Oakland - GRAMMY SoundChecks With Brett Dennen

Photo: Brett Dennen sound checks for GRAMMY U members at the Fox Theatre in Oakland. (Photo by: Neil Cuslidge)

On Saturday, June 25, GRAMMY U members gathered outside of the Fox Theatre in Oakland to watch an exclusive GRAMMY SoundChecks with singer-songwriter Brett Dennen from his 2011 “Loverboy” Tour.

Students were guided into the venue where they were able to enjoy a rare opportunity to observe the behind-the-scenes preparations for that evening’s event. Brett Dennen performed a short 6 song set where students were able to hear songs off of his new album “Loverboy.”

Senior Project Manager Kaitlin McGaw hosted a Q&A with the students who prepared questions about placing songs on television, approaches to composition, and inspiration for songs. Joined by band members Eric Hinojosa and Jon Solo, both singer-songwriters of their own right, Brett discussed topics candidly about their approaches to the tour and his life thus far as a singer-songwriter. Originally from Northern California, Brett has since moved to Los Angeles to continue his career, and talked about making a presence for yourself in your hometown before moving to an entertainment mecca such as Los Angeles.

Students also had the opportunity to speak with Tour Manager Seth Loeser who provided advice about the importance of being personable and kind in interactions to create long term successful relationships. In addition, GRAMMY U members had the opportunity to talk with Brett’s front-of-house sound engineer Brad Conrad. Brad shared his approach to mixing the show in so many different venues, stating that he used one song as a “control” song to get a sense of the room, much like a recording engineer might listen to a song if mixing in a new studio. The band immediately started laughing and singing bars of that song Brad plays nightly in each venue.

Brett Dennen and his team were enthusiastic and inspiring in their teamwork and support of one another’s ideas and perspectives. We want to thank them and the GRAMMY Foundation for giving our GRAMMY U members this amazing opportunity.