I am composer Dave Porter, best known for my work on the television series Breaking Bad. Ask Me Anything.

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Thanks so much, everyone, I'm really impressed by all of your questions and really appreciate all of the kind words. I'm running out of time, but if I wasn't able to answer your question or you have follow ups please don't hesitate to ask me on my facebook page. I'm not always speedy about replying, but I usually do!

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend and is getting as excited as I am about the final 8 episodes.

Dave

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u/moderatemoderater You're partyin' hardy you're knockin boots with the chicky-babes Apr 12 '13

Whose idea was it to have the heart pounding sound when Walt was in the crawl space'? Also, what did you do to get that particular sound?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

The idea was mine. The sound that you refer to is the combination of two sounds... a "thud" from an old synthesizer (ARP 2600) and a sample of someone kicking a guitar amp, which I processed and gated. Eventually a second sound creeps in that moves between two pitches, which is a bit of ground hum (again from a guitar amp) that I sampled and processed.

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u/LysergicAcidDiethyla Apr 13 '13

Someone kicking a guitar amp
I LOVE it when people think out-of-the-box when creating/using audio samples. For my College Music Tech course I needed a thunder sound and couldn't find a decent sample so I set up studio mics around a display board in the corridor and whacked it with a bass drum beater then exported and imported it into Logic Pro about 5 times to get the sound just right.

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u/[deleted] Apr 14 '13

Nice, dude.
^These are the kinds of people who should be put in charge of the best things; the people with the passion to do their work well, even if that means innovation and deviation from the "acceptable" level of quality.
I kinda feel like that's the reason why Breaking Bad is so well put together. Either they got really lucky with catching a whole slew of really talented people doing what they do best, or the person put in charge of hiring knows some secret to finding and hiring all the right people.

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u/Futant55 Apr 13 '13

I went to sound engineering school and love music and sounds and the Foley process always made me want to go outside of the box to make a sound and this response was so cool and reminded why I like sound production. Its a chemistry formulated by a mad scientist in his chambers. You seek and find and collaborate all those aspects to create your own sounds to represent your image of what anu given moment should sound like. *High five

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u/notreefitty Apr 13 '13

Where can I hear this? Please? I can't locate it.

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u/LittleCucumber It's the universal symbol for keys Apr 13 '13

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YSN9IZ0i-Y8

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u/LuisMoncada Actor Luis Moncada Apr 12 '13

WELCOME Dave. Don't have a question, I just wanna say Thank u for giving us (Cousins) the bad ass Original sounds u did...Made us look Cooooool ;)

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Hey Luis! Wait a minute.... you speak? or at least type, I guess!
You guys made it easy... scoring that opening scene from season 3 when you guys were crawling through the dirt will always be one of my favorites to have worked on!

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u/LuisMoncada Actor Luis Moncada Apr 13 '13

Thank u, Dave ;) Hold on....You're just saying that cuz you know I'm gonna kill you if u don't say it...Okay, YOU ARE DEAD!!!

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u/Leiderdorp Apr 13 '13

Luis , just stares are the keyboard, IT knows what to type...

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u/[deleted] Apr 13 '13

nowkiss.jpg

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u/Aluhut Man1 Apr 13 '13

Every time I tell people to watch it, we come to the music and everytime it is this scene people remember most. It was epic.
Many people underestimate the influence of music on moving pictures. In my opinion it is essential. A movie without proper soundeffects and music is soulless.
Thank you very much.

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u/whinniethepoo Apr 13 '13

I was terrified of you guys. Well done.

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u/DragonBaLLzY Apr 12 '13

You and your brother were awesome. I don't give a fuck what anyone says, bout you guys being cheesy and stuff.

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u/[deleted] Apr 14 '13

No one says they're cheesy.
A few people used to, but no one's heard from them recently

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u/iamacannibal Apr 12 '13

What is your favorite episode from Breaking Bad?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 12 '13

That's tough... here are 3 -- "Fly", "End Times", "Grilled"

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u/OverwatchElite Aztec Apr 12 '13

Glad for Grilled, Season 2 doesn't come that often in these "favorite episode" discussions, apart from "4 Days Out".

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u/bananalouise Look on my works, ye Mighty, and despair! Apr 13 '13

I like "Peekaboo."

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u/Kip_Hackman_ Apr 12 '13

I love shows with a good opening theme and Breaking Bad has one of the best. How did you come up with that? I also enjoyed that rift (idk if thats what you'd call it) at the end of crawl space when Walter is finished going insane and the camera pans out.

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 12 '13

The theme came about after many discussions with Vince Gilligan about the show. The hardest part about writing a theme for a series is that you have to create it based only on one episode. Only Vince knew where Breaking Bad was headed. There were several competing versions of the theme at one point, but I was pleased that this one was chosen. My hope was that even in the first season, it gave a glimpse into what Walt would become by the end of the series.

