A. Focx Productions

Making Your Music Come Alive

A.Focx Mixing and Mastering

Buckcherry – Rescue Me

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Production Credits: Mixing

Buckcherry’s “Rescue Me” is another powerful release from one of modern hard rock’s most recognizable bands. I was proud to contribute my audio production expertise to projects involving Buckcherry, helping deliver the powerful and polished sound that fans expect.

Known for hit songs such as “Crazy Bitch,” “Sorry,” and “Lit Up,” Buckcherry has built a loyal worldwide following through relentless touring and high-energy performances. Their music combines classic rock attitude with modern production techniques, creating a sound that continues to resonate with rock fans around the globe.

Professional mixing and mastering play a critical role in bringing a song like “Rescue Me” to life. Every instrument, vocal performance, and sonic detail must work together to create impact, clarity, and emotion. Careful attention is given to frequency balance, dynamics, stereo imaging, and overall loudness to ensure the song translates well across all listening environments.

Throughout my career, I have worked on more than 1,600 audio production credits and contributed to hundreds of artist releases spanning rock, metal, pop, country, and hip-hop. Projects have included work with artists connected to Aerosmith, Daughtry, Foreigner, Ace Frehley, Jason Newsted, Buckcherry, and many others.

For professional online mixing and mastering services, visit AnthonyFocx.com to learn more about available audio production services and past project credits.

Buckcherry – Don’t Go Away

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Production Credits: Mixing

Buckcherry’s “Don’t Go Away” is another strong release from the band. The song showcases the energy and rock sound that fans have enjoyed for years.

Buckcherry has built a loyal following through hit songs, successful albums, and live performances. As a result, the band remains one of the most recognized names in modern hard rock.

The production of “Don’t Go Away” focused on delivering a clear and powerful listening experience. First, each instrument was carefully balanced within the mix. Next, the vocals were enhanced to maintain clarity and impact. Finally, mastering helped create a polished sound across all playback systems.

In addition, professional mixing and mastering help songs translate well on streaming platforms, radio, headphones, and home speakers. Because of this, listeners can enjoy a consistent experience wherever they hear the music.

Throughout my career, I have contributed to more than 1,600 audio production credits. These projects span rock, metal, pop, country, and hip-hop. Furthermore, I have worked with artists and projects connected to Buckcherry, Foreigner, Ace Frehley, Jason Newsted, and many others.

If you are looking for online mixing and mastering services, visit AnthonyFocx.com to learn more about my experience and production credits. You can also explore additional artist projects featured throughout this website.

For more information about Buckcherry, visit the band’s official website. Their catalog continues to attract rock fans around the world. Meanwhile, new listeners continue to discover the band’s music through streaming services and live performances.

Tech N9ne – Straight Out the Gate

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Production Credits: Mixing

Straight Out the Gate Remix Production

One of the most exciting projects I have mixed was the Straight Out the Gate Remix, featuring Tech N9ne, Krizz Kaliko, Serj Tankian of System of a Down, and guitarist John 5. This collaboration brought together major talent from both the hip-hop and rock worlds. As a result, the track required a powerful mix with clarity, energy, and impact.

The project was produced by Scott Stevens, known for his work with Shinedown, Halestorm, and Daughtry. After completing production, Scott handed the session over to me for mixing. My goal was to take his vision and create a finished record that delivered maximum excitement and power.

Mixing the Straight Out the Gate Remix

From the start, it was clear this was not a typical rap record. Instead, the song blended Tech N9ne’s rapid-fire vocals, Krizz Kaliko’s dynamic performance, Serj Tankian’s unmistakable voice, and John 5’s aggressive guitar work.

One of the biggest challenges was balancing heavy rock elements with modern hip-hop production. The guitars needed to sound massive. However, they could not cover the vocals. Likewise, the drums needed impact without overwhelming the mix. The bass also needed weight while remaining tight and controlled.

Every frequency range required careful attention. As a result, each instrument had its own space while remaining part of a cohesive production. The Straight Out the Gate Remix required a mix that could balance rock and hip-hop elements while maintaining clarity and impact.

Vocal Clarity and Energy

Tech N9ne’s vocals were a major focus throughout the mix. His delivery contains incredible speed and detail. Therefore, every lyric needed to remain clear, even during the busiest sections of the song.

Using EQ, compression, automation, and level balancing, I kept his vocals front and center. At the same time, I preserved the aggressive energy of the track.

Serj Tankian added another level of intensity. His voice is instantly recognizable to rock fans around the world. Because of this, it was important to preserve his signature sound while integrating it naturally into the production.

The John 5 Guitar Sound

John 5’s guitar performances helped create the rock foundation that gives the remix its crossover appeal. To achieve this, special attention was given to stereo imaging and frequency balance.

The guitars needed to remain powerful and wide. However, they could not compete with the vocals or rhythm section. Careful placement within the mix allowed every element to work together.

Straight Out the Gate Remix Fan Response

Fans immediately responded to the sound of the remix. Over the years, listeners have praised the aggressive mix, powerful drums, massive guitar tones, and vocal clarity.

In addition, many fans consider the Straight Out the Gate Remix one of the strongest examples of rap and rock successfully combined into a single production. More than a decade later, the track continues to receive streams and positive feedback.

