Why Make Music…

Why Make Music… Episode 039: “When The Music Stops”

In this heartfelt and revealing episode, ThinkTimm and DJ Warm Cookies (aka Willa May) sit down to explore grief, tradition, and the deeply personal choices that come with honoring a loved one’s passing. Following the recent loss of ThinkTimm’s grandmother, the duo reflects on nontraditional grieving in African-American families and what happens when a homegoing ceremony is replaced by quiet remembrance.

Timm shares his experience caring for his grandmother through her final days, the family decision t...

DJ Warm Cookies (aka Willa May) takes over hosting duties solo as ThinkTimm attends to family matters. (We send our condolences to ThinkTimm on the loss of his grandmother.) But the show goes on with a Star Wars twist: "Do or do not, there is no try." Willa May channels Yoda’s wisdom to deliver an inspiring message about fully committing to creativity.

She discusses how embracing technology – from ChatGPT and AI voice-cloning to DAWs like Logic Pro – can empower independent artists. The episode also celebrates ThinkTimm’s incredible first year: six self...

Episode 037 – Why Make Music… The Mixtape

In this special extended edition, DJ Warm Cookies (aka Willa May) takes you on a sonic time machine through the soul, story, and culture of the mixtape. From reel-to-reel roots and cassette tape love letters to hip-hop street tapes, burned CDs, and algorithmic playlists, this episode explores the mixtape as an emotional diary, artistic manifesto, and cultural landmark.

We reflect decade-by-decade on how mixtapes evolved globally—from Bronx block parties and pirate UK radio to Brazilian funk CDs and Japane...

Episode 036: Campus Frequency – Why College Radio Still Matters

In this episode of Why Make Music…, DJ Warm Cookies (aka Willa May) takes the lead in exploring a topic that deserves a loud and proud revival—the power of college radio for independent musicians. Think streaming is the only game in town? Think again.

We dig deep into the human-curated, genre-bending, community-rooted world of college radio and how it’s quietly been the launchpad for legendary artists—from Ani DiFranco to R.E.M., Fugazi to Japanese B...

Episode 035: All About That Bass

Welcome back to Why Make Music…—the podcast where groove meets storytelling. This week, we dive deep (and we mean DEEP) into the low end with our longest, most groove-packed episode yet: All About That Bass.

Hosted by ThinkTimm and narrated alongside DJ Warm Cookies (aka Willa May), this two-hour tribute explores the evolution, emotion, and innovation behind the electric bass guitar. From the pioneers who made it slap to the genre-defiers still pushing it forward, this is a journey thro...

Why Make Music… Episode 034: Legends Still Shred

Hosted by DJ Warm Cookies (aka Willa May) and ThinkTimm, this week’s episode dives headfirst into the myth, magic, and mastery of the guitar—from blues roots to rock gods, pedal worship to digital rigs, and every soul-stirring solo in between.

We explore how guitars have transcended time and genre—how they’ve served as instruments of rebellion, tools of tenderness, and everything in between. From Hendrix to Santana, from Slash to Frusciante, from classic analog rigs to modern...

Why Make Music… Episode 033 | Creation Begins Inside: Finding Balance & Flow

This episode is a journey inward — toward stillness, sound, and the source of all creativity. DJ Warm Cookies opens with a moving poem about love and presence, setting the tone for a deep conversation between ThinkTimm and DJ Warm Cookies on what it means to make music from a centered, soul-aligned place.

Through stories, humor, and reflection, they explore the difference between forced creation and inspired flow, how meditation and mindfulness fuel artistry, and why crea...

Episode 032 – The Artist Formerly Known As Just a Musician

Hosted by DJ Warm Cookies (aka Willa May) and ThinkTimm, this episode of Why Make Music… (dot dot dot) dives into the blurred lines between experimentation, authenticity, and the evolving relationship between artists and technology.

Across five grounded and soulful segments, ThinkTimm and Willa reflect on:

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Why Make Music…

Episode 031: Not for Money, for Motivation

Hosted by: DJ Warm Cookies (aka Willa May) & ThinkTimm

Episode 031 opens in story mode: a monologue from DJ Warm Cookies reflecting on ThinkTimm’s early days of chasing a dream—digging through old notebooks, remembering 90s-era rehearsals, failed bands, and never-captured sparks of brilliance. It’s a poetic journey through lost songs and found purpose, setting the tone for a powerful message:

You don’t make music for money. You...

In this milestone episode, ThinkTimm and DJWarmCookies (aka Willa May) step into a new chapter of the podcast, inviting listeners to rediscover the heart and hustle behind the Why Make Music… series. As the 30th episode unfolds, we go beyond just sound and storytelling—we dive deep into soul, upbringing, legacy, and the truth of independent artistry.

