🎙️ Inside the Studio: A Conversation with John Mick of Swamp Sound Studios

George Niksch
Jun 4
2 min read

Updated: Jun 11

In this episode of the Lakeshore Video Podcast, I sat down with John Mick, producer and multi-instrumentalist behind Swamp Sound Studios in Valparaiso, Indiana. We explored his journey from childhood jam sessions with his dad to building a pro-level analog recording space in his basement.

🔊 What We Talked About

Origins of Swamp Sounds — Why John named his studio after the Midwest humidity and his signature basement vibe.
Analog Passion — How running audio through vintage consoles and rack gear gives his mixes unmatched warmth.
Musical Roots — Influences ranging from Zappa to Ohio Players, and how those styles shape John’s unconventional sound.
Recording Philosophy — Why he commits to a sound before hitting record, just like the old tape days.
Creative Process — With over 1,000 songs recorded, John shares how he writes, records, and sometimes performs everything himself.

📺 Watch the Full Podcast Episode with John Mick of Swamp Sound Studios

🧠 Why You Should Watch

Whether you're a musician, engineer, or a fan of creative storytelling, John’s approach to music production is inspiring and refreshing. His ability to blend funk, techno, hip hop, and rock—while keeping things rooted in analog—sets him apart.