One of the best things that happens to me in my role as either a recording engineer, producer, music journalist, music ambassador for the music city of Macon, GA, or as a music business industry consultant, is that I get to hear a lot of great music.

Of course, sometimes it just happens that one of my friends turns me on to something great.

That is what happened with Big Murder. My good friends Andrew and Morgan Bennett sent me an email about this group and I was hooked.

Big Murder has a lot of weaponry with which to kill, musically speaking.

Lyrics that are heartfelt and shouting out warnings like a clipping audio meter about the rampant divisions in our communities and the crazy changes of 21st century life play an important role in why you should fork over your hard-earned money to check the band out. However, it is the groove factor that really makes the band's music something you will want to consume!

While the current release Slow Moving Planet has a lot of great musical moments, the stand out tracks for me are "Barking At The Gods" and "Gray Sky".

Musically, I get the impression that these guys like the bands Rush and The Cult. There are also some delicate moments on the record that pay homage to The Beatles and even some pounding adrenaline-filled anger that would sound at home on a Rage Against the Machine record.

Slow Moving Planet has it all and it is well worth your time to check these guys out while they are still a home-grown powerhouse. Once they get famous, or at least infamous, the merch will cost more!

iTunes Link: Slow Moving Planet - EP by Big Murder https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/slow-moving-planet-ep/1351515225

As a blind person and a recording engineer and producer, I am always interested in matters of sound. Whether musical composition or making sound effects for film/video games, sound is my universe.

I think this article is something that any sound enthusiast will find of interest and also for those nerds that have composition focused brains, the musical aspects discussed are quite fascinating.

I have to say the film in question, Dunkirk I didn’t find particularly compelling, however, I assume that it has to do with much of the film's majesty being visual in nature. The soundtrack/score was great and the reason in the article below might surprise you.

At any rate, there are some great techniques discussed that I want to try myself.

Read the article here: https://www.vox.com/videos/2017/7/26/16033868/dunkirk-soundtrack-shepard-tone

This month, I chose to interview a great Georgia musical artist, Randall Bramblett. I have always admired his work and find that his music is compelling and thoughtful. The recordings have great depth and atmosphere. The lyrics are poignant and the melodies are memorable. He enjoys a larger than life stature in the Middle Georgia area but is respected by fans and artists all over the world.

Joey: Tell me a little bit about your new record.

Randall: "Juke Joint At The Edge Of The World" (release date 7-7-17). I wanted this album to be a little bit more like the band was live to give the band a chance to improvise and try to recreate the energy we have on stage in front of an audience.

Joey: Did you still use click tracks or were your trying to create a live in studio album?

Randall: We still used click tracks because we like to edit; while we had all the structures worked out, we didn't worry about preconceived ideas about solos; we had a little bit more of a jam as opposed to specific musical goals.

Joey: What about the live performance are you trying to capture?

Randall: I wanted to have a greater sense of improvisation.

Joey: What material lyrically are you covering on this album?

Randall: I assumed a couple of character roles on this album.

On "Pot Hole on Main Street", I am a man in a neighborhood that is deteriorating and instead of complaining I'm going to have to fix it myself because no one else is going to do it. On "Plan B", I am a guy with no backup plan and just going out on faith. "Trippy Little Thing" is a song about how my wife and I first met. "Garbage Man" is about me growing up in an idyllic small Georgia town but the garbage man character represents reality intruding into my illusion into this "perfect little town" that really isn't perfect. "I Just Don't Have the Time" is about people who talk forever and you just can't get away from them. You'd like to get to know someone but "who has the time". It is a bit of a whimsical, sarcastic piece. "Mali Katra"-the title, which becomes its chorus-I dreamt it. The word means nothing but I dreamed that I saw a bunch of vultures sitting on a cell phone tower and I thought that whoever got a call from that tower that it wasn't going to be a good day for them. Made me reflect on life, life after death and technology. I went for an eastern flavor, employing some raga melodic and rhythmic structures.

Joey: You need a little raga in your life; you're way too cool for just 12 notes.

Randall: Sometimes 12 is too many. (Laughing)

Joey: I was recently asked to recall my first creative act. Do you remember your first creative act?

Randall: I was in junior high school and had been reading a lot of Robert Frost and wrote my first poem that I thought was good about an old couple sitting on a front porch. I had a real sense of exhilaration and I thought for the first time that I could be a writer.

Joey: If I remember correctly, you have a master's degree in social work. I know you played music throughout senior high. Did you go to college immediately or did you stop to pursue music?

Randall: I went to college after high school and never thought that I would be a musician. I just played in bands on the weekend for fun and to get a little extra money. After I graduated from college, I started writing more and playing in bands more seriously and this was a very impulsive time for me. I ended up moving to Macon, Georgia, and sleeping in a tent by the river to play with some of the great Macon bands that were really creating a new sound and style. The first band I joined was called Cowboy. From that I moved on to Sea Level and then Gregg Allman and Friends.

Joey: Did you feel like back in the 70s when your career was getting started in earnest, was it important to live in a specific place that would nurture art?

Randall: Yes. That's why I moved to Macon. I now live in Athens, GA, and I feel like Athens is a very supportive area for musical art in particular. Even with technology and the world getting smaller, it is still important to find a place that nurtures creativity and has a sense of community.

Joey: What is your writing process? How do you create?

Randall: I enjoy co-writing with other talented artists but I tend to sit in my house in the woods and write a lot by myself. I don't necessarily prefer it but that's how it has worked out. I didn't want to move to Nashville and a lot of my other cowriters live in other states and we just don't get together like we used to so I end up writing a lot by myself.

Joey: Let's talk about the music business side of things. Without specific detail, are you making more, less or the same in today's market as you did fifteen years ago?

Randall: Revenue for musicians is down. Venues don't pay as much as they used to. Record labels don't spend as much as they used to on developing and promoting artists. I have to do a lot of music business work myself, instead of having a manager-I do a lot of the day to day business for myself. Revenue-wise, it is basically the same. When I was touring with Steve Winwood as a side man, I made a lot more money but had little personal recognition of my art. Now I have a lot more people thinking of me as an artist rather than a side man. So the trade-off between recognition of my art and a little less pay is worth it to me. One of the things that has helped me make up the difference is on the publishing side of song writing because Bonnie Raitt has recorded two of my songs-"Used to Rule the World" and "God is in the Water".

Joey: How do you split up your time between the three primary aspects of musical art: writing, performing and business?

Randall: I really have to spend a lot of time on the business aspect because I can't afford to hire anyone else to do it. I also make sure to dedicate time every week to the creative process of writing and recording in my home studio. I am really focused on growing my live audience so the band tries to perform and tour as much as we can. It is very difficult to balance all three aspects.

Joey: is there anything else you would like to share about your art, your craft, your record or anything people need to know?

Randall: If you want to be an artist-keep working at it consistently.

Here is the link for Randall's album "Juke Joint At The Edge of The World" https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/juke-joint-at-the-edge-of-the-world/1231974449

For those of you that are creating musical content in the market place, you should know that the utility model of music consumption is coming — and it is a forgone conclusion, ain't nothing we can do but accept it and find a way to make a living from this spiritual imperative that we are driven by as artists to create and through our artistic endeavors to somehow make a living doing so.

So what is the utility model? Well, first let's understand that the music business is now and has always been in some kind of state of flux. To be sure, the state of flux has waxed and waned, for example, people in the music business thought the world was coming to an end when the Player Piano came out but, instead of the machines taking over the music-making, more and more people where inspired to buy more sheet music and to learn an instrument. We actually got some very needed regulation from the U.S. Government from the player pianos, as that is how we got the "mechanical" royalty that makes sure that songwriters get paid for their compositions. Then again, when the phonograph record became popular, people thought that no one would want to buy sheet music to learn to play songs in their own parlors or attend concerts when they could hear music recorded by the best musicians anytime on a disc. But, the world didn't end - and again, music sales of every kind increased.

Since the 1980's musical luminaries like Frank Zappa and David Bowie have predicted the utility model of music consumption. Explaining that music would one day flow like water from a faucet. And I belive, after years of foreshadowing, this indeed will be the case. You will find yourself paying a monthly fee, just like you do for your lights or water, hence the "Utility" model, and you will have access through your chosen provider, like Spotify, Pandora Or Amazon music, be able to play every song ever recorded at any time.

Of course, there are positive and negative aspects to this model and after all nothing is ever perfect but, let's look at the ways in which the utility model works in the favor of music fans and music creators alike. First, the idea of intellectual property and the idea of piracy will undergo a significant change. I mean, you will overnight no longer have piracy because you can play every song ever recorded anytime so there is nothing to steal. However, the idea of owning a composition will have some difficulties in this new interpretation, as the law is always behind innovation but, that is another blog post.

Also, for artists, while streaming rates are too low right now, if we increase them to something at least that of terrestrial royalties artists that have their songs played a lot will make much more than they do now.

Look at it this way... if you buy my CD or download for $10 and play that record every day for the next 20 years, I have only made $10. Or, more realistically, a small percentage of that $10 as my label management and publishers will all get a slice of that pie. But, if I get paid every time a song gets played over time I will make much more money and bands/artists that have a long career and a large catalog will really be raking in the cash.

