Anne Freeman – Producer
Name: Anne Freeman
Title: Producer / Engineer
Company or Organization: HyperThreat Sound, HyperThreat Publishing
Links: Hyperthreat.com
FEMMUSIC: How did you get started in studio production?
AF: I grew up in Los Angeles, as a young singer songwriter, I was been mentored by Tim Bogert, Peter Grant and interned at the record Plant for Gary Kelgrin. I learned early on the difference between songwriting demos and record production.
FEMMUSIC: Why did you want to start your own studio? What benefits & drawbacks does that have?
AF: I grew up in the Los Angeles during a time when the music industry and the streets were full of incredibly talented players and passionate engineers.
My passion for music and experience in the tech industry also gave me a clear view of the advancements in recording technology, so it was a natural genesis for me.
FEMMUSIC: What challenges do you see for women in studio production?
AF: I think women have a natural competitive nature and combine with the skills required, they can be successful in any field dominated by men. I think the biggest issue in music for careers in recording and production as far as women are concerned, is a lack of interest. Without visibility, men assume they are not qualified or competitive enough. I have met some very talented women engineers, however I feel if more would venture into the field, we could overcome such a stereotype.
FEMMUISIC: What mentors did you have when learning?
AF: Many, and I am still learning. I worked as an intern for Gary Kelgrin at the Record Plant back in the 80’s and was allowed to sit in on sessions, from Rod Stewart, REO, to Stevie Nicks and Eddie Money. It was a different time, tape was king, and no automation. It took many hands to run a mix, but what an exciting time it was. I feel blessed for the opportunities afforded me at such a young age. Peter Grant took me under his wing as well. He was a huge fan of female vocalists, like Maggie Bell. He always encouraged me to fight against stereotypes and never let me give up on my dream. Tim Bogert was a musical mentor, who taught me how to walk onto any stage, call my tunes and lead the band as a vocalist. I spent a lot of time at jam nights perfecting this skill.
FEMMUSIC: Are women in studio production treated differently than men?
AF: My first day in my audio recording class is a perfect example of the symptoms of a male dominated field. I walked into class and it was full of men, the first thing they jokeingly said to me was, “are you lost?” It hasn’t changed all that much since. Lots of jokes, teasing and not being taken seriously.
FEMMUSIC: How do you see this?
AF: Women have to work twice as hard to prove themselves when they are the minority in any field.
Unfair as that may be, it’s a symptom based on a of a lack of interest. I started singing rock in the 80’s when all bands wanted was a male tenor. I auditioned weekly for a year, until I finally landed a lead vocalist position in a metal band. Honestly, we all have to fight for what we want or believe in, I just think some of us have to fight a little harder to break through stereotypes and the only way to do that, is proving we are just as passionate and qualified as anyone else for the job.
FEMMUSIC: What advice do you give to women wanting to go into studio work?
AF: Honestly I think it’s a double edged blade, women need to understand that any field in the arts, is extremely competitive. But nothing worth having ever comes easy, so it takes dedication and persistence to overcome any obstacle.
FEMMUSIC: What one thing would you change about the music industry?
AF: That’s a loaded question. I grew up in an era when music was more than just production. It was art, and it feels like we’ve lost that in today’s industry.
I think a lot of what is being fed to the ears of listeners isn’t edifying, its sterile and focused on branding for the all mighty dollar. I am a realist of course, we all wanna get paid, but I miss the artistry and imperfections of true artistry.