Feature: Autorub Decodes “Meatball”
What was the creative process like for this particular "Meatball?"
I have to admit it was unusually messy. It kept evolving right up until the last moment, and even after the release believe it or not. After recording the lead vocals, I decided their rhythm was too boring. It followed along with the guitar chords’ rhythm. So I redid them entirely, placing the lyrics in between the chord changes or ‘syncopated.’ This was much more interesting. Then during mixdown, when things are generally final, I decided to re-write and record new lyrics for the bridge section, which was too repetitive although amusing. Cut to after the song was sent to stores by my distributor. I decided the mastering needed some improvement. I found out they could still update the audio file, and it would become live within 48 hours. So while I was at it, I redid part of the bass line in the bridge section that I had wanted to change anyway! So for the first 48 hours of its release, there was an entirely different mix of “Meatball” out there. 🤷🏻♂️
Could you discuss the lyrical themes or messages conveyed in "Meatball?"
I am fleshing out a potential backstory of this political character we have who’s nicknamed “Meatball.” In lines like “they made you just a little too small,” I’m playing with food references, but also a Napoleon complex. As the song progresses, there are some jabs at his political agenda including banning teaching CRT, “Don’t say gay” and battling Disney. But the lyrics address these issues much more subtly, and the title “Meatball” cloaks the song’s more serious agenda with an air of silliness. Kind of like “Autorub.”
How did you work with the producer or engineers to bring your vision for "Meatball" to life?
I also play the role of both producer and engineer. I’d say while I have a pretty clear idea of what I want a song to sound like, it always evolves along the way. I think it’s healthy to leave room for this process. And as I said before, there were a lot of changes made along the way in this song - more than usual though.
How do you translate your inspirations into musical ideas and compositions?
Once I’m inspired by some kind of situation or individual to actually write about it, it’s just a matter of sitting down and picking up an instrument to try out some ideas - seeing what comes out. I’ll usually record a quick bit right to the phone if I like it, which is an incredibly handy tool. In the case of “Meatball,” there were three short versions in my voice notes. The third one is what basically became the song.
What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced as a musician, and how did you overcome them?
I think the biggest challenge is navigating the business itself, which has many systems working against any musician. Poor streaming royalty rates are just one of the bigger ones today. But in any successful career, the challenge is simply to keep on going, forging ahead, and staying authentic. There will always be some kind of challenges, setbacks etc. The key is not becoming jaded, but to approach each new project or opportunity with a fresh attitude. Knowing that a previous failure has nothing to do with your next potential success!
