One of the best projects I have ever been involved in was the restoration of Paisley Park Studios in Minnesota. I worked in seclusion for the first 6 months and during that time it’s famous owner would come back to test the facility, work and give me direction. We made many recordings and prepped a world tour all throughout the rebuild process.
When the first albums after the rebuild finally hit, everyone I know would say, “Hey man got the new Prince CD, but I didn’t see your name.” I just smiled and said nothing. Inside I knew that my wage had been paid in full and there are only two studios listed on the credits. The first one, Paisley Park wasn’t working when I showed up. The second studio, listed as 3121 didn’t exist until I sketched it on paper, and built it. So in my mind that album has my name all over it!
While credit is something in our business that is always great to get, the fact is as an independent service provider it is still not always as important as the reason why you have a job. Credit is often a byproduct of a job well done. Completion of work is just as important as being able to talk about it. For me I understood long ago that I might just get to work with some famous people along the way. I did also realize that there were no other Dave Hamptons out there so just by existing in my role I stood out. I was content in the realization that I was not always going to need or be able to get credit. I also knew that all the banks I was aware of didn’t take album credits and mentions the same way they took cash. The big picture is the pay off. Work is the opportunity. Don’t get me wrong because I do like credit when I can get it, however I understand that my role is many times as a support player or trusted adviser. The minute I start putting my goals along side or ahead of the clients is when I need to stop providing service.
I want to add something as well. This is specifically to anyone out there who actually works for / with established entertainers. At the end of the day they (the artist) do the work that creates the revenue to be able to afford you as well as others. In addition, many established entertainers will give great opportunities for growth just by exposing you and others to contacts, environments, and people from all over the world. Never miss the things that are done just for you. It costs to take people on the road or buy that extra seat at award shows. It costs just to have a staff. The experienced entertainer knows this and pays the cost. As a trusted adviser you owe your client the full focus of your attention. You (in whatever capacity) represent that entertainer’s camp when you do business or travel together, so conduct yourself with some tact and discretion. I have seen so many people comfortable with their role that they squander away any real opportunity for growth.
This story is one, but I have many. My reason for telling this one is because it’s so graphic. I understood that as Technical Director of Paisley Park Studios my responsibility was massive. To get side tracked by a search for a thank you was not even a consideration.
Music and entertainment allow art to create opportunities for commerce. When you back up from any entertainment situation you can see how the success is due in large part to a core group of selfless individuals who are committed to the idea of loyalty, service, and completion.
One last thing I want to mention about working with Prince- many times we hear stories, and some may even be based in truth. But I can honestly say that everyone I have met who has worked at length with him in any music and entertainment capacity has stepped their game up to a level that many will not experience. This is perhaps one of the most dynamic, historic entertainers that we have left. Old folks say, “Iron Sharpens Iron.” It was truly an honor to be responsible for this historic facility and work closely with one of music’s most iconic artists.
