Meet Brandon Smith

We were lucky to catch up with Brandon Smith recently and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Brandon, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

If I’m being honest, I genuinely think I’m still trying to find it fully. Every day I’m closer and improving steadily, but I think that’s how it is with anyone. I’m a firm believer in that if you can find something you love to do, while able to help others at the same time, then that’s your purpose. I love music. I love creating it, analyzing it, mixing it, everything about it. It’s also the only thing I’ve noticed that can help someone in ANY situation apart from God. It’s saved me on multiple occasions, and I’ve been lucky enough to create music that has had a similar impact on others. I’ve always thought that if you could save one life, or have a positive impact on even one person, you have a responsibility to do so. The stories I’ve both heard and/or witnessed in response to our music feed my creative fuel when my tank might be low. It’s also how I learn and grow personally if I’m not experienced in facing that particular situation. Some people need advice, others just want someone to take the time to listen to them. I’m happy to be that outlet and do both if necessary. It’s never been about the notoriety or money. It’s about helping others in the best way that I believe I can, which is to make positive sounding music that encourages discussion about the darker things we tend to bottle up.

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

I’m fortunate enough to be on both sides of the music world. I’m blessed to be allowed to make a living mixing live sound whether it’s running monitors or FOH. I get to see a concert every day and get paid to do it, like how cool is that? I get to meet some of the most talented, genuine, passionate, and creative people…daily! I love being immersed in this world from both sides because when I try to make “SØUNDHOOSE” music and put together our live show with my bandmate Jeremy, there’s so many influences. Every show I attend (as either an engineer or fan) I’m constantly jotting down ideas and seeing how Jeremy and I can incorporate them into our live show. The live aspect is my favorite because you can see firsthand how your music affects people. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing someone enjoy the art you spent so much time and energy creating. Live shows are where we go when we want to escape and have fun. They’re also the only place I can think of where it doesn’t matter what your age, sex, ethnicity, religion, etc is. Everyone in that room shares a mutual love for a common thing and that’s beautiful. That’s why I love our live shows. We foster the concept that we’re a safe space free of judgment, and we’re gonna be there for one another and have one hell of a good time singing and dancing about things that we’d normally be afraid to talk about.

Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?

1. Just like every day we wake up, we need to not take anything for granted. I have found that the more grateful you are, the benefits and rewards are plentiful. I’m very lucky to do what I do and don’t want to take it for granted. So even if I’m not mixing a #1 one artist, I want to approach each show with that mindset.
2. Humility. I NEVER want to be the smartest person in the room. I want to surround myself with people I can learn from and be a sponge. If you surround yourself with like minded professionals, there is always some knowledge or tricks to be learned. This mindset also makes it less likely to come across as arrogant and can help the artist feel more comfortable.
3. Patience. Much like working out and seeing results, good things take time. Never count on overnight success. Building good habits and becoming a true professional requires patience. The 10,000 hours rule really does apply, and if you can be patient, you will see improvement and success over time if you put in the work.

Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?

I’m very, very fortunate enough to have parents who engage with me, listen, and are supportive of my goals. My parents instilled a confidence in me that never wavers and they also know how to give feedback or criticism when needed. It’s very common thing to always say “good job” and it’s not always accurate. There will be off days or shows that don’t go smoothly. My parents are very good at being honest and giving honest feedback. Some people can’t take constructive criticism and that hinders any improvement. You can’t take it personally. And I’m not saying my parents criticized me all the time, but merely that honest feedback helps you grow as a professional and as a person. They’ve helped me develop a sense of confidence while also being able to take criticism or feedback in a professional manner.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Brandon Smith, Mathias Fau

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