There are lots of things to consider in this new utility model landscape and I can't cover it all here, so for now I just want to show that it is coming and we will continue our discourse of, is it good or bad and how it will take its final form in future postings.

So, how do we know that the utility model is on the horizon?

Simple:

1. Physical sales are down. Yeah, yeah, we know this. People have been bemoaning that for years. But, digital sales are also dropping off, and will over the next 10 years disappear altogether too.

2. CD's, most likely in the form of boxsets will remain viable for super-fans as will limited quantities of vinyl, for that retro sound, and audio Blu-rays for those that want 96K/24-bit audio ("audiophiles"). These are what I call boutique experiences for super-fans and collectors that still want something physical.

3. Even bands that have resisted having their catalogs available on streaming services are finding that withholding their catalog is not helping them as recently shown by Def Leppard making their catalog available.

4. Most importantly, everyone is getting into the streaming platform and making devices to allow you to take your music with you everywhere you go and now just this year, we have seen a very important indicator from the CRB or "Copyright Royalty Board" come down that means the model is closer than ever with a raise in streaming royalty rates. Again, in this post I won't get into 'net neutrality' or the need for a set of standards and guidelines like was needed in the video market to set what was and what wasn't "high definition" but, those things are important. For now, I just want you to check out this article, link below, showing how everyone sees that streaming is the wave of the future and the utility model is the only way it will work.

https://variety.com/2018/biz/news/copyright-royalty-board-boosts-songwriters-streaming-pay-nearly-50-1202679118/

Stay tuned if you want to learn how to navigate the waves of the music business from a blind man with a vision. More posts to come!

Aristotle's point that all art imitates and that imitation is a natural human need, that we are driven to imitate, is well taken. From my own perspective, I believe that music is a language and that one must learn to read and speak that language. The only way to learn the syntax of the language is to copy the greats that have come before you. You imitate their musical style, sound and even their artistic aesthetic and voice. Who can say that they haven't tried to sing a Beatles song with a British accent? When I first became captivated with jazz it was all I could do to bring forth a very rough and imperfect imitation of Miles or Trane. Fifteen years later I have still not risen to their level of mastery, but I do at least speak the same language fluently! More importantly, I have developed my own voice with unique nuance so that my art is compelling and worth absorbing.

However, whereas Aristotle takes in to account the here and now, understanding that one's body, mind and soul are all part of the human experience and therefore necessary to acknowledge for art to have meaning, I still think he might have taken a little more from his master. Plato's cave allegory is also very relevant to our artistic expression as our thoughts are where the art is perfectly conceived and rarely can we bring that perfection into the material world for others to ponder and explore in our art no matter how long we dedicate ourselves to the mastery of our craft.

So, it becomes truly imperative that we recognize both Plato's and Aristotle's teachings! Together they represent the more complete concept of being an artist and we as artists must give ourselves grace to understand that while perfection should be striven for, it is never really in our grasp, so we do our best and let the art speak as it will.

Aristotle's thoughts on tragedy being of more artistic use than comedy is something I don't agree with fully. While the point of a human person rising above their circumstance, trying to do the right thing and often failing is understandable as a lesson in the human condition, comedy also shows us how to be human and provides us with the opportunity to stay sane while trying to exist. For my own part, while my music ranges far and wide over a variety of topics, I have found that humor can tell a story, even a sad one and provide hope and insight in a way that pure tragedy just can't. Yes, the flawed human that aspires to be more than they are through the forge of tragedy is compelling (i.e. the Messianic struggles of Christ, Paul Atraides or even Harry Potter) we can be taught a different lesson from the same book when looking at the adventures of Mr. Bean, Sheldon Cooper and Winnie The Pooh.

Regarding my own work and providing a cathartic experience for the listener, a great example is one of my earliest recordings titled "Hate You". I was a young man about 22 years old. I had fallen in love for the first time and being young with little experience of dating thought this person was the first and last person I would love! She actually pursued me, which was good as I was still figuring out how to fit in as a blind person in the dating arena. My story is long and complicated but I had a brain tumor as a child and the tumor left me totally blind along with a host of other health problems. I almost died several times, which is not an easy burden at any age. I also was a bright child and graduated at the age of 14 from high school. While I have never met a stranger, I did have some minor social interaction problems at this time because my class mates were 18 and I was 14. I didn't go to my school prom, though I am happy to report that I have more than made up for itJ At any rate, being blind it was difficult for me to understand how I stacked up against my competition for the attention of females in the universe of dating. Was I as attractive as others? I couldn't judge for myself and much as I love my mom and dad, they are biased, so that wasn't helpful! I had gone on a few dates, starting to date around the age of 19 but, nothing ever really took. Then boom, this young lady chased me and I was hooked. Keep in mind that I had just recently had a major epiphany and learned a universal truth. That truth? Simply that we are what we believe ourselves to be. Meaning, If I think I am attractive then I am. That doesn't mean that I don't need to lose some weight, comb my hair and take a bath—those things are still true—but people take cues from all the subtext we broadcast everyday about ourselves from how we look to how we stand to the words we choose to use and process all that without thought to form an opinion about who we are and how attractive we are. So, imagine my total heartbreak when after 6 months of dating, this young lady told me she just didn't want to date a blind person. She was afraid that she would end up being a nurse, or mother, and her life would be just taking care of my needs. Never mind that I am very independent and didn't need those things from her. She was, as she bluntly told me, embarrassed to be seen to date me and therefore after 6 months I still hadn't met any of her friends.

And with that, she was gone!

I was devastated and wrote a song about it that ended up on my first album. I still love to play this song and my band mates have always loved playing the song because it really does provide a profound sense of catharsis!

It somewhat melodramatically, I admit, brings out all my frustration, confusion and true pain of loss and after the song is over, it is like a weight is lifted from my heart and mind. It is an angry song and so it should be! The primus of the break up was frankly insulting and ridiculous. However, in retrospect, we were both young and hadn't lived enough to understand our places in the universe, so while her actions were wrong, I have long sense forgiven her and I am happy to report, just in case you are wondering, that I have found out what love really is back in 2003 when I met my sweet wife to whom I will have been married to 15 years this coming June. My song has been art that has provided catharsis to my fans as it is a simple theme to which almost anyone can relate.

One last point here. My mom sat me down after this had happened and told me that hate was never the correct path. That hate only hurts the person that hates. She is right, even at 22 I knew that. However, using lyrics as unwieldy as "I don't like you very much at this moment in time" just didn't work with the groove so "hate you" it is.  :)

By Joey Stuckey

Every year on this day, September 29th, I celebrate my "Alive Day". That is the day my brain tumor was removed and prayers were answered for my family!

As a very young child, at first I was too sick to care about this day in my personal history. Later, we started having parties and small gifts--what kid doesn't love toys? Still later, it turned into a more dignified dinner with family and friends but for the past several years, I have written a blog post about what the day means to me and how it can serve as a source of inspiration for you and your family.

After I was born, my Mom and Dad began to feel that something wasn't quite right with me. They couldn't really put their finger on it, but they became concerned about my growth and health. At first, the doctors told them that they were just being overprotective. But shortly thereafter, they were proved right in a rather dramatic fashion. My dad had put me down and let go of my hand for a second--I was about 18 months old—and I promptly walked off a flight of about 30 stairs. As it would turn out, I was going blind from a brain tumor. Eventually after tests, tests and more tests it was decided my only option was surgery. The doctor told my parents that it was extremely risky, but it was my only chance for survival. He told them the surgery would be very complicated and would take about 7 or 8 hours and if he came out before that to be prepared that I hadn't made it.

Imagine my folk's dismay when he came out about 3 hours later. However, he said that he didn't understand it, but, it was like a higher power had taken control of his hands and he just lifted the brain tumor out. How about that?

While I have never been shy about talking about my blindness, I have been a little more reticent about discussing the full ramifications of the brain tumor and what it did to me physically.

Of course, as most of you know I am blind, but, there is much more to the story of how the tumor wrecked my body.

I will not bore you with the details and all the medical info, but, besides being blind, a challenging condition, I also have no sense of smell and I have no endocrine function.

In over simplified terms, I have no bio feedback for many of my glands, like adrenal glands, which normally would tell my body when I was tired or sick or stressed to make more adrenaline to help me cope. Therefore, while I don't get sick more then the average person, I can get sicker very quickly and end up in serious condition and in the hospital. I also have no thyroid--You get the picture?

So, not only do I have to deal with working in a very sight driven society and deal with transportation issues and needing sighted folks to read things to me from time to time, but, I also have to watch very carefully how tired I get and make sure I am drinking lots of fluids, eat and take my medicines on time, etc.

Honestly there are days I feel so bad I can hardly move or stand, but, 90% of the time I manage to get the job done with a smile. Add to these health difficulties the metal hip I had to get when I was in my late twenties and the 6 months or so I spent in a wheelchair which did some interesting things to my back and neck and you begin to understand that being in the music business, a field that is crazy to begin with and with insane schedules, you can see, pun intended, that sometimes it is tricky being me and doing all the things I do.

Just some of the things I am responsible for include a TV and radio show, producing albums, running a recording studio, performing with my band, teaching at Mercer University and doing master classes all over the world along with doing my inspirational talks and mentoring other musicians.

But, don't get the wrong idea, this is not a pity party or even a "wow look at me" article, it is a "wow, Joey can do it, so can I" article!

