We had the good fortune of connecting with Michael Hitchcock and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Michael, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’ve been in the music industry for a little over 10 years and I never saw myself falling in love with the studio side of things. In college I found myself collaborating with more and more artists, and my recordings kept improving and my interest in the process grew a lot. Now I produce records and podcasts full time! I love making other people’s music sound huge.
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I help artists bring their music to life! I run my studio out of my home and I have the capacity to record just about any project. I specialize in live recordings with an analog approach. I love putting full, honest records together with dedicated artists and musicians. Too often these days music gets reduced to one single after another. I love working with folks who have the long game in mind and want to make beautiful, intentional albums.
Some of my proudest projects include “Soft Applause” by perfect animal and AP1 by Alto Pablo.
This line of work is far from easy. I do a lot of contract work and various audio book/podcast work for a number of clients. It’s not all glamorous or a straight line to success. The way I see it, any success I’ve had comes from wanting the best for all parties involved. There’s no place for ego or competition in music. I can’t do what other producers are capable of and no one can approach a record with my unique perspective. That’s the beautiful reality of art and it should be nothing but encouraging to those looking to start out.
I’ve had bands say I hung the moon, and I’ve had bands question my sanity. Not every relationship works out, all that matters is maintaining a positive outlook and doing right by others. You’d be surprised how fast bad reputations get around.
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
In no particular order:
Victory sandwich bar (Inman park). The best.
The local (the wings will make you a believer).
Smiths olde bar. Say what you want, they support the scene.
Fred’s meat and bread.
American spirit works (ASW). Incredible distillery I used to work for. Great folks, great product.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many. I’d love to get into this more in person. The first few that come to mind is Eric Peters with Perfect Animal. The whole band really. Just a talented and creative group with some of my favorite writing in Atlanta right now.
Ethan Balducci (Alto Pablo) is one of my best friends and coolest artists I know.
The boys in Kobanova.
My own band, Dune Lane and all the incredible people involved there.
Brian Yaneck with Raging Bandit Productions. You need to talk with him for sure.
Tyler and Harlow with Hey, Nothing. Couple of purists just doing there thing and I’m lucky to be a part of a live project involving them.
Sam Kapoor with Kapoorhouse. Check him out asap.
This is so far from complete. I love the collaborative nature of this business.
Website: https://www.argylerecords.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/argyle_records?igsh=MWs1MnlvbHJvcG93OQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
Other: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5cADn0kjpjF2aNh6ewDKt1?si=DTWbIYYSTX-WoCwpHlG-cw&pi=u-P19dbQQeQZyI
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