producer/engineer of the anthems of my teenage years... I really appreciate this interview Rick. I'm so glad Brendan agreed to talk with you.
I couldn't even believe this when I opened TH-cam today. I've been waiting for you to have this absolute legend since the Sting interview. I have only known what Mr O'Brien has worked on from the myriad stories and interviews of others, but through his musical output I always felt like I knew a bit about what he would be like as a person. 3 hours of pure gold, and feeling like I was listening to an old friend, having never heard his voice before. A jewel in your crown Mr Beato!
Watch in parts? Seriously? I can’t quit watching it. This guy is a LEGEND! Georgia boy too, makes us proud! Great job as always Mr Rick.
I watched this over two days. Yesterday about 45 minutes, and today the rest of it. I drive/I do deliveries for work, so this is a great way to listen to someone like Mr. O’Brien while I’m out working. Just a tremendous interview, the tidbits, the funny stories, the intricacies of his work.what a career!
Goodness what a conversation! I listened to this in shifts, because i didn't want to miss a second of detail. This is a pure gold mine of 90's music stories, production details, little tricks, and appreciation of pure passion of craft. This is one of the most informative music interviews/discussions i have ever heard. The albums/bands he has recorded are among my absolute lifelong favorites
I'm early in, but this should be in a National Archive of some description. What Rick does for music hasn't, to my mind, ever been done. A musician's musician. Everyone sits and little tense and then you just see them melt when Rick immediately gets their 'obscure' references and evolves them. If you ever want to know what a teacher should do, this is it: see the magic, explore the magic, explain the music and share!!!!
Great comment!
I HATE LONG INTERVIEWS.
I started listening to this fantastic interview, and 3 hours later, I was blown away. Time flew, and I got lost in the moment.
It is a first for me. My brother, this is your best interview yet. I stand corrected. You have moved far past the interviewer stage. Although you have always been a great interviewer because you do your homework, really listen, ask great questions, and know your S#&%. Like a true musician/artist you know when to interject, and when to be silent.
Because you are an awesome storyteller, you bring out the best in great storytellers like your guest. It didn't feel like an interview but a simple conversation over coffee. Thanks for letting me be a fly on the wall for a minute.
I know you have probably been told this, but you are capturing history.
Well done!
I'm not a musician or an engineer or anything like that, but hearing all the anecdotes from the industry and the bits about the bands' and stars' personalities is awesome. Totally worth my 3 hours of time, which is not something I can say about most videos that long.
Brendan is my biggest inspiration in music. It's so rare I didnt even know what he looks like. This is legendary. Thank you Rick and Brendan. I'm from Rochester, grew up on the same street as brann in mastodon all these albums like verses, evil empire and so many more, this is full circle, Audio is my life. 🫶🏽 I hope I can meet both of you someday.
Not many interviewers could have pulled this off. You know how to listen, because you're genuinely interested in what he has to say, rather than trying to steer the conversation towards gotchas for headlines. That's the difference between "media" interviews with musicians, conducted by journos, and the discussions between musicians that we get from your channel.
That is such a great comment (and is 100% accurate).
Thank you for this! Brendan O’Brien was the first non band member name I noticed on all the records I grew up loving in the 90’s. Seeing his name on so many great albums is what made me realize there was someone behind the boards doing something special. I’ve been pursuing that “special thing” for two and a half decades now.
I'm 1hr and 12mins in, but like so many of your interview, the time flew past effortlessly. The rest tomorrow. I feel bad that I never knew the name of the person who helped to create, produce and engineer some of the most important music in my entire life. And like so many, it was music that shaped a lot of my world view through its influence on me over time. So thank you Rick for yet another amazing interview and thank you Mr O'Brien for, well, all the music.
To complete this arc, you really need to get Nick Didia to explain the engineering side of these iconic songs
Caram Costanzo, too.
In the mid-80s, I played in a band in Atlanta. GA State University had a "music business" program for students who wanted to go into the music business. One year, they did a project where they selected local bands to provide songs for an LP. We were one of those bands. The album ("Off the Tracks") was engineered and produced by Brendan - he was just making the transition from local musician to respected producer, and it really sounds fantastic.
To clarify a couple things: 1) The album was recorded at Studio One in 1986, and 2) Brendan was the co-engineer (along with Donal Jones), not producer. Considering the year, and that it was recorded at Studio One, I'd say he was also a little further along in his career.
