Dave Isaac is a 3-times Grammy Award-winning producer who, in a career spanning more than 4 decades so far, has worked with huge artists like Bruno Mars, Prince, Madonna, Michael Jackson, Eric Clapton, Whitney Houston, and Stevie Wonder, amongst many others.
Hi Dave! How's it going today?
All is good. Life is good. I'm blessed and I'm here hanging out with Softube!
Are you working on anything fun this summer?
Well, I'm working on my first full album release and tour, as well as a book that’s based on my life and the tips and lessons learned in the studio. Then there’s presets and videos for various companies that I endorse, and speaking engagements for hardware companies that I endorse. I'm also increasing my catalog for the work that I do for television and film licensing, and teaching multiple classes at Musicians Institute in Hollywood, along with working on my Associate’s Degree in Keyboard.
Whether on your current project(s) or past projects, which Softube plug-ins are must-haves for you?
My Top 5 must-have Softube plug-ins are:
"As a child to an adult, from beginning to end, from problem to answer and from creation to the stage, that’s what I do on this planet. PRODUCE!"
You must have spent some long hot summers in the studio over the years. Do any particular projects spring to mind?
MANY!! I used to love touring in the summer with Marcus Miller, Lalah Hathaway, Kenny Garrett, Joe Sample, Al Jarreau, and more. All of the Summer Jazz Festivals: Montreux, Japan, Germany, Spain, everywhere! I mean we made the most of the summer! Now, I’m looking forward to the next chapter of taking my Pop/R&B acts on the road in the summer and fall around the world for new experiences.
Are you more of a producer, or more of an engineer? Or both? Or neither?
I AM a music producer! I’m a musician because I can play various instruments. I’ve recorded some of the best as an engineer. I’ve mixed music around the world for decades. I’ve done sound programming for various tours and albums and built studios from Los Angeles to Detroit, but I consider myself primarily a Music Producer. It’s what I do, and it’s what I love. As a child to an adult, from beginning to end, from problem to answer and from creation to the stage, that’s what I do on this planet. PRODUCE!
What, in your opinion, does a song need to be a summer classic?
A song that makes people remember THAT summer! No matter what age you are, or where you are in the world, does it make you remember THAT summer? Being in love, at an amusement park as a kid or teen with your friends, hanging out or partying with your friends, backyard parties or block parties, clubbin’ in Miami, etc! That’s a summer classic!
Is there a perfect time of year to start a music project?
Yes, spring is the best time for the summer! It gives you time to market and build interest in the clubs, radio and internet for touring.
"I like to take one month in the summer to balance life with family and friends [...] When I do that, I’m reminded of what life is all about."
Any tips for staying cool in the studio?
AC (Air Conditioning)! And working in a studio overlooking the ocean with my special frozen margaritas with Grand Marnier, or a nicely chilled Limoncello or Sangria.
What do you like to do this time of year besides work? How (if at all) does it feed back into your professional life?
I like to take one month in the summer to balance life with family and friends, before the fall/winter grind starts to close out the year and balance again in December. When I do that, I’m reminded of what life is all about. I can also enjoy music with friends and family and discover more on my vacation in a different way than when I’m working in the studio, or “because I have to”.
Everything Tube-Tech — colour, character, and completion.