Producer Points Joe Pepe on MGK, Travis Barker, and Kiana Lede: Crafting Drums That Punch and Guitars That Bite
In this episode of Producer Points, Justin sits down with producer and songwriter Joe Pepe — a creative force behind hits for mgk, Travis Barker, Kiana Lede, and more. Known for his hard-hitting drums and biting guitar tones, Joe breaks down the process behind his signature sound. From his East Coast roots to Los Angeles studios, he shares insights into his workflow, building trust in the studio, and how he captures the perfect day-of bounce.
🔊 They dive into the stories behind Chloe Lilac’s “Supermoon” and Sam Short’s “Aphrodite,” revealing Joe’s favorite production tricks, vocal chains, and mixing hacks. Plus, Joe shares lessons from collaborating with MGK, Travis Barker, Kiana Lede, and others — and why finding the right balance between organic and modern sounds is key to a killer record.
🛠️ Plug-in talk, gear favorites, and why sometimes the best thing you can do is trust your gut.
If you’re into modern pop, alternative production, or just want to learn how to make drums hit like they mean it, this episode is a must-listen.
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