Meet Manuel Sanchez | Audio engineer & music producer

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

Hi Manuel, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued an artistic and creative career because music has always been more than just a passion for me; it’s been a profound calling that has shaped my identity and purpose. From a young age in Colombia, I felt a deep connection to sound and the way it could convey emotions and tell stories. Music offered me a unique language through which I could express myself, and I knew early on that this was the path I was meant to follow.

The decision to pursue this career wasn’t just about loving music; it was about the need to create, to innovate, and to contribute something meaningful to the world. Music and sound have the power to transcend barriers, touch hearts, and bring people together, and being part of that process is incredibly fulfilling.

My journey, from Colombia to the prestigious studios of Hollywood, has been driven by this unwavering desire to push boundaries, tell stories through sound, and continuously evolve as an artist. The challenges I’ve faced have only strengthened my resolve, and the opportunities I’ve been given have reinforced my belief that this is where I truly belong. Pursuing a creative career is my way of leaving a lasting impact, sharing my voice, and contributing to the ever-evolving landscape of music and audio engineering.

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.

I moved to Los Angeles in 2021, a city where dreams and ambitions constantly collide. I started from the ground up, working in recording studios, taking on internships, and tirelessly striving to establish myself in one of the most competitive industries in the world. Eventually, I found my place at Igloo Music, where I’ve had the privilege of collaborating with industry giants like Gustavo Borner, a 15-time Grammy winner. My time at Igloo Music has not only refined my technical skills but also taught me how to anticipate and adapt to future trends in music production and sound engineering. Today, I have had the privilege of contributing to over 100 projects, including high-profile productions such as The Glory, Parasyte: The Grey, Big Bet, and Money Heist: Korea, among others. For major studios like Netflix, Disney, Hulu, and Amazon. But beyond these professional accomplishments, I’ve grown immensely as a person. Learning how to adapt to a newBeyond these professional achievements, I’ve experienced significant personal growth. Adapting to a new country and city has pushed me out of my comfort zone, teaching me the value of independence and resilience.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If a friend were visiting me, I’d make sure to show them some of my favorite local spots, highlighting the diversity and vibrant culture of Los Angeles.

Music Recording Studio Tour

I’d take them to some of the studios where I’ve worked and showcase a few of my favorite projects I’ve been involved in. It would be a great opportunity to give them a glimpse into the creative environment I’m immersed in every day.

Griffith Park Soccer Field

After soaking up the studio vibe, we’d head to Griffith Park, where I like to play soccer with friends. The soccer field there is a great spot for some casual pick-up matches, offering not just a fun workout but also a chance to connect with the local soccer community. Plus, the backdrop of Griffith Park makes it all the more scenic.

Dining in Koreatown

Next, we’d explore the vibrant food scene in Koreatown, which is home to some of the best dining in LA. We’d definitely stop at places like Sun Nong Dan for their famous short rib soup and BCD Tofu House for some comforting Korean tofu stew. I’d also take them to Escala, a unique Colombian-Korean fusion restaurant that serves up a creative blend of flavors, making it a must-visit for a taste of both cultures.

Griffith Observatory

No trip to LA is complete without a visit to the Griffith Observatory. We’d take the time to hike up to the top, soaking in the sweeping views of the city as we ascend. The trek may take a while, and parking can be tricky, but it’s absolutely worth it once you get there. The observatory itself is fascinating, and the view of the city lights at night is unforgettable.

Coast Road Trip

To top it all off, I’d plan a scenic coastal road trip. We’d start in Santa Monica, taking a walk along the famous pier and enjoying the lively beach atmosphere. From there, we’d cruise through Venice Beach to admire the eclectic boardwalk, make a stop in Santa Barbara for some laid-back vibes, and drive through Malibu for its stunning cliffs and beaches. We could also go to Manhattan Beach, where we could spend a relaxing afternoon playing volleyball or just soaking up the sun by the ocean. It’s the perfect way to unwind and enjoy California’s beautiful coastline.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
First and foremost, I have to give all my love and gratitude to my family. They have always been my biggest source of support and inspiration, and I truly wouldn’t be where I am today without them. Moving to a new country, far from everything familiar, is never easy. It comes with a lot of challenges, uncertainties, and moments of doubt. But through all of that, my family has been by my side unconditionally. Despite the 3,476 miles that separate us, they’ve never wavered in their support. Their constant encouragement, even from afar, has given me the strength and motivation to keep pushing forward, no matter how tough things get.

I also want to acknowledge Berklee College of Music, an organization that played a pivotal role in shaping my journey. Receiving a scholarship from Berklee was a life-changing moment for me. It gave me the opportunity to study in the United States, something that felt like a distant dream at the time. Berklee not only provided me with a world-class education but also opened the door to an entirely new world of possibilities. The knowledge, experiences, and connections I gained during my time there have had a profound impact on both my personal and professional life. For that, I am deeply grateful, as Berklee gave me the tools and the platform to grow, evolve, and pursue my passion on a global scale.

Website: https://www.iwinai.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iwinai/?igsh=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manuel-sanchez-04b514195