Self-taught music producer freshman JJ Brunet has spent the last three years navigating the technical demands of FL Studio, a music production software platform, while balancing his role as a student-athlete. Brunet has simultaneously built a catalog that has landed him over a dozen professional placements, ten of which are collaborations with professional artists. By blending technical talent with a consistent networking strategy, Brunet has turned a childhood interest in sound into a developing career that bridges the gap between the studio and the professional music industry.
For many aspiring producers, the learning curve of mastering music software is the first major hurdle. Brunet describes his process as a result of precision and constant evolution.
“I listen to the dB (decibel) levels — how loud each sound is. Before I send a beat out, I always check and make sure they are where I want them to be. I get inspiration on how to improve my music mixing skills just by listening to other popular music,” Brunet said.
As his skills developed, his focus shifted from simply learning the interface of producing music to finding his own creative voice.
“At some point, when you get better, it is almost just like clicking buttons. But you have to have that mindset of, ‘How can I make this different from others? How to make it more unique?’” Brunet said.
Jackie Brunet, JJ Brunet’s mother, attributes his progress to a consistent level of focus and admires his willingness to take risks. She notes that his approach to music mirrors his approach to other personal interests.
“Whatever he’s into at the moment, he’s very passionate about it. I knew back then. When he’s really into something, he learns all about it. He puts himself out there and sticks his neck out. When he wants something, he doesn’t let anything get in his way to achieve it,” Jackie Brunet said.
Jackie Brunet points to his ability to view failure as a necessary part of the creative process as a primary driver of his growth.
“What I’m most proud of is his confidence. He doesn’t let mistakes get in the way of his passion for music. He is comfortable with the process of trial and error. If he’s not happy with the result, he’ll switch up his tactic and improve,” Jackie Brunet said.
Ben Galati, also a producer, suggests that Brunet’s transition from a bedroom producer to someone with multiple placements is largely due to his networking habits.
“JJ avoids the ‘copy and paste’ approach of his competitors. Instead, he connects to other producers on a deeper level with artists. He constantly networks and consistently promotes his music,” Galati said.
Balancing the demands of his freshman year with the intensity of football training and a growing music career, Brunet manages a schedule that leaves him with downtime. While he remains focused on the momentum he has built across these disciplines, he keeps his long-term professional plans flexible as he continues to explore his potential.
“I don’t know where I want to be in five years — maybe I’ll be touring with some artists or playing college football somewhere,” Brunet said. “I just like to keep things busy.”