Just hearing the medical side of my story would you have expected me to do things like perform in front of 10,000 people when opening for Ted Nugent and Bad Company? Working 16 hour days for weeks in a row so I could complete projects like the "Macon Music CD V-1" on time? Or how about recording with Georgia music legends like Randal Bramblett and Jimmy Hall? How about doing a 10 day whirlwind tour of the UK where every moment was filled with things to do like a Korean documentary, speaking and performing at the University College of London and launching my new single "Blind Man Drivin'" at the historic Ivey House? Not to mention filming my first music video?

Well I have done all that and more! And most importantly, you can do it to!

That's right--stop saying "no" to your dreams--they are in reach and more obtainable than you might think at first.

Who would have thought that a blind guy would have been hired to direct a musical at Macon State--well I was. How about a blind recording engineer doing dialog replacement for film, yep, I did. Not only that, I teach sighted students how to read music, even though I can't see to do it myself! If I can do these things you to can reach those dreams that might at first glance seem to be too lofty!

Remember, anything that makes you feel positive and let's your natural talent shine is worth pursuing! Also remember to set what some might consider silly dreams for yourself as a way to renew your spirit and energy. For example, one of mine is to experience a MLB game at every stadium in North America. So far I have done Turner field, Chase Field and AT&T Park-- lots to go

But, I digress. If you want to be a famous musician like Elvis that is not a silly dream, however, reaching that status overnight is. Point here is that yes, if you can dream it, you can do it, but, you have to have a plan of action. That plan will require soul searching, thought and honest reflection, but while you must work hard and set small steps to reaching the big dream, you should never say "I can't". Remember to give yourself some grace. To use an expression that is old and over used, Rome wasn't built in a day. Trite perhaps, but also true. So maybe you can't go from working full time at your day job to being a full time musician, but, you can make that change over time. You have to be patient and believe. I will admit I am not the best on the patient part, but I work on it. Also, while you do need to come up with a plan of action, remember to be flexible, every plan doesn't work as first envisioned and that is okay and the natural state of the universe. Just because your plan didn't work 100% like you first thought, doesn't make it a bad plan and it doesn't mean you won't reach your goal.

So what am I really saying? Just this. Despite almost dying many times and some people in my life saying you can't do this or you shouldn't do that, I have lived a life worth living and reached so many dreams and I know you can. I believe my life was saved for a reason; one of those reasons is to be a facilitator for others. I am meant to share ideas and stories and through that communication to inspire and help everyone I come in contact with to have a better life! That is my big dream!

I have reached that dream and am still reaching it! So today on this day that means so much to the Stuckey family, make a pledge to start living the life you want and to start reaching for and achieving those dreams you once thought out of reach. I believe you can!

Below for your inspiration or entertainment (either is fine) are just a few of the dreams I have reached and a few left to go.

By the way, I do believe you should write your dreams down and talk about them as much as possible.

Dreams reached:

1. Touring the UK. https://youtu.be/qvipyykwLY8
2. Touring Hawaii
3. Working with and learning from Alan Parsons.
4. Performing at the Georgia Music Hall of Fame Awards twice--first with Trisha Yearwood and B52's on the main stage for the concert and TV broadcast and the second time for the red carpet and governor's reception.
5. Performing and recording with Southern rock star Jimmy Hall. https://youtu.be/zoGpvJehxmg
6. Representing my hometown of Macon, Georgia, as its official music ambassador
7. Working with two UK universities on technology that will improve the lives of blind musician's. https://youtu.be/z-qOvmg-RYI
8. Receiving the key to the City of Green Cove Springs where I was born.
9. Producing my first real music video for my single "Blind Man Drivin'" All that running around and stuff is harder than you think if you can't see where you are going. www.blind-man-drivin.com
10. Recording an album showcasing the talent of new artists for my hometown of Macon, Georgia. www.newtownmacon.com/music
11. Becoming an official Gibson endorsed artist.
12. Having my first jazz album "Mixture" reach #9 on the CMJ top 40 jazz charts.
13. Being a student at Mercer University and then being asked to be professor of music technology at that same college.
14. Being a camper at Midsummer Macon, an arts summer camp held at Wesleyan College and then returning to be an instructor at that same camp that gave me my first real musical and social success.
15. Being the youngest person inducted in to the Atlanta Country Music Hall of Fame for my work in education and that same year also having my studio inducted.

Dreams still reaching for:

1. Recording with Neal Finn.
2. Recording with Spiro Gyra.
3. Getting a Neve recording console.
4. Performing at Carnegie Hall.
5. Performing with Jeff Lorber.
6. Recording at Abbey Road.
7. Buying a beach house.
8. Seeing a baseball game in every stadium in North America and singing the national anthem at many of them!
9. Being a Georgia Music Hall of Fame inductee.
10. Writing a book about my story so far.
11. Working for Apple as a beta tester for their screen reading software Voice over.
12. Having a vintage LA-2A.
13. Getting a DW drum kit.
14. Being on the late show with Steven Colbert.
15. Getting a Google car so I can go anywhere!

"Behind The Shadow" Facebook Page - Please LIKE the page for updates!

Behind The Shadow — Season 1 (a playlist of all episodes)

Behind The Shadow - Episode 12: Joey Stuckey Alive Day Celebration 2017 Part 3 | SoundCloud

Behind The Shadow - Episode 11: Joey Stuckey Alive Day Celebration 2017 Part 2 | SoundCloud

Behind The Shadow - Episode 10: Joey Stuckey Alive Day Celebration 2017 Part 1 | SoundCloud

Behind The Shadow - Episode 9: Unbreakable Bloodline | SoundCloud

Behind The Shadow - Episode 8: Sue Wilkinson | SoundCloud

Behind The Shadow Bonus Episode - Alan Clarke (part 3) | SoundCloud

Behind The Shadow - Episode 8: Performance Tease - Sue Wilkinson "Alone Again" | SoundCloud

Behind The Shadow - Episode 7: Nestor Jaenz & Howard Middle School | SoundCloud

Behind The Shadow - Episode 6: Alan Clarke | SoundCloud | Bonus Episode

Behind The Shadow - Episode 5: Gwen Hughes | SoundCloud

Behind The Shadow - Episode 4: Alan Clarke | SoundCloud | Bonus Episode

Behind The Shadow - Episode 3: Chris Hicks | SoundCloud

Behind The Shadow - Episode 2: Kim Meeks | SoundCloud

Behind The Shadow - Episode 1: Zale | SoundCloud

Behind The Shadow Episode 1 - Performance Tease: Zale "Prisoner"

Joey's Merchandise & Other Cool Stuff

"WELCOME TO THE STUCKEYVERSE" T-Shirts

Color logo - $25.00 (FREE S&H in the Continental U.S.)

"WELCOME TO THE STUCKEYVERSE" T-Shirts

B&W logo - $15.00 (FREE S&H in the Continental U.S.)

• Joey's Music Teaching Technique CDs can be purchased at CDMusicLesson
•  3-D AudioScapes is a new site for great sound effects and original music beds plus other relaxation titles. They also provide FREE audio software tools and audiobooks - check it out...
•  Click here for FREE Audio Software Tools (and other cool stuff!)
• Now, get your very own Joey Stuckey "goodies" including apparel, posters, cards, and real U.S. postage! That's right, just browse the Joey Stuckey gallery, pick the photo you like and you're done! Your customized Joey Stuckey product will ship in about 24-hours. Visit Zazzle here!

Joey Endorses the Following Company Products

Everything from guitar effects to microphones and more, these products are the essential tools that Joey Stuckey uses to produce his high-quality recordings and performances.

These companies respect Joey’s work and talent and proudly support him in his endeavors.

Categories:

Music Gear > Studio

Music Gear > Performance

Software > Plug-Ins/Softsynths

Software > Audio or Video Utilities

Software > Audio or Video Utilities/Software > Data Management

Music Gear > Studio:

Scroll down to read reviews on these products.

ASC (Acoustic Sciences Corp.)

Blue Microphones

Booty Shakers

Cympad

Edirol (by Roland)

Hear Technologies

Kaotica Eyeball (Joey's YouTube Video Demonstration)

Magix

MicLock (Joey's YouTube Video Demonstration)

Mojave Audio

Naiant Studio

Noren

Pintech USA

Roswell Pro Audio

sE Electronics

Sennheiser / Neumann

Sescom

Spaun Drum Company

Ultimate Support

Warm Audio

X-Tempo Zone

[Back to Categories]

Music Gear > Performance:

Scroll down to read reviews on these products

Ampuplugnplay

Aphex

G7th Capo

Gibson Guitars

Godin Guitar Company

Godlyke Distributing, Inc. / Guyatone Guitar Effect Pedals

Graph Tech

Levy's Leathers

Misa Digital

Morley

Peavey

Pedal Snake

Pedaltrain

PigTronix

PreSonus

Retro-Sonic

Roc-N-Soc

Sher Music Co.

