STREET SMARTS
Flick through the record collection, streaming library or most-played lists of any modern music lover and the chances are that you will uncover a swathe of familiar British and Irish rock records, many shaped by Stephen Street. From indie-rock royalty The Smiths and Blur via the spiky rock of The Pretenders and The Cranberries to the populist anthems of Kaiser Chiefs, Stephen has collaborated with many of the most significant artists in the business – and it’s his efficiency, professionalism and humanity that has kept him buoyant through the many highs and the lows.
“From my first session working with The Smiths, I learnt that aspiring engineers and producers need to not only be as helpful as possible but to think ahead of the curve when it comes to the recording process too,” says the Hackney-born producer. Focusing on the energy, personalities and sounds reverberating within the studio can go a long way towards coaxing memorable performances from a band. “It’s vital to drag your gaze away from the screen and interact with the musicians,” he adds. “I always find it weird when we listen back to a track and all eyes are on the computer. You need to rely on your ears.”
“We’re incredible at making music in this country. Since the 1960s with The Beatles and the Stones, we’ve managed to go head to head with the US”
STREETS AHEAD
Stephen’s work on some of the UK’s greatest and most lauded contemporary records was recently acknowledged by the Music Producers Guild at the organisation’s annual awards bash, with the producer deservedly receiving the Outstanding Contribution to UK Music prize, which has in recent years been awarded to such luminaries as producer Tony Visconti and Killing Joke’s Martin Glover.
“It was a lovely surprise and something I’m very proud of,” says Street.