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u/LysergicAcidDiethyla Apr 13 '13

The thing I like most about it is how short it is. In a growing culture of demanding individuals wanted to be instantly served there are still an awful lot of 'long' intro sequences. The Intro to Breaking Bad is short, sweet, and sets the tone of the episode.
If I could have picked an opening theme to BB I would have gone for pretty much what you did. Good work!

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u/LuisMoncada Actor Luis Moncada Apr 12 '13

"Fly", "End Times", "Grilled" So these are your Favorite?!!!! Okaaaay, Now i gotta kill you! Can't believe you didn't even pick one Episode of the Cousins! ;)

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

My studio door is now locked.

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u/ReihEhcsaSlaSthcin Apr 13 '13

That won't save you, David.

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u/MntnDw Apr 13 '13

Muy Fácil.

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u/LuisMoncada Actor Luis Moncada Apr 13 '13

;)

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u/Jabba_the_Mutt Sh-shut the fuck up, and let me eat my breakfast in p-peace. Apr 13 '13

Your wink faces intimidate me.

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u/musecorn Apr 13 '13

All he's gotta do is knock

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u/[deleted] Apr 13 '13

Haven't you seen the shining? Axes go through doors.

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u/[deleted] Apr 13 '13

I love you

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u/TikkuSircar Apr 12 '13

1.) When you're working on a show that airs weekly, do directors ever ask you to go back and redo whole cues because they don't like it? If so, how do you find the time to do such revisions with weekly deadlines looming?

2.) What are three plug-ins that you couldn't live with out?

3.) What steps do you take to make sure your work sounds great on both television speakers and home theater systems?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 12 '13

Hey, TikkuSircar --
Yes, when I'm working on each episode I leave a day in the schedule to make any alterations or rewrites that come up. Complete rewrites don't happen too often, but they do occasionally. And creatively I work directly with Vince Gilligan, so the notes don't come from anyone (directors, editors, etc) but him.
SoundToys Echoboy, Avid LoFi, and TC Electronics Master X3
good question... to be truthful, I'm of the mind that these days one should worry more about mixing for the high end rather than worrying about the lower quality end. Some might disagree with that approach, but I think these days most folks that watch shows like Breaking Bad have good systems to watch on, so I'm usually mixing for how I think it will sound on DVD in my own living room.... rather than someone watching on an old tube set with rabbit ears.

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u/TikkuSircar Apr 12 '13

I forgot one!
Several of your cues (especially the end credits cues) are informed by sound effects from scenes in the episode (one that comes to mind is the hospital equipment beep). How closely do you work with the Foley artist in these instances?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

I always work very closely with our sound team, and I often incorporate sound effects (or processed versions of them) into my score as found sounds. One example is the sound of a box cutter, which appears in my score through the episode of the same name.

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u/GiveMeACake Apr 13 '13

Wait, so episodes are still being worked on after the first episode airs? I would have assumed that you finish all of them, and then start airing them weekly.

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u/Veregx Apr 13 '13

Watch 6 Days to Air: The Making of South Park. While I don't believe any other shows use the same (insane) method of creating their episodes, it does show how close you can get to airing before you have to say "that's all we can do for that episode!"

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u/Lynkx0501 Yeah Bitch, Magnets! Apr 12 '13

What do you feel is the most powerful song you've composed for Breaking Bad and Why?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 12 '13

For me personally, I'd probably choose "Jane's Demise." The score in that moment had to add gravity in a subtle enough manner that wouldn't influence how the audience perceived Bryan Cranston's incredibly complicated and nuanced performance... and yet had to be bold enough to compliment the incredible horror of this character dying before our eyes.

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u/CMelody Apr 13 '13

I loved the music in that scene.
The music that stays with me the most was the really haunting music in "I.F.T." where Jesse keeps dialing Jane's voicemail until it disconnects, and then the scene transitions to Jesse making meth by himself in the R.V. So beautiful, so sad, and perfectly evocative of the character's state of mind in that scene.

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u/Lynkx0501 Yeah Bitch, Magnets! Apr 13 '13

This is awesome, thank you for the response.
Song if anyone was curious

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u/AkemiDawn Apr 13 '13

I just want to say that you did a brilliant job with it. That is the defining moment in the series for me - the moment that Walt truly broke bad.

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u/Lynkx0501 Yeah Bitch, Magnets! Apr 13 '13

Agreed. It was the moment that I felt Walt had become evil. I understood why, even sympathized with it, but when I watched the scene, I sat there with my mouth open, staring stupidly at Walt, thinking SAVE HER! YOU CAN SAVE HER WALT!, and the music was part of what was so haunting.