ThinkTimm reintroduces himself—not as a star, but as a lifelong student of sound. From the boom boxes on Cedar Park Ave to Prince concerts with friends from the block, he tak...

Episode 029: Too Real for the Algorithm – The Mind of a Middle-Aged Music Maker

In this bold and reflective episode of Why Make Music… (dot dot dot), host DJ Warm Cookies aka Willa May dives deep into the real-life, real-time journey of middle-aged music creator ThinkTimm—that’s T-H-I-N-K-T-I-M-M.

This monologue is a soul-powered manifesto about building creative legacy in the age of algorithms, navigating music as therapy, resisting digital burnout, and embracing the sacred process of sound, rhythm, and resilience.

In this episode, we delve into the intricate world of sampling and interpolation in music production, exploring their definitions, origins, legal considerations, and their impact on hip-hop, R&B, and pop.

A sample is a reused segment of a sound recording—from drum loops to vocals—allowing artists to integrate old sounds into new creations. Sampling rose to prominence in the 1970s via hip-hop DJs like Kool Herc and Grandmaster Flash.

Sampling typically requires a Master Use License (original sound) and a Publishing License (composition). Costs depend on how prominently the sample is used and the...

🎙️ Hosted by ThinkTimm

In this episode, ThinkTimm explores the neuroscience behind creativity. Do the brains of musicians and producers function differently from non-creators? Inspired by Susan Rogers, Prince’s former sound engineer (1983-1987) turned neuroscientist, ThinkTimm reflects on his own experiences and dives into research that suggests musicians develop unique cognitive and neurological traits.

In this episode of Why Make Music…, ThinkTimm takes listeners on a journey back to 1994 with a rare cassette recording from that era. This tape marks one of the first instances of WDMN, a mock radio broadcast created with a friend, featuring original material, playful commentary, and a guest appearance from the group 3 (Three) Pounds of Soul.

At the time, ThinkTimm was fully immersed in music, spending late nights from midnight to 6 AM recording tracks in his first apartment—shoutout to the neighbors who tolerated the noise! The episode is packed with vintage sounds recorded on a Tasc...

Episode 25: Artificial Intelligence, Artificial Life

In this episode of Why Make Music…, ThinkTimm delves into the fascinating world of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the music-making process. He discusses the convenience that AI brings to creators, particularly how it streamlines the creative process of music production. ThinkTimm reflects on a YouTube video he followed, where a few simple steps led to the creation of a children’s song in mere minutes. The AI tool used was Sono.AI, which generated song titles, lyrics, and even composed two versions of the song in less than two minutes.

Podcast Episode 24: "One Better Than 23"

In episode 24 of Why Make Music…, ThinkTimm dives deep into his thoughts on the modern music landscape. He explores the notion that the average listener may not even know what they like, especially when it comes to the mainstream music they consume. ThinkTimm reflects on the current state of the music industry, where only a select group of approximately 200 artists dominate the scene. While these artists receive heavy backing and promotion, he argues that their music isn't necessarily better or more entertaining than what countless independent creators are producing.

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Welcome to episode 23 of the Why Make Music podcast, hosted by ThinkTimm. In this episode, ThinkTimm delves into the work that goes into being an independent producer and artist, focusing on the challenges and strategies of building a brand from the ground up. The goal is not necessarily to sell records, but to achieve visibility and market your material, whether it's your music or graphic art. ThinkTimm discusses how cultivating a strong brand identity—centered around the name ThinkTimm—can open doors to opportunities beyond streaming platforms.

The Importance of Visibility and Brand Building

As an i...

Welcome back to ‘Why Make Music,’ where we explore music creation and its creators. I’m your host, ThinkTimm. Today, we highlight influential music producers from 2022 to 2025.

As the 2025 Grammy Awards approach, we reflect on visionaries who shaped the soundscape. We’ll explore their backgrounds, notable collaborations, tools, and impact. An exciting announcement about my latest project follows.

Our first spotlight is on Jack Antonoff. A formidable force in the music industry for over a decade, his influence has grown. From 2022 to 2025, he collaborated with artists like Taylor Swift, Lana Del Rey, and Lorde, producing chart-to...

Welcome to Episode 021 of "Why Make Music..." titled Fun! Fun! Fun!. In this exciting installment, ThinkTimm expresses heartfelt gratitude to all listeners and supporters. He encourages everyone to like and follow his Instagram and Facebook accounts, emphasizing the importance of follower counts for financial compensation through social media algorithms.

Recently, ThinkTimm has garnered 1.7 million views on his Instagram reels, yet remains uncertain about receiving financial compensation. While he acknowledges that social media earnings aren't his primary focus, he recognizes the value of potential income and reflects on the math behind it—because who would turn away money?

