Grammy-Nominated Alum Shares Berklee Wisdom with His Student Sister

Many of us at Berklee dream about turning our time here into a successful and fulfilling career in the music industry. Still, the path isn’t always as glamorous as we imagine. As a current Berklee student, I have found myself wondering how to make the most of this experience and if many of the things I do here will benefit me in the future.

Luckily, I didn't have to look far for some real-world insight—my brother, Carlos Perez de Anda BM ’14, graduated with a double major in music production and engineering (MP&E) and electronic production and design and has since built a successful career within the industry. While at Berklee, he won the MP&E/EPD Dual Major Award; since graduating, he has worked with artists such as Beyoncé, Alicia Keys, and Shakira. He’s got one Grammy nomination and two Latin Grammy nominations under his belt. Currently, Carlos works as the studio manager and chief engineer at Alacran Studios in Miami, Florida.

As his sister, I have seen him grow, struggle, and flourish into the person he is today. I recently had the opportunity to interview him, giving him the space to share his insights from the perspective of a successful former Berklee student.

In our conversation, Carlos discussed the realities of moving to Los Angeles right after graduation, the challenges of working with major labels, and why the best advice is never to work for free. He also stressed the importance of finding balance, staying true to yourself, and being patient in an industry that often feels like a race against time.

If you could return to your years at Berklee, what would you do differently? What advice would you give yourself?

I'd take it slower—there's no rush; that's the first thing I'd say to myself. I'm proud of graduating with a dual major in MP&E and EPD, but I wish I hadn't rushed through semesters or felt the need to graduate quickly. I'd skip the condensed summer semesters, and I wouldn't change anything except my mindset from, "I gotta graduate," to, "Let's enjoy this."

How did you find a music-related job after Berklee? How essential is it to make connections here?

Making connections is the most important aspect of building a career—more important than your major, essays, or GPA. The relationships you form at Berklee are invaluable and will be crucial to your success. After graduation, job prospects often dip, but your network will start to resurface and create opportunities. Getting a job right after Berklee can be tough, especially in a saturated industry. You may have to start from the bottom, so it's important to create consistently and reach out to others.

I thought graduating with a double major would be the key to success, but it was the relationships I built that truly opened doors. . . . It’s not what you know, it’s not who you know, it’s who knows you.

It’s not what you know, it’s not who you know, it’s who knows you.

— Carlos Perez de Anda BM ’14

What was it like moving to LA right after Berklee? What advice would you give to people considering that for their path?

First, choose a city you genuinely like; if New York differs from your vibe, you won’t enjoy it. I recommend visiting the city you're considering to get a feel for it, for example, and understand the transportation options. I had family in LA, which helped, but coming from Boston, where you don't need a car, I quickly realized LA requires one. Don't rush; you have more time than you think.

How was your first experience dealing with major labels or contracts? What do you think is a common mistake people make when dealing with the business side of things for the first time?

First, sort out your finances; if you work for a label, you'll have a W2, making tax filing straightforward. For freelancers, create your own company to manage billing and taxes effectively. My early experiences with major labels were frustrating because they often delayed payments. Now, I get ahead by asking for a PO [purchase order] number and required forms before sending invoices to ensure I will be paid on time. Be persistent and assertive; pursue what you're owed, especially when it comes to major labels and artists, so you are credited the way you’re supposed to. Always confirm details in writing, ideally through email, and consider signed contracts for extra protection.

What do you look for in people who apply to be a part of your team?

I'm picky when selecting team members. First, I prioritize a positive attitude; I want people who learn from their mistakes and contribute positively to the room's energy. Second, I look for those willing to do whatever it takes and help without constant prompting. Common sense is so important, as is being attentive to detail and knowing when to talk and when to listen. I'd prefer someone with the right attitude over someone technically proficient but who needs to improve in the areas that say who you are.

Do you have any other advice for current students?

It's good to recognize and enjoy the different phases for what they are. We often live our current phase while thinking about the next one, which prevents us from enjoying the present. Start developing habits like eating healthily and exercising, as your body will remind you that you needed to have done that earlier. One of the biggest things to remember is that there's always a deal to be had, and it's never a good idea to work for free. Instead, find ways to negotiate value, as even internships offer valuable experiences.

Andrea Recalde is a songwriting and music business/management double-major from Quito, Ecuador, who performs under the artist name DREA.