You’ve seen me interview some pretty fine specimens, people who I admire, over the years. I’ve brought to your attention some great people who have gone on to do some fantastic things. And today, I bring you someone I’m very excited about and will be watching for a long time.

Music is a love of mine. Although not my passion, rarely a day goes by where I’m not listening or chatting up the next big thing. Past entries in my blog consist of Haim, Kendrick Lamar, M83, and an unhealthy obsession with Pharrell Williams.

Speaking of Pharrell, the man is not only a performer, but also one of the most interesting producers out there. So, in keeping with that tradition, I wanted to bring you a little Q&A with someone making moves behind the scenes, Brandon Slavinski, artist, producer and all-around great guy. He’s worked with good friend of the site, Drew Seeley on some fantastic tunes and his work of art is growing daily. Keep an eye out for this guy and remember you heard it here first! Enjoy a few Q’s with Drew & Brandon Slavinski

Tell us a little bit about your background, how did you get into music?

When I was about 9 years old I had heart surgery for the first time. The Dr. prescribed that I take it easy and not put much stress on my body so my Uncle Walt gave me my first guitar, taught me a couple of chords, and I was hooked.

There’s a lot of talent out there, how did you know this was what you wanted to do with your life?

It took a lot of persuasion from my friends. A lot of them always said that I was very passionate about music. But it wasn’t until I moved out to LA that I really believed that I was capable of so much more.

Who were/are your biggest influences?

My biggest influences in stepping up and pursuing this lifestyle would probably be my parents and my best friend Drew Seeley.

What inspires you?

Not to sound cliche, but the entire world inspires me. There’s so much to write about, and so much to create with, inspiration is endless.

You’re given the chance to create a song that features a collaboration of 5 artists. Who are they and why?

This will definitely be an interesting mix…

Air’s JB Dunckel & Nicholas Godin – their concepts are out of this world – the mixing and  creativity on all of their album’s blows my mind no matter how many times I listen. Check out their album Talkie Walkie

Third Eye Blind’s Stephan Jenkins – I think he’s a genius lyricist…shame that I hear so much dirt on him. Check out their self titled album.

Silverchair & The Dissociative’s Daniel Johns – Speaking of lyrical genius; this guy not only has that, but his melodies kill me. Not only that but he started off at a very early age and is still rolling; very admirable! Check out ANYTHING with his voice on it.

Can we just cap it off with Daft Punk…yea yea yea, it’s two guys. Maybe I just have an affinity for French music? Or maybe it’s just that they’re undeniably badass at what they do. Check out Discovery…’nuff said.

What’s on the soundtrack to Brandon Slavinski’s life?

I’ve been listening to a lot of Miike Snow, Poolside, Gotye (let’s look past the commercial radio song…) and OK GO’s “Of The Blue Colour of the Sky”.

Are those songs on your ultimate playlist? If not, what is?

Absolutely, add some Daft Punk, Jamiroquai, and maybe Deadmau5 just to keep the party goin’!

What of your work are you most proud of?

I don’t think I’ve done it yet to be honest…I’m proud of all my works in one way or another. But to put one above all, it’s pretty tough, and I know there’s always going to be something beyond my favorite in the future. But, I will say, I’m VERY proud of Drew Seeley’s “Fly” – I’m proud of it beyond the production, but for the inspiring message it sends to the world and the memories of the many loved ones we’ve lost to cancer.

What made you choose to be behind the scenes instead of on stage as a performer?

I’ve had the privilege of being on stage in the past as well as every once and a while in recent times. I’m just a little skittish when it comes to being a performer, my nerves get the best of me and it makes it a little less enjoyable. I guess I realized at a certain point where my home in music really was, and that’s in the studio.

When do you think you are the most creative?

Definitely while I’m in the studio. There are so many options, I’m surprised I don’t get more overwhelmed! I love just sitting down at the keyboard with Logic open and seeing where it takes me.

What is the hardest part of being a music producer/songwriter?

I think the hardest part is probably constantly being on your toes. Being 10 steps ahead in your brain, but still present with your other writers and artists. You have to be ready for anything, know where you’re going with the song next, and keep your head above water because this is an industry where you can drown real quick!