Strymon

Supro

Sustainiac (Model C)

T-Rex Engineering

Voodoo Lab

[Back to Categories]

Software > Plug-Ins/Softsynths:

Scroll down to read reviews of these products

Anarchy Sound Software

AAS

Arturia

Audified

Frank's Midi Plug Ins

H.G. Fortune

IK Multimedia

Izotope

Klanglabs

Psychic Modulation

Toontrack

Voxengo

[Back to Categories]

Software > Audio or Video Utilities:

Scroll down to read reviews of these products

Anvsoft

A Pollo Multimedia

Applian Technologies

Audio 4 Fun

Black Cat Systems

BPM Detector Pro

Guitar Pro

Next-Up (PDF Article)

Nufsoft

[Back to Categories]

Software > Audio or Video Utilities /  Software > Data Management:

Scroll down to read reviews of these products.

Wise Riddles Software

[Back to Categories]

From Producer Joey Stuckey:

"My first experience with Audified was their amazing product created for DW, called DW Drum Enhancer. This is an incredible plug-in that quickly allows you to enhance your drums for mixing. Primarily, I love the overhead presets, though the entire plugin is really great!

Next, I got their Mix Checker Pro and just fell in love with it. Any good engineer and/or producer wants to hear their mix on as many different systems as possible. I have 4 pairs of speakers I check my mixes on - my Adam Audio P33A's, my SE Eggs, my old Yamaha NS10m's (the original ones) and my Auratone Q-3. I also have the best pair of headphones Blue makes and check my mixes on all of these at some point, while mainly staying on the Adams for most of the work.

But, when the client is willing to spend the time and money, I will also listen the to mix on my phone, and take that file or a CD mix and check it on a few car sound systems. With Mix Checker Pro, I don't have to do any of that anymore.

This little plugin can very accurately simulate a lot of different listening environments from computer speakers to phone speakers to some killer studio monitor clones!

I also must say that the final product I have from Audified is the U78 Saturator. This is the coolest saturator plugin I have ever had and reminds me a bit of the EL8. I love it and it is just the right tool to bring that little extra bit of warmth or edge to your tracks.

I am proud to call Audified one of my go-to companies when I am looking for innovation for my mixes"

OMG! I can't belive the ways that iZotope has changed the landscape of audio engineering in 2018. I thought RX7 was a game changer, but you just got to check out Nectar 3!

Noise reduction, unmasking/subtractive EQ and even tweaking mixes after they have been mastered is a breeze!

Also from iZotope: RX 7 has landed! Explore the new frontier!

From Producer Joey Stuckey:

"Man, I loved RX6 and it made my day to day workflow so much better and was a go-to problem-solver for restoration issues and other annoying problems like lip noises on vocals. It literally on several occasions saved my projects.

And now I am using the brand new RX7 and oh man, it is an entire new universe, I just can't believe the amazing things I can now do with this new tool!

I am still digging in to all it can do, but you owe it to your clients to check this thing out! Super Cool!

 I am really excited about using PSPAudioware's plugins! The amount of detail with their simulation of EMT-style Reverb and Leslie-style Rotary Speakers are truly amazing! These are a must-have for those that want character in a plugin! 

Joey Endorses Gibson & Aphex!

Joey Stuckey is excited to announce that he is now an official artist endorser for 2 of the preeminent music industry leaders, Aphex and Gibson Guitars.

"Part of my unique guitar sound comes from using Gibson guitars both live and in the studio," says Joey. "They are unparalleled in quality and versatile tonality. Aphex has been making music more vibrant in sound and the listening experience more immersive for decades. Their legendary Aural Exciter even has an iPhone app that every music enthusiast should have!"

For more information, visit

www.gibson.com

www.aphex.com

Joey Endorses Kickport

 www.kickport.com

Joey Endorses Namba Gear

 www.nambagear.com

Joey uses Levy's Leather Guitar Straps

It might sound silly, but to me finding the right guitar strap is just as important as finding the right guitar! I have never been satisfied with any of my guitar straps... that is, until I got my first strap from Levy’s Leathers.

When you are a full time musician like me, sometimes you have to play for several hours on end at live gigs or in the studio. After a while your shoulders, back and neck really start to hurt from holding the guitar in the same position for hours and hours. Having a strap that is well-made helps keep down the level of discomfort.

Also, did I mention style? Man, Levy’s straps have style and how! Part of the Levy’s magic is their ability to make straps that really look good, but more importantly they make a statement about who the artist is by their amazing designs. I don’t know how I ever got by with out my Levy’s guitar straps!

For more info: www.levysleathers.com

Kazoobie Kazoos!

I am excited my fans will have this unique souvenir and fun musical instrument which truly allows us to share the gift of music! As a blind musician, sound is the only thing that I care about and Kazoobie Kazoos are unparalleled in their tonality and quality of construction.

I also use Kazoobie Kazoos for my own recording and performing. I use the Kazoobie HUMMbucker electric kazoo which is truly an innovative musical instrument--it is a metal kazoo with a HUMMbucker pickup like you would find in a guitar allowing you to amplify and use effects with your kazoo.

Think a kazoo can't rock?? Then check out "Crosstown Traffic" by Jimmi Hendrix which features the kazoo. I also use the Kazoobie Wazoo, which has a horn similar to an old style phonograph. This allows the kazoo to produce a much more powerful and robust sound.

For more information or to acquire your own Kazoobie Kazoo go to

To add even more reasons to come out to one of Joey's live performances, Joey has partnered with Kazoobie Kazoos. “As the official ambassador of music for Macon, Georgia – the birthplace of the kazoo – I am thrilled to partner with Kazoobie Kazoos to provide a limited number of souvenir kazoos to be givenaway and used during the audience participation parts of my concerts and inspirational talks,” says Joey. “I am excited that my fans will have this unique souvenir and fun musical instrument which truly allows us to share the gift of music! As a blind musician, sound is the only thing that I care about and Kazoobie Kazoos are unparalleled in their tonality and quality construction.”

www.nextup.com

Why I Use Tune-bot

Perhaps one of the most misunderstood techniques in the music world is how to tune drums. Honestly, I know many fine drummers/percussionists that can't tune their drums to save their lives! It’s a complicated  issue... but it doesn't have to be if you use Tune-bot!

I can't tell you how many times a band comes in to the studio with a great drum set, DW, Spaun, Gretch... but the drums sound awful once we mic them up. Why? Because they don't know how to tune!

Okay, so being a blind guy that was a percussion minor in college and being super picky about sound, I tune them up for them, or offer my studio kit which is maintained meticulously for recording. But, either way, they would have just lost about 45 minutes of studio time making the transfer to me either tuning for them or using my kit. In the studio, time is money and most artists can't afford to buy decent gear, let alone waste studio time. In the old days, we would have to work by ear and use a tension watch also known as a drum dial, but, that can take a good while. 

When I discovered Tune-bot I was so excited and amazed with it that I had to have one. Actually, I’ve got two. This little baby saves a lot of time and can do so much more than a traditional tension watch could ever think of. And while it features a lot of info that can be initially overwhelming, it isn't really that hard to use. What is even better is that you can save your settings on the unit, which allows you to recall your favorite tunings at the button push. This is majorly handy for me! For example, I can save my favorite tunings for my Pearl Export kit and for my 1956 Slingerlands.Even better, any sighted person can now tune my drums without being a pro, thus allowing me to use my time for other things, like saving my clients time and money. I honestly can say that the Tune-bot is one of my top 10 most useful pieces of studio gear and one of the most important. And I have a $200,0000 recording facility!

Why Joey uses A/V software by Applian Technologies

The main reason I love their software is... (drum roll please)...  ease of use!! Now, pretty much anyone can convert or capture video or audio from any source - including the web because it's so easy.

The variety of products and great support from Applian Technologies is outstanding too!

I use the following software programs and highly recommend all of them - either individually or in the "suite": Replay Audio/Video Streaming Capture Suite featuring Replay A/V, Replay Converter, Replay Screencast, Replay Player, At-Large Recorder, Replay Music, Freecorder, MP3 Magic and Radio Wizard.

www.applian.com

Why Joey uses AcoustiLock by Noren Products, Inc.

I think the fact that Noren Products, Inc. has been in business since 1968 says much about why they are such a great company.

When I met the great folks from Noren Products, it was "respect at first listen!" I had the honor of meeting Kimberly Dawn, one of the smartest and nicest company heads you would ever want to meet. I met her at the 2005 AES trade show in New York City. I kept hearing this "swishing sound"... when I could stand it no longer, I walked over to the Noren Products booth and asked them what that sound was that I kept hearing.

For those of you that don't know, I am blind, so sound is my world and I was more than curious about that swishing sound...

I quickly found that I had met people after my own heart! I hate extraneous noise - like my computer's cpu, power supply, fans and external disk drives. Noren Products specializes in making AcoustiLock Noise Reduction and Heat Removal Cabinets. That sound I had been hearing was the sound of a white noise generator totally maxed out. When the door of the AcoustiLock was opened it was almost unbearably loud with all of that racket! When it was closed, it was completely quiet - unbelievable!

After getting my own AcoustiLock, my studio is so quiet now that I keep thinking that something is wrong! It is very obvious to anyone that checks out one of these cabinets in person, the pride and craftsmanship that goes in to each cabinet they make. They are truly cool...

[I use the model ACL 24TD-B-1600]

Noren Products makes a cabinet for every budget and need.

Check it out at:

www.norenproducts.com

Joey Stuckey and Shadow Sound Studio are now the official (and only) distributor for Noren Products, Inc. in the state of Georgia.

Says Joey: "Noren Products are SO amazing that I decided to start a new service providing recording and audio gear to my clients for their own home studios, churches and offices."

