Meet Mengge Bao | Composer, Music Producer

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

Hi Mengge, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
My favorite quote is by Helen Keller: “What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us.” This quote resonates with me on a profound level because I often find myself saying goodbye to things and people I care about. I’m a very nostalgic person, cherishing friendships and personal connections deeply.

When my grandpa passed away, I wasn’t there, and it was incredibly hard for me to come to terms with that. This quote gives me comfort and a sense of peace. It reminds me that the love and memories we shared aren’t gone; they have become an intrinsic part of who I am. Every cherished moment, every deep connection, continues to live within me, shaping my thoughts, actions, and feelings.

Moreover, this quote makes me braver. It reassures me that even when I face loss or separation, the bonds I’ve formed and the love I’ve experienced are never truly lost. They remain a part of my essence, giving me strength and courage to move forward. Knowing that the people and experiences I’ve loved deeply are always with me helps me face new challenges and changes with a resilient heart. This understanding empowers me to embrace life more fully, knowing that the love and connections I value will always be a part of me, no matter what happens.

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.
My Art and What Sets Me Apart

As a film composer, arranger, and music producer/singer-songwriter, my art is a blend of diverse influences and experiences that have shaped my unique style. My ability to fuse different musical genres and styles into a cohesive sound that resonates with audiences sets me apart from others. My background in engineering and automation, combined with my self-taught music education before attending Berklee College of Music, has given me a unique perspective on music composition and production. This unconventional path has allowed me to approach music with technical precision and creative flair.

Proud and Exciting Moments

One of the achievements I am most proud of is being the Lead Orchestrator on the Chinese film ‘All These Years’ (这么多年) in March 2023. Despite the tight one-month deadline, I collaborated with the International Chief Philharmonic Orchestra in Beijing under the direction of Li Peng to create a score that enhanced the film’s emotional impact. This project was particularly challenging because it required meticulous coordination and precise execution to ensure the music integrated seamlessly with the film’s narrative. The experience reinforced my belief in the power of music to elevate storytelling and demonstrated my ability to deliver high-quality work under pressure. The movie was an immense success, receiving acclaim from audiences and critics alike, in addition to amassing over 300 million Yuan at the Chinese Box Office alone. In addition to this acclaimed project, I have also had the honor of contributing to a range of mediums and music genres, including the documentary film “Remember the Time”, the Box office smash hit feature film “Johny Keep Walking!”, and commercials for internationally recognized brands such as for the 2024 Honda Inspire. Having the opportunity to work within such a varied range of productions has provided me with the necessary skills and practical knowledge to become the truly versatile artist I am today.

Professional Journey and Challenges

My journey to where I am today has been anything but easy. Initially, I majored in Automation at Huazhong University of Science and Technology in Wuhan, but I soon realized that path was not for me. I was experiencing an early-life crisis and found solace in making music that people loved. Transitioning from engineering to music was challenging, but my determination and passion for music drove me to succeed. Attending Berklee College of Music was pivotal in my career, providing me with the formal music education and network needed to thrive in the music industry.

Recognizing the importance of mentors and a solid educational foundation in music, it was for these reasons I began working with Donner Music as a featured instructor. Working with this distinguished organizations, I produced a comprehensive educational video series centered around pop song writing and production techniques, highlighting both the creative and technical knowledge needed to truly thrive within the industry today. Having the opportunity to impart some of my expertise on the next generation of artists and professionals was a deeply fulfilling for me, and something I hope to continue in the future as a mentor for other artists.

Overcoming Challenges

Overcoming challenges requires perseverance and adaptability. One of the biggest hurdles was balancing technical skills with creative expression. I had to constantly learn and adapt to new technologies and musical trends while staying true to my artistic vision. Collaborating with such a varied range of international artists, orchestras, and organizations also presented challenges, but effective communication and leveraging technology helped bridge the gaps.

Lessons Learned

Throughout my journey, I have learned the importance of resilience and continuous learning. The music industry is ever evolving, and staying ahead requires embracing change and innovating. Building strong relationships with collaborators and mentors has been invaluable, as their support and guidance have helped me navigate the industry’s complexities.

My Brand and Story

I want the world to know that my music reflects my diverse experiences and relentless pursuit of excellence. My brand is about creating music that not only entertains but also evokes deep emotions and connects with people on a profound level. Whether it’s composing for films or TV shows or creating my own music, I strive to push boundaries and explore new sonic landscapes. My story is one of passion, determination, and a love for music that transcends conventional paths.

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.
When my best friend visits, I’ll start by taking them to Koreatown for delicious Korean cuisine at BCD Tofu House. We’ll then drive to Pasadena, enjoy breakfast at Jones Coffee Roasters, stroll through Old Town Pasadena, and walk across the Colorado Street Bridge. Over the weekend, we’ll explore the beautiful Huntington Library and Gardens. For some adventure, we’ll hike up to the Hollywood Sign, visit the overlook, and the Wisdom Tree. We’ll also explore downtown LA, visiting Grand Central Market for diverse food options and taking a historic ride on Angels Flight. If time allows, we’ll take a scenic road trip along California Highway 1, staying in a cozy cabin in Big Sur and relaxing in Monterey. This itinerary blends food, culture, nature, and relaxation for an unforgettable week!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! I want to give a huge shoutout to Joe Carrier, my mentor at Berklee. Joe’s guidance, support, and wisdom were instrumental in shaping my career and honing my skills. He always went above and beyond, offering invaluable advice and pushing me to reach new heights. I also want to recognize Bleeding Fingers for providing me with invaluable experience and training. Working with them was a game-changer, allowing me to grow professionally and creatively. Their belief in my potential and the opportunities they gave me played a crucial role in my journey. Thank you, Joe, and everyone at Bleeding Fingers, for your incredible contributions to my story.

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mengge-bao-ba2382155/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mangopersonal/

Image Credits
Leon Shen
Claudio Ragazzi