Celebrating the Global Soundscape: An Inspiring Interview with Robin Sandoval, a Versatile Musician and Songwriter

Welcome to this episode of Star Spot! I’m Merry, and in this series, I interview InterContinental Music Awards winners and insiders, bringing you exclusive insights into the music industry. Today, I’m thrilled to have with me Robin Sandoval, an esteemed judge of the InterContinental Music Awards and a prominent figure in the music industry.

With a multifaceted career as a published songwriter, singer, GRAMMY® Voting member, and Latin percussionist, Robin’s artistic prowess has left an indelible mark on the world of music.

Robin Sandoval ‘s creative journey is dotted with remarkable achievements, including song placements in platforms such as MTV, ABC, Lifetime, Touchstone, Universal/Multimedia Television, MCA/Universal Records, Cafe Sisters North of Two Films, and Bravo Network. Her compositions have resonated with audiences across film, television, and records, captivating listeners with their distinctive allure.

What sets Robin Sandoval apart is her extraordinary approach to songwriting. Nestled in her Los Angeles studio, she engages in dynamic collaborations with both emerging and established artists, lending her expertise as a top-liner alongside some of the industry’s finest producers and musicians. Robin’s ability to seamlessly blend contemporary and vintage sounds breathes new life into diverse genres including Pop, R&B, Hip Hop, EDM, Chill, Dance, Indie Rock, Soul/Funk, Modern Country, and Christmas/Holiday, while also embracing the evocative realm of orchestral arrangements.

With an extensive catalog of original material, Robin Sandoval’s compositions exemplify her mastery of melody and lyrics. Drawing from her rich experience of working with major and indie artists, she has honed her skills to cater to the ever-evolving landscape of the music industry. Nestled in her North Los Angeles recording studio, Robin Sandoval consistently delivers fast, efficient, and creative melody line development, compelling lyrics, mesmerizing vocals, and captivating topline skills.

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Join us as we delve into the creative universe of Robin Sandoval, where her passion for music intertwines with innovation, craftsmanship, and an unwavering dedication to shaping the sonic tapestry of today’s music industry.

Tap into Robin Sandoval’s vast knowledge and experience. The full interview is available on Instagram – click here to check it out.

 

Can you please introduce yourself to our viewers who are just joining us?

My name is Robin Sandoval, and I reside in the vibrant Los Angeles area, specifically the northern part of LA. Throughout my life, I have had the privilege of being a California native. As an accomplished musician, I wear multiple hats in the music industry. I am a published songwriter affiliated with BMI, a Latin percussionist, a singer, and a composer.

Songwriting holds a special place in my heart, and I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with various artists and industry professionals. Notably, I have been associated with the InterContinental Music Awards for approximately four years, being one of the original contributors. Witnessing the growth and success of this platform has been immensely fulfilling. The music industry, as we all know, presents its fair share of challenges and unique experiences that musicians navigate through.

 

What are your thoughts on the changes that have occurred in the music industry over the years? Has it changed for the better or worse? Has it become easier? What is your perspective?

The changes in the music industry over the years have brought both positive and negative aspects. On one hand, the digital revolution has made it easier for aspiring musicians to enter the industry and share their work with the world. The shift towards digital platforms has made music more accessible, and artists no longer need to rely solely on physical formats to distribute their music. This has opened up opportunities for more people to showcase their talents and gain recognition.

However, this increased accessibility has also led to a saturation of music in the industry. With countless tracks being released every day, it has become both easier and harder for songwriters to navigate and stand out from the competition. In this highly competitive landscape, it is essential for aspiring musicians to educate themselves on the tools available in the digital age and find ways to elevate their music.

One aspect that songwriters should pay attention to is metadata. Understanding metadata and ensuring its accuracy is crucial when releasing music. Proper metadata helps organize and identify music effectively, aiding in the discovery process and potentially impacting an artist’s career. Educating oneself on the correct procedures and resources available for managing metadata is vital in this regard.

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Fortunately, there are excellent sources of information available to help songwriters in this digital age. Renowned mentors and authors have written insightful books on various aspects of the music industry, including songwriting, metadata, and navigating the sync world. Taking the time to dive into these resources can provide valuable insights and equip songwriters with the knowledge necessary for success.

Additionally, having the right tools in one’s toolbox is paramount in the digital media age. Songwriters should educate themselves on various aspects of the industry, such as split sheets and proper crediting. This ensures that all the writers involved in a song receive proper credit and payment, particularly in the realm of sync licensing. Keeping track of this information in an organized manner is crucial as the music landscape moves quickly.

In conclusion, the changes in the music industry have brought both advantages and challenges. While it has become easier for more people to enter the industry and share their music, the saturation of music has made it more competitive. However, by educating oneself on the tools and resources available, such as metadata management and industry best practices, aspiring musicians can navigate this landscape more effectively and increase their chances of success. Adaptation, knowledge, and preparedness are key in this ever-evolving industry.

 

Robin, what would you say has been your proudest accomplishment as an artist?

One standout moment in my career was performing with Natalie Cole—an unforgettable experience that took place at her house and on a television show. Collaborating with renowned artists and hearing them bring my songs to life has been a tremendous source of pride. It validates my work and showcases its impact.

