How would you define your main role on most of the projects you work on at the moment?
I help artists/bands write and produce songs, mainly in the indie genre through co writes and production sessions based at my farm studio in Surrey. This involves getting to know the songwriter, exploring difficult topics through writing and recording/producing to a creative industry standard. I love exploring new sounds and genres whilst expanding the artist’s taste and ears.
Please tell us a bit about your musical background. How did you get started in the music industry? What was your pathway to your current role?
I started out playing in bands, mentored by the band Morcheeba. Then moving to London aged 18 I worked at State of Ark Studios as Runner/Assistant, Metropolis and Strongroom then landing a job at Domino Records (Publishing) in their writing room working with artists such as Eugene McGuinness, Boz Borer (Morissey) and Black Midi. As an active bass player and multi-instrumentalist I worked with the likes of Tom Grennan, Nilufer Yanya and Westerman touring Europe whilst running shows at venues such as Dublin Castle, Camden and Hootenanny in Brixton. Since then, I’ve worked with artists such as Benjamin Francis Leftwich, Lexie Carroll and Thomas Irwin and now reside in a farm situated studio in Surrey. As an active instrumentalist, having to ability to build demos fast and work with super talented artists/bands has been always to my strength as a writer/producer.
What or who inspired you to follow this path?
Reading Sound on Sound magazine as a young musician and following the MPG, seeing the likes of Charlie Andrew and Kid Harpoon be shown their credibility has always been a great inspiration. Also seeing from likeminded producers, in such a hard working industry, that anything is possible.
Are there any highlights from your work that you are particularly proud of?
Sitting in on sessions with some of my favourite producers, also being long listed for this years MPG awards!
What’s one tip you can share with other MPG members that could help their workflow?
Always be prepared whether it’s a quick idea before a session starts or a back catalogue of writing ideas. Don’t be afraid of the 180 turn around if an idea isn’t working for you or the artist, you can always take the concept and reinterpret the idea later. Be prepared to take breaks whilst writing, a brief walk around the block can do wonders for inspiration. And finally, the artist is king/queen.. always listen, with respect.
What’s one tip you would like an MPG member to share with you?
How do you find time and manage the business/admin side of your business? I use spreadsheets to manage certain aspects but keen to see what everyone does par outsourcing/delegating.
Do you have any words of wisdom for people wanting to get into a similar music production role to yours?
Find your own route, whether it’s university, working in studios. I don’t believe there’s a correct way. Make friends and enjoy the journey. Also take care of your mental health along the way
Jamie’s website: https://www.jamieamos.com