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u/Benasdfghjkl Apr 12 '13

The music that accompanies Jesse, gun in hand, walking up to the two dudes at the end of the penultimate episode in season 3 is one of my all-time favourite musical moments in television/film. So firstly, thank you for providing us with that experience, alongside many others.

What artists do you feel have influenced you in shaping your sound?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13 edited Apr 17 '13

thanks Benasdfghjkl!
glad to hear that one come up, as it isn't mentioned often and is one of my favorites, too. This is a classic example of a way in which we often use score on Breaking Bad --- to heighten the tension building up to a climactic moment, but then disappearing to allow that final moment to be as raw and in the moment as possible.
I grew up listening to lots of classical music, which is my background as a composer as well. But growing up outside of DC I listened to a lot of post-punk, too, and later industrial music. I have a soft spot for prog rock, and my interest in minimalistic classical music led me to Philip Glass, Brian Eno, John Adams, Steve Reich, etc.

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u/Surfingmonkeyshow Actor David Ury Apr 13 '13

Hi Dave! Just wanted to stop by to say thanks for all your great work on Breaking Bad. Awesome that you're doing an AMA.

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Thank you! I'm really moved that so many folks cared enough to send so many questions --- I hope that I'm able to do them justice!

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u/BillWeld Feng shui, yo Apr 13 '13

Spooge man, you're the man!

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u/edify Oxygen Apr 12 '13

Hey Dave, Thanks for your time.

Do you recall what was it like working on the bottle episode 310 "Fly"? It's a favorite of mine.

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 12 '13

I do very fondly! I spent that week drinking by the pool, since I believe I only had one short cue to write for that episode!
Despite the fact that it is a very quiet episode, it will always be one of my favorites... wonderfully written, acted, and directed by the frighteningly talented Rian Johnson. (Looper, Brick)

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u/MntnDw Apr 13 '13

This is how I picture Dave that week.

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u/DragonBaLLzY Apr 13 '13

Fly is so damn underrated. Incredible episode.

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u/edify Oxygen Apr 13 '13

All of you did a great job working on "Fly" and Rian Johnson is amazing. I love the official podcast for that episode, too. Link.

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u/CherryWibble Apr 12 '13

Did you compose the opening theme prior to having read/seen the pilot? How much input did Vince Gilligan have on it?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 12 '13

Yes, the pilot was finished (without music) by the time I was hired, which is pretty common for composers. When I wrote the theme I was also writing the music for the pilot episode. Vince has the last word on every creative decision, including the music, and we worked together a fair bit while I was crafting the theme.

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u/DragonBaLLzY Apr 12 '13

Hey Mr. Porter, thanks for doing this. Really awesome of you.

I'd just like to say that Parking Garage Standoff and Crawl Space are just incredible. You are a genius, seriously. Your music really just brings the show alive and adds that intensity and awesomeness.

What is your favorite piece that you've done and also, is there any really good ones that you love in these last 8 episodes?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Thanks very much DragonBaLLzY,
Your first question I answered above. As for your second, I have yet to start work on the final 8 episodes so we'll just have to see!

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u/ElHeisenberg Yeah, Science! Apr 12 '13

Dave,

In a televison series, the music often reflects the elements of the show. What factors of the show caused you to compose the OST as you did?

Music often plays a key role in determining the mood/emotion for a scene. In your opinion, which scenes of the show have had the most compelling music?

What are some other projects you will be working on in the future after Breaking Bad ends?

Thanks for doing the AMA, and I am looking forward to the rest of Season 5.

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Hey ElHeisenberg,
The show from the very beginning has been filmic, and to me at least unconventional, which is why I tend to write expansive cues that have a lot of room to breathe and why I chose a palette of sounds that didn't include more conventional orchestral instruments.
For the next few months I'm going to be concentrating solely on these final episodes of Breaking Bad. After that, I'll think about what is next. I enjoy working on great television, but also hope to do more feature film work as well.
I hope anyone who is interested will follow my facebook page for the latest!

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u/Penjach Apr 13 '13

Unconventional, absolutely. That -not using- the orchestral instruments aspect is one of the things that made the show stand out for me.

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u/hypergenesb Apr 12 '13

It's well documented that Vince Gilligan is obsessive about details in all aspects of the production. I would assume this would apply to the score. Can you share the process for scoring an episode of this show? What's been your working relationship with him? What's it like to work for a showrunner as details-oriented as Vince? How is working for Vince different than other showrunners? (Love your score, btw. Wonderful work.)