I had a little stroke when TH-cam suggested this, cause there's almost no interviews out there of Brendan... my favorite producer by far. Such a huge inspiration as a producer myself. I'm grateful for this.
!This interview was so needed from a whole generation! How many people around the world read the name Brendan O'Brien in their CD booklets from all these amazing bands time and time again? This is definitely the interview of a heroe for all of us... From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU, RICK!!!🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
I loved this interview! Bravo!
Such a blessing to witness Brendan O'Brian's easy going social manner, get an insight to his professionalism, hear his positive attitude toward everything & everyone; his general sincerity, plus his intelligent caution to detail... I feel he down plays his influence as a producer. It takes an experienced musical/instrumental- genius/virtuoso, to make the most of the great ideas & moments a band has, plus reorganising sections to create more effective song shapes. Also an emotionally-intelligent, assertive-wit to freely discuss ego-challenging changes; like culling the less mature, or daft ideas some artists cling to, while exploiting the good, and experimenting with sounds within reason. Like a QC filter of musical ideas, execution, experimentation and organisation.
Sounded like he was an absolute master of the mixing console (among so many things), however his nonchalant 'Avoidance' of equipment details, channel paths, and his absolute mastery of the bottom-end was as frustrating as it was understandable.
He dropped 1 morsel of a hint, a tiny clue as to how he always got such an incredibly fat kick sound.
Thank You
WOW!! I didn't know not only he produced/engineered/mixed all those artists, he also played many instruments on those albums!!
Rick, thank you so much for this interview! Being an Atlanta native, hearing from Brendan, this was a walk through musical history. His footprint in music, especially through the 90’s can’t be denied. And I’m so happy you all talked about Korn. They are the reason I picked up guitar, and Issues is one of my favorite records. There’s so much more I would love to hear about the making of that Album from him. I’m glad you all touched on it though!
So great to hear Brendan give Dave Abbruzzese his flowers. Dave did a fantastic job on “Vs” and “Vitology”… he really was an “engine”, as Brendan said. His drumming in those records is sensational.
It was also interesting to hear him talk about how “busy” Dave played and how he had so many cymbals. That’s one of the reasons Ed fired him. Also regarding his snare… pretty sure Dave always uses a 7x13” snare, not a piccolo.
This makes me like Brendan O'Brien so much more. I've seen his name on so many albums (especially Pearl Jam) but never knew what he was like. This was a pleasure to listen to. The story about how Pearl Jam's song "Better Man" was recorded was priceless.
For a person that doesn’t do many interviews, he’s an absolutely fabulous interview
I feel like that might be why. The more experienced the interviewee the less interesting their responses seem to be. Unless you get those rare ones who become more honest the more interviews they do. :P
Correction: this Producer does ZERO interviews. I believe this may be his first interview ever
@@imeqsmdhere on TH-cam, you'll find another two-part interview of him with a Steve Rennie. But it's only 20 minutes long.
Rick I can’t tell you how much I enjoy listening to you interview all the various people associated with the making of great music. It doesn’t even matter if I’ve never even heard of the person before. I find it all so interesting listening to all aspects of how the music is put together. I know by your expression that you also love to hear the what, when, and how these groups of people came together to bring such beauty to our ears. But you as interviewer have a knack for asking all the right kinds of questions that makes it all the more interesting. I just love it. And I can’t thank you enough.
Nobody wanted this interview to end. This music wasn't my thing, and I still learned a ton about recording. And working with people. And life.
Wallace Reed sold me my first guitar! I still have it! He lived down the street from us when I was growing up. The store doesn’t exist but he’s still with us as far as I know. Rick should interview him.
Looks like he has a shop in Suwanee. I'll be in that area next week. I have to check it out.
@@Steve_ATL perhaps he sold it. Pretty sure he’s no longer involved. But post what you find out.
I think he is retired, he still plays out and does some teaching.
Dude is the sound of the 90's!
Rick, a huge shoutout to you for making this interview happen - as well as the follow-up interview on Zoom! You've done a great service to rock music fans everywhere. It's just fun to listen to Brendan talk. And after all these years, it's impressive how well he remembers all the names and details. Loved every second of it. Thank you!
This is one of the best interviews I've seen with any musician, producer or songwriter. Fascinating and shows the importance of the interviewer knowing the subject ahead of time. Two of the brightest and well-versed people in music discussing how magic happens.
It's great to finally get the man himself! His name always comes up in the credits of albums from bands I love.
