What does it really take to turn a simple idea into a hit record?
In this new Pro Mix Academy masterclass, producer, writer, and mixer Mike Pepe takes us inside the production of “Get the Message” by The Paradox, a song he co-wrote and produced that reached number one on the charts.
Filmed in Mike’s studio in Lake Balboa, California, the course offers a rare opportunity to explore a commercially successful record from the inside out. Rather than focusing on theory, Mike opens the actual multitrack session and walks through the real decisions behind the song’s writing, arrangement, and production. The same session was later sent to legendary mixer Tom Lord-Alge, making this a true behind-the-scenes look at how a modern rock record comes together.
From First Riff to Finished Song
Mike begins by explaining how the track started with a simple guitar riff during a collaborative writing session with the band. From there, the song evolved through several revisions as the arrangement and energy of the track took shape.
One of the key themes throughout the course is how collaboration shapes great records, with different writers and musicians contributing ideas that help refine the final song.
Building the Rhythm Section
A strong rhythm section sits at the heart of the production. Mike breaks down how the drums, bass, and percussion work together to drive the track forward.
Programmed drums were used during the writing phase, helping establish the groove and structure before live drums were added for feel and energy. Layered drum samples and tuned percussion were then introduced to add depth and motion throughout the song.
The bass plays a particularly important role, acting as a motif that signals transitions between sections while helping the chorus explode with energy.
Designing a Powerful Low End
One of the defining features of the song is its huge low end. Mike explains how he layered multiple bass sources to create depth while keeping the mix clear.
Using synth tools like Serum and SubLab XL, he adds stereo width and sub-frequency weight that makes the chorus hit hard without overwhelming the rest of the track.
Huge Guitars with a Simple Setup
Surprisingly, the guitar production behind the record is relatively simple.
Rather than relying on large studio setups, the guitars were recorded directly through a DI into Pro Tools and shaped using plug-ins. Many of the tones were created with STL ToneHub, using models based on the classic Soldano SLO-100.
Through careful layering and panning, Mike builds a massive stereo guitar image using rhythm guitars, octave parts, and strategically placed lead lines.
Keeping the Listener Engaged
Another key takeaway from the course is the importance of arrangement.
Mike explains how something in the track changes every few bars, whether it’s instrumentation, rhythm, or dynamics. These subtle shifts maintain momentum and keep the listener engaged from start to finish.
Additional layers such as synth textures and acoustic guitars also play a role. Even when they are barely audible in the mix, they add movement and harmonic depth. Inspired partly by the layered acoustic approach of Third Eye Blind, these parts help create energy without cluttering the arrangement.
Blending Influences
The production combines elements of pop-punk energy with alternative rock textures. The punch and drive of bands like Blink-182 meet the melodic sensibility of Third Eye Blind, helping the song sit comfortably alongside artists such as Foo Fighters, Tame Impala, and Deftones on alternative radio.
A Hit Record Made in a Home Studio
Perhaps the most inspiring aspect of the production is how accessible the setup really is. Much of the song was created using a laptop, a DI guitar, and plug-ins.
It’s a reminder that while gear can help, great records ultimately come down to taste, songwriting, and thoughtful production choices.
About Mike Pepe
Mike Pepe is a writer, producer, and mixer known for his work across rock, pop, and alternative music. His production work with Taking Back Sunday on their album Tidal Wave reached number two on the Billboard Rock chart, helping establish him as a leading figure in modern rock production.
He has also worked with artists including Lil Lotus, As It Is, Smrtdeath, Sydney Sprague, Anarbor, Sundressed, and Marlhy, along with bands such as Bayside, Silverstein, Emarosa, and Sick Puppies. His music has also appeared in television programmes including Keeping Up With the Kardashians, The Real World, and Teen Mom.
Learn the Full Production
If you want to see exactly how a chart-topping rock record is built, from the songwriting session through to the final production decisions, Mike Pepe’s masterclass provides a detailed look inside the process.
You can explore the full course at Pro Mix Academy and follow the creation of “Get the Message” step by step here: https://promixacademy.com/course/produce-a-number-one-rock-record-with-mike-pepe