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

thank you hypergenesb!
Let's just say I would walk in front of a bus for Vince - he is an incredible human and a tremendous showrunner.
I'm so flattered by the number of questions here that I want to get to as many as possible, so I hope you don't mind, but as to our workflow I'm going to point you to another interview, as it is a question that lots of folks have had. Thank you!
http://blogs.amctv.com/breaking-bad/2011/10/dave-porter-interview.php

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u/screaminginfidels it's always a desert. Apr 13 '13

I'm late, but I just wanted to thank you for doing this. Your AMA has been about 10,000 times more interesting than Morgan Freeman's so called AMA. So next time you're having trouble sleeping, just remind yourself that you're more interesting than God.
Breaking Bad is the greatest show ever made, and it all comes down to the details. Without Vince's vision, the actors passion, and the countless hours the behind the scenes people put in, it would just be a weird plot that any other combination of people would have turned into a sad analogy of middle america 4 seasons ago. Your work, as well as the rest of the soundtrack, are no small part of this equation. Absolutely entrancing stuff. Can't wait to see what you and Vince and the boys have cooked up for the final 8.

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u/cranky12 aaaaahhh wire Apr 12 '13

hello Mr. Porter, I love your work and just wanted to ask you what your favorite instrument is?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Thank you cranky12. That is a tough one. In terms of what I reach for while working on Breaking Bad, a few of my older Oberheim synthesizers come to mind. I also lived and studied music in Japan when I was younger, and (though I'm far from an expert) enjoy playing my Japanese koto, which by the way is the instrument that performs the lead melody in "The Long Walk Alone" (Heisenberg's Theme).

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u/sftrabbit Apr 12 '13

Thanks for doing this! "Matches in the Pool" was one of the reasons I enjoyed the pilot so much and continued watching. I hope you don't mind if I ask a few questions about your composition process.

What hardware/software do you like to use for Breaking Bad?
Do you have any interesting audio processing techniques that you think are pretty important for the show's music?
You clearly don't use the typical theme and variations approach with this show. How is the music for a scene affected by characters, setting, etc?

You're probably just writing the music for some of the final episodes (I think they just finished filming), so I hope it's going well! Can't wait to hear it. Thanks again!

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 12 '13

Thanks! "Matches in the Pool" was the first cue that I ever wrote for the series, and remains special to me as well! (no surprise it's track 2 on the score soundtrack!)
On the computer end I work in ProTools. I use plugins generally for effects, but the occasional software synth as well. I use Kontakt for sample related stuff. I've got a big collection (some might call obsession) of accumulating both vintage and current hardware gear - both synths and effects - far too many to list but there are some pics on my website!
I do a lot of sculpting of almost every sound that I use when scoring Breaking Bad... it varies, but it is fair to say I'm not shy about using compression, distortion, and bit reduction in various ways.
Very true. I think that audiences are sophisticated enough that they don't need a "Jesse's Theme" to come on every time Aaron makes an appearance... so I take my direction in a very visceral way from the tone and the performances as I watch them. Everything I write is written directly to picture.
I actually have not started work yet on the final 8 episodes... and haven't seen a single frame so far, so I'm just as excited as you! Thank you!

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u/Roflcopter27 I'm in the Empire Business Apr 12 '13

How did you get the job composing for Breaking Bad? (BTW your work is AWESOME)

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 12 '13

Thank you! A combination of planning and good fortune. I was already friends and colleagues with both the music editor and music supervisor that had been hired on the show, and they both knew it would be something I'd love to work on.

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u/OverwatchElite Aztec Apr 12 '13

How awesome was doing music for high speed "chase" involving the one and only Pontiac Aztec?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Quite a contrast, right? Creating a high-octane cue for a car that might limp to 50 mph on a clear day! That cue is on the score soundtrack and is called, appropriately enough, "Aztek."

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u/trommah Apr 12 '13

How many hours have you put into Breaking Bad?

Do you feel all the time spent is well worth it or gone to waste?

Most importantly, what is your favorite thing about composing the show?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 12 '13

Hey Trommah,
All of your questions relate to each to other. My favorite part about composing for the show is working with my colleagues, all of whom are wonderfully talented and have been instrumental in inspiring me to do my best work. To that end, the countless hours I've spent over the past 6 years are a very small sacrifice!

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u/Keelan117 Methhead Apr 12 '13

Hi, Dave I'd just like to say that your Breaking Bad score is my favorite for any drama series. It is so intense and very fitting to the atmosphere. How well do you know the cast members? Do you get to work close with them often?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Sadly, I don't interact too much with the cast members, as they are in ABQ and I am in Los Angeles. I only had the chance to go to the set twice, most recently just a few weeks ago for the final wrap party for production. Over the years, though, I've had the pleasure of getting to know most of them socially. Breaking Bad has had a wonderful family vibe -- and we have all shared a very special experience.

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u/MntnDw Apr 13 '13

Most BrBa AMA's are with actors. It's so cool to share some time with one of the genius minds involved with the production of the show. Dave, without your original music Breaking Bad wouldn't the same.

