Derek Ali

Derek Ali, better known by his moniker MixedByAli, is a highly respected mixing engineer whose career has left an indelible mark on the music industry, especially within the realms of hip-hop and R&B. Ali's journey in the music world began in the late 2000s, where he first made his name by working with Top Dawg Entertainment artists in Los Angeles, which became a cornerstone of his career.

His early work with Schoolboy Q, followed by collaborations with Kendrick Lamar, Jay Rock, and SZA, helped establish his reputation as a go-to engineer for groundbreaking music in the West Coast hip-hop scene. As his career flourished, Ali went on to work with high-profile artists like Bas, Nipsey Hussle, Snoop Dogg, and many more, refining his distinctive sound and engineering style that blends clarity, depth, and emotional impact.

Known for his ability to craft dynamic and compelling mixes, MixedByAli’s work is synonymous with the sonic quality that defines the Top Dawg Entertainment catalog. His engineering has contributed to the success of numerous acclaimed albums and singles, solidifying him as one of the most sought-after mix engineers in the industry.

In 2018, Ali expanded his influence beyond mixing by inventing EngineEars, an online platform and community designed to help upcoming engineers refine their skills and improve their mixing techniques. EngineEars offers a remote, world-class mixing experience for artists and provides a learning environment for aspiring engineers looking to advance their craft. Ali’s innovative approach demonstrates his commitment to nurturing the next generation of engineers and sharing the knowledge he’s accumulated over his extensive career.