Straight Out the Gate Remix Success

Released on Tech N9ne’s Something Else Deluxe Edition in 2013, the album became one of the year’s most successful independent releases.

The album debuted at #4 on the Billboard 200 and sold approximately 58,000 copies during its first week. Furthermore, it reached #2 on both the Billboard Top Rap Albums and Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums charts.

Today, the various versions of “Straight Out the Gate” have accumulated tens of millions of streams worldwide. Meanwhile, the Scott Stevens Remix continues to attract listeners across Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, Amazon Music, and other major platforms.

Final Thoughts

Projects like this are especially rewarding because they combine outstanding performances with exceptional production. Working under the direction of Scott Stevens and helping bring his vision to completion was a privilege.

More than a decade later, the Straight Out the Gate Remix continues to attract listeners worldwide. It remains one of the most memorable rap-rock crossover productions I have had the opportunity to mix.

Tuk Smith and The Restless Hearts – Ballad Of A Misspent Youth

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Production Credits: Mastering

Tuk Smith Ballad of a Misspent Youth Mastering

Tuk Smith Ballad of a Misspent Youth mastering was a project I was proud to be part of as the mastering engineer for this energetic rock release. The song captures the spirit of classic rock while delivering a fresh sound for modern listeners.

Tuk Smith has built a reputation for memorable songwriting, powerful performances, and authentic rock-and-roll attitude. “Ballad of a Misspent Youth” continues that tradition with strong melodies, driving guitars, and high-energy performances.

Professional Audio Mastering

As the mastering engineer, my goal was to enhance the clarity, punch, and overall impact of the mix. At the same time, I wanted to preserve the emotion and character of the performance.

The Tuk Smith Ballad of a Misspent Youth mastering process focused on creating a balanced listening experience. Additionally, I worked to ensure the song translated consistently across streaming services, digital downloads, mobile devices, headphones, and traditional audio systems.

Professional mastering plays an important role in modern music production. It helps maintain energy, consistency, and sonic integrity across different playback environments.

A Modern Rock Release

Fans of modern rock and classic rock will appreciate the songwriting and production found throughout this release. Furthermore, the track demonstrates how strong performances and quality production can work together to create a memorable listening experience.

The song combines classic rock influences with a contemporary production style. As a result, it appeals to both longtime rock fans and new listeners.

A Rewarding Project

The Tuk Smith Ballad of a Misspent Youth mastering project remains a rewarding addition to my portfolio of professional mastering credits. It was an honor to contribute to a release that continues to connect with rock fans.

To learn more about my professional mastering services, online mastering, and audio production work, visit the Samples page or Contact page on my website.

Newsted – Soldierhead

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Production Credits: Recording, Engineering,

Digital Engineering, Mixing, Mastering

Jason Newsted Soldierhead Recording, Mixing, and Mastering

One of the most exciting projects of my career was working as the recording, mixing, and mastering engineer for Jason Newsted’s debut solo single, “Soldierhead.”

Released as the lead single from the Metal EP, the song marked Jason Newsted’s return to aggressive heavy metal. As a result, fans quickly embraced the release and welcomed his return to heavier music.

Recorded at Creation Lab Studio, “Soldierhead” combined powerful guitar riffs, driving bass lines, aggressive vocals, and classic thrash metal influences. At the same time, the production used modern recording and mixing techniques to create a powerful sound.

Recording Soldierhead

My first goal was to capture the raw energy of the performances. Therefore, every recording decision focused on preserving the intensity of the musicians while maintaining clarity and balance.

In addition, I worked to ensure that every instrument retained its character. This approach helped create a solid foundation for the mixing and mastering stages.

Mixing Jason Newsted Soldierhead

The mixing process focused on impact, separation, and clarity. The guitars needed to sound massive. However, they could not overpower the vocals or rhythm section.

Likewise, the drums needed punch and energy without becoming overwhelming. Careful EQ, compression, and automation helped every element maintain its place within the mix.

As a result, the final mix delivered the aggressive sound metal fans expected while remaining clear and balanced.

Mastering Jason Newsted Soldierhead

The mastering stage brought the entire production together. I focused on loudness, punch, low-end control, and overall consistency.

Furthermore, I worked to ensure the song translated effectively across streaming platforms, digital downloads, video releases, headphones, and traditional audio systems.

The goal was simple. I wanted listeners to experience the same impact regardless of how they heard the song.

Jason Newsted Soldierhead Success

Fans immediately responded to “Soldierhead.” In addition, the song generated significant attention throughout the metal community.

The release helped drive the success of the Metal EP. The EP reached #1 on the iTunes Heavy Metal Charts and debuted at #62 on the Billboard 200.

Today, “Soldierhead” continues to attract listeners around the world. Millions of streams and views demonstrate the lasting appeal of Jason Newsted’s return to heavy music.

Final Thoughts

Projects like “Soldierhead” are especially rewarding because they combine strong performances with high-quality production.

Working with Jason Newsted on his debut solo project was a privilege. More importantly, the song remains an important part of my portfolio of recording, mixing, and mastering credits.

Today, Jason Newsted Soldierhead continues to connect with metal fans worldwide. It remains a great example of combining classic thrash metal energy with modern audio production.