Today we’d like to introduce you to Aaron Stapler.
Hi Aaron, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Music runs fairly deep in my bloodline. I got a drum set at age 10, first guitar at 13; it’s been music ever since. Through the years, I’ve dipped into every genre I could. I’ve toured the country, written with many artists, played on many sessions, and produce (and I still do all of it to this day).
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It has been smoother than most. Fortunately, I’ve had a very supportive mother alongside many supportive friends along the way. The biggest struggle I’ve faced so far was getting out of my hometown. Networking in Muscle Shoals, AL isn’t quite as easy as people may believe. Aside from that, I’ve dealt with imposter syndrome and plenty of self-doubt. Of course, most of us have to mention the financial struggles.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Today, I am focusing more on production. I still love to perform and will hit the road at a moment’s notice; but I am falling more and more in love with the studio. I love locking into a room either alone or with an artist and just creating.
I believe a specialty of mine is being willing to try new sounds and vibes. We’re surrounded by pop fairly constantly- and that’s all well and good. There’s a reason it’s such a prominent field (hence its name). However, I’ve never been afraid of exaggeration. Sure, there’s a time and place for it- but that time and place is beautiful when it hits. I believe art holds a special place for dramatization. I believe it’s important to explore that principle and pull as much emotion as you can from a song (or any art piece for that matter).
My love for working alongside an artist, and encouraging that artist in the studio is absolutely something I’m proud of. I’ll spare the sappy backstory of being made fun of and left out through much of grade school and just say this- I know how it feels to be passionate about something and feel like it’s getting stepped on or left behind. It’s no good. I never want my artists to feel that. I want them to feel able, driven, and overall invincible. Give. Your. Best. Performance.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I believe my biggest risk, thus far, was quitting my day job for music in 2019. I’ve not gone back yet! Apart from that, I believe any time you create something, you’re taking a risk. Is this going to go over well? Is anyone going to get it? What happens if I’m misunderstood or miss my mark? Once my song is released, what if I realize I could’ve done something more or better? These are all risks. However, the beautiful thing about creating is that you can continue to do it. I don’t believe we have a limit on how much we can create.
So, take the risk. Make the thing. Fall on your face in front of everyone- but get back up and learn from it. Then, get back to creating more. Do it again, but this time do it better and with your new knowledge.
Fear will kill you faster and harder than failure.
Pricing:
- Guitar Tracking (from home): $75/song
- Creating Backing Track (light processing, no mixing): $350/song
- Creating Backing Track (add mixing): $400/song
- Mixing Services: $250/song
- Mastering Services: $150/song
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.stapledtogethermusic.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stapledtogethermusic/
