Steve Hodge

Steve Hodge is a highly respected and seasoned mix engineer, producer, and recording engineer whose career spans decades and is marked by a rich history of collaborations with legendary artists across genres. Known for his discreet yet indispensable presence in the studio, Hodge’s work has had a significant impact on the sound of popular music.

Hodge’s journey in the music industry began in the late 1960s and early 1970s, influenced by his family connections to the music business. His uncle, Val Valentin, was MGM Records' chief studio engineer, and a major influence on Hodge’s early career. Hodge’s first major break came at MGM Studios, where he worked alongside key figures such as Don Costa and Sammy Davis Jr., contributing to some of Davis's biggest hits like “The Candy Man” in 1969.

In the 1970s, Hodge ventured into Studio In The Country in Louisiana, a place that would help shape his career. During his time there, he worked on records for legendary New Orleans figures such as Professor Longhair, Clifton Chenier, and Clarence "Gatemouth" Brown, and became immersed in the rich musical landscape of the region. He also worked with the Wild Magnolias, a group known for their fusion of Mardi Gras Indian chants and funk music. His work during this time established his reputation as a versatile engineer with an understanding of diverse genres.

Hodge’s career really took off when he joined Flyte Tyme Studios, the Minneapolis-based facility famous for its work with producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis. His contributions to the Jam & Lewis sound helped shape the musical landscape of the 1980s and beyond, collaborating with artists like Janet Jackson, Prince, and Cher. He became known for his technical skills and ability to create radio-friendly mixes that still maintained an authentic sound.

Although Hodge has worked on records for major artists in R&B, pop, rock, and jazz, he has always preferred to stay out of the spotlight. As he puts it, during his early years, "you always had a Polaroid camera on the SSL to take snapshots of the console so you could recall the settings," and that is one of the rare times photos would be taken. He often kept himself out of the pictures, preferring to stay behind the scenes while ensuring the sound was the star of the show.

With decades of experience, Hodge’s expertise spans across various roles, from studio engineering and production to mix engineering, where he consistently delivers high-quality results. His ability to work across genres, from the soulful grooves of Professor Longhair to the polished pop of Janet Jackson, has cemented his place as one of the most respected engineers in the industry.