Mixing Music | Music Production, Audio Engineering, & Music Business
@DeeKeiMixes
The Mixing Music Podcast is your ultimate guide to music production, audio engineering, mixing, and mastering. Hosted by professional mix engineers Dee Kei (@DeeKeiMixes), Lu Moreno (@MasteredByLu), and James Parrish (@jamesdeanmixes), this podcast covers recording techniques, studio mixing, vocal production, sound design, DAW workflows, plugin reviews, gear recommendations, industry secrets, and the business of music production. Whether you're a music producer, mix engineer, mastering engineer, independent artist, or content creator, you’ll get expert insights to take your sound to the next level.Our hosts have worked with Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, Rico Nasty, ATEEZ, Kanye West, The Game, and more, collaborating with major record labels like Universal Music Group, Sony Music, Interscope Records, Republic Records, and Capitol Records. Join us for mixing tutorials, mastering strategies, music production tips, home studio setup advice, industry interviews, and pro techniques used in professional recording studios. Whether you're using Pro Tools, Ableton Live, FL Studio, Logic Pro, or Studio One, this podcast is packed with valuable information to improve your mixing workflow and production quality.In our exclusive episodes, James Parrish and Dee Kei react to interviews with various audio engineers, music producers, and YouTubers to help you understand the most useful advice for making better music. All exclusive episodes are focused on technical aspects of the post-production process.The Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by Antares (Auto Tune), Plugin Boutique, Lauten Audio, Sweetwater, & Filepass,Find Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredByLu @jamesdeanmixeswitter: @DeeKeiMixesCHECK OUT OUR OTHER RESOURCESJoin the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!The Mixing Music Podcast is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's Personal Mixing Studio in Los Angeles, California.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Jun 10, 2025 • 1h 3min
The Gear We Regret Buying (and What We'd Buy Instead)
In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu get brutally honest about the gear they regret buying — not because it sounded bad, but because it didn’t move the needle. From analog outboard gear that collected dust to plugins that felt essential (but weren’t), this episode is all about separating emotional purchases from strategic investments.Whether you're a bedroom producer or a full-time engineer, we explore what gear actually makes a difference at different stages of your career. We break down common purchasing mistakes, why some tools are overrated for professionals, and what we wish we bought instead. This is a must-listen for anyone building a real audio career, not just a pretty studio.Topics include:The gear we regret (and why)Emotional vs strategic purchasesPro mindset vs hobbyist mindsetWhat we would buy insteadGear that actually helps you grow your businessHow to prioritize purchases at different career stagesThe hidden cost of chasing “feeling legit”SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBEJoin the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by Izotope, Antares (Auto Tune), Sweetwater, Plugin Boutique, Lauten Audio, Filepass, & CanvaThe Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at deekeimixes@gmail.com.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Jun 3, 2025 • 48min
Why Your Mixes Sound Flat | How To Create Depth In Your Mixes
n this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu dive deep into the often overlooked but game-changing concept of depth in mixing. Beyond loudness and width, depth creates that three-dimensional, professional sound we all chase. The guys break down what actually creates depth, from volume contrast and EQ decisions to reverb, delay, and automation tricks. They also discuss common “depth killers” that flatten a mix, and share practical techniques that you can start using today to bring life and space into your tracks. Whether you're mixing vocals, drums, or full productions, this episode will help you understand how to move your mixes from flat to full.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBEJoin the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by Izotope, Antares (Auto Tune), Sweetwater, Plugin Boutique, Lauten Audio, Filepass, & CanvaThe Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at deekeimixes@gmail.com.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
May 27, 2025 • 29min
Why HPF and LPF Are Your Mix’s Secret Weapon | All About Using Filters
In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu break down one of the simplest but most powerful tools in every engineer’s arsenal: high-pass and low-pass filters. From functional cleanup and frequency management to shaping emotion, depth, and energy, filters are far more than just technical necessities — they’re creative tools that shape the feel of a track. The guys discuss where filters should be used, where they’re often abused, and how they use them to sculpt tone, add movement, and guide listener focus. Whether you’re cleaning up mud or automating your way to a more emotional mix, this episode will leave you hearing HPFs and LPFs in a whole new way.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBEJoin the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by Izotope, Antares (Auto Tune), Sweetwater, Plugin Boutique, Lauten Audio, Filepass, & CanvaThe Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at deekeimixes@gmail.com.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
May 20, 2025 • 1h 15min
High Self-Esteem = Better Mixes?
In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu dive deep into the relationship between self-esteem, insecurity, and communication in the studio. Beyond gear and plugin chains, your ability to collaborate, accept feedback, and maintain emotional stability may be the real secret to becoming a trusted professional. We explore how low self-esteem can lead to defensiveness, people-pleasing, or creative burnout — and how building authentic confidence can improve client relationships, reduce revision stress, and elevate the quality of your work. Whether you're just starting out or trying to level up your freelance career, this conversation is packed with insight, vulnerability, and practical advice.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBEJoin the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by Izotope, Antares (Auto Tune), Sweetwater, Plugin Boutique, Lauten Audio, Filepass, & CanvaThe Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at deekeimixes@gmail.com.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
May 13, 2025 • 1h 14min
When to Say No: Handling Bad Recordings and Unrealistic Clients
The discussion kicks off with the challenges of handling bad recordings and how to set necessary boundaries with clients. Insights are shared on balancing artistic integrity with commercial demands and the importance of clear communication. The hosts tackle the complexities of creative dilemmas, emphasizing the need for transparency. They dive into the struggles of people-pleasing while maintaining professional boundaries, and introduce innovative pricing strategies. The conversation even touches on the creative potential found in imperfections, showcasing a love for art driven by passion.
