Some people would have you believe that good music is dead. They bemoan the use of Autotune, AI, beats, and laptop producers. They cite these as evidence in the last days of musical civilization.
I’ll be honest, looking at Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube can be depressing. It can feel like a deluge of talentless, misinformed people chasing their fifteen minutes of fame. However, in the shit storm of social posting there emerges some fantastically talented people who prove that talent isn’t dead.
Here’s three music producers that should restore your faith in creativity.
Eunike Tanzil
I was first introduced to Eunike by Hollywood mixer Alvin Wee. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but five minutes after watching some of her Instagram Reels, I was hooked. One of her unique talents is to walk up to people in the street, ask them to sing a melody, then she turns it into a complete composition. It has to be seen to be believed.
Once you read her bio you can tell how she manages to create such great music, almost out of thin air; Here’s a snippet;
“Eunike Tanzil is an Indonesian composer, producer, and pianist based in Los Angeles. Armed with degrees from Berklee College of Music and The Juilliard School, her musical tapestry seamlessly weaves together classical, jazz, and world music influences. Her commitment to artistic excellence is emphasised through mentorship with Pinar Toprak, John Corigliano, and John Debney, pivotal figures shaping her artistic journey.
Over the past five years, Eunike has made musical contributions to the world of film composition, including projects such as "The Addams Family 2," "I Wanna Dance With Somebody," and "Abominable and the Invisible City." In 2021, Eunike scored "Be Somebody," a top-grossing Chinese comedy mystery film. Notably, her work on the American romantic comedy "Asian Persuasion" premiered at the Soho International Film Festival in 2023.
https://www.instagram.com/eunike.tanzil/
Mono Neon
Now and again the Instagram algorithm serves you a moment of ‘What!’ which rewards having to watch mostly inane crap from those hungry for a little attention. The first time I watch Mono Neon I was blown away by the sheer originality of his talent.
Dywane Thomas Jr. ("MonoNeon", formerly known as "Polyneon") is a native of Memphis, Tennessee and the son of a bass player. He also spent some time at Berklee College of Music.
After watching some of his work and hearing the depth of his musical ideas, it should come as no surprise that he did a stint playing bass for Prince. There’s a similarity in some of the harmonic vocal ideas, although this is no pastiche, this is something entirely of him.
However, my favourite hobby right now is watching Mono Neon take what seem to be almost everyday conversations and turn them into musical creations. It’s musical high jinks at its best and well worth the price of admission. Check out the one below. WARNING - If you don’t like swearing then don’t click play.
https://www.instagram.com/mononeon
Jacob Collier
I first met Jacob Collier about four years ago at his house in a leafy suburb of London. His home studio is a downstairs back room in his family home. Jacob is one of the most talented and humble people I’ve ever met. I was there to interview him, and me and the crew spent several hours with him and got to see first hand just what a unique talent he is. His musicality is off the charts, only eclipsed by his passion and vigour for life.
One story I have to tell. We were having lunch and I asked him how he got involved with Quincy Jones, who now manages Jacob. He said; “I was at the Montreux Jazz Festival supporting Chick and Herbie.” I stopped him mid-sentence; “Sorry, can I be clear, you mean Chick Corea and Herbie Hancock?” “Yes” he said, as if he was telling me what he had for breakfast that day, not working with two of the biggest legends in modern Jazz.
Now a six-time Grammy winner, the first one for his reimagining of The Flintstones theme, Jacob tours the world performing in his own unique style. Although he’s had mainstream success, Jacob continues to stay true to his own way of doing things.
https://www.instagram.com/jacobcollier/
There’s Plenty Of Talent Out There
While their musical styles may not be your preferred taste, there’s no denying that the people I’ve highlighted above are incredibly creative and talented.
I smile when I watch their videos and listen to the music they are making. If they can do that for this cynical 57 year old white guy, then there’s still hope.
What about you? Let us know in the comments other music producers we should check out. Don’t include links or your comment won’t be published.