Meet Roberto Prado | Composer & Producer

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

Hi Roberto, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
For me, it all started with wanting to separate my personal life from my professional one. Getting my LLC organized and opening a business bank account were the first steps. Over time, I began to really understand the benefits of owning your own business, even as a freelancer.

I always encourage my peers to set up an LLC if they haven’t already. Receiving 1099s through your business and tracking your expenses carefully makes a huge difference. I actually became interested in the bookkeeping side of things, which can seem intimidating at first, especially if you’re not numbers-driven, but it’s incredibly helpful for planning ahead, avoiding overspending, and making smarter decisions about when to say yes and no.

Being independent can definitely be scary, but it was the right move for me. While stability and a fixed salary have their appeal, there’s something really rewarding about being your own boss and having that sense of ownership over your work.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m surrounded by immensely talented people, so it’s pretty darn hard to stand out haha! I focus on being as professional as I can, and I truly believe that being a good person is just as important as being a good artist. The journey hasn’t been easy, but through a lot of hard work and by surrounding myself with incredible people, I’ve been able to grow and find my own voice.

I’m part of a three-composer team called Tin Man Music. Together, we’ve created original scores for shows like Ninjago, LEGO Star Wars, The Ghost & Molly McGee, A Tale Dark & Grimm, and many more. After more than five years working side by side, we’ve built a really close creative partnership.

At Tin Man Music, our goal is always to find the emotional heart in every story we work on. Within the team, I’m usually the one crafting the more electronic and hybrid cues, though I also love working with orchestras so I like to think of myself as a bit of a musical Swiss Army knife.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that persistence and kindness go a long way. The creative world can be tough, but staying curious, adaptable, and genuine has helped me navigate it. What I’d love the world to know about our work is that it always comes from a place of heart — we care deeply about every story we help tell through music

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Food

Mini Kabob – My go-to for Mediterranean/Armenian flavors. Hands down one of my favorite spots in LA.

Proof Bakery – Atwater Village gem for incredible pastries and coffee.

Mozza Pizzeria – Amazing pizza, and you have to try the sweet potato appetizer.

Holbox – Michelin-starred Mexican that won’t break the bank. The seafood here is next-level.

Things to Do

Angeles National Forest – Favorite hikes, especially along the 2 Freeway stretches.

Marvin Braude Bike Path – Ride from Santa Monica to Redondo Beach along the waterfront.

Academy Museum – Super interactive exhibits that bring movie history to life.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Special mentions to:

Michael Kramer – Composer and partner at Tin Man Music

Adam Dib – Composer and the partner at Tin Man Music

Aida De Moya – my dear wife

Echo – my dear dog

all my friends – I love you all

Website: https://www.rpradomusic.com/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roberto-prado-aa091019b/

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

Image Credits
Lorenzo Scavone