Daily Inspiration: Meet Diana Walsh

Today we’d like to introduce you to Diana Walsh.

Hi Diana, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My name is Diana Walsh, and I am the Assistant Studio Manager at RCA Studio B and a freelance recording/mix engineer and producer. I was born and raised in Houston, TX, and am now based in Nashville. TN. Music was always a big part of my life growing up. My parents exposed me to a lot of great music at an early age – everything from Latin jazz to classic rock/r&b. I picked up a few instruments in my teenage years but was fascinated by listening to records. I loved dissecting arrangements and was amazed by the sonic textures and soundscapes created by blending different instruments, tones, and effects. I wasn’t sure how and where these records were made, but I knew I wanted to be part of the process.
I moved to Nashville in 2014 and attended Belmont University, where I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Music Business with a production emphasis. Shortly after graduating in 2016, I started working at Historic RCA Studio B, where I took a deep dive into classic recording techniques, studio maintenance, room acoustics, and ear training. Outside of Studio B, I started freelancing as a recording engineer for artists from various genres, including folk/Americana, rock, pop-soul, and r&b.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Thankfully, the road has been relatively smooth. One challenge that I often face is struggling to maintain a healthy work/life balance. I’m a freelancer with a full-time 9-5 job, so I’ve learned that prioritizing rest is key for longevity and mental health. As much as I love what I do, taking a beat every so often is necessary to prevent burnout. It’s important for my work, too – if I am rested and rejuvenated, I have more creative energy to invest in my projects.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar, what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a recording/mix engineer and producer. Heavily influenced by the sonic warmth of early records produced at classic studios such as RCA Studio B, Motown, and Van Gelder Studio (Blue Note Records), I approach each project with a balance of classic and modern recording techniques. My process for tracking and mixing records incorporates a hybrid of “in-the-box” digital tools and analog outboard equipment. I maintain analog’s harmonically rich and saturated qualities while still meeting today’s standard for high fidelity recordings. As a musician myself, I believe that the key to a great record is a great performance. My role as an engineer is to capture that performance accurately while still preserving its soulful nuances. Whether engineering a session or mixing a record, my goal is always to bring the artist’s sonic vision to life.

Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I think risk-taking is vital – you get to know yourself in the face of uncertainty. Whether or not it works out, the risks you take will always either teach you an important lesson or refine your path for the better. If you have passion and a strong work ethic, you can’t miss it.

The most major risk I’ve taken is moving to Nashville to pursue a career in the music industry. With the industry in flux, I was told that I would be entering an incredibly saturated and competitive field with little job security. Deciding to make a move was nerve-racking, but I knew it was the right next step. It turned out to be the best decision I could ever make for myself and my career.

Contact Info:

• Email: dmwalshmusic@gmail.com
• Website: www.dmwalshmusic.com
• Instagram: @dmwalshmusic

Image Credits
Ernie Halter