May 6, 2025 • 46min
Mix Engineer Confessions: Mistakes We Still Make
In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu get candid about the mistakes they still make — even after years of mixing, mastering, and working with big-name artists. From rushing decisions and second-guessing revisions, to over-processing vocals and letting imposter syndrome creep in, they share the real lessons behind the errors that never quite go away. This episode is a reminder that growth doesn’t mean perfection — it means awareness, adaptability, and learning faster each time you fall into familiar traps.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBEJoin the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by Izotope, Antares (Auto Tune), Sweetwater, Plugin Boutique, Lauten Audio, Filepass, & CanvaThe Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's Private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at deekeimixes@gmail.com.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Apr 29, 2025 • 50min
Mixing on Headphones with Ollo Audio | Translation, Target Curves, Sustainability
CHECK OUT OLLO X1 HEADPHONES: https://mixingmusicpodcast.com/olloSUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBEJoin the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by Izotope, Antares (Auto Tune), Sweetwater, Plugin Boutique, Lauten Audio, Filepass, & CanvaThe Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's Private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at deekeimixes@gmail.com.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Apr 22, 2025 • 38min
Mid/Side Processing: Secret Sauce or Total Trap?
In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu debate whether mid/side EQ and compression is secret sauce or just overhyped gimmick. From subtle mastering moves to totally wrecking your stereo image, we break down the good, the bad, and the reckless uses of mid/side processing. We talk real-world use cases, the plugins we trust (and the ones we’ve overused), and why blindly boosting the sides might be killing your mix. If you’ve ever used mid/side EQ just because you could — this one’s for you.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBEJoin the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by Izotope, Antares (Auto Tune), Sweetwater, Plugin Boutique, Lauten Audio, Filepass, & CanvaThe Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's Private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at deekeimixes@gmail.com.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Apr 15, 2025 • 59min
Are You Certain? The Hidden Dangers of Ego and Insecurity in Music Careers
In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu explore the hidden impact of certainty, doubt, and perception on creative careers and communication in the music industry. From the subjectivity of art to the way we interpret feedback, we break down how overconfidence or insecurity can sabotage collaboration, client relationships, and personal growth. We also dive into reframing feedback as a collaborative tool, navigating client expectations with emotional intelligence, and the role of fairness, ambition, and responsibility in long-term success. Whether you're battling imposter syndrome or struggling to manage boundaries with high-maintenance clients, this episode unpacks how self-awareness and reflection can unlock better communication, creativity, and career sustainability.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBEJoin the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by Izotope, Antares (Auto Tune), Sweetwater, Plugin Boutique, Lauten Audio, Filepass, & CanvaThe Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's Private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at deekeimixes@gmail.com.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
Apr 8, 2025 • 50min
Using Analog Emulation Plugins | How to Use Them and What We Like
In this episode of the Mixing Music Podcast, Dee Kei and Lu dive into the ongoing resurgence of analog emulation plugins and why these classic tones still matter in today’s digital landscape. They break down the technological leaps in digital plugin development, the shift in modern musical trends, and what “warmth” really means when it comes to sound. From the nostalgic vibe of tape saturation to the precision of modern analog-modeled tools, they explore the strengths and quirks of both analog and digital workflows. Plus, Dee Kei and Lu share some of their favorite go-to plugins that bring character and vibe to every mix.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR PATREON FOR EXCLUSIVE CONTENT!SUBSCRIBE TO YOUTUBEJoin the ‘Mixing Music Podcast’ Discord!HIRE DEE KEIHIRE LUFind Dee Kei and Lu on Social Media:Instagram: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuTwitter: @DeeKeiMixes @MasteredbyLuThe Mixing Music Podcast is sponsored by Izotope, Antares (Auto Tune), Sweetwater, Plugin Boutique, Lauten Audio, Filepass, & CanvaThe Mixing Music Podcast is a video and audio series on the art of music production and post-production. Dee Kei, Lu, and James are professionals in the Los Angeles music industry having worked with names like Odetari, 6arelyhuman, Trey Songz, Keyshia Cole, Benny the Butcher, carolesdaughter, Crying City, Daphne Loves Derby, Natalie Jane, charlieonnafriday, bludnymph, Lay Bankz, Rico Nasty, Ayesha Erotica, ATEEZ, Dizzy Wright, Kanye West, Blackway, The Game, Dylan Espeseth, Tara Yummy, Asteria, Kets4eki, Shaquille O'Neal, Republic Records, Interscope Records, Arista Records, Position Music, Capital Records, Mercury Records, Universal Music Group, apg, Hive Music, Sony Music, and many others.This podcast is meant to be used for educational purposes only. This show is filmed and recorded at Dee Kei's Private studio in North Hollywood, California. If you would like to sponsor the show, please email us at deekeimixes@gmail.com.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