If you live in Georgia, call the studio and schedule a time to check out some of their gear in action - you'll be glad you did!

For Georgia sales, please contact:

Joey Stuckey

(478) 742-7956

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Why Joey uses AMPUPLUGNPLAY mini guitar amps

Here at last is the answer to the age-old problem of wanting to use your electric guitar to practice, but without having to lug your entire rig around with you!

I guess that "handy" is an over-used word, but it just fits the amazing way the AMPUPLUGNPLAY mini guitar amps perfectly meet the need of musicians that want to be able to hear their electric guitar without having to set up their stage rig.

It's so easy a cave man could do it!

For me, the highlight of the amp is two-fold. First, you don’t ever need a cable. That’s right, the mini amp just plugs right into the guitar output jack. This means that you don’t ever need a chord and you can always use the amp as you don’t have to remember anything but the amp itself - just throw it into your case and go.

The other outstanding feature is the distortion. While the clean sound isn’t bad either, the amp really gets going when you use it distorted. It has lots of presence and gives you awesome musical feedback and sustain!

Other great features are of course, its small size: about the size of two regular iPods or two small video cameras (like the Flip Video ones). And it runs on a standard 9-volt battery.

However, the outstanding craftsmanship doesn’t stop there! It also features an MP3 (or other portable media device) input for playing along with tracks and a headphone jack. And for those of you that think you can just plug a pair of headphones in to your guitar direct - you would be wrong - there is an impedance problem for starters, but problem solved with the AMPUPLUGNPLAY.

I truly love using the AMPUPLUGNPLAY mini guitar amp because it quickly allows me to work with my electric guitar without the fuss of hooking up my pedal board and finding guitar cables and plugging my amp into the power supply. This is the ultimate practice tool for guitar and at a price that is about what you would pay for one DVD.

It even won Best In Show at NAMM TWICE!!

So, take your practice to a new level and enjoy your electric guitar like never before with the AMPUPLUGNPLAY. Check one out today.

www.ampuplugnplay.com

Why Joey uses Anarchy Sound software

AnarchyRhythms is a hybrid between an effect and a drum machine.  It takes an audio input and applies a user-controlled matrix of amplitude modulation, bandpass filtering, feedback loops, internal oscillation and compression. It allows you to compose rhythmic patterns from the sonic timbre of the input.

Now, what does that all mean? Just that you can develop some awesome new sounds to spice up your drum loops!

The amount of control that you have with the VST plug-in is unbelievable! While, it does take a bit to get used to how to get the best results from the interface, it is time well spent.

SwarmSynth

Makes sound by mixing output from a user-sizeable bank of oscillators

Oscillators are controlled by five parameters - volume, pitch, pan, resonance and noise

Values of each oscillator's parameters continually change, equating to movement through five-dimensional hyperspace

Movement through hyperspace is constrained to a bounding box specified by a home position and permissive range for each parameter

Graphical envelopes modify the bounding box through the duration of each note

Within the bounding box, each oscillator follows a rule-based flocking algorithm - a 5D equivalent of AI simulations of 2D and 3D animal flocking behavior

3D visualization of the oscillator's movement through hyperspace, using hue & luminance to represent the other 2 dimensions

Mouse-clicking the hyperspace visualization affects the sound by causing oscillators to veer towards or away from the mouse

Hotkey powered sticky-mouse for moving the cursor in 5 dimensions

Controllable reseeding to make the algorithm deterministic or non-deterministic

IIR resonant lowpass filter

Overdrive

101 automatable parameters, controllable through VST automation or fully re-mappable MIDI control messages

Collection of preset sounds

QWERTY control - SwarmSynth can be played with the computer keyboard

Anarchy button to randomize current settings

To get the maximum out of this VST, you should really understand a bit about modulation and filtering, but even if you don't the great presets will get you through just fine.

This softsynth is a must for any one that is in to sound design for TV, Theater or Film. It is also a must for those that do a lot of Electronica type of music.

I have used SwarmSynth in several projects as a nice "subtle layer" to the mix.

AnarchyEffects v1.4 Suite of Five VST 2.0 plug-ins:

SpectralAutopan assigns different pan positions to the different component pitches in the input signal. The effect pitch has on pan position is controlled by control points, which can change in pan position and pitch according to LFOs. This adds stereo depth and motion to sounds.

Corkscrew mixes together multiple pitch-shifts of the input signal, increasing or decreasing their pitches in parallel, and fading them in/out at the extremes of their range.

HarmonicAdder creates harmonic resonances by pitch shifting the dominant frequencies in your input signal by the various intervals in the harmonic series (octave, octave+fifth, two octaves, two octaves+major third, etc).

LengthSeparator bisects the input signal according to the lengths of its component frequencies. Short sounds become the 'transient' part, long sounds become the 'stable' part. These parts can be isolated (i.e. the other part removed), or assigned different pan positions to create stereo movement.

Convoluter applies a convolution matrix to the spectral representation of the input signal. This bends the sound along the continuum between pure sine tones and pure noise.

Yes, I saved my favorite for last! This VST Plug-in Suite (AnarchyEffects) is a stunning addition to anyone's sonic canvas! They are great to really make some noise (and be featured in the track), or my personal preference - mix them in very subtle-like to create some very special mixes! Check out the full collection of VST's at:

www.anarchysoundsoftware.co.uk/index.htm

Why Joey uses Apollo Multimedia Software

It's simple with Apollo Multimedia. Their software is fast, easy to use and professional! I use the Apollo Multimedia Audio DVD Creator. This nifty little program lets you store audio files on a DVD and play it back on just about any DVD player. This is a great way to take all your music with you on long trips or to backup master recordings in the recording studio.

I also use Apollo Multimedia DVD Copy. It's better than Nero Burning ROM at copying DVDs - and it's fast, with simple controls  ...and one of my favorite things is the horn flourish sound that tells you that your copy is finished!

Check out all of Apollo Multimedia's products at:

www.xtodvd.com

Why Joey uses Applied Acoustics Systems plug-ins

Realistic sound, innovative parameter control and great value for your money! -AND- Applied Acoustics Systems are always improving their products with new updates and more downloadable sounds!

String Studio: This is one plug-in you can't be without if you want some truly live-sounding stringed instruments in your softsynth collection! The best feature about this plug-in and what really separates it from the other good string plug-ins out there is the "Damper Module." In all string instruments there is a mechanism to mute the sound from the instrument. In the piano, a felt is applied on the strings when keys are released. In guitars and violins, the performer mutes the strings with his/her fingers. These muting mechanisms are not always totally quiet and usually produce some noise artifacts which has to be considered as part of the timbre of the instrument. In String Studio, the Damper Module is used to reproduce this same muting mechanism making the sound incredibly realistic.

Lounge Lizard: It comes with an extensive preset library that is simply inspiring. Giving you access to the Rhodes and Wurlitzer sounds, there is a choice of pure and true tones as well as a selection of processed ones courtesy of the high-end effect section. Especially designed for the electric piano so you don't spend hours tweaking external plug-ins or boxes. The effect section includes the classic tremolo, chorus, wah, and phaser effects as well as EQ, delay and reverb making it really easy to create your own distinctive customized tones.

Ultra Analog: Just about every vintage analog keyboard sound you will ever need.

Tassman 4: This plug-in is for finding and creating really cool and unusual sounds. I love it! It's one of my absolute favorites.

Check them all out at www.applied-acoustics.com

Why Joey uses Audiomatic by Wise Riddles Software

This tool is not just for blind (or otherwise disabled) computer users and it's not just for musicians. It's for anyone that uses a computer on a daily bases and does many repetitive tasks - and the best part of it is, that you don't have to be a computer genius to make it work!

You can use Audiomatic to make "system-wide macros." Macros are, in short, a few keystrokes that can take lengthy and sometimes complicated commands and reduce them down to a quick keyboard command (button or series of button pushes). 

With Audiomatic, in just minutes you can start using the program to reduce wasted time - no matter what you do: musician, lawyer, web designer - anyone - the program takes your repetitive tasks and gets them done with just a keystroke or two.

I use Audiomatic to sign my standard closing lines to business letters, launch programs without having to return to the desktop or start or close the program I am currently working with.

I could talk forever about how many great things you can do with Audiomatic, but go check it out for yourself instead at:

www.wiseriddles.com

Why Joey uses BPM Detector Pro

This is one of the most useful tools I have for marketing my music!  ...and just what do I mean by that?

 Well, this software can tell me the BPM (beats per minute) on any AUDIO FILE supported by the program, which are:

CDDA (Compact Disc Digital Audio - the format used for music CDs)

WAV (standard Windows Audio file format)

MP3 (compressed audio/music file format)

Now, if you're any kind of DJ, the advantages of knowing your Song BPM is obvious, but I also mentioned that it's a great marketing tool for musicians, and so it is!

Many times when film, tv, and radio Music Directors are looking for music for various projects - they know what type of beat and feel they need, but it takes valuable time to try and determine that accurately. BPM Detector Pro does that quickly and accurately.

Best of all, you don't have to be a computer genius to work the program and with great features like:

Min & Max Tempo manual settings in order to minimize detection errors

Up to dot 2 digits detection (.00)

Ability to rename and modify your music files by including the BPM information on the file name itself (at the beginning or at the end), furthermore it can also leave the original music files untouched and duplicate the files with the BPM information.

