by Kris Hurst
Ignite Studio’s maker spotlight is highlighting frequent AV Studio user and music producer, Keyshaun Childs. Keyshaun, who goes by the artist name {Keyshaun Angelvoice}, released his most recent album on major streaming platforms, including Spotify and Apple, in March. He has been producing music for several years, and his face lights up when he talks about his accomplishments. To promote his album release, Keyshaun also used our Fab Lab’s Heat Press and Sublimation Station to create t-shirts and other materials. During this busy time, he answered some questions about his work and process.
Maker Spotlight: Keyshaun Childs
When did you first become interested in producing music?
I first became interested in producing music when I was 18. I’ve had a love for music years before that, but I was never aware that it was something I was able to make a career out of. That is until I submitted a song for a school project and the ENTIRE SCHOOL started giving me praise for how great it was.
Do you have any formal training or are you self-taught?
When it comes to my skills, I am self-taught. It all came to me very naturally. Once I realized that music is just patterns of action, I knew that I could produce the best music known to mankind.
What kind of projects are you currently involved in?
As of right now I am working on my 6th studio album, but since I’ve gone through a name change it will be the second album under my new name.
What is the process of making music like? What are the steps involved?
When making a song I like to listen to what the beat has to say. Every beat is different, and I try to rely on the feeling that the beat gives me. It’s as if I’m having a conversation with the beat itself. There are a plethora of steps that go into making a great song. I won’t go into all of them right now, but the very first step you must take is taking that first step. Just go for it!
How long has it taken you to feel confident in your abilities?
It didn’t take long at all. When I uploaded my first song on to social media, the feedback was CRAZY! I was the quiet kid who felt like he was invisible, and yet, the whole school cheered me on.
What drew you to the Ignite Studio?
I was living with a foster parent named Calvin Roberson, who lives 5 minutes away from the Ignite Studio. He told me about it countless times, and I finally gave in and went to see for myself. The rest is history.
How easy or hard was it to learn the equipment you use in Ignite?
Luckily I had already gained a great deal of knowledge about the equipment they use years before I came to the studio. Almost feels as if it was destined for me to come to Ignite.
Any advice for those interesting in producing music?
The greatest advice I could give anyone interested in producing music is to take the leap and start. Starting is the hardest part, but once you start you’ll never want to stop. Create something that will be remembered forever!
If you’re interested in learning how to use Ignite’s A/V Studio, sign up for a Sound Equipment Training Workshop on our event calendar. We offer monthly trainings with professional musician Eric Salazar to help patrons get started making their out audio project. Happy making!