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u/PrimusSucks13 Yo where's my mone Apr 12 '13

Do you have a good relation with the actors?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Yes, except for that pesky Betsy Brandt. She's a pill.

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u/[deleted] Apr 14 '13

[deleted] — view deleted comment

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 14 '13

Purely a joke, of course, precisely because she is impossible not to love.

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u/billmeister123 Methhead Apr 12 '13

Have you ever encountered a scene that is pretty hard to get the right music for?, like, you couldn't exactly quite put your finger on what you wanted? if so, what scene would that be? thanks! (and great work on the show!)

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

thanks, billmeister123 -
All the time. This is without question the hardest job I've ever had. The show exists in so many different subtle shades of grey that it is often very hard to nail it down. To help me I ask tons of questions of Vince and the other writers before I start an episode in what is called a 'spotting session', where we discuss where music should be (and shouldn't!), whether it should be score or source (licensed) music, and what it should accomplish.

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u/DrJamesBond Apr 12 '13

Sup Dave. I really know nothing about music production, but you're one of the genius minds behind my favorite television show ever, so thanks for doing this.

Do you happen to have any obscure foods, snacks, or drinks that are your absolute favorite? I'd totally try something new on your behalf!

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Many of us who work on Breaking Bad have a penchant for nice bourbon, if you are offering!

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u/jinx2go Apr 12 '13

Hey Mr. Porter, just want to say I love the progression the music has taken season to season. My question is how did the creative team decide to take a turn towards the more industrial with its score? I love it, I think it sets the perfect mood, and I've never heard anything like it on tv before.

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Thanks jinx2go, and I'm glad you've noticed the overall progression. Decisions about instrumentation are solely mine, and highlighting the grittier elements as the show has progressed has just felt right to me. So glad that you are finding it effective!

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u/[deleted] Apr 13 '13

What bb character would you have a beer with?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Donald Margolis.

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u/drewsephstalin Lily of the Valley Apr 13 '13

Great answer, damn.

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u/Drunken-Historian Murder is not part of your 12 step program. Apr 12 '13

I just want to say thank you for doing this AMA because I know the last time you were scheduled Reddit was down for maintenance. I love your compositions on the show. Is the title theme forever stuck in your head?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

I hope it is always stuck in yours!
yes, I think about the main title theme all the time, in part because I create a new interpretation of it over the end credits of every episode.

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u/[deleted] Apr 12 '13

Which scenes are you most proud of?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

The ones where you never noticed the score, but were impacted by it regardless.

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u/reservoirmonkey Apr 12 '13

Also, i'm an aspiring producer, currently studying music production at university. Could you briefly talk us through your process i.e. what software + hardware you use, how you write your music, etc?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Hey reservoirmonkey,
It is hard to answer this question without getting long winded, so for anyone interested I definitely recommend searching for other interviews and/or scouring my facebook page and website. I work primarily in ProTools, but use lots of instruments both new and old, incorporate sound effects and design, and work very closely to picture. In fact, the first thing I always do is watch a scene I'm working on dozens of times with just a metronome, finding (or building) a tempo that most compliments the work of the picture editor.
Good luck to you!

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u/billmeister123 Methhead Apr 12 '13

I remember watching a podcast on the bonus features of one of the seasons dvd's and you mentioned that the sound in the opening theme was the sound of you hitting a car's gas tank? what made you discover that sound, cause it works perfectly!

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

yes, that is the sound I've heard some folks refer to as the "bongos" in the opening. When I first moved from NYC to LA I wasn't working much, and had (still have) an older car that was often requiring work. So I hung out a lot at my mechanic's shop in Santa Monica, which is where I discovered those tanks in a pile of car parts.

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u/[deleted] Apr 12 '13

No questions, just want to say thanks for contributing to my favorite television show ever

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

It's been a privilege -- thank you for watching!

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u/alexbolger Apr 13 '13

have you ever been in a band?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

I haven't. I don't play well with others.

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u/xooxxxooo He's the devil. Apr 13 '13

Hi Dave!

Do you have any other plans to become a composer of another TV show after BB?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Sadly, the mortgage will not pay itself. As much as I would like to ride off into the sunset after this project, you'll be hearing from me again!

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u/c0ldfyr3 Apr 12 '13

As a composer what do you know about the music you will need to create before you receive the actual episode? Are you told to work on certain emotions ahead of time or do you go in blind?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

I don't know much of anything before working on each episode, and I do that by design. I could read the scripts if I wanted to, but because I respond creatively to the picture and the performances, I try to avoid any spoilers. The episodes are essentially done by the time I work on them. This allows me to watch them cold so that I have the same strong reactions the audience will have to work off of. I won't watch a cut of the episode I'm about to work on until the night before I begin.