Automatically generate a text file (or log) with all the songs or tracks BPM information. This function allows you to print the text file and insert the BPM information in your CD jewel case. There is also a CD insert template, so you can cut and past your BPM info in to a CD-ready printout.

A manual tapping function has been added to re-enforce BPM Detector Pro and correct occasional errors on complex rhythm patterns, where it will automatically "lock on" to the true value if you are tapping a tempo near the true rhythm.

What could be easier?

So, for DJs this is a must-have tool -- and for musicians, the info that BPM Detector Pro can give you might make the difference when people are looking for a particular type of music to use in a specific production. Now, you can put the BPM info in your metadata and you're all-set.

For more info:

www.bpmdetectorpro.com

Why Joey uses Frank's MIDI Plug-Ins

These plug-ins are some of the most useful and time saving plug-ins out there! They do so much and cost so little!

In the current collection there are 6 plug-ins, but more are on the way.

Here are the ones I use:

Delete Double plug-in

Split by Patches plug-in

Split Poly plug-in

Rhythmic Controller plug-in

Humanize plug-in

MIDI Statistics plug-in

These are essential tools for anyone that is a serious MIDI programmer!

You can use these cool plug-ins with SONAR, Cubase SX, Project5, Cakewalk 8.0 (and higher) and many other software-based MIDI products.

Frank's MIDI Plug-Ins provide the ability to use plug-in MIDI effects. Using plug-in effects is very similar to using the MIDI processing commands like quantize, transpose, interpolate, but with Frank's plug-ins you get other great options like:

Deleting all kinds of doubled, repeated and possibly unnecessary MIDI events:

Or striping a chordal passage into individual single-line melodies on separate midi channels.

And so much more!

Check out the amazing MIDI plug-ins at:

www.midi-plugins.de

Why Joey uses Graph Tech

I have always said that true service is more important than just about anything. This is true whether you are going to the doctor, finding a good mechanic - or even when you are working with a music gear manufacturer.

I first started working with Graph Tech in March of 2005. We had a lot of trouble early on adapting one of my main guitars to their Ghost Modular Pickup System, but in January of '06 we got it right - in a big way.

This is what I'm talkin' about when I say "service": The folks at Graph Tech never left me hanging during that time. They kept working with me until I was completely satisfied and I really appreciate that because I love my guitar and I wanted their system to work with it.

That being said, usually it's not hard to install their system at all, but I wanted to put the system in a Steve Morse Signature Model guitar and that's where the trouble started. At first, it seemed like it was just another install, but the bridge of this particular guitar is not a standard bridge (because it was already full of electronics), so there wasn't a lot of room for the Ghost components. However, we persevered and got it working with that particular guitar finally.

Now, what is the Ghost Modular Pickup System you might ask? Well, it's possibly the coolest thing to come out for guitars since the electric amp! - seriously.

I now have awesome "action" with the Graph Tech bridge design... you can't get the strings to break if you try!

The Ghost system also boasts 6 saddle bridge pickups for a very convincing acoustic guitar sound as well as also giving you the flexibility of a MIDI pickup to really open up your guitar playing to the world of electronics (if you like that sort of thing - and I do!)

If you want awesome quality of sound AND flexibility, you MUST invest in the Ghost Modular Pickup System by Graph Tech - it's WELL WORTH IT!

Check it out at:

www.graphtech.com

Why Joey uses Guitar Pro

The top three reasons you should use Guitar Pro are:

1. It's quick - AND you don't have to be able to read standard music notation either. If you can write guitar tab, the program will also produce the same info in standard notation as well (and the reverse is also true).

2. The end result looks great! You would never know you prepared it quickly on your laptop or home computer!

3. You can do not only guitar music, but also bass, drums and vocals/lyrics.

Oh... and the BEST reason to use Guitar Pro is that it is priced so even a musician can buy it!

Check it out at:

www.guitar-pro.com

Why Joey uses H.G. Fortune's VSTi Synthesizers

If you want to catapult into the fourth dimension with your VSTi synth library, then H.G. Fortune's VSTi Synthesizers are certainly what you need!

A vast array of sound textures that are both rich and complex sounding are what you get when you tap into the amazing universe of sounds that these virtual synthesizers offer.

One of my favorite features is the "Lazy" button. This allows you to randomize different sets of parameters with just a click of the mouse. How cool is that? Great for those moments when you're feeling, well - lazy.

I use the following H.G. Fortune VSTi synthesizers:

LaserBlade Synthesizer

ProtoPlasm TSM Pro Synthesizer V.1.8

STS-24 Transition Synthesizer

STS-26 Synthesizer

Do yourself a favored and check this stuff out!

www.hgf-synthesizer.de

Why Joey uses KlangLabs plug-ins

I am having too much fun with these programs!! Okay, let's start with my favorite KlangLabs program, StompBud. It's a percussionist's dream come true!!

With this program, you have a variety of "body sounds" like hand claps, finger snaps, and so on that you can control from your keyboard. Now, at last you can get that cool Stomp sound on your next recording project. It also works great to create a "live" ambience, like crowd noise at a concert, etc.

Another cool program I use from KlangLabs, is VOKKO. This is one of the best vocoder plug-ins I have ever used! Vokko is a stereo vocoder. It supports stereo inputs so you can use stereo modulators and it processes all signals internally in stereo so you can also use stereo carriers. Basically, this plug-in processes left and right signals in parallel using two embedded "MDA Talkbox" vocoders and two separate filters. Stereo operation is very uncommon in vocoders and very handy because you can vocode two signals with rich stereo content. For example, you could vocode a voice with a stereo wide-moving pad (a la wavestation).

Finally, I use BackMan too. This is a realtime audio reverse (backwards) plug-in. Take note, this is a free plug-in, but it's so good that I use it in my recording studio with all my other expensive plug-ins and just love it! I guess sometimes you can get something good for free!

There's lots of other cool free stuff on the KlangLabs site - just click on the FREEBIES button and grab some plug-ins to try them for yourself.

Check-out all the great plug-ins from KlangLabs at:

spyro.mediashift.net/klanglabs

Why Joey uses Misa Digital makers of the "Kitara"

To enhance his studio and live performances and take his music production ability to the 23rd century, Joey has partnered with Misa Digital makers of the "Kitara". "The Kitara is one of the most remarkable instruments to come out since the advent of the electric guitar," says Stuckey.

This amazing MIDI controller gives guitarists new and innovative ways to make music both live and in the studio.

While it is a little alien at first, I quickly got used to the difference of not having any strings on my guitar and the amazing things I could do with this controller that the traditional guitar MIDI controllers can't accomplish!

No matter how much I love my real guitar with it's MIDI pick-up, the tracking is never quite right and to get it playable, it takes hours and hours of trial and error. With the Kitara right out of the box, literally, you can start making some of the best music ever to come out of your imagination!

I love the right hand capabilities of this instrument, honestly, you have to try one out to truly understand! The unparalleled flexibility of this instrument is something that has to be played to be believed.

I am an adequate keyboard player, but, with the power of the Kitara my keyboard patches sound much more appealing and musically pleasing because I am performing them in my comfort zone, yeah, I am playing them on a guitar and a keyboard at the same time, get it? it's the Kitara!

For more information please visit

www.misadigital.com

www.facebook.com/misadigital

YouTube: www.youtube.com/misadigital

Twitter: Misadigital

Why Joey uses Morley Guitar Pedals

When I first got started and got in to doing the Wah thing, I used the standard CryBaby. I can’t tell you how many times I wanted to throw it out the window! Eventually, I just couldn’t take the constant annoying scratching sound coming out of it... Also, I usually would get so excited when Wah-ing, that I would end up turning the pedal off from too much forward motion.

Enter Morley to Save the Day!

I looked around and found the Morley WahSp. It had everything I had ever wanted in a guitar pedal. For one thing, when you put your foot on the pedal it was 'on' and if your foot was off the pedal it was 'off'. So that took care of one problem. It also had such a great and smooth sound - it was like playing a new guitar!

I have continued using Morley pedals since the day I got my first one and I’ll never ever change to any other pedal for my Wah needs.

I currently use the Bad Horsie pedal, the Dual Bass Wah, the Little Alligator volume pedal, the Mark Tremonti Power Wah, The Tripler, the ABY Selector/Combiner and the Hum-X 2-channel hum eliminator.

Bye the way, the Alligator is probably the best guitar pedal ever made! Not only can you use it as a conventional volume pedal, but you can also use it as a lead boost by setting the volume knob on the pedal. Cool!

For more info: www.morleyproducts.com

** HEY BIG NEWS! Joey is featured on the new Morley CD, Morley Sampler CD VOL-3. Joey’s song "Morley Magic" is track 17 and the jam-along track of the same title is track 18.

MORE BIG NEWS!!