If you could change one thing about the music industry what would it be? Why?

Part of me wishes there was a time limit on how long songs stay in rotation on the radio; it gets a little mundane hearing the same 20 songs every month. The reality of the situation is that we as artists, producers, and various talents have to change WITH the industry – survival of the fittest!

Which artists out there would you love to work with?

All of them. Every artist has something interesting and inspirational to bring to the table. But if I were to just throw out a few commercial names – Bruno Mars, Brandon Flowers, Butch Walker and anyone else I’ve listed above!

What does the future hold for Brandon Slavinski?

I’m absolutely excited about just getting more music out into the world, maybe even on the airwaves if I’m lucky. I did just hear that Seeley’s “Fly” was going to be on MTV at some point, which is very cool. I’m really looking forward to expanding into other avenues too – I’ve been working on scoring and doing post production on some digital shorts, working with several songwriters for placements, and am even thinking about taking a dive into making jingles.

Quincy Jones comes to you and says “Brandon, I want to make a movie based on a song. But we haven’t created the song yet and we want you to do it.” What would you do?

I’d say, “Quincy, let’s be honest, you don’t need me, I need YOU!” and then I’d dive in and take my chances.

What was High School Brandon listening to?

High School Brandon was in a couple of crazy rock bands, so he’d be listening to Third Eye Blind, The Juliana Theory, Sparta, Fuel, Eve 6, and Incubus. What can I say? I’m an alternative fan at heart.

Speed Round 7

1.     Song to Party To: Miike Snow – Silvia (Robotberget Remix)
2.     Song to Chill Out & Have a Glass of Wine to: Washed Out – Feel It All Around (Portlandia Theme Song)
3.     Song to Hear on the Beach: Poolside – Slow Down
4.     Guilty Pleasure Song: Third Eye Blind – Semi-Charmed Life
5.     Song that Makes You Want to Dance: Fatboy Slim – Weapon of Choice
6.     If you hear this song one more time, you’re going to kill someone: Anything by Nikki Minaj
7.     Best Movie Soundtrack of all time: The Virgin Suicides – Air

Make sure you head over to Brandon’s site for more info: redletterboxproductions.com

So, tonight is the Season Finale and it’s been all leading up to the wedding of Barney & Robin, where Ted meets her. However, the things are looking as if the wedding will not happen this year and that it will be set up for next year, which is going to PISS me off! I need to know, enough is enough. But, then again, I’ll tip my hat and give them the old “well played”, even though I won’t be happy about it. So, here’s my theory for this year: Robin & Barney will not get married this year, there’s going to be something that happens and they call it off, only to have next season follow them pushing and pulling to get back together until the ending series finale (next year) is finally when we get to see who she is.

I really hope they don’t do that, reason being, I want to get to know the Mother. I want to see them in their relationship and have them get married at the end of the season. But, who knows? I can’t get everything I want… Or can I…???

No offense, it’s just not my thing. Sure, I enjoyed a Disney film with a song and dance when I was a kid, but as I’ve grown older and more cynical, I just don’t understand how people believe the story ahead of them when no one sings their feelings in real life. Mind you, I’m a jerk and things piss me off. I will say that there is a lot of potential in this story because Duncan Sheik is lending his talents to produce the songs(Barely Breathing, anyone?). And, while listening to s small sample (which you can hear below), it’s kind of made be grin thinking about how so over the top this may be, that it will actually turn out to be fantastic and I love it?

Who knows, I’ve been proven wrong before and I’m not afraid to admit it, but there’s something about this that make me want to say no. On the other hand, there is the fact that Duncan spoke freely about wanting this to be a total 80′s-influenced musical, featuring beats and sounds recognized from this time. I do love me a good cheesey 80′s jam, Take on Me? Crush On You? Wuddup!?

Regardless, they’re kickstarting this project with an online campaign and I commend them, considering none of these guys are dripping in dough. They sure are creative and have a right to put something out there. I just wish there was more of a visual to be seen with it, not just people talking. This captured song by Sheik is fun and very Patrick. Speaking high fashion labels to choose, as if it were a life or death situation. Quite captures the mind of the yuppy 80′s scum, don’t ya think?