Meet the MusicWorks Panelist: Andy Stochansky and Brian West

Coming up on April 5, songwriters and producers Andy Stochansky (Matt Anderson, Ani DiFranco, Goo Goo Dolls) and Brian West (Nelly Furtado, Maroon 5, Philosopher Kings) will be joining us for our workshop, DIY Series: Pre-Production Discussion. Get to know them a little better…

Andy Stochansky is a songwriter living in Los Angeles. First starting out as a drummer in the Canadian music scene, his popularity caught the attention of Ani DiFranco living just south of the border in Buffalo. She asked him to not only record on her albums but also be her touring co-pilot. After seven years of touring around the world, they parted ways and Stochansky decided to change his musical direction and pursue a solo career that would span three successful albums. He’s recently turned his attention to writing and producing for artists including Matt Anderson, Dragonette, and the Goo Goo Dolls.

Brian West is a Canadian record producer, songwriter, and musician. Formerly of the production team Track and Field as well as Canadian band The Philosopher Kings, he is best known for his work with Nelly Furtado, Maroon 5, Awolnation, K'naan, and Bono. He co-produced Andy Grammer's single "Honey, I'm Good" with Steve Greenberg and Nolan Sipe. His most recent release, "Salted Wound" sung by Sia is on the Fifty Shades of Grey soundtrack. Based in Los Angeles, West has been nominated for an Academy Award, two Grammy Awards, and has won seven JUNO Awards.

What was the first concert you ever saw?
Andy: Fela Kuti
Brian: Lee Aaron

What’s your favourite flavour of potato chip?
Andy: Black pepper salt and vinegar
Brian: Sour Cream

What’s the last album you heard that really knocked you out?
Andy: Grimes
Brian: The War on Drugs - Lost in the Dream

Mac or PC?
Andy: Mac
Brian: Mac

Robots or dinosaurs?
Andy: Both
Brian: Definitely robots

Biggest challenge of working in music today?
Andy: Paying the rent and staying healthy
Brian: Convincing people that music has a worth

The most exciting part of working in music today?
Andy: The chance that you might write something reaaaally good
Brian: The freedom that comes with the 'Playlist' generation - escape from genre segregation

ABOUT THE WORKSHOP
You’ve worked hard to get into the studio to record your music, but are you ready to cut your album? We’re delving into all the work that happens before you hit the record button. Los Angeles-based producer/songwriters Brian West (Nelly Furtado, Maroon 5, Philosopher Kings) and Andy Stochansky (Matt Anderson, Ani DiFranco, Goo Goo Dolls), will explore songwriting, demos, pre-production, and all manners of creative consideration that lead up to your time in the studio.

MusicWorks DIY Series offers developing artists and industry, as well as veterans looking to update their skills, the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of the music business.

Register online, or to get more info, please contact:

David Landreth, Professional Development Coordinator
Manitoba Music
P: 204.975.5188
E: david@manitobamusic.com

MusicWorks is made possible by the generous support of the Province of Manitoba through Industry Services of Manitoba Jobs and the Economy; the Foundation Assisting Canadian Talent on Recordings (FACTOR) through the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Department of Canadian Heritage (Canada Music Fund) and of Canada's Private Radio Broadcasters; The Jim Pattison Broadcast Group; and The SOCAN Foundation.