HIP HOP PRODUCER AND TECHNOLOGY WRITER - STONI

Hip Hop producer and technology writer Stoni is the first ever female producer to enter a beat battle and win. In her home town of New York City, Stoni is busy creating hot tracks that have caught the attention of some of the biggest names in hip hop. Stoni is also a firm believer that people should pay for what they use, whether it is music CDs or music software. We managed to have a brief chat with Stoni about this important subject. Stoni, could you please tell us about yourself? Who is Stoni, and what is she all about? Ok. I'm a music producer from New York City. Based on my experience as a music producer, I have been able to offer my technical expertise to music producers through several outlets. Currently, I am a contributing technology writer for Remix Magazine, where I review the latest releases of music production hardware and software. How and when did you discover the artist within you? I discovered the artist within myself while attending the infamous "Fame" school for the arts.

How long have you been involved in music?

I've been involved in music all of my life. I grew up in a household where my parents listened to music all the time, so I learned how to enjoy listening to music. As far as my career in music, I used to work in studios all around New York City and eventually decided to get into music production.

What is Stoni up to now?

I'm working on my forthcoming album and I'm in the process of scoring a documentary film.

As you know, both the music industry and the music software industry have been hurt by piracy. How do you approach the piracy problem?

Yes, I'm familiar with the movements that have been put into place to combat software piracy.  Well, the only approach to the piracy problem would be to make the products affordable for the consumers. I think most producers wouldn't mind buying the products because they use them - just make them accessible and affordable.

Why do you buy the software you use when you could download for free?

It is inconvenient trying to work on my computer and then having some issues and my computer freezing. Sometimes you can no longer access some files or some important functions of the music software programs. You can’t maximize your use of Music Software by using a crack version - especially when you are a professional.

Anything you want to say to the pirates out there reading this interview?

Well, you are using the software to make music and you want people to pay for your music. The music software makers want the same thing. They want to be paid for their hard work and investment. The music business is in trouble because of piracy, and if it does not stop, many artists won’t be around. The same will happen with the music software companies if piracy does not stop.

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