A well-earned honor for one of our own: Mark Neill, founder of San Diego’s Soil of the South Music Production, took Grammy honors this week for his production role on the Black Keys’ “Brothers,” which took a golden gramophone for best alternative album of 2010.
Dave Doyle, fellow member of San Diego’s Unknowns, shares some thoughts about Mark’s win and a few photos from the sessions at Muscle Shoals Sound Studios in Alabama.
“From humble beginnings in a tobacco shed to a Grammy and a gold record was neither a small feat nor a short path. Mark Neill has witnessed many a trend and weathered many a storm in the music industry. This is a richly deserved reward for years of striving to forge a rich tradition all his own.
“His focus is always on, never wavering,” Dave continues. “Suffice it to say he is more often right than wrong in matters musical, and for once in his life it has paid him well.
“Recording the Black Keys was an arduous journey that took months of work and preparation. Having been witness to the event, I can say that finally someone deserving of his talents received them, put them to good use and produced a product worthy of time.”
This is phenomenal! Great photos and writeup Dave, and congratulations Mark!!! Richly deserved indeed!!!!
Go Mark!
I would like to congratulate my friend, Mark Neill, on his Grammy worthy work. Mark, you deserve even more. Have A Nice Day!
Few people nowadays care more about the craft (and history) of recording than Mark. Thank you, Dave, for this timely tribute….hopefully it’s just the beginning
DS
Fantastic!
That’s awesome! Congratulations, Mark!