Meet Felipe Collazos | Sound Engineer, Music producer, Sound designer, Singer Songwriter

We had the good fortune of connecting with Felipe Collazos and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Felipe, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
The primary factor contributing to my success lies in my unwavering passion for the audio industry, driven by my deep love for music. Music has been transformative in my life, shaping my journey and influencing my career choices. Moreover, perseverance is a cornerstone value that has played a pivotal role in my professional growth. In an industry marked by numerous setbacks and rejections, maintaining resilience has been crucial. I firmly believe that the ability to learn from mistakes and continually refine one’s skills is indispensable for success as a musician and audio engineer.

Allow me to illustrate the significance of perseverance through a couple of defining moments in my journey. Prior to attending college, financial constraints threatened to impede my pursuit of education in audio engineering—a dream that meant the world to me. Despite facing initial setbacks, I persevered and secured a scholarship to Berklee College of Music, a turning point that reinforced the importance of tenacity in achieving one’s aspirations.

Similarly, after graduating, I embarked on an internship at a recording studio, hopeful that it would mark the beginning of a promising career. However, I found myself in a challenging environment that did not align with my long-term goals. Encountering self-doubt and contemplating quitting mid-process, I ultimately chose to persevere. This decision proved instrumental, leading to new opportunities and avenues in my career.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
First and foremost, I specialize in sound design for a diverse range of projects, including TV commercials, short films, and documentaries, such as TEDed. This involves creating immersive auditory experiences that enhance the storytelling and impact of visual content.

In addition to sound design, I also do audio editing and mixing for audio post-production. This means I’m heavily involved in the world of movies, short films, and podcasting, where I ensure that the audio quality meets the highest standards. It’s about bringing the soundscape to life and making sure every detail is just right.

I’m proud to be recognized for my contributions to audio post-production and sound design. This recognition stems from my commitment to delivering top-notch results that captivate audiences and elevate the overall quality of the projects I’m involved in.

One of my proudest achievements is carving out a niche for myself in the American audio industry as a migrant and a non-English speaker. It’s been a journey filled with challenges, but it’s those very challenges that have driven me to excel. I’m proud to have not only integrated myself into the industry but also to have brought insights from my Colombian culture, adding a unique and diverse perspective to American audio projects.

In essence, what sets me apart is not just my technical skills but also my ability to infuse cultural diversity and innovation into my work. I believe that sound isn’t just about what you hear but also about how it makes you feel, and I’m dedicated to creating soundscapes that resonate deeply with audiences and leave a lasting impression.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Absolutely, if I were to curate an exceptional week-long experience for my best friend visiting NYC, I would begin with a. visit to Chelsea, setting the stage for a day filled with exploration. The High Line, with its unique blend of nature and urban art, would be our first stop, providing a picturesque start to our adventure.

Moving into the afternoon, the vibrant Chelsea Market would be on the agenda, offering an array of shops and eateries to satisfy our culinary curiosities. Following our market exploration, we’d head to Soho, delving into its renowned record stores to unearth musical treasures.

As the day transitions into the evening, I’d seek out a venue with live music, complemented by a selection of espresso martinis or local craft beers. The night would conclude with a visit to a rooftop bar or an elevated spot like Williamsburg or Roosevelt Island, providing an awe-inspiring view of the city skyline.

The following days would be equally diverse and captivating, from exploring the greenery of Central Park to navigating the trendy streets of Williamsburg. The itinerary would culminate with an evening at a Manhattan rooftop bar, where we’d revel in the dazzling city lights and the energy of the metropolis below. Each day would be a unique chapter, offering a blend of culture, cuisine, and the unparalleled charm that defines the spirit of New York City.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
An overall dedication: At the core of my journey, I owe my deepest gratitude to The Beatles. Their profound influence kindled an unbridled passion for music early in my life, propelling me toward a career I wholeheartedly embraced. Additionally, I extend immense thanks to my parents, the first believers in my dreams, whose unwavering support made everything possible.

Secondly, I owe a significant debt of gratitude to my early mentors, who instilled in me the foundational skills and belief that this was my calling. Further appreciation goes to my college mentors, Richard Mendelson, and Enrique Gonzalez, who played pivotal roles in shaping me into a more professional musician and person.

Also, a special thanks to Weston Fonger, a distinguished sound designer and audio post-mixer in NYC. Weston not only shared invaluable industry insights but also fueled my interest in sound design. His mentorship has been transformative, and I am grateful for the trust he placed in me. I am currently grateful to be part of Storefront Music, a company that has not only believed in me but also fostered an environment for continuous professional growth. Their support has been instrumental in my ongoing journey.

A heartfelt acknowledgment to long-time friend Juan Hernandez, a talented music composer, for the unwavering support and camaraderie in navigating the challenges of the industry together.
I express my sincere thanks to Ana Betancourt, who believed in my talent and passion, turning my personal project into something more meaningful with beautiful lyrics. Lastly, a special mention to Juan Torres, an incredible music producer, whose collaboration and guidance have shaped many of my creative ideas into reality.

Website: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm14136103/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/collazosmusic/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/felipe-collazos-465237217/