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INTRO:  Southern Gospel has a rich history of being a very personable industry.  Fans are the artists, and the artists are the fans.  However, SGN will be focusing on some behind the scenes individuals in this four-part series called "From the Producer's Chair", which will highlight four of the most successful and sought-after producers in the Southern Gospel industry today. 

Our first featured producer is the current reigning Producer of the Year in the SGN Music Awards as well as recipient of Grammy Awards, Dove Awards, Singing News Fan Awards, Harmony Honors, and more.  In addition, he was just recently inducted into the Gospel Music Association Hall of Fame for his contributions in Gospel music.  Sit back and get to know how the production process works for Lari Goss!

SGN:  Most people aren't really familiar with the production process. Explain how that works for you and how it may differ from other producers.

LG:  I'm not sure how other producers do it but here is my format. Once we have agreed on budget, dates, etc., my first step is to meet with the artist to listen to material, and together we choose the right songs for them depending on what they are wanting to say and the concept of the project. Then we start working on the arrangements with just a keyboard - figuring out tempos, key changes, etc.  Next, I write a number chart of the arrangements.

Through my contractor, I then book recording dates, musicians, studio, engineer, etc. We go to the studio, record the rhythm only with bass, piano, guitar, and drums. That is followed by either recording master vocals, or I might write and record the orchestra depending on the artist's schedule. Once the orchestra and vocals are done, I might add some "sweetening" with other instruments if they need it. We then mix and master, and the project is basically finished as far as my part is concerned.  At that point, it is turned over to the record company or if it is an independent project, to the artist for manufacturing.

SGN:  How much input does the artist get during the production of a record when working with you?

LG:  A lot! If they are an established artist, they usually have their own vision, and it's up to me to help them get there.  Intros, key changes, endings, etc. are usually left up to me, but I am there only to help them capture what's in their heart. If it is a fairly new artist with little experience, I can help them find their own unique style and hopefully bring out the best in them. You must remember, it's not about the producer but all about the artist!

SGN:  You have worked with artists in other genres of music as well as Southern Gospel. Does the process change when working with other companies, artists, and musicians?

LG:  Not usually. There have been a few times when the project called for everything to be recorded live (all music at the same time). But for the most part, I stay with my format. It has worked for over 40 yrs., so why change now?

SGN:  What is the most rewarding aspect of being a producer?

LG:  This is a tough one. The Grammys, Doves, and other awards are always a great source of encouragement, but they are not the most important aspect of what I do. It's the relationship that's created between the artist and the producer, seeing the project increase the effectiveness of the artists' ministry,  and then finally when the artist comes to me and says "you took us to another level and we love our project". That is priceless to me and truthfully, that's what keeps me going!

SGN:  What other producers have influenced your work?

LG:  David Foster, and as far as orchestrators I have always enjoyed studying the works of John Williams, Alan Silvestri, Hans Zimmer and James Newton Howard. 

SGN:  What artists or individuals have you enjoyed working with the most?

LG:  The Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir, Larnelle Harris, The Gaither Vocal Band, Greater Vision, Legacy 5, Booth Brothers, The Hoppers, The Cathedrals, Ernie Haase & Signature Sound, Nancy Harmon, and Janet Paschal just to mention a few.  Also, there is a great satisfaction in producing for a new artist, perhaps one that hasn't quite "found their voice."  It's a joy to help them discover who they are as an artist, challenge them to stretch beyond their comfort level, and then watch them grow into it over time.  As a producer, artist development is crucial. You have to be able to see the diamond, establish the artistic goal, then develop and implement the plan to help them get there. That's always exciting to me. So really, all of the artists that I have worked with over the years have been a blessing to my life.  To pick a favorite is impossible for me because I really do love them all.

SGN:  What things have you learned spiritually from sitting in the producer's chair?

LG:  First of all, the artist and I pray at the very beginning of the project asking the Lord to be our leader and guide through the whole process.  By doing so, I know somewhere during this time, He is going to speak to us and allow us to grow. Secondly, lyric content is very important. If a song doesn't say anything there is no arrangement, orchestration, or vocal performance that can help it. It has been my experience that the lyrics of a song have increased my faith tremendously. Thirdly, my association with all the Christian artists I work with love to share things about the Lord.  As "iron sharpens iron" I think we benefit from each other and the things the Lord has shown us along the way.  All of these things combined have helped me to grow while "sitting in the producer's chair."

SGN:  What advice can you give to people who wish to work in the record business?

LG:  Make sure that this is what God is calling you to do. I know that is simplistic, but honestly if you are not truly called, then the the pressures of the business will prove to be a thorn rather than a blessing.  So, pray, pray and then pray some more.  Then pursue it according to the field you wish to enter; perhaps with a study in a music business class, an internship with a producer, a record company, music company or another venue that would enhance your career and provide invaluable hands on training that cannot be learned from a textbook or manual.  More importantly, get to know people in the industry for it is relationships that will carry you as far- if not farther than your talent. It's hard to break into the industry at any level so you need all the help and experience you can achieve. Take advantage of every opportunity you have for it will lead you to another experience.

SGN:  Any additional thoughts you'd like to share?

LG:  After doing this for over 47 years, I'm more busy now than I have ever been and as long as God gives me strength and opportunity, I will continue to do what He has called me to do with the love and passion he instilled in me many years ago. Please pray for me that the music that is created in me through the Holy Spirit will not just bring people to their feet, but will bring them to their knees to honor and worship Him. To Him be all the Glory and Honor for the wonderful things He has done for my family and myself.

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