Luigi popularly known as (DJProdLuigi) is a Kenyan Music producer and is known for his crow, ee tuu sound and the sauce he delivers. Luigi was first drawn into music production while listening to House Music while he used to DJ a while back and ever since he has gone to produce some major hits in the 254. The Nairobi based Music producer speaks to us about his passion for music, his musical journey, his future music projects, and also shares his love for the creative space.
How best will you describe who Luigi is?
Known for his crow, ee tuu sound and the sauce he delivers.
Can you describe your creative process as a music producer? How do you approach crafting a unique sound for each project?
Sound selection is key, I use a lot of one shots, phrases and accent’s when coming up with a melody before adding the drums. I try to stand out by using transitions and vocals chops in my beats.
Building up the drums I always start with the Hi Hats and then 808’s or sometimes the other way around, OZ influenced me on that.
What drew you to become a music producer, and how has your journey shaped your perspective on the industry?
House music to be honest, I used to DJ before I become a music producer. I used to watch a lot of Martin Garrick’s sets and music production sessions on YouTube. Plus I used to be in a School band playing the cornet and the French horn occasionally.
The remix’s martin used to do really got my attention. It shifted from Future House, Future House Remix, and Trap Remix to Regular Trap. That’s where I got really intrigued on how this beats are made and started learning myself.
How do you stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in music production? Can you share any resources or communities you find helpful?
Consistency is key to everything. The more productive you are the better you become in your every day’s task.
Surround yourself with people who are better than you in what you love doing best so that you learn the most out of it.
Make sure your sound selection is good. Don’t use out dated sounds. Go to Spotify and listen to mainstreams songs pay attention to the sounds used. If you want a good example my drum kit can be the solution to your beat blocks.
When making beats keep it as simple as possible allow room for the artist to do his/her thing.
Can you tell us about a challenging project you worked on as a music producer? How did you overcome obstacles and achieve the desired outcome?
Recreating a similar melody being heard on a mainstream platforms or trying to make a beat while you feel Uninspired.
What role do you believe a music producer plays in shaping the artistic direction of a song or album?
Music producer’s work closely with the artist or band to bring their creative vision to life and make important decisions throughout the production process. For example during the pre-production the producer collaborates with the artist to define the overall concept, mood, and style of the project.
During song development. Producers often provide valuable input during the songwriting process. They may suggest changes to the structure, lyrics, or melodies to enhance the overall impact of the songs.
Being a music producer has many important roles when in shaping the artistic direction for a song not forgetting to mention sound designing, recording and performance guidance, arrangement and composition, mixing and mastering and Project management.
Producers work closely with mix engineers and mastering engineers to achieve the desired sound quality and balance. They have a trained ear for the overall sonic picture and collaborate on the final mix, making sure that each element serves the artistic vision of the song or album.
Why I mentioned project management is because producers often handle the logistical aspects of the project, including budgeting, scheduling, and coordinating various stakeholders such as musicians, engineers, and label representatives. They ensure that the production process stays on track and that the artistic direction is maintained throughout. Those are one of the major reasons why Murda Beatz and Migos be close or Metro Boomin with Future and Sizzle.
That’s the real definition of a music producer.
How do you collaborate with artists to bring their vision to life while infusing your own creative input?
I sit down with them first and talk. I try to build a chemistry around us so that we vibin and feeling each another. Because if you don’t get to know each another man I tell you will be cringing during the session. Building relationships in the music industry is very important.
When it comes to those who stay abroad I listen to their music first and then I reach out to try and build a relationship before the progress of work begins.
In your opinion, what are the key qualities that make a successful music producer? How do you embody those qualities in your work?
- Being Consistent
- Having strong musical background and understanding of different genres and styles are essential. Music Theory does not play a major role but it’s a big help.
- Creativity and being unique.
- Attention to detail.
- Adaptability.
Can you share any memorable or unique experiences you’ve had while working in the music industry?
LUKU is one of them. Many be asking me how I got in touch with Khaligraph Jones. It was through Instagram. He saw one of my beats on my IG page which was the LUKU Beat. We did chat in the dm and that’s how I sent him the beat.
How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback from artists/fans, and how does it impact your creative process?
I take in positively and learn from what I can do better.
What tools, software, or instruments do you consider essential for your music production setup, and why?
- Laptop – having a laptop is all you need when you wanna cook up some beats and other things will come later.
- FL Studio – is the DAW you will need to make hard beats for vocals recording, mixing and mastering I suggest Logic Pro X but fl studio still does the job.
- Earphones / Headphones – for accurate monitoring, noise isolation, consistency across listening environments, privacy and convenience and Microphone bleed prevention.
- Midi Keyboard – Playability and Expressiveness, Control and Manipulation, MIDI Recording and Editing and Instrument and Sound Selection.
Can you describe a situation where you had to think outside the box to achieve a specific sound or effect in a production? How did you approach it?
I face this a lot when I’m sampling songs or when I’m using samples. I chop samples a lot but either using the playlist on FL studio or fruity slicer. I take my time to see what chop fits well, changing up the pitch, tempo and make it sound to my liking etc.
How do you adapt your production techniques to different genres of music? Can you provide examples of genres you have worked with?
I worked with Afro beats and Reggaeton. For me it wasn’t easy to make at first but being surrounded with people who like that kind of music and make. I got some lessons and inspired to make them.
Are there any particular artists or musicians who have had a significant influence on your work as a music producer?
Yes, Future, Juice WRLD and Yeat but mostly Future
What advice would you give to aspiring music producers who are just starting their journey in the industry?
Be consistent and ask for feedback but honest feedback so that you can improve.
Can you share a project or production you are currently working on and explain what excites you about it?
Bigkaybeezy is in the process of making an album. I am locked in with him and his partner. So I ain’t know what’s gonna happen. I am praying on that one.
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