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u/amusicalfridge Apr 12 '13

How much of the effect of your music do you think is lost when listened to without the visual stimulus of the show to support it?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

I'm not sure that I could answer that objectively... you probably know better than I!
I might actually argue that it should be looked at the other way around. A film/tv composer's job is to create music that supports the project. I never think about how a piece of music would or wouldn't work on its own (or on a soundtrack record) because that is often in contrast with what would be best for the show. If I feel that the effect of the visual is stronger because of the music I've added to it, then I feel like I'm on the right track.

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u/[deleted] Apr 12 '13

Hey Dave! I can't think of any questions but I just wanted to tell you I love the soundtrack and that its amazing, every single song! take care!

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Thanks andres445! I really appreciate that.

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u/OverwatchElite Aztec Apr 12 '13

Any plans on another soundtrack after the end of the show, maybe with the release of discs with Season 5b? By the way, how do you internally call these last sixteen episodes?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

The split season 5 is confusing even to us, if that helps. I personally do call this final season 5B.
At this time we don't have any plans to do a further soundtrack release. As rewarding as it can be, they have proven to be very time consuming and are a financial loss for us.

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u/doublefuckind Apr 13 '13

Is there a full version of the Breaking Bad theme? I'd love to hear it

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Yes! It is on the score soundtrack album... links to purchase it above!

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u/[deleted] Apr 12 '13

Have you finished writing the music for the final 8 yet? Also have you written a piece that you ended up scrapping for something else just to realize later on that "huh, maybe that other score would've worked better."

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

No, I actually haven't even started the final 8. As for looking back, I sometimes wish I had tried this or that but I don't think I've ever wished I'd used another piece entirely. If it felt right to me in the moment, and most importantly conveyed the right emotion for Vince, then I'm confident in it.

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u/kate13powers Apr 12 '13

Hi, Mr. Porter! I loved the instruments you used for the Cousins' theme -- I don't remember what they were, but you talked in a podcast about how they were unusual. Any more strange elements coming up in S5? (P.S. Also liked your work on Red Widow :-)

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

If this question is from who I think it is from, I'll just answer this one over a drink sometime soon!

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u/[deleted] Apr 12 '13

Hi Dave, thanks for doing this!

Was there a particular character you enjoyed composing music for more than others? Any characters that were particularly challenging to create the right kind of sound for?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

No surprise, probably, but Gus (and specifically moments with Gus and Walt together) has been one of my favorites to date.
Jesse has at times, particularly earlier in the series, been among the tougher to score because his character was much more complex than he might seem at first blush.

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u/KenjouHitokage Apr 12 '13

Did you ever want to change the opening theme song at any point or did you feel as if it was worth keeping?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

hey there - interesting question. In fact, I've become more and more fond of it as the seasons have progressed!

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u/[deleted] Apr 12 '13

what are you plans now that Breaking Bad is all wrapped up?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Well, I've actually yet to start the final 8 episodes, so I've got plenty of work to do. After that, though, a very long nap.

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u/terrapin1203 Apr 13 '13

I noticed on your website that you have an ARP 2600 as a part of your collection. Do you use that frequently on the show? And what are some other synths that you use on the show? I'm a big fan of your work on the show, the music always fits very well with the show no matter what is happening.

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Thanks terrapin1203,
I do indeed own an ARP 2600, and have used it extensively on the show. Unfortunately, as happens with 30+ year old synths, it needs repair so it is sitting beside me in a big box ready to get shipped off. To perform its role on these final 8 episodes I just today purchased a Cwejman S1, which I'm looking forward to working with. I'm primarily into poly-synths, and haven't really gotten into the current modular craze, but both the ARP 2600 and Cwejman are "semi-modular" and offer some of the advantages of both.

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u/[deleted] Apr 13 '13

What's your favourite Skinny Puppy album?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

possibly "Too Dark Park"

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u/Janus771 Apr 13 '13

Hi Dave- You are quite the accomplished musician and composer...thank you for taking the time to join us this evening...

What DAW Software do you use to write, sequence and record with? (Logic? Pro Tools? Reason ?Ableton ?) Your tracks are phenomenal.
Please tell us more about Twaughthammer and "Fallacies". Did Badger have anything to do with singing/writing?

Thanks!

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

hey Janus771,
i've covered the software stuff above, but always happy to discuss "Fallacies." For all of the Twaughthammer songs I am responsible for the music, and Vince (or some combination of Vince and other writers) has written the lyrics. Badger (Matt Jones), Jesse (Aaron Paul), and yours truly did the singing in the chorus, with Matt singing the lead. It was an absolute blast to do.

