Interview with Matt Squire

Interview with Matt Squire

About Matt

Matt Squire is a multi-platinum American producer/engineer, with an immense and varied discography. He is known for his work with artists including Ariana Grande, Demi Lovato, Avril Lavigne, Kesha, Panic! at the Disco, All Time Low, The Maine, and Underøath to name just a few.


How and when did you get started?

I have always loved music and started playing guitar at age 8. I grew up in the MTV generation and wanted to be just like Guns and Roses and other hard rock bands. I started recording at age 10 and have been into that side of things ever since.


What have you been working on lately (that you can divulge)?

I just wrapped up The Amity Affliction for Roadrunner. Great people. I am getting ready to go in with The Maine this fall.

I have also recently co-founded a digital rights company called trustream.co that focuses on automatic accounting and reporting for interactive streaming. All stakeholders in the music business need access to more accurate and efficient data and Trustream can be a big help in furthering that mission.


If you were the age that you originally started today, and you had to start again from scratch, how would you approach things?

The exact same way in terms of developing relationships with artists. It's been a real blessing and I am continually learning from the people I meet along the way. The biggest difference is that I would start on a computer today instead of on tape.


What is the most important part of a song for you?

I think the emotional resonance of a song is the most important thing. The goal is to create the connection with an audience through that emotional resonance.


What is your favorite project that you've worked on?

All of them! I have been truly lucky and have had the opportunity to work on some really great stuff.


Matt Squire

Who is an artist you would like to work with but haven’t been able to yet?

Halsey.


Are you a big plugin user? If so, name some of your favorites!

Yes. I am really liking the Waves Infected Mushroom lately. I am really into Soundtoys plugs. And a lot of the standard Avid and Logic plugs are really great.


What is one thing that you can’t get your sound without? Hardware, software or whatever else.

My laptop is pretty much the base rate. Without that thing I am screwed. It has Pro Tools, Logic, Ableton and all my plugs on it.


Who are some of your favorite producers & engineers today?

Rich Costey, Josh Wilbur, Gil Norton, Bob Rock


What advice would you give to those new to the game?

Its all about taking risks and thinking outside the box. Get to know artists and figure out what they really want and find ways to deliver.


Outside of your day job, what music have you been listening to lately?

I am really liking SOHN lately. He has a really cool hybridized sound and I am continually surprised by what he comes up with.


Big thanks to Matt for taking the time to answer our questions!

Check out some of Matt's work in the Spotify playlist below.

You can follow Matt on social media here: Facebook and Instagram