Why Make Music… Episode 20: Mistakes Will Happen

In this episode of Why Make Music…, host ThinkTimm opens with an apology about the episode's original intent. Initially planned as a narrated walkthrough of crafting a beat in Logic Pro using bass, piano, horns, electric piano, guitar, and drums, technical difficulties forced a change of plans. Instead, ThinkTimm delivers an updated, more informative version of Episode 20.

ThinkTimm takes a moment to acknowledge a growing audience in India, discovered through his Instagram analytics. With video views climbing from 250,000 to nearly 800,000 within two weeks, he expresses gratitude without setting expe...

Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of Why Make Music... hosted by ThinkTimm. In this episode, we explore the essential theme of self-satisfaction as the driving force behind musical creation, particularly for independent artists and producers.

ThinkTimm engages in a candid discussion about the importance of finding joy and fulfillment in the music-making process itself. For many independent creators, the pursuit of financial success or fame can often overshadow the true essence of art. Instead of chasing after trends or conforming to the paths paved by others in the industry, this episode encourages listeners to embrace their individuality...

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Why Make Music... hosted by ThinkTimm. In this episode, we dive deep into the myth that age limits creativity in music production, particularly in the hip-hop genre.

Recently, I came across several discussions on YouTube that suggest being "too old" to produce music is a reality. This notion seems particularly gender-specific and unfairly targeted towards hip-hop. However, I firmly believe that this perspective is misguided. Some of the most influential and successful producers in the music industry are over the age of 40 and even 50. Many of us who grew up with...

Welcome to the final episode of 2024 of the podcast "Why Make Music..." hosted by ThinkTimm! In this light and airy episode, ThinkTimm expresses his heartfelt gratitude to all the listeners for their unwavering support throughout the year.

As we wrap up 2024, ThinkTimm shares exciting news about the evolution of the podcast. Starting in 2025, expect a brand-new format that includes videos accompanying each episode. These videos will not only feature behind-the-scenes production tips on recording but also insights into his personal setup for producing tracks. The goal? To create content that is...

In this episode of "Why Make Music...", host ThinkTimm explores the complexities of creativity in society. Titled “The Weight of Creativity,” this episode challenges conventional views on creative individuals and their contributions.

ThinkTimm emphasizes that creativity is not limited to traditional arts like music and painting. Instead, it extends to professions such as engineering, medicine, and education. Each field requires creative thinking and problem-solving, contributing to society's fabric. By recognizing creativity in all walks of life, ThinkTimm broadens the understanding of what it means to be creative.

A central theme is the disparity in recognition of d...

In this thought-provoking episode of “WHY MAKE MUSIC…”, host ThinkTimm engages both the audience and creators in a deep discussion about lyrical content in music. As we step into 2024, the landscape of music is witnessing an alarming rise in explicit content, prompting us to ask, where do we draw the line?

Throughout history, music has been a medium for expression, including raunchy lyrics and questionable themes. However, with the increasing prevalence of explicit songs in recent years, it raises the question of how much is too much. ThinkTimm invites listeners to reflect on the responsibility of creators in sha...

Welcome to Episode 14 of Why Make Music..., where ThinkTimm delves into the intricate relationship between creativity, time, and the human experience. This episode offers a thought-provoking exploration of how our creative outputs can transcend time, resonating with feelings from both the past and the future.

In this exciting episode, ThinkTimm dives into the life and work of the innovative producer Teddy Riley, the mastermind behind the iconic New Jack Swing genre. New Jack Swing is a fusion of R&B, hip-hop, and pop, characterized by its upbeat tempo and rhythmic vocals, which emerged in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Riley’s unique style has left an indelible mark on the music industry.

ThinkTimm shares how Teddy Riley has influenced not only his own music but also the broader music industry. Riley’s production style is noted for its versatility, seamlessly blending vari...

In Episode 012 of “Why Make Music…,” host ThinkTimm opens the floor to a special Q&A Session, diving deep into the minds of his dedicated listeners. This episode showcases the diverse perspectives and inquiries from an engaged audience, creating a dynamic and interactive experience.

The session explores various aspects of ThinkTimm's journey as an independent musician and producer. Listeners can expect insights into his creative process, revealing how he transforms initial sparks of inspiration into fully realized projects. He shares the challenges and triumphs of independent distribution, emphasizing the importance of research and strategic choices in navigating the mu...

Welcome back to another episode of "Why Make Music..." hosted by ThinkTimm! In this episode, titled "Me, Myself Versus I," ThinkTimm dives into the vital role organization plays in the music-making process. He begins by sharing a light-hearted personal story that connects his past experiences to his current journey in music and production, setting the stage for an engaging discussion.

