In this interview, thesuntribune team delves into the extraordinary career of João Milliet, a distinguished figure in the realm of music production. Originating from his early days in advertising jingles, João’s journey has unfolded into a flourishing career as a sought-after mixing engineer. His portfolio boasts collaborations with renowned artists and notable achievements, including a coveted Latin Grammy. Let’s explore the pivotal moments and experiences that have shaped João Milliet’s remarkable trajectory in the music industry.
Interviewer: João, your musical journey began in advertising jingles and with the children’s music group Palavra Cantada. Can you shed light on those early days and the key moments that set you on this path?
João Milliet: Certainly. I started singing in advertising jingles and with Palavra Cantada at a young age, thanks to my father’s recording studio. His suggestion to learn an instrument led me to discover a passion for the electric guitar. Forming my first band after meeting Kiko Loureiro was a pivotal moment, laying the foundation for my future in music.
Interviewer: You transitioned from playing the guitar to pursuing a music production course at Santa Marcelina College. How did this shift influence your trajectory, and what pivotal experiences did you encounter during this time?
João Milliet: Entering Santa Marcelina was a crucial step to enhance my knowledge of composition and conducting. It was during this time that I rediscovered my passion for recording arts in a course with tonmeister Eduardo Avellar. This led me to work as his assistant and immerse myself in the world of studio recording.
Interviewer: Your specialization in mixing became evident as you declined jobs that didn’t involve it. How did your involvement with a power pop band signed by Universal Music shape your career as a mixing engineer?
João Milliet: Joining the power pop band opened doors to Universal Music projects as a mixing engineer. Despite the band’s limited success, producers and artists appreciated the sound, leading to further opportunities. Producing and mixing the successful album “[Re]Nascido” for the melodic hardcore band “Gloria” marked a significant achievement.
Interviewer: The Mix With The Masters workshop with Manny Marroquin in France seems like a turning point. How did this experience impact your perspective on mixing and your overall approach to music production?
João Milliet: The workshop with Manny Marroquin was transformative. It not only evolved my understanding of mixing but also inspired me to improve further. Presenting a recording to Manny and re-recording drums for a folk pop duo during the workshop had a lasting impact on my approach to music production.
Interviewer: Your collaborations with Sandy, a prominent Brazilian singer, brought significant visibility. Can you share more about your role in recording and mixing Sandy’s album and subsequently joining her band?
João Milliet: Working with Sandy was a turning point. Initially recording and mixing her album “Nós, Voz, Eles” brought success, and later, joining her band as a guitarist, acoustic guitarist, and mandolin player expanded my horizons.
Interviewer: João, your recent achievements include two Latin Grammy nominations. In 2022, Liniker’s iconic album “Índigo Borboleta Anil” received acclaim in the “Best Brazilian Popular Music Album” category, with a nomination in the coveted “Best Engineered Album” category. How do these recognitions contribute to your journey as a mixing engineer?
João Milliet: The Latin Grammy for “Índigo Borboleta Anil” and the nomination for “Best Engineered Album” are humbling acknowledgments. It’s a testament to the collaborative effort behind the project and reinforces my commitment to delivering sonic excellence. Liniker’s album was a milestone in my career, and the recognition further motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries of sound engineering.
Interviewer: The following year, 2023, brought another nomination in the “Best Engineered Album” category for Lagum’s “Depois Do Fim.” How do you approach each project to consistently achieve a high level of sonic excellence?
João Milliet: Each project presents unique challenges, and my approach is rooted in understanding the artist’s vision and bringing it to life through meticulous engineering. For “Depois Do Fim,” working with Lagum was a fantastic experience, and the nomination reflects the collective effort invested in crafting a sonically exceptional album.
Interviewer: With such a prolific career, what are your future aspirations and goals?
João Milliet: My aim is to continue expanding my horizons, seeking national and international partnerships. I thrive on challenges, learning more about music, culture, and sounds with each project. My ultimate goal is to contribute and help artists realize their creative visions.
In this interview, João Milliet reflects on his journey, showcasing the diverse and impactful experiences that have shaped his career as a mixing engineer. His dedication to pushing boundaries and embracing challenges underscores his commitment to the art of music production. As João continues to evolve, his story serves as inspiration for aspiring musicians and producers alike.