Currently, I’m working on diverse projects spanning various genres. From creating hip-hop cues for TV and ads to composing country, pop, and Latin music, I enjoy exploring different musical styles. I recently collaborated with a Louisiana-based production company on a country project and am excited about an upcoming five-song collaboration with a talented young singer-songwriter. The ability to work on these projects from my well-equipped studio, even if it’s just a converted closet, is a blessing. It highlights the convenience of creating high-quality music from the comfort of any location.

Having everything I need in one place and the freedom to be creatively productive, regardless of my location, is a truly amazing feeling as an artist. It enables me to pursue my musical passions and continue striving for further accomplishments.

 

Robin, you mentioned the impressive advancements in music production and the fresh ideas showcased in the songs you’ve heard through the InterContinental Music Awards. Could you elaborate on the evolution of music production ?

Absolutely! The evolution of music production in recent years has been truly remarkable. I have noticed a significant improvement in the overall sonic quality and production value of the music being created. Artists are investing their time and resources into perfecting every aspect of their songs, from the vocals to the instrumentation, resulting in a professional and polished sound.

One aspect that stands out to me is the attention to detail in the production process. The artists I’ve come across are truly dedicated to delivering top-notch recordings. The vocals are pristine, the instrumentals are well-crafted, and the overall mix is balanced and sonically pleasing. It’s evident that they take their music seriously and strive for excellence.

Furthermore, what truly captivates me is the abundance of fresh ideas in the songs I’ve listened to through the InterContinental Music Awards. Artists are pushing boundaries and exploring new territories, both lyrically and musically. They are not afraid to experiment and infuse their work with innovative concepts and storylines. It’s refreshing to witness this level of creativity and originality.

As a songwriter myself, being exposed to this vast array of music has been incredibly inspiring. It has encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone and explore different sounds and approaches in my own songwriting. The InterContinental Music Awards have served as a wellspring of ideas and a source of motivation to continually improve and grow as an artist.

The opportunity to listen to music from all over the world through the ICMA has been invaluable. It’s a one-of-a-kind experience to have a front-row seat to the diverse range of talent and creativity that exists globally. 

 

Robin, you mentioned that you’ve encountered various challenges and ups and downs throughout your career. Could you please share some of these challenges and how you’ve navigated through them?

The music industry, like any other, comes with its fair share of challenges. As a songwriter, one of my initial hurdles was translating the melodies and lyrics in my head into tangible music. While collaborating with other musicians was an option, I soon realized the significance of understanding digital audio workstations (DAWs).

Initially, learning to work with a DAW, such as Logic Pro or Pro Tools, proved to be a challenge. Navigating through the interface, grasping its functionalities, and effectively utilizing its features required time and effort. However, embracing technology and harnessing its power opened up a whole new world of possibilities for me as a songwriter.

Another challenge I encountered was the ever-evolving nature of the music industry itself. Trends, platforms, and distribution methods constantly emerge, demanding ongoing learning, networking, and staying in tune with industry changes.

The competitive nature of the industry can be overwhelming. With countless talented artists and songwriters vying for recognition, standing out and getting noticed poses a challenge. Navigating this highly competitive environment requires perseverance, resilience, and a belief in one’s unique voice and creative vision.

As with any career, ups and downs are inevitable in the music industry. While moments of success and recognition fuel passion and motivation, disappointments and setbacks also occur. Approaching these ups and downs with a positive mindset and viewing them as opportunities for growth and learning is crucial.

Throughout my career, I’ve learned the importance of cultivating a supportive network of fellow musicians, mentors, and industry professionals. Building relationships and collaborating with like-minded individuals have played a vital role in overcoming challenges and discovering new avenues for success.

 

What advice do you have for musicians who are just starting and unsure of which path to take?

Starting out in the music industry can be overwhelming, especially with the saturation of artists trying to get their music heard. My advice is to seek guidance from those who have paved the way before you. There are resources available, such as books and mentors, who have shared their experiences and knowledge to make your journey easier.

One book that I highly recommend is “Hey, That’s My Song” by Tracy and Vance Marino. This book is particularly helpful for those interested in sync licensing. Also anyone looking to understand chord progressions that work well together. Additionally, authors like Robin Fredericks, Jason Bloom, and Pat Pattinson have written valuable books on songwriting that can provide you with deep insights and guidance.

By learning from these established songwriters, you can avoid common pitfalls and gain a better understanding of how to navigate the music industry. Embrace the information and apply it to your own creative process. By following proven methods and understanding the rules of the game, you can make your journey as a songwriter smoother and more fruitful.

 

Is there anything you’d like to share as final words?

I feel incredibly grateful to be a part of the InterContinental Music Awards for the past several years. Want to give a shout-out to Shahed Mohseni for the tremendous job he has done in organizing this event. I can only imagine the countless hours and hard work that goes into such an endeavor.

But you know what? It’s all worth it. This awards platform is lifting people up and giving artists from all corners of the world a chance to be heard. It’s a beautiful thing to witness new music being exposed to audiences who may have never discovered it otherwise.

I am genuinely excited about the future of the InterContinental Music Awards. I can’t wait to see what comes next. I’m thrilled for all the finalists and winners in their respective categories. To everyone involved, keep pushing forward, and let’s see where this incredible journey takes us.

I want to extend my best wishes and positive vibes to all the participants. Good luck to each one of you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for this wonderful experience. It was an absolute pleasure talking to you, Merry.

 

Robin Sandoval Contact Info:

• Website: https://urbangirlmusic.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robinsand/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/urbangirlmusic/

Click here to watch Robin Sandoval ‘s  full interview on Instagram 

InterContinental Music Awards Team

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