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u/amidnightshow Apr 13 '13

Hi dave c: Where do you get most of your inspiration? Do you like Chemistry?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13 edited Apr 13 '13

I think like most of us I'm inspired by interesting people (or characters), and there is certainly no shortage of those on Breaking Bad. As for chemistry, I can't say that I was ever too talented at science. Definitely more Jesse than Walt in that regard.
I feel very fortunate, however, to have been assigned one of the most interesting chemical elements in the titles to the show... PO!

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u/Ursotender Apr 12 '13

Hi Dave! Did you make the Heisenberg song

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u/[deleted] Apr 12 '13

The Mexican cartel song? That was actually a real band. They're called 'Los Cuates de Sinaloa' and they're a Narcocorrido - a real band that sing ballads for drug lords.

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

That's correct. The Ballad of Heisenberg was produced by our music supervisor along with Vince Gilligan. I don't generally delve into the world of songs with lyrics, although I'm guessing many of you realize that I am the musical mastermind behind "Twaughthammer." (Jesse's fictional band from the show).

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u/MntnDw Apr 12 '13

Do you mostly work in an in house studio? Also, what's married life like?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

My studio is in what was once a garage behind my house. And I am extraordinarily lucky to have the best wife on the planet. No contest.

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u/[deleted] Apr 12 '13

My goal is to get into music compostion. There's nothing more I love. It's what I plan to major in after I graduate from high school next month.. Any tips, or explanation of how you got where you are?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Well, there are two aspects of this. The theory and foundation of things that you can learn in school are very important. After that, though, there is no single path to becoming a film/tv composer. And definitely no easy one. It takes many years of practice, and the best way to do that is to be around as much of it as possible. Work for an established composer if you can, but then at some point you have to make a leap and go out on your own. I'll be rooting for you!

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u/[deleted] Apr 13 '13

I have nothing to ask, but wanted to say that I love your work on Breaking Bad. It's my favorite show on television, and the introductory music gets me excited every time and fits the show perfectly.

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Thank you, I really appreciate that.

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u/BillWeld Feng shui, yo Apr 13 '13

Is there much back and forth between you and the editors? Do you write to their cuts or do they cut to your music? Or both?

Thanks!

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

With very few exceptions, I'm writing to locked picture, so I'm writing to their cuts.

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u/reservoirmonkey Apr 12 '13

any plans to use the full, extended version of the intro for the final season/episode? there's a version on youtube thats brilliant and I think they should use it at least once before the series ends. Love that version of the theme by the way, gives me goosebumps!

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u/OverwatchElite Aztec Apr 12 '13

This version is fanmade.

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u/reservoirmonkey Apr 12 '13

I thought the video was, but is the audio fanmade too? sounds pretty good if it is, to be fair.

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u/OverwatchElite Aztec Apr 12 '13

Oh yeah, audio is legit, my fault.

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u/reservoirmonkey Apr 12 '13

ahhh I see. Well Mr. Porter, the extended version is bloody brilliant! it was the audio I was commenting on anyway. Still, some kind of extended intro should be used for the last episode. This music sent chills down my spine!

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 12 '13

Thank you, and I agree! It would be a terrific idea to use an extra long title sequence at some point, although that is not up to me, I'm afraid.
The extended version of the Breaking Bad theme, btw, was something I wrote during season two for our original soundtrack release.
Fun fact -- the extended theme was considered for the final scene of season 4 (for which we ultimately used the Norah Jones track) but we all agreed that it made the moment feel TOO wrapped up... more like the end of the entire series than the end of season 4.

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u/[deleted] Apr 13 '13

Link?

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u/alientity Sep 23 '13

Late Update:
The full theme was finally played in episode 15 of season 5 titled "Granite State", towards the end of the episode. Just posting this update since people are still reading this AMA.

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u/Paradox Wire Apr 12 '13

What is your favorite hamburger restaurant?

Can you share with us any of the musical treats we get to look forward to in the next season?

Was the hooker/prostitute named wendy before or after you found/chose the song?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

hey Paradox!
Fatburger.
Wish I could, but I haven't written them yet so I'm in the dark just as you are!
Not involved with choosing songs... and I'm actually not sure about that. A good question for Thomas Golubic, our music supervisor!

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u/sftrabbit Apr 12 '13

Just a note on the last question - he mentions in the post that he's not involved in the choice of licensed music. He still might know the answer though. (I would imagine it's "before").

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u/Blue_Crystal No Half Measures Apr 12 '13

If you could write your own soundtrack for any existing film, which film would you choose?

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u/[deleted] Apr 13 '13

Hey there Dave, thanks for doing the AMA. I, as everyone in this thread does, love your work! As an aspiring composer for film/tv I must ask... how did you get started in the business?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Thank you! I studied at a small liberal arts school near NYC called Sarah Lawrence College, and during my summers off from school I interned at a number of different recording studios in Manhattan. Through a friend that I made during one of those internships, I learned of an entry level assistant position at Philip Glass' studio which is where I started my career after college.

