This was my first remix contest so I’m incredibly honored to have been mentioned, although my primary goal was to network with other producer/musicians and get some feedback. It’s so important for creatives to have that community–which can be elusive if you live in remote locations. When I was in music school (back in the day), I practiced obsessively and after graduation I noticed that I lacked motivation. A common post-art school phenomenon… Suddenly you graduate and your community disappears.

“ Operating Manual For Not Quitting
A. Make friends with others who make art, and share your in-progress work with each other frequently.
B. Learn to think of [A], rather than the Museum of Modern Art, as the destination of your work. (Look at it this way: If all goes well, MOMA will eventually come to you.) ”

Art & Fear – Observations On The Perils (and Rewards) of Artmaking, David Bayles & Ted Orland

Well, after discovering social media for musicians, I’m making friends all over the world who share my interests in music production. Now, time to make some new music!

You can also download my remix here (right click/save to disk): If You’re Out There (A.Westphal remix)

I recently joined Indaba Music which is an awesome site for musicians and anyone interested in music. You can collaborate online with musicians around the world, network, and participate in awesome remix competitions. When I heard that they were having a John Legend remix competition, I was so excited I couldn’t wait to start working on it.

It’s my first remix competition and I think it’s a great way to practice producing and get involved with a community of fellow producers. The song, “If You’re Out There”, is inspirational with a message based on Ghandi’s “be the change you want to see”.  It was quite challenging for me to come up with a suitable remix and I tried all kinds of ideas.

I thought the message was similar to “Man in the Mirror”, one of my all time favorite Quincy/Michael tracks. However, I couldn’t find a way to make that kind of production work. Then I tried to do something up tempo but it sounded too rushed. Finally I decided to do an oldschool rework in a 70’s Soul style.

The winner is chosen by 3 judges, including Mr. Legend himself! The honorable mentions are decided by public voting.

Check out my remix at indiba.com.

You can also download my remix here (right click/save to disk): If You’re Out There (A.Westphal oldskool remix)