Meet Samir ADHD” Akhter | Billboard Charting Record Producer & Owner of Ice Cream Sound Studios

We had the good fortune of connecting with Samir “ADHD” Akhter and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Samir “ADHD”, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Music wasn’t a logical choice for me, especially since I’ve always been pretty good at math and finance—a more predictable and rule-based realm. Yet, there was something about the unpredictability and sheer lack of logic in music that drew me in.

I found myself captivated by the guitar solos in old rock songs. It was like a puzzle—trying to guess where the guitarists would take the notes. The beauty of it was that it always felt so unexpected, yet it just clicked. This unpredictability sparked a fascination in me, even though I didn’t consider myself particularly talented in music.

My journey into the world of music and creativity was driven by a craving for something different. It was my way of stepping into the unknown, facing a challenge that was totally different from the comfortable world of numbers. Little did I know, this journey would take me to places I never thought possible and open my eyes to the incredible beauty of expressing oneself through music.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My journey has been a mix of passion, persistence, and business know-how. I’m proudest of building a business that not only feeds me but supports my team too. Turning my experience into lasting opportunities for everyone around me is the heart of it.

Jumping into music was a wild ride. It didn’t click at first because it wasn’t like the business world I knew. But I cracked the code—realizing that in music, just like in any business, you gotta get the business part right first. It’s the foundation for making great music and avoiding that hungry artist life.

Getting here wasn’t a walk in the park. It took bouncing back from setbacks, being open to learning, and pushing through challenges. It’s not just about music or business; it’s the magic that happens when you blend the two, finding the sweet spot for both to thrive.

Success isn’t a solo gig—it’s about the whole crew flourishing. Good business isn’t the enemy of great music; it’s the partner that makes the magic happen. That’s the story I want the world to know.

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.
I’d start with a culinary tour by hitting Bossa Nova, LALA’S, Leo’s Tacos, Birreria Villalobos, and snag some mofongos at Natalie Peruvian Seafood Restaurant. Los Angeles boasts incredible Hispanic food that’s a must-try.

We’d chill at the studio, catch a Laker’s game, and a night at the House of Blues for some live music.

For a beach day, Hermosa Beach is the spot to be, and to sprinkle in a bit of luxury, Rodeo Drive for some shopping. It’s a week full of great food and the vibrant atmosphere that makes Los Angeles unforgettable.

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?
I’ve got to give a massive shoutout to French Montana—he’s been a game-changer in my career. It’s not just about him hiring me; it’s about the time he took to make sure I could hang with the big dogs in the industry. We’d dive into records, construct music together, and because of that, my career got the kickstart it needed.

And then there’s AYEX, the booking manager at NRG Studios. This guy really turned things up for me. He hooked me up with label clients, showing me the ropes and giving me a taste of what my craft is all about.

Website: icecreamsound.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/icecreamsound & https://www.instagram.com/1adhd