InSIDE THE Beat with Hollywood Cole: A Hip Hop Producer's Rise to Rhythm
Hollywood Cole
Originally from Seattle and having spent a significant part of his life in Boston, Hollywood Cole embodies a blend of influences that stretch across the American landscape. His journey eventually led him to Virginia, and it's this cross-country experience that has shaped his diverse palette of sounds. Cole's parents played an eclectic mix of music, from Ella Fitzgerald to Jay-Z, Hootie & the Blowfish to Miles Davis, creating a rich musical foundation that would later influence his work.
Hollywood Cole's foray into music production wasn't born out of a desire to be known but from a place of play and exploration. During his college years, DJing opened up the world of FL Studio to him, a popular platform for beat making. This hobby, nurtured in his mom's house in Virginia, blossomed into a serious pursuit as he moved through the ranks, landing an internship at Mean Street Studio in Atlanta with DJ Drama and Don Cannon.
Describing his sound as a fusion of old-school samples and modern trap or hip-hop beats, Cole insists on avoiding being boxed into a single category. He values flexibility in his creative process, which can start with laying down drum loops or crafting melodies, depending on his inspiration at the moment. Samples are his starting point at times, seeking out distinctive sounds that evoke emotion and feeling.
Anecdotes from Hollywood Cole's career include creating a beat in L.A. that he originally envisioned for Kendrick Lamar. However, fate had other plans when Boy Wonder got a hold of it and, after just a few seconds of listening, decided to send it to Drake instead. This moment encapsulates the serendipitous nature of the music industry and the importance of networking and seizing opportunities.
Looking to the future, Cole's dream collaborations would be with Pharrell and Jay-Z, a combo he believes is a recipe for an undeniable hit. His recent success with Jack Harlow's project "Jackman" — which was picked up by Madden, thanks to his publishing company — demonstrates his reach in the industry and the power of a solid team behind an artist.
In the business side of music, Hollywood Cole underscores the importance of having a good lawyer and a supportive team, including a manager. He encourages emerging producers to do their own research, understand the industry, and not shy away from networking. "Closed mouths don't get fed," he states, advising aspiring talent to be proactive and take leaps of faith.
Hollywood Cole's session at Cam Kirk Studios not only showcased his impressive resume but also his grounded approach to his art and career. His ability to adapt and draw from his cross-country experiences has allowed him to create a distinctive sound that stands out in the crowded world of hip-hop production. As he continues to push boundaries and advocate for self-education and assertiveness, Hollywood Cole is not just making beats; he's making a mark.
STUDIO SESSIONS PLAYLIST
STUDIO SESSIONS PLAYLIST
Cam Kirk Studios Presents Studio Sessions. All songs featured are selected by Cam Kirk and the studio staff. This playlist is updated monthly. Finding good music can be tough, so we did the hard work for you. If you find a song that you love, add it to your library.