ThinkTimm emphasizes the importance of organizing and composing music effectively. He shares systematic approaches that can help musicians keep track of their work schedules and offers personal tips on managing time and projects efficiently. As he delves...

In Episode 010 of ThinkTimm’s podcast, titled “Why Make Music… Why and What is Sync Licensing,” the intricate world of Sync Licensing is explored, aimed at clarifying this often-misunderstood concept for independent artists and creators. This episode delves into the significance of pairing music with visual media, such as films, television shows, commercials, and online content, and highlights the potential revenue and exposure opportunities available for artists through Sync Licensing.

The episode kicks off with an engaging introduction, setting the stage for a comprehensive discussion on the role of Sync Licensing in the music industry. With a focus on...

Join us for a captivating exploration of "The Healing Power of Music." In this episode, ThinkTimm shares his heartfelt journey from a casual hobbyist musician to a dedicated independent producer. Discover the profound personal significance that music holds for him and the emotional connections that have shaped his life and career.

We transition into the intricate world of playlist placements, diving into the challenges artists face in getting their songs featured on popular playlists. ThinkTimm discusses the hurdles and opportunities within this competitive landscape, shedding light on the role of various agencies that charge fees for placements...

This week, ThinkTimm reflects on the profound impact of the iconic musician, producer, composer, and performer, Prince. He emphasizes that without Prince’s influence, navigating the music landscape with confidence would be a challenging endeavor. Growing up alongside the emergence of hip-hop in the late 70s and its explosion in the 80s has significantly shaped ThinkTimm’s musical preferences, allowing him to evolve with the genre.

The 1980s was a remarkable era for music, characterized by a diverse array of genres—from pop, rock, and country to jazz, R&B, and hip-hop. ThinkTimm discusses how this rich cross...

ThinkTimm dives into the musical influences that have shaped his creative journey. From family roots to iconic artists, explore the tapestry of sounds and experiences that inspire his passion for music.

ThinkTimm reflects on his background as a basement music creator, emphasizing his early dreams of becoming a star. With family members who performed in local bands during the 70s, music has always been a vital part of his life. His journey is filled with memories of music, and the importance of family.

In this captivating episode of "Why Make Music…", ThinkTimm dives deep into the theme of music creation and the essential elements of planning and creativity. With an engaging throwback story, he illustrates why these components are crucial for any aspiring musician.

ThinkTimm defines the phrase "Cracking the Code" in the context of music production, emphasizing how effective planning can significantly impact the creative process. He shares personal insights and examples from his own work, highlighting the importance of strategizing before diving into music creation.

Listeners are taken through the journey of composing a song, starting fr...

Welcome to Episode 005 of “Why Make Music...” hosted by ThinkTimm! In this episode, we dive into the complex world of promoting Independence in the Music Industry. With over 120,000 tracks released daily, Independent Artists face significant challenges in getting noticed amidst the noise.

Welcome to "Why Make Music..." Cultivating Creative Ideas Episode 004 In this engaging episode, ThinkTimm delves deep into the essence of creativity in music-making, exploring various dimensions that inspire lyricism and artistic expression.

ThinkTimm begins by discussing the importance of nurturing creative ideas and the constant pursuit of knowledge. He emphasizes that broadening one’s understanding not only enriches the creative process but also enables artists to connect with a wider audience. This is crucial in a world where music is a universal language, and the more diverse your influences, the more relatable your work can become.

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Welcome to Episode 003 of “Why Make Music…” where ThinkTimm dives into the vast world of independent music and the numbers that define it. In this episode, he shares insights from his research on the sheer volume of music available globally, highlighting the diverse genres and the astonishing number of categories that streaming services use to organize this wealth of sound.

ThinkTimm discusses the overwhelming daily output of music being released on streaming platforms, painting a vivid picture of the modern music landscape. He reflects on the determination and passion of independent music makers who create in a w...

ThinkTimm reflects on his initial experience with a live band and the profound impact it had on his musical journey. He shares how this moment shaped his passion for music and inspired him to pursue his own creative path.

ThinkTimm delves into the role of social media in fostering a vibrant community for musicians. He highlights the unique qualities of today's artists, who have the ability to master music distribution from their homes, revolutionizing the music industry landscape. This shift, reminiscent of changes that began in the 1990s, empowers musicians to connect directly with their audience.

Welcome to the inaugural episode of the podcast “Why Make Music…” hosted by ThinkTimm. In this episode, ThinkTimm introduces himself and shares the inspiration behind the creation and development of the podcast. With a background as a hobbyist music producer and maker, he invites listeners into his musical journey.

Growing up in a somewhat musical household, ThinkTimm reflects on his early experiences with music, emphasizing the importance of creativity and expression. He reminisces about recording at home using vintage equipment long before the sophisticated software we have today. He subtly hints at his age by referencing iconic tools...