Sam Ojalvo: Musician and Audio Engineer
What do you love most about music?
I love the fact that it is a lifelong process, with incremental achievements, lessons, and is always there for me when I want it. Music is literally everything, in the most spiritual way, as an escape, a fun activity, a challenge, a great to connect with others, to grow as a person and most deeply a way for me to understand the fabric of existence. Like Nikola Tesla said, "if you want to know the secrets of the universe think in terms of frequency, vibration and sound.”
Tell us about your new album.
It was a long product in the making. I never really thought that I would release anything of my own, but one morning I woke up and realized that I have the skill set to do it. So I went with my gut and started making music that I simply found to be groovy and enjoyable, something I could play for my family and feel good about. I started playing guitar in middle school and took a 6 year break upon entering high school because I was "too gangster (you probably remember this phase, maybe not). Anyways, I rekindled my love for guitar and decided it was the only thing to me worth dedicating energy towards any time of the day. It was perfect, whenever I wanted, I knew I was working towards becoming a better player. Fast forward to today, after graduating from Omega Recording studios as an official audio engineer, I began really honing my skills and applying all I learned into my productions. I was making a lot of trap beats, but I wanted to put something out that was more universal that myself and others could listen to everyday. To be honest, after learning about the music business, I wanted something that could get on a playlist and get as much streaming revenue as possible. So lofi, hip hop and jazz vibes were a win win for me. I called it "Fashionably Late" because I felt I could have done this years ago, especially seeing the success from famous artists at such a young age...but I didn't have any regret because I wasn't even truly ready until after I finished my education at Omega. Plus, everything happens for a reason. I will be putting out more music this year as well. I'm working on some really cool projects with some very talented artists, and I'm excited to keep going!
What is the main lesson you have learned since you began producing and making music professionally?
Three things. First, patience. Everybody when they start out wants that immediate gratification. Big placements, connections with high end studios, great musicianship and so much more but like everything else in life, it's a process. Being patient and making small progress really is vital to keeping your cool and making true progress.
Second, networking and keeping an open mind. Surrounding yourself with like minded people is key, people who can motivate you, help you grow and learn is essential as well. I have seen some people with great talent let friends or other outside influence take them in another direction. A professional attitude helps make those connections solid.
Lastly, knowing yourself. This isn't something that can really be taught but I feel is super important to the process. By knowing who you are and what your strengths, weaknesses, and interests are, you help yourself make better decisions and not get taken advantage of. In the beginning I put myself in situations with people I didn't necessarily see myself working with long term, it wasn't a mistake but a lesson. As I progressed I realized that I would make the most impact and have the most fun by doing what I felt was worth it based on knowing who I am and my own goals, not by doing what others wanted me to do. After all, is the pursuit of anything really worth it if it's not enjoyable? I guess that answer depends on who you are.
Vibe to Sam's new album using the links below and follow his journey on Instagram @samojalvo
https://open.spotify.com/album/3d0JNODQmtRDo5E3gUK1na?si=08o2VPKXQkmd4nfdIq8Pjg
https://music.apple.com/us/album/fashionably-late/1546830746
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