Mind blowing!!! The Great Brendan O'Brien!! It is not an overstatement to say that this is the man responsible for the sound of the greatest records of the 90's. His taste , his preference shaped what we all collectively felt made a record sound awesome. Brilliant interview and one for the archives. This one is so important. Well done Rick.
I think it's your genuine, no nonssense, real appreciation and love for great music That can get someone like Brendon to say yes to being interviewed by you.... Your channel is a genuine boon to creativity music... Unto appreciating and understanding the history of modern Western music. Hats off to Rick! Thank you for everything you do!
This interview was absolutely stellar Rick! I can still remember when I was 14 yrs old back in 1994 and seeing Brendan’s name in the liner notes of so many of the albums I loved but never knowing who he actually was. Was great to see both of you talk about all these albums that Brendan has produced with such reverence. Bravo Rick and Brendan!
Thank you for making us happy, Rick! Another quality video for sure. So excited to watch this ❤
I think he touched on why Kings X didn’t resonate with audiences….they were actually TOO good! I saw them live just this year and they were jawdroppingly incredible!
One of my favorite bands.
Criminally underrated
Swift resonates cause most people are stupid and follow like sheep
I saw a video of a show they did about 10 or 15 years ago and thought to myself, "This is a studio band". I was incredibly disappointed with the performance. Maybe they were just having a bad night? Maybe it took them 30 years to iron out the kinks in their gigging performance? Their albums are all masterpeices but I could see how based on what I saw of them on stage how people would be left soured on them. Somebody elucidate here... I really want to know more.
I saw King‘s X 3 times back then in Europe and they blew me away! One of my favorite bands!
Thanks so much for this video/interview, Rick and Brendan. I've adored this man's work for decades now. So awesome to hear his stories.
I know PJ was already massive when Brendan started working with them, but I still think Brendan was a big part of their long-term success. If every album sounded like Ten I think people would have got bored with the sound, no matter how great those songs were. Brendan captured the essences of the band so, as the band changed, the sound changed and Brendan made sure us fans got to hear the best these bands could do. I never get tired of listening to Brendan's PJ and STP albums, this guy found a way to catch lightning in a bottle, and he could do it every time.
Brendan O'Brien has been my favourite producer of all time since well, forever. The man's work has inspired so many of my own productions and if there was ever a way I could express my gratitude to this person for it, I would do it in a heartbeat. He may not know it but, I owe him so much for his body of work.
Thank you for this interview, Rick. Absolutely brilliant work!
So cool, Rick!! One of my favorite lesser-known works of his is “Dark Is The Way, Light Is A Place” by Anberlin. Fantastic album from a fantastic band. He paired with their sound really well.
“Dark is the Way” is such an underrated record from an underrated band. I’ve seen them 5 times. More people need to know about them!
Never heard of them. Going to look for it now. 👍
@@TerrEduarDan completely agree. They’re one of my all-time favorites!
Congratulations Rick!! Your interviews/conversations are so appealing. Thanks for sharing this amazingly talented man with us. Rock on Rick!!
Fantastic! Thanks Rick! Such history. Great guy.
I had the pleasure of working with his engineer Nick Didia with Johnny Colt (Black Crowes) producing and experiencing some of the micing, mixing techniques that Brendan spoke of. Watching Nick put 4 mics on a large drum kit and have an instantly amazing sound was an eye opener!
Also I recorded at Southern Tracks back in the day as well as on some of Brendan’s gear one time at a storage warehouse setup he had with another engineer Karl Egsieker.
So great to hear some of that rich Atlanta musical history that I lived parallel to with these great artist that helped me navigate the 90’s musically.
You the man Rick. Great interview.
Oh wow man, that was an awesome interview, Rick! Could not imagine how Brendan feels reflecting on his career during the 90's. Listening to him talk about some of my most cherished favorites of the time Pearl Jam, Stone Temple Pilots, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Soundgarden & Audioslave. I experienced goose bumps thinking abount and listening to those tracks and how they were engineered.
Awesome get! The wizard behind the sound of the 90s.
While I'm thinking about it, last night I was TH-cam bingeing John Williams. You should try to catch him. He's 90something and won't be around forever..
Great suggestion! Both John Williams and Quincy Jones. 🙏🙏🙏
Brendan seems very straight forward and practical in his recording approach. I don't think he thinks about things all too much, he goes by feel and uses his ear.