In the world of hip-hop, music production plays a monumental role in defining sound, style, and, most importantly, legacy. On the Hitt Mobb Podcast, hosts Daven Vanderpool aka (Prestige) and Paul Hendricks aka (Baby Paul) dive deep into the craft of music production, discussing influences, techniques, and the behind-the-scenes stories that have shaped the hip-hop industry. Joined by Jason Hadshian aka (J-Hatch), creator of Creative Space Events, they share insights into the world of beat-making, sampling, and the art of collaboration.
1. The Origins: How Legends Met and Crafted their Sound
Daven Vanderpool aka (Prestige) and Paul Hendricks aka (Baby Paul) connected over a shared love for music in Brooklyn. Their journey began in the “digging in the crates” era—a time when producers would scour vinyl records to discover unique sounds and create innovative beats. They drew inspiration from the “Holy Trinity” of producers: Pete Rock, Q-Tip, and Large Professor, and channeled their influences into pioneering music production.
2. Crate Digging & Inspirations: The Foundation of a Unique Sound
The act of crate-digging was integral to their creative process. Prestige and Baby Paul would sift through records, looking for standout drum breaks, rhythms, and sounds. Legendary artists like James Brown and the breakbeat classics heavily influenced their early music. Prestige emphasized how crate digging allowed them to develop unique sounds that stood out in the industry, citing that the music itself often dictated the direction and feel of their beats.
3. The Art of Beat-Making vs. Producing
There’s a vital difference between being a beat-maker and a producer. According to the duo, beat-makers focus on crafting the beats, while producers shape the entire sound and structure of a track, ensuring it complements the artist’s style. For Baby Paul, it’s about making the music feel cohesive with the artist’s voice and message, something he learned from his time working with iconic figures like Jay-Z and Heavy D. This dedication to the “art of doing things once” is key to creating music that stands the test of time.
4. Creating Timeless Music: Why Quality Matters Over Trends
The music industry today is flooded with sounds and trends, making it challenging for new producers to create memorable music. Baby Paul and Prestige stress the importance of quality and originality over chasing current trends. They emphasize that while many producers today have access to extensive sound libraries, it’s crucial to be intentional and innovative with sound selection, rather than just imitating popular beats.
5. Influence of Sampling and Technology in Production
Sampling was at the heart of their creative journey. From using James Brown’s tracks to experimenting with R&B samples, both producers crafted a unique soundscape that resonated with listeners. With the advent of digital tools like Fruity Loops and Pro Tools, they adapted to newer technologies, evolving their craft while staying true to the roots of hip-hop production.
6. Navigating the Business Side of Production
Both Prestige and Baby Paul learned the hard way that the music business is just as crucial as the art of making beats. Contracts, royalties, and navigating label systems were complex but necessary. As Baby Paul notes, keeping track of producer agreements and understanding royalty structures are vital for financial security and recognition.
7. Collaborations: Building a Strong Creative Network
Collaboration has been essential to their careers. By networking with other producers and mentoring young talent, they built a supportive community. This openness to collaboration has allowed them to stay connected to the latest industry trends while imparting their wisdom to the next generation.
8. The Impact of J-Hatch and Creative Space Events
The Hitt Mobb Podcast pays tribute to J-Hatch, whose contributions to music and creative events were invaluable. Hatch’s passion for music culture and his dedication to helping artists and producers connect left a lasting impact on the community. His vision for Creative Space Events will continue to inspire producers and artists alike.
9. Key Takeaways for Aspiring Producers
Aspiring producers should immerse themselves in music from all eras, as the best lessons often come from studying the classics. Prestige and Baby Paul encourage up-and-coming producers to avoid the trap of replicating popular sounds and instead focus on honing a style that feels authentic and emotionally resonant.
Final Thoughts
The Hitt Mobb Podcast provides a unique glimpse into the lives of two veteran producers who have seen the music industry evolve drastically. Their stories, challenges, and successes remind us that great music comes from dedication, respect for the art form, and the willingness to learn from each other. Whether you’re a producer, artist, or hip-hop enthusiast, the podcast is a treasure trove of insights into the transformative power of music production.
