IGNORANCE ISN'T BLISS
Oct 1, 2005 12:00 PM, The Remix Editors, Robert Hanson Erin Hutton Kylee Swenson
As a dumb 22-year-old kid just getting into the world of music production, I, Kylee, was once writing a story that mentioned the legendary Robert Moog. After repeatedly hearing two pronunciations — Moog as in “rogue” and Moog as in “fugue” — I finally asked my former boss, “Which is it?” He said, “Why don't you call Bob?” So being the audacious, curious person I was, I did. Moog put up with my trivial inquiry, saying, “It's ‘M-oh-g,’ but my ex-wife was a first-grade teacher, and all the kids used to moo at her, so either way is fine.” Looking back, I wish I had asked a deeper, more intelligent question for my one and only conversation with Bob Moog. After the synth pioneer's recent passing, it stings a little bit more knowing what a missed opportunity it was to actually learn something from a true master.
After I talked to Moog, however, I knew I needed a Moog synth. I finally bought a Moog Sonic VI, the suitcase synth with the built-in speaker, and I felt really cool having that in my studio. I paid through the nose for it, but it was worth it to just be able to tell people and show my friends. The problem was that there was no predicting what sounds would come out of that thing — bloop, shhhhh, hoooonk! I don't remember if it was actually honking at me, but it was pretty hard to write melodies with the Sonic VI (its purpose was more about sound exploration anyway). My bandmate and I eventually got an analog-modeled Clavia Nord Lead, a synth that never argued with us. Nevertheless, even that synth's sounds were inspired in part by Moogs.
Moog may have had held a doctorate in engineering physics, but his inventions helped create aural art and entertainment. The original Minimoog (reborn in 2002 as the Minimoog Voyager), for example, was used by everyone from The Orb to Nine Inch Nails to Pink Floyd to Kool and the Gang. Countless artists in the pages of Remix have used Moog synths (to name one in this issue, Timo Maas). And many gear manufacturers have followed in Moog's footsteps. Honestly, if it weren't for Moog leading the way into electronic music, this magazine might not even exist.
Moog's passing made it clear to me that with our short time on this planet, we should seek out mentors and learn what we can from them. I, for one, spent too many years pretending that I knew more than I did, because I was too embarrassed to ask questions. (I am also one of those people who hates asking for directions.) I knew what I knew, and what I didn't know could have filled the Minneapolis Metrodome. I've learned a bit since then, but now more than ever, I'm aware of how much I can gain from asking questions. (Funny how it's possible to think you're a genius when you're 20 and an idiot when you're 30.)
A lot of people out there are more than willing to share what they've learned. Some people keep their cards close to their vest, yes. But more often than not, the people you respect will have something to say if you just muster up the courage to talk to them. As a former editor once told me about interviewing people, “Play dumb. You'll learn more.” That's not to say that you should pretend to know less than you do, but don't be afraid to dig deeper for answers. It might just help you accomplish a lot more in less time.
| Want to use this article? Click here for options! |  |