4/12/05 - Joey Stuckey has been named an Honor Award winner in the 6th Annual Great American Song Contest. Joey's song "Morley Magic" is in the Top 100 best songs out of 2,000 entries. The competition was judged by industry pros including Pat Pattison (professor at Berkley College of Music in Boston, songs recorded by Kathy Mattea, Emmy Lou Harris, Allison Krauss, and Trisha Yearwood), Pete Anderson (grammy award-winning producer working with Dwight Yoakam, k.d. Lang, Sheryl Crow, Sara Evans, Roy Orbison, and Buck Owens), Tim Coons (original producer of the Backstreet Boys; worked with NSYNC, Rob Thomas, Match Box 20, Jefferson Starship, and Take5), Pamela Phillips-Oland (lyricist Reba McEntire, Brian Adams, Whitney Houston, and Selena), Michael Laskow (producer for Eric Clapton, Neil Young, and Crosby, Stills, & Nash; founder of TAXI), and many more. "Morley Magic" scored 45 points out a possible 50. The judges comments included "Solid Blues Theme", "Big Time Guitar Work", Makes Me Wanna Wah!!!" For complete listing of 2004 winners go to https://www.greatamericansong.com/honorary.html.

Joey performed all instruments on the song "Morley Magic" (and used Morley's Bad Horsie and Baby Alligator pedals) and recorded it at his studio, Shadow Sound. Loops by Doug Diamond. Mastering by Doug Diamond (courtesy of Shadow Sound).

 The CD features other great artist like:

1) Blues Saraceno, composer for U.S.A. network "Dead Zone" and studio sessions with artists like Melissa Etheridge and Ziggy Marley.

2) Toshi Iseda has been featured on over 10 CD's (including all four of Guitar World magazine's 'Indie Bin' CD's - the only guitarist asked to be on all four CD's!), recently collaborated with former Dixie Dregs bassist Andy West to record and co-produce 'RAMA 1' on Magna Carta records.

3) This project also features such renowned musicians as drummers Mike Portnoy (Dream Theater/Liquid Tension Experiment), Rod Morgenstein (Dixie Dregs/Winger/Jazz Is Dead), Jonathan Mover (Joe Satriani/Einstein) and keyboardist Jens Johansson (Yngwie Malmsteen/Stratovarious), T. Lavitz (Dixie Dregs/Jazz Is Dead) and Mike Keneally (Frank Zappa/Steve Vai).

Joey is also in good company with other Morley endorsers like:

ROBERT BARRY (EMERSON LAKE & PALMER)

JOY BASU (JESSICA SIMPSON)

JIMMIE BONES (KID ROCK)

ANDY BRAUER (EARTH WIND & FIRE, CHAKA KHAN, MEREDITH BROOKS)

RODNEY BROWNING (DISHWALLA)

PETER BUCK (REM)

KEVIN CADOGAN (THIRD EYE BLIND)

CHARLIE COLIN (TRAIN, ANI DIFRANCO, AL DIMEOLA)

CHRIS HINSON (BLUES TRAVELER)

ANTHONY JOYNER (TIM McGRAW, FAITH HILL)

LENNY KRAVITZ

ADAM LEVINE (MAROON 5)

NEIL SCHON (JOURNEY)

BRIAN SETZER (BRIAN SETZER ORCHESTRA, STRAY CATS)

MARK SLAUGHTER (SLAUGHTER)

ROBERT SMITH (THE CURE)

MICHAEL SWEET (STRYPER)

MARK TREMONTI (ALTER BRIDGE, CREED)

STEVE VAI     ...and many more!

For more info: www.morleyproducts.com

Why Joey uses PedalSnake

 I love my PedalSnake! It is simply amazing. No more mess of cables like a spaghetti factory, just one snake that handles power, audio and MIDI control. And best of all, if you aren't an electronics guru that understands ohms, polarity and the like, then the easy-to-use website and knowledgeable staff at PedalSnake can fix you right up!

Flexible, durable and sounds great - these are just a few great things I can say about my PedalSnake. It really cleans up my pedal board and cuts setup time in half, plus it coils into a nice and neat 10" circle - small enough to fit into any pedal board case. How's that for cool?

I demand a lot out of my gear and only use what I consider the best. With being blind, having a clear floor space around me is essential to keep from getting tangled up in my cords. And as all I can do is "listen", then I must have the cleanest sound possible and the PedalSnake delivers every time. I get my dream setup with the PedalSnake!

Highly Recommended! Click on over and design yours today...

www.pedalsnake.com

Why Joey uses Pigtronix products

I am always looking for better tone, better control and cool and unusual sounds. So that's why I knew that I had to have the Pigtronix EP-1 Envelope Phaser. It has been designed to work quickly and easily live, but it was also designed as a pro recording studio tool!

With a plethora of features like the sidechain input and a space-age look, it is the best filter for guitar, bass and even vocal or drum sounds in the studio! The Envelope Phaser also features footswitch-able phase inversion, expression pedal speed control for mind-bending rotary speaker effects and can even be used as a clean analog fat booster.

I also really like this unit because it doesn't require eyesight to work the controls! Most of today's effects pedals and processors rely upon touch screens or a display of some sort, but the EP-1 is pretty much all buttons and knobs baby!

Don't just take my word for it though, there are a number of high profile artists that knew the EP-1 Envelope Phaser was a must-have tool to. Among them are some of my favorites: The Flaming Lips, Omar Hakim, Victor Wooten, BT and Marcus Miller just to name a few.

Want to know more?

Visit: www.pigtronix.com

Why Joey uses products by iZotope, Inc.

When I first heard about the amazing products by iZotope I knew they would make a real difference in the great sounds I am always striving to achieve in my recording projects.

Well, I was right; I don't know how I got by without them for this long!

They are hip, imaginative, fun, easy-to-use and they have excellent tutorials and help menus as well, not to mention an almost unbelievable amount of thoughtful parameters that you can customize quickly and easily.

One of my favorite plug-ins is iZotope Vinyl. The ultimate lo-fi weapon, iZotope Vinyl uses 64-bit processing and advanced filtering, modeling and resampling to create an authentic "vinyl record" simulation, as if the audio was a vinyl Lp being played on a record player. You have complete control over the following parameters:

Mechanical Noise - The amount of turntable motor rumble and noise.

Electrical Noise - Internally generated electrical noise, such as 60 Hz grounding hum.

Wear - Control how worn out the record is, from brand new to played a few thousand times.

Dust - The amount of dust on the record.

Scratch - The number and depth of scratches on the record.

Warp - The amount of warping and the warp shape for the record from no warp to the edges totally melted and warped.

Record Player Year - The year of the record player from current linear tracking turntables to 1930 phonographs.

Stereo/Mono - Switch between stereo and mono output.

Input and Output Gain - Set the gain in and out of the effect with visual level meter feedback.

You can see the time, effort and thought that went into this plug-in. Now, are you ready for the most amazing thing about this plug-in? It's free! That's right, it's free. Now, just think how much thought and craftsmanship goes in to the plug-ins that they charge for!

I also use:

iZotope Stutter Edit - It's an effect. It's an instrument. It's Stutter Edit—an innovative tool for both studio and stage, designed by BT and developed by iZotope.

iZotope Nectar - Complete Vocal Suite: a complete set of 11 vocal production effects combined in one plug-in that's designed to give you immediate results.

iZotope Ozone -Complete mastering effects system using 64-bit analog modeled processing.

iZotope Trash - 64-bit modeling of classic amps, distortions, delays and filters.

iZotope Spectron - Manipulate audio in the frequency domain using spectral delay, pan and morph.

Check it all out at:

www.izotope.com

Why Joey uses products by Sescom

In my line of work (sound recording), or live sound production or even sound installation, you need a group of products that are well made, well thought out by audio professionals, for audio professionals and priced so that you can afford them. Such a company that makes such products is Sescom.

With outstanding distribution by TecNec distributors worldwide, you can't go wrong with any of the multitude of amazing audio solutions by Sescom.

Here are just a few of the products I use and highly recommend.

1. Sescom SES-SOUND-CHECK Stereo Amplified Speaker System for Audio Confidence.

This nifty little set of speakers is perfect to check and see if you have audio coming from the source without having to hook-up headphones or monitors. I use them to check direct from my patchbay if I am having trouble running down a poor connection and I have even been guilty of listening to my iPod while working through them; they are that great sounding! I also love the killer feature of being able to, with the flick of a switch of changing from full stereo sound to just left or right channel. Add to this, that they have a great mounting system for easy access and you can't go wrong!

2. I also use Sescom IL-19 Inline Professional Audio Hum Eliminator -THE INDUSTRY STANDARD.

Having trouble with hum?

Doesn't matter what the cause is, so far I have found that these little devices can fix anything - really! It is like having my own magic wand for hum. Just plug them in to your XLR cable chain and presto, problem gone.

3. Sescom IL-19-2 Two Channel Professional Audio Hum Eliminator with Isolation. Same as above, but in a handy DI-type box configuration.

For more info, please visit the website: www.sescom.com

Why Joey uses Psychic Modulation products

They are inventive, rich and just the right tool to keep your music production on the cutting edge!

I have the privilege of using many products from Psychic Modulation including:

Cerebrum - a sophisticated groovebox-style synth/sampler hybrid drum machine featuring seven drumsynth modules as well as a bass synth module, each with it's own dual A/B sequencer for beat-matching. Designed with live operation in mind, Cerebrum can be used for making complex beats on the fly that can be randomized, mixed, matched and manipulated in a number of ways.

Aethereal - the latest addition to the Neurosynth Pack, Aethereal is an ambient vector synthesizer with several built-in sounds for creating evolving atmospheres and textures along with a wide array of possibilities.

