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Producer and Engineer Skip Saylor Speaks at LA Recording School

Accomplished music producer and recording engineer Skip Saylor recently spoke with students at The Los Angeles Recording School. Saylor both owns and operates his own recording studio, Skip Saylor Recording, and shared some valuable insights on what it takes to become successful in the music industry.

Throughout his long career, Skip Saylor has had the opportunity to work with many illustrious acts. In his early years the well-known artists Saylor worked with include Tom Petty, Frank Sinatra, Ringo Star, Michael Jackson and Diana Ross. In 1980 Skip opened his very own recording studio in Hollywood, California. Since then, he has amassed a large collection of Gold and Platinum records while working with headliners such as Guns n’ Roses, Foo Fighters, Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg, Pink and Eminem.

While sharing his experiences working with various artists, Saylor stressed the importance of work ethic, noting that engineers lose opportunities because of the little things. “Don’t give any client a reason not to want to work with you,” he advised. “Always show up on time and always be prepared.”

Saylor also commented on the difference between successful and unsuccessful recording engineers. “There is not that much difference between the good ones and the bad ones. Working in this industry is not a talent contest, it’s an endurance test,” Saylor said. “If you stand in line long enough without walking away, you will eventually be at the front of the line.”

Another important topic Saylor touched upon was playing the role of an engineer when working with an artist. “It’s not about you. You should know where you stand as an engineer. The artist is not there to be your friend and good engineers understand that.”

Throughout the 70’s, Saylor worked for United Western Studios/UREI, Cherokee, Sunset Sound, Soundcastle and Freddie Perren's personal studio, Mom & Pop's Company Store. Currently, he operates a personal studio in the San Fernando Valley and produces albums.

“You should concentrate on getting good right now,” Saylor added before he took questions from the class. “The more you work on your craft, the more likely you are to succeed”

For more information on Skip Saylor, his client roster, and his studio, visit www.skipsaylor.com