Episode 411 - Unplugged with Fred Mollin: Music, Mental Health, and Industry Secrets

04/21/25 • 64 min

When Words Fail...Music Speaks

Hosts: Amanda Dolin and James Cox

Guest: Fred Mollin

Sponsor: BetterHelp - Get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/musicspeaks

Episode Summary:

In this episode, Amanda Dolin and James Cox welcome the legendary music producer Fred Mollin. Fred shares insights from his decades-long career in the music industry, from his early days in Toronto to working with iconic artists like Crosby, Steals and Nash, Art Garfunkel, and Brian Wilson. He discusses the evolution of music production technology, the importance of performance in music, and his experiences producing Disney lullabies and children's music. Fred also talks about his upcoming book, "Unplugged," which chronicles his 50 years in the industry.

Key Topics:

The role of a music producer and how it compares to a film director
The evolution of music production technology from analog to digital
Fred's journey from a singer-songwriter to a renowned music producer
Working with legendary artists and balancing creativity
Producing Disney lullabies and children's music
Fred's upcoming book, "Unplugged," and its significance

Notable Quotes:

"Singing is extremely good for your soul, and it makes you happier if you sing."
"I want them to look good. I want them and they make me look good."

Links:

BetterHelp - Get 10% off your first month
Fred Mollin's Book: fredmollinunplugged.com

Connect with Us:

Hosts: Amanda Dolin and James Cox

Guest: Fred Mollin

Sponsor: BetterHelp - Get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/musicspeaks

Episode Summary:

Key Topics:

The role of a music producer and how it compares to a film director
The evolution of music production technology from analog to digital
Fred's journey from a singer-songwriter to a renowned music producer
Working with legendary artists and balancing creativity
Producing Disney lullabies and children's music
Fred's upcoming book, "Unplugged," and its significance

Notable Quotes:

"Singing is extremely good for your soul, and it makes you happier if you sing."
"I want them to look good. I want them and they make me look good."

Links:

BetterHelp - Get 10% off your first month
Fred Mollin's Book: fredmollinunplugged.com

Connect with Us:

Previous Episode

Episode 410 - The Evolution of Hecojeni: Embracing Musical Diversity and Creative Collaboration

Episode Summary:

In this episode, James Cox interviews Jeff Niebuhr and Heath Cobb from the band Hecojeni. They discuss their musical journey, the formation of their band, and their creative process. The conversation touches on their college band days, their approach to songwriting, and their plans for releasing music. Jeff and Heath share anecdotes about their first concert experiences and their musical influences. They also talk about the challenges and joys of creating music in a home studio and their vision for future collaborations.

Key Topics:

The origin and pronunciation of the band name Hecojeni
Jeff and Heath's first concert experience and how they met
The transition from their college band, The Chill Bumps, to Hecojeni
Their approach to songwriting and recording in a home studio
The decision to release singles instead of full albums
Musical influences and favorite bands
The role of technology in modern music production
Open invitation for collaboration with other musicians

Contact and Connect:

Visit Hecojeni website: https://soundcloud.com/hecojeni
Follow the podcast for more episodes and updates

Call to Action:

Listeners are encouraged to reach out to Hecojeni for potential collaborations and to check out their music on SoundCloud.

Next Episode

Episode 412 - Supergroups (Part 2)

Sponsors:

BetterHelp: Get 10% off your first month of therapy at betterhelp.com/musicspeaks.

Hosts:

James Cox
Blake Mosley
Amanda Dolin

Episode Summary:

In this episode, the hosts dive into the fascinating world of supergroups, exploring the unique collaborations and musical magic that happens when talented artists come together. They discuss three notable supergroups: LS Dunes, Better Lovers, and Temple of the Dog, sharing insights into their formation, music, and impact on the industry. The conversation also touches on the importance of connection in mental health, emphasizing the need for positive relationships and community support.

Key Topics:

LS Dunes: A supergroup featuring members from Circa Survive, My Chemical Romance, Coheed and Cambria, and Thursday. They discuss the band's formation during the COVID-19 pandemic and their debut album "Past Lives."
Better Lovers: Formed by members of Every Time I Die, Dillinger Escape Plan, and Fit for an Autopsy. The hosts explore the band's journey and their debut album "Highly Irresponsible."
Temple of the Dog: A classic supergroup formed as a tribute to Andrew Wood, featuring members of Soundgarden and Pearl Jam. The hosts reflect on their iconic album and its legacy.
Connection and Mental Health: Amanda shares insights on the importance of fostering connections for mental well-being, encouraging listeners to engage with their communities and support networks.

Additional Segments:

Personal anecdotes and music traditions shared by the hosts.
Discussion on the evolving nature of supergroups and their impact on the music industry.

Contact and Social Media:

Email: James at [email protected], Blake at [email protected], Amanda at [email protected]
Social Media: Follow on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok @WhenWordsFailMusicSpeaksPodcast
YouTube: Subscribe for interviews, music video reactions, and more at youtube.com/whenwordsfailmusicspeaks

Special Thanks: