Meet Kaiki Chan | Audio Engineer

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

Hi Kaiki, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued a creative career because I’ve always been deeply fascinated by the process behind the final product. From a young age, I was more interested in understanding how things were created than simply experiencing the finished work. Whether it was the production of a song, the cinematography behind a scene, or the animation techniques that brought visuals to life, I was drawn to the mechanics and creativity involved. As my passion for music and sound developed, I became particularly curious about the intricate processes behind the audio we consume. This drive to explore the creative and technical elements of production led me to pursue an education at Berklee College of Music, where I could deepen my understanding of both the business and the hands-on aspects of the music and entertainment industries. Ultimately, I was inspired to pursue a career in this field because it allows me to combine my curiosity with my passion for creating and shaping the experiences that people enjoy.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Like many, I faced the disruptions of the pandemic and the adjustment of working remotely from Japan. But I stayed focused on my goal and took every opportunity to learn and grow. One of the highlights during this time was my involvement with Kelsey Kuan’s song “Summer Cologne,” which I had the opportunity to work on as an engineer. This collaboration marked a significant milestone, as it was one of Kelsey’s first major releases, and the song went on to gain significant traction, being featured by content creators and garnering over a million streams on Spotify. This success was not only personally fulfilling but also validated my belief in the power of sound to connect with audiences.

After graduating in 2021, I moved to Los Angeles to immerse myself in the heart of the entertainment industry. Internships helped me build critical industry experience, and I eventually landed a position at Audio Mechanics, one of the most respected audio service providers in the industry. At Audio Mechanics, I worked on restoration projects for major clients such as Walt Disney Studios, Sony Pictures, and the Library of Congress, collaborating with industry leaders like John Polito. These experiences further honed my technical skills and deepened my understanding of the art and precision behind audio restoration and production.

What sets me apart is my holistic approach to the creative process, balancing both the technical and artistic aspects of sound and production. I’m equally passionate about the behind-the-scenes work as I am about the end result, and I strive to bring that dedication to every project I work on. I’m proud of my ability to combine technical proficiency with a strong sense of aesthetic integrity, which I believe is essential in crafting high-quality sound experiences.

The road to where I am today wasn’t easy. The transition to remote learning during the pandemic and later relocating to Los Angeles required resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to my passion. Along the way, I’ve learned the importance of perseverance, staying focused on long-term goals, and embracing opportunities for growth, whether through internships, collaborative projects, or professional mentorship.

Looking ahead, I want the world to know that I’m not just an engineer or a producer, but someone who is deeply committed to the integrity of sound and the stories it can tell. My journey has taught me that every project is a unique opportunity to shape an experience, and I’m excited to continue contributing to the entertainment industry in meaningful ways. My goal is to combine my passion for music, my technical expertise, and my understanding of the entertainment landscape to create work that resonates with audiences, elevates storytelling, and makes a lasting impact.

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.
1. Hollywood Glam and Cinema
We’d start at Universal Cinema AMC at CityWalk Hollywood. The theater is huge and displays movie costumes, making it a fun, immersive experience. After the movie, we’d explore CityWalk for some shopping and food.

2. Nature and Tranquility
Next, we’d visit The Huntington Botanical Gardens. It’s a peaceful escape with beautiful themed gardens, including a Japanese Garden that reminds me of home.

3. Authentic Ramen
For lunch, we’d go to Tatsunoya Ramen, an amazing spot for authentic Fukuoka-style ramen. The rich broth and noodles are top-notch—definitely a must-try for any ramen lover.

4. Movie Magic
We’d spend the day at The Academy Museum—seven floors of iconic movie props, costumes, and exhibits. It’s a dream for movie buffs, and I’ve had the chance to attend screenings there, which makes it even more special.

5. Sweet Treats and Local Vibes
Finally, we’d visit Porto’s Bakery and Cafe for their famous pastries, especially the Potato Ball. The Burbank location is perfect for grabbing a treat and exploring nearby shops.

This itinerary balances excitement, relaxation, and great food, giving my friend a taste of everything that makes this area special.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to express immense gratitude to my family who have always encouraged me to pursue my passions. They have given me unconditional support which helped me believe in myself even when in doubt. Without their support, I would not be where I am today. I would also like to express my gratitude to my professors and friends who have continued to inspire me throughout my college years.

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaikichan