RSR547 - Jon Estes - Simplicity and Communication Make Better Records [Béla Fleck, Robyn Hitchcock] - Recording Studio Rockstars

RSR547 – Jon Estes – Simplicity and Communication Make Better Records [Béla Fleck, Robyn Hitchcock]

What does it really take to make a record that feels authentic, timeless, and even fun to make, without getting caught up in hype or hype-y gear?

My guest today is Jon Estes, a Nashville-born multi-instrumentalist, producer, and engineer with a diverse background working with artists like Béla Fleck, Robyn Hitchcock, Kacey Musgraves, and Rodney Crowell. He's known for blending vintage gear with modern tools and for his thoughtful approach to studio work, including his own home setup.

In this episode, Jon and I discuss his journey from self-taught bassist playing in church to working at some of Nashville’s iconic studios. We explore how his early experiences with the Wooten family and studying jazz at the University of Miami shaped his musical and production sensibilities. Jon shares insights into making records with a minimal, efficient setup, emphasizing the importance of being prepared, organized, and communicative. We also get into the details of his studio design, his approach to recording instruments - especially bass and vocals - and how he uses creative tricks like headphone mics and tape techniques to achieve unique sounds.

Throughout, Jon emphasizes that authenticity, clear communication, and keeping things simple often lead to better results than chasing gear or complex workflows.

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Website Links:

jonestes.com
Instagram:
@estesbass


Additional podcast editing and production by:
Vlad Vasilcenko
Daria Tupesis

MixMasterBundle.com
Take your music from sounding like a basement demo to professional radio-ready mixes with my free introductory mixing course using stock and free plugins at MixMasterBundle.com!

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