Whether you’re a rap artist, in a band or even a poet motion graphics artist Gavdude can bring your lyrics to life with his videos. Following a personal project where he animated the lyrics from an Eminem freestyle motion graphics artist Gavdude was commissioned by Interscope Records to produce a video for the track Let’s Go by Blink 182’s Travis Barker. Now he’s working on a video for this year’s Live and Unsigned Grand Final winners, Coco and the Butterfields.
Unsigned Muso were lucky enough to interview the motion graphics artist Gavdude to drag out all his top industry tips so we can pass the secrets on to you guys to get the job you really want. Here’s what he had to say:
Q: Can you explain what motion graphics is to our readers?
A: Motion graphics is the use of video footage and/or animation to create the illusion of movement. Simply put it is video editing using a computer to create special effects which can range from simple title credits seen in TV or films, to the special effects we see in the Hollywood blockbusters.
Q: What is your background and were there other areas of design you worked in before settling on motion graphics for the music industry?
A: I am an Art Director and Graphic Designer by trade and have worked in various disciplines including Editoria, from the The Official Man United mag to luxury titles such as Orient Express. I did advertising for companies like HSBC, Shell, Vodaphone and Nokia and I also worked in the digital industry doing things like creating websites and apps.
Q: If you had one, what would your job spec say?
A: Creative, an experienced all-rounder. Guarantees to make your eyes pop!
Q: What was your first motion graphics video for?
A: It was initially for just for me. I found an Eminem freestyle that I loved and created a video for it to see what I could do. I was quite pleased with it and thought, why not stick it on YouTube? Then BAM, I was given my first professional job!
Q: How did the opportunity to create a video for Travis Barker come about?
A: After a buzz on YouTube, my Eminem video was posted on the Aftermath (Dr.Dre’s label) website. Then Eminem’s manager, Paul Rosenberg, posted it on his blog. He also manages Travis Barker so he approached me through Interscope Records to work on the video.
Q: How does it work with the client, do they tell you what they want or do you simply take your own inspiration from their music?
A: Every client is different but most like to see my vision, perhaps in a storyboard first. Some like to contribute or give some direction, but generally it’s left to me. If they like what they see in a rough cut then I’m allowed to proceed. I like to listen to the track many times and I imagine the visuals in my head as though it were a movie soundtrack.
Q: What tips would you give to anyone planning to develop their design career in the music industry?
A: Just do it. Make a video and put it on YouTube. Design or redesign your favourite artist’s album covers, tour posters, logos etc. Build your portfolio and show you have a passion for the industry.
Q: Do you work freelance? And if so, do you get enough income to do this as your full-time job?
A: I am currently freelance and have several projects in the pipeline with a broadening pool of contacts (but still open to offers, by the way!)
Q: How long did it take you to actually do that job you enjoy? What is the worst job you ever did?
A: It took a couple of years after Art College to get into Design. I had to work as an office clerk pushing paper while I spent my evenings applying for the jobs I really wanted. I had a folder stacked with “Thanks for applying, but unfortunately…” letters. It’s important to persevere and don’t give up.
Q: We heard you are doing a video for the winners of Live and Unsigned, Coco and the Butterfields, what made you select them for the project?
A: Having seen them previously at the Brighton Auditions, then at the Southern Area Finals in Portsmouth and eventually at the Final itself—they were without the doubt the most original and exciting act I had seen in the competition. The fact that they blend a hip-hop vibe in with a more traditional folk style really interested me and I believe there’s the possibility for some great visuals to support their music.
Q: Can you give some top tips for making a motion graphics video?
A: Draw or write down your ideas on paper first. It is important to imagine how every scene will look, move and work before you get onto a computer. Use the computer only as a tool to realise your ideas and storyboard.
Q: Where can our readers check out your work?
A: I have my own Vimeo channel with a few examples of my work. You can find it at: vimeo.com/user4899941
Q: What would be your 3 top tips for designers looking for a career in the music industry?
A: 1. Build your portfolio, showcasing your skills and passion.
2. Apply for jobs.
3. Apply for more jobs. Keep knocking on those doors, one of them will open.
Motion graphics artist Gavdude is offering you the chance for to win one of his motion graphic videos, worth £10,000. You can enter the Lyrics2Life competition now by following the link through Facebook – whether you are rap, rock, acoustic or a solo act you can enter today for free. The competition closes on November 20th. Terms and conditions are available through the Facebook link.
