Meet Larry Ohh, the FL Studio guru! In this exclusive interview, discover how he built a thriving community, mastered content creation, and stayed authentic in the ever-evolving music world. Get ready for actionable tips and insights!
Larry Ohh: From FL Studio Power User to Community Mentor
Providence, Rhode Island's own Larry Ohh, has been a fixture in the FL Studio community for two decades. More than just a music producer, he's become a celebrated educator, sharing his expertise with aspiring producers worldwide. BeatStars recently sat down with Larry to discuss his journey, his passion for teaching, and his insights on the ever-evolving music production landscape.
From Studio Sessions to Social Media Fame
Larry's path began in traditional studio sessions, where he found himself naturally drawn to sharing his knowledge with others. Recognizing the desire for accessible and easy-to-understand information, he began posting tips and tricks on social media. This content resonated deeply with the producer community, leading him to focus heavily on creating educational content, particularly short-form videos.
The "You Get Me" Phenomenon
Larry's signature phrase, "you get me," has become a recognizable part of his brand. Originating as an inside joke with a fellow artist, it organically integrated into his content and has since been embraced by his followers. This catchphrase exemplifies Larry's relatable and down-to-earth personality, which has contributed to his connection with his audience.
The Importance of Community and Connection
For Larry, the most rewarding aspect of his work is the ability to impact others positively. He finds immense gratification in knowing that his videos have helped producers learn and grow. This commitment to the community is evident in his close relationship with FL Studio, where he provides feedback on new products and updates. Larry emphasizes that FL Studio's dedication to listening to the producer community sets them apart from other DAWs.
Balancing Creation and Content
While Larry's initial focus was on achieving major placements and selling beats, he has found a balance between music creation and content creation. By shifting some of his focus to content, Larry feels he can enjoy the creative process of making music without the pressure of needing every song to be a hit. He values collaborating with other artists and producers, both in person and online, emphasizing the power of the internet to connect with talent from around the world.
Navigating the AI Landscape
Larry acknowledges the growing influence of AI in music production and has mixed feelings. While he appreciates AI tools that can assist with tasks like mastering and music theory, he believes it's essential to maintain the human element of creativity. He values AI tools that teach users, rather than simply doing the work for them.
Building a Personal Brand and Owning Your Audience
Larry stresses the importance of building a personal brand, regardless of one's goals in the music industry. He believes that a strong personal brand can create opportunities and connections, both online and offline. Diversifying across multiple platforms, including email lists and personal websites, is crucial for owning your audience and ensuring long-term success. "You have to diversify… create your own ecosystem so nobody can take that away from you," Larry says.
Brand Deals and Authenticity
As a content creator, Larry is often approached for brand deals. He prioritizes working with companies whose products he genuinely uses and loves, ensuring that his endorsements bring value to his community. Maintaining authenticity is key to his brand and message.
The Benefits of Self-Management
While acknowledging that a manager may be necessary at some point, Larry currently prefers to manage himself. He believes that self-management allows him to build personal relationships with brands and have more control over his decisions.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Imperfection
Larry admits that his biggest struggle is taking on too much. He recognizes the need to outsource certain tasks to scale his business effectively. Larry encourages aspiring creators to overcome their fear of being on camera and to embrace imperfection. He emphasizes that content and message are more important than professional production value. "Just do it even if it doesn't go out there," Larry advises.
Final Thoughts
Larry Ohh's story is one of passion, dedication, and community. From his early days experimenting with FL Studio to his current status as a respected educator and content creator, he has remained committed to helping others achieve their dreams. His insights on building a personal brand, navigating the evolving music landscape, and staying true to oneself offer valuable lessons for producers of all levels.