Subconscious - a dual arpeggiation sequence synth with oscillator crossfading, feedback modulation, and independent filter and amp envelopes for both oscillator sections. Subconscious has two different onboard sequencers, a gate sequencer and a modulation sequencer, which can be used for stepped sequences, gated pads and modulation of the pitch and filters.

Check them all out at:

www.psychicmodulation.com

Why Joey uses software by Anvsoft

With the advent of online communities like MySpace and Bebo, sharing video and photos are now a great way for family and friends to stay in-touch. For the professional musician, it is very important for fans to be able to be involved on an ongoing basis with their favorite artists and bands - and for artists and bands, it is a great way to sell product and grow your fan base.

And... you DON'T want to look like an amateur - you need to look like the star you should be! So, it's Anvsoft to the rescue! With the arsenal of pro video and flash and other photo tools, you get a professional product in just minutes and at a fraction of the cost of hiring a designer to do it for you!

Not only can you do flash slideshows with cool transition effects, photos, videos and music, but you can convert these same slideshows so that they can be viewed on your iPod, cell phone or even your Sony PSP. Plus, you can do great-looking slideshows and even edit and author video for DVD as well.

Anvsoft has some really great tools you need!

I use the following products:

Movie DVD Maker, Video to 3GP Converter, DVD Photo Slideshow, iPod Photo Slideshow, 3GP Photo Slideshow, Flash Slideshow Maker

Check it out at:

www.anvsoft.com

Why Joey uses software by Audio4Fun

If you have a limited budget or are a beginner in the AV industry, the super-cool collections of AV music and video morphers by Audio4Fun is for you!

These programs have many of the pro features you would get with high-end programs like Sound Forge or Acoustica. Simple wave editing and some outstanding effects like reverb, delay and many more avant-garde types of effects.

Check it out at: www.audio4fun.com

Get your free copy of MP3 Morpher at:

www.audio4fun.com/mp3player_joeystuckeygift.php

Why Joey uses software by Black Cat Systems

When I started in the radio/music business - during my time in regular "terrestrial" FM Radio, I worked with cart machines every so often. Carts kind of looked like the old 8-track tapes (remember those?), a format I personally loath. However, the great thing about the cart system was the ability to put sound clips or commercials on them and quickly bring those recordings up and cue them, kind of like a tape version of a digital sampler.

Well, now thanks to Black Cat Systems, the best part of the cart idea is back again and in a digital audio format that makes it a must for anyone in theater, radio or recording. It's awesome! All the sounds you need, right at your fingertips. Check out Sound Byte Pro at: www.blackcatsystems.com

I also use their Diet Sleuth software. You may think that this has nothing to do with music, but I believe that it is essential to keep your health or you can't do anything. You must be able to give your live performances everything you have (and life in general for that matter) and to do that, you must be - at least somewhat - in shape (think Elvis here...). Diet Sleuth is just amazing. It is the perfect way to keep track of how much you are eating and the nutritional value of your food intake.

Check it all out at:

www.blackcatsystems.com

Why Joey uses software by Nufsoft

These guys have screensaver software down to an art - not to mention science!

We all know that screensavers are fun to watch and a great way to kill time by mindlessly watching them do their thing. They are also a cool way to personalize your computer. I mean, nothing says "me" like animated fish swimming by a picture of you in a snow storm right there on your computer screen.

Now with the help of the amazing Ace Pro Screensaver Creator and the Water Illusion Screensaver you can make your very own screensavers and at professional quality - animation and all!

Besides being fun, if you are a marketing guy like me you will probably already know that free screensavers are a great way to keep your company, band or "brand" in front of folk's eyes.

Download Joey's FREE Screensaver (6MB)

For more information:

www.nufsoft.com

Why Joey uses the ARP 2600 V & Minimoog V by Arturia

It’s amazing!!!

The ARP 2600 V is simply the most innovative music software to hit the market since the advent of computerized multi-track recording!

What *can’t* you do with the ARP 2600 V is a much better question than just asking about it’s multitude of features.

If you already know about the history of this classic analog instrument, then I’ll just say that Arturia has brought the classic into the 21st Century in a big way! If you don’t know about the classic version, then do yourself a favor and check out this latest incarnation without delay.

The sound is just "other worldly." I have never had so much fun coming up with new musical sounds and effects.

With it’s plethora of presets, flexible controls and great audiophile sound, the ARP 2600 V is the perfect blend of great analog sound while providing an easy (and modern) computer interface, that is more like a virtual reality instrument than a standard “softsynth.” I mean, it’s like having the actual keyboard and all its controls right there, but without the annoying hassle of patch cables.

With all of its possibilities I can’t ever see myself not being able to provide the right sound for the right song that needs that special analog sound.

It’s true, this is a new era in music production with the advent of the ARP 2600 V and it’s all thanks to Arturia!

Minimoog V

I also use the Arturia Minimoog V software plug-in (screenshot below) for that classic "Moog Sound."

Arturia has worked with Bob Moog himself to bring this one-of-a-kind classic synth in to the contemporary music/work environment.

It's just like the original, but it's less-filling and tastes great! Click here for more info about Minimoog V.

For more info:

www.arturia.com

Why Joey uses the intelliScore Polyphonic 6.2 Software

Okay, if you are like me you have at times needed an audio file turned into a MIDI file for one reason or another. Usually, it’s the easiest way to make sheet music out of an existing audio file or maybe you want to turn one of your original compositions into a cellphone ringtone.

Well, this technology has not been very easy-to-use or understand - until now!

Innovative Music Systems has a program called intelliScore Polyphonic 6.2 that makes this process: that of converting audio to MIDI - both affordable and intuitive.

Don’t get me wrong, this program works best if you are an experienced MIDI user, but the Audio-to-MIDI Wizard makes it possible even for a beginner to use effectively.

intelliScore is polyphonic so it can handle more than one sound at a time, though one sound at a time still works best (i.e. less editing of audio or midi information).

I have looked at other programs that claim to do similar types of things, but intelliScore is hands-down at the top of this field!

Give it a try today!

For more info: www.intelliscore.net

Why Joey uses Toontrack software

I have always had a passion for drums and percussion. I minored in percussion in college, but alas I am not really a drummer. However, being able to get a great drum sound is a critical part of making outstanding musical recordings and something that every recording engineer should be able to do. Making this process easier then ever before is what Tunetrack is all about.

I have to say at this point that I was thrilled to become an endorser of the complete line of Tunetrack software! I knew they were great products, but when I actually got the programs and the sample library installed on my computer, I couldn't believe my ears!

Again, while I use the full line of products, I want to talk in detail about two programs in particular.

First, Superior Drummer...

This program in combination with your DAW of choice is one of the best programs I have in my very large collection! You can do so much with the amazing samples of drums. You can play from your keyboard for programming MIDI sequences, you can trigger from drum pads or other sound sources and you can use the MIDI library with some of the best drum loops and patterns to quickly fashion a pro-sounding drum track for your song in minutes.

I have the complete library of samples and recommend you do to! But using any of them you have control over changing the brand of drum, its size, its mic type and placement and so much more. I mean it, every producer must get this program!!

Second is EZmix. A top-of-the-line effects processing plugin that has truly awesome (and practical) user presets for EQ, Compression, Reverb and more.

All TuneTrack products are extremely user-friendly for the pro or beginner alike. In short, make your tracks stand out with Tunetrack; it is more than worth the investment!

For more info, please visit the website: www.toontrack.com

Why Joey uses Ultimate Support

 It's a no-brainer really, Ultimate Support simply have the best Keyboard Stands available for every occasion! Whether you are a performer or studio musician (or both) -  if you use keyboards and synths at all you need one of these babies!

Ultimate's Apache Triple Tier stand has really become an integral part of my studio setup. The flexibility of the Apache is awesome! I can configure my keyboards, control surface and MIDI controller for optimal work-flow, performance and comfort.

The stand is easy-to-assemble and breaks down quickly too for great portability and if that weren't enough, it looks super-stylish! (Well, if I could see - I know it would!)

Oh, did I mention how sturdy it is? I mean, you can really "get down"/rock-and-roll and your keyboard doesn't move at all, but that's not all...

There is a wide range of extra attachments you can get to really make the most of your work area - like the mic stand, music stand, 19" rack, or "small shelf" for things like drum machines, sound modules or external "box-of-some-sort."

Joey also uses the Ultimate Support MS-36 monitor stands for his studio speakers.

Check out all the great products from Ultimate Support at:

www.ultimatesupport.com

Why Joey uses Voxengo plug-ins

When they say: "Voxengo - Sound With A Soul" - that’s just what it means!

The warmth and old-school sound of analog is all there without any of the drawbacks thanks to Voxengo’s state-of-the-art treatment with their software impulses.

For great vocal processing that just can’t be beat, the Voxengo Voxformer is a must-have for everyone that wants the big-studio-vocal-processing-sound without having to pay thousands of dollars!

I also use the remarkably flexible Voxengo Pristine Space reverb, Voxengo Analogflux Suite, Voxengo Elephant mastering limiter, and LF-Punch plug-ins and love them!

Voxengo has a truly great line of plug-ins that you should experience to believe - and most importantly, hear for yourself. From amazing reverbs, to warm tube compression and great analog tape effects, but don’t just take my word for it - check it out for yourself.

For more info: www.voxengo.com