In this interview, we sit down with DJ and music Producer Terry Golden to explore the creative journey behind his latest track, “Don’t Mind Me.”
Known for his unique style and sound within the Melodic House and Techno genre, Terry Golden shares insights into his production process, from the initial inspiration to the final mix. He discusses how he integrates unique elements to maintain his signature sound while evolving as an artist; with a career marked by continuous innovation and an impressive catalogue of work, Terry’s reflections offer an insider’s look at his approach to music creation and what fans can expect from him in the future.
Hi Terry Golden, how are you today?
Thanks for coming along, and thank you very much, I’m feeling great. It’s summer, and events and festivals are taking place.
Can you start by telling us what inspired the creation of ‘Don’t Mind Me’?
It’s a question I often get, and it’s actually difficult to answer precisely. When I make music, it either starts with a good hook, or as in this case, a super vocal, I don’t build the track around. When I build a new track, I always try to give my listeners a good taste of some familiar Terry Golden sound, but I also try to add something new to it.
What was the first element you worked on for this track, and how did you build upon it to create the full soundscape?
As I said before, the track started with the vocals being the starting point. The next step was to make a cool hook or drop, I also built the base with this growing bassline. You also start filling in the other elements such as drums, hats, pads etc.
The dynamic vocal adds a lot of sonic depth to the track. How did you choose and incorporate this vocal element?
I completely agree, the vocals play a huge role in the whole perception of the track, and this is perhaps also where I differ with other producers who work around the Melodic Techno genre. In general, I love vocals, as they add energy to the music in a very special way and make it easier for listeners to relate to the music. As always, I have changed the vocal by chopping it up and adding effects to selected places in the song, precisely to emphasize the deep elements.
Looking back at the production process, what part of creating this track was the most enjoyable for you?
For the most part, it’s the vocals and the drop sections that I find most inspiring, and that was also the case here. But in general, it’s actually the whole thing in its entirety, which really gives me the energy. It’s a bit like building with Legos, the process is exciting and fun, but the great satisfaction is only when everything is finished.
How did you approach the mixing and mastering process for ‘Don’t Mind Me’ to ensure all elements worked well together?
The mix part is something I take continuously in the process. I know someone that first does all stems, and then also do a mix from scratch. My process is fluid, as the mix part changes during the process, depending on where the project takes me. The master part, I have my fixed mastering chain, which I actually switch on and off during the process, to see if there are parts that will take up too much or too little, I also make the minor adjustments at the end. I must be honest and say that the master part is the part where I stay on the thinnest ice. AI plug-ins help me quite a bit, as I have approx. same output sound, gain staging etc., also it’s really just the last little details.
Can you share any specific techniques you used to create the energetic sound of ‘Don’t Mind Me’?
I wouldn’t say I use any special technique. But part of my signature is the layering of leads and bass. Many use the default plug-in on a track. There is nothing wrong with that, as I also use plug-ins myself, but by, for example, giving your lead synth several layers, with different sounds, you achieve something unique and something that I feel comes through better.
How would you say ‘Don’t Mind Me’ reflects your evolution as an artist and your unique musical identity?
Tough question and to be honest it’s just a typical Terry Golden track. I am sure that my fans can hear my sound and special energy in ‘Don´t Mind Me.’
The track features an atmospheric soundscape with driving beats. How did you achieve this hypnotic rhythm? How did you ensure the energy remains consistent throughout the track?
The kick and the bass are or me, some of the most decisive elements in all my tracks. The whole rhythm is a lot more decisive, however, and especially hats, pads and plugs, as well as, effects are a large part of the whole rhythm of the song.
Finally, what can fans expect next from you in terms of new releases and projects?
I have an EP Losing Love which will be released via Ensis Records on August 30th. It even contains a remix of Losing Love, which I produced together with Jordan Grace. But otherwise, I am working on some exciting rework projects, which I hope will be allowed to be published.
We finish this interview by thanking Terry Golden for his time and for sharing a deeper look into his production processes; with his ongoing projects and upcoming releases, he continues to build his reputation as a significant figure in the Electronic Music scene, showing that his dedication to evolving his sound remains strong. We look forward to seeing how his creative journey unfolds and what new directions his music will take.
Listen and Buy ‘Don’t Mind Me’ now here.
