Music producer: Zhan-Franklin Werth

A music producer is a pivotal figure in the music industry, responsible for overseeing and managing the recording and production of a track or album. They work closely with artists, musicians and sound engineers to shape the sound and direction of a project, ensuring the final product aligns with the artistic vision. Producers handle everything from arranging and composing music to mixing and mastering tracks, often bringing their own creative insights to enhance the music.

Zhan-Franklin Werth, known as Wholesomezhan, is an emerging music producer from Swakopmund, who has significantly influenced the local music scene. Raised in a musical family, Zhan developed a love for music early on, inspired by his father, who was also a producer.

This early exposure to music laid a strong foundation for his future career. The influence of his father instilled in him a deep appreciation for sound and composition, motivating him to pursue a path in music production.

New inspiration

Moving to Windhoek in 2020 marked a pivotal moment for Zhan. It was here that he decided to focus wholeheartedly on his music career.

The bustling city provided more opportunities and a vibrant community of musicians with whom he could collaborate. Joining forces with Private 6, a collective of like-minded musicians and producers, gave him the supportive environment he needed to hone his skills and explore new musical avenues. The collaborative spirit within Private 6 has been instrumental in their collective success, allowing them to produce innovative music that resonates with a wide audience.

For Zhan, discipline and patience are key virtues in the journey of perfecting one's craft. He emphasises the importance of continuous learning and humility, traits that have helped him evolve as a music producer.

Within Private 6, these values foster an environment where ideas flourish and creativity thrives. Zhan believes that feedback, whether positive or constructive, is crucial for growth, and he actively seeks out opportunities to learn from his peers and other industry professionals.



Challenges, opportunities

Navigating the music industry independently presents its share of challenges, particularly in marketing and reaching a broader audience. Zhan recognizes the transformative impact of streaming platforms, which have democratized access to music and provided a platform for independent artists to share their work directly with listeners nationwide. These platforms have made it easier for artists like Zhan to distribute their music without the need for traditional record labels, thereby retaining more creative control over their work.

Additionally, opportunities in music licensing for multimedia content have opened new doors for revenue and exposure. Zhan has successfully licensed his music for movies and videos, which has expanded his reach and amplified his distinct musical style. This avenue not only provides financial benefits but also introduces his music to diverse audiences who might not have discovered it otherwise.

Beyond traditional boundaries, Zhan remains at the forefront of innovation in music production. He explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and creative expression, leveraging technology to enhance his music's depth and appeal. From experimenting with AI-generated sounds to crafting personalised listening experiences, these advancements broaden the horizons of his artistic vision. Zhan's interest in technology is not just about following trends but about pushing the limits of what is possible in music production, creating unique and memorable auditory experiences for his listeners.