I used to think literature was the only true way to tell a story. I’m aware of film and music as storytelling mediums, but I always figured writing was the true heart and soul of creativity. After stepping into the world of podcasting, however, I’m learning that words on a page aren’t always the natural starting point to a good story. I keep being reminded of my other, often untapped storytelling senses and am constantly amazed by what they can contribute and inspire in other peoples’ work.
“For me, it always starts with music. I tell my story through music.”
My guest on today’s Coffee Break is digital sample developer and podcaster, Raul Vega. As a sound designer for film composer Hans Zimmer, Raul has a fascinating approach to storytelling. He puts all of his audio talents to work on his popular mystery podcast, Rose Drive. I was intrigued to learn that, much like words to a writer, Raul uses different sounds to develop his characters and stories.
“Sometimes the sound gravitates toward you and chooses you, so to speak… I’ll start with an idea and then it starts taking on a personality of its own and you kind of have to trust in it.”
Raul and I had a wonderful conversation about building stories audibly, as well as the differences and surprising similarities between writing and sound design. We also talk about working outside your comfort zone, creating believable character dialogue, utilizing unreliable characters and narrators, and the joys of creative collaboration.
“That’s the beauty of art—it is collaboration. And the most beautiful things come from that.”
I really hope today’s episode shows you a side of storytelling you hadn’t thought of before. Now I’m curious to discover even more creative processes I never thought to use! Be sure to give Rose Drive a listen and follow Raul and his creative team on the Rose Drive social medias. Thank you so much for listening and don’t forget to be creative in your own way today!
Mentioned in this episode:
#RoseDrive
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