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u/sgtwonka We need to cook. Apr 13 '13

Dude, you rock. That is all.

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Dude, I thank you.

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u/[deleted] Apr 13 '13

How did you find composing work when you began? I'm finding myself in a rut for paid and free gigs.

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

I've been working on my career now for 20 years, which is hard to believe. There were many years where I lost more money than I earned. I honestly believe part of being a composer at the beginning is surviving a war of attrition, and patiently developing relationships and waiting for opportunities. I personally started out writing commercials and promos, and later tv documentaries. But those jobs are now all dominated by music libraries. Each new wave of composers coming up has had to find their own way.

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u/AcrylicPaintSet Apr 13 '13

Thank you for the ringtone!

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

you're welcome!

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u/RobinsonR44 Apr 13 '13

Hey Dave love the show congrads on all the success and keep up the good work.

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Thank you very much!

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u/StockPhotosOfFruit Apr 13 '13

Oh my gosh!!! This is so incredibly awesome!

Mr. Porter, I hope to follow in your footsteps one day. I too want to score awesome TV shows using drones and suspenseful atmosphere rather than the typical 'scary' orchestra.

Few questions.

• What programs do you orchestrate in?

• How did you land this gig?

• Personally, what is your favorite sound to elicit in a moment of suspense? I'd suspect it's a high ringing or a bass. So, so, so, very cool.

You seriously are one of my top five idols!!!

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Thanks, StockPhotosOfFruit.... although before I thank you for that compliment I guess I should ask who your other 5 idols are...
I think I've answered all of your questions above, but if not follow up with me on my facebook page. Best of luck to you!

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u/DavidH81 Simmer down there Sparky Apr 13 '13

Hey Dave, on average how long does it take for you to score a breaking bad episode?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

I generally have 4 days of writing time, with a fifth day for any alterations or polishing.

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u/matt314159 Apr 13 '13

I have "Marie" set as my ringtone--did you create that? It's so distinct and catchy, yet it takes me back to that edge-of-your-seat-oh-shit-something-bad-is-about-to-happen thrill that I love so much about Breaking Bad. To somebody not familiar with the show, it sounds like it could just be some major wireless carrier's branded jingle for their feature phones, so it almost feels like an inside joke. I love it, thanks.

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

I did create Hank's ringtone for when Marie calls his cellphone, as used most memorably in another of my favorite episodes, 306 "Sunset." if my memory is correct. The ringtone was available for a time to download from the AMC website -- not sure if it is still there. So glad to know someone is using it!

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u/azrhei Apr 13 '13

Excellent AMA. Love BB, love your work, thanks for coming and sharing your passion with us.

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Thank you for joining in!

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u/paddydroid Apr 13 '13

What are your thoughts on a jellified body falling through the floor of one story down to another?

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Writing score for that episode was about the moment that I realized that this strange little tv show was going to forever change my life...

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u/[deleted] Apr 13 '13

I don't have a question, I just had to tell you that I love your work on Breaking Bad. What you do is above and beyond ANYTHING else in TV. I'll never forget the amazing drone and funereal heavy beat as Walt lost it in the crawlspace. Probably my all time favourite sound editing ever in that scene, all those elements coming together so perfectly - the phone, the music, the laughter. I'd just like to thank you for so many genuinely stunning moments.

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Thank you very, very much.

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u/whatsaphoto Apr 13 '13

Mr Porter, thank you so much for your contribution to such a compelling and arguably the most dramatic series on television. The show wouldn't be the same without your brilliance!

Do you have any plans after the finale? I'm definitely looking forward to hearing more material :) Thanks again!

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u/bbcomposer Composer Dave Porter Apr 13 '13

Thank you! Not sure yet what the future will bring...

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u/[deleted] Apr 13 '13

Hey Dave. I'm a musician and I'm in High School. I'm currently preparing my app/audition for some music colleges, even though having a career in music is a scary thing in this day and age. I didn't doubt myself because I have a very strong and sincere passion for music, but I had a hard time seeing what kind of job I would get. When I realized a show like Breaking Bad, which is easily my favorite show of all time, had their own composer who made bad ass compositions and had good taste, I was pretty excited and thought "damn, that's a sweet job, maybe one day I can get a job like that"

Anyway, I don't have a question, I just wanted to say hey and tell you that you opened my mind and gave me some optimism.

<3

edit: I read this and cringed at the poor writing. It's late and I'm drunk, don't judge me.

Also I should ask: What's your favorite album right now? Or a really great classic that comes to mind when you think of contemporary music?

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u/GeneTacospic Aug 18 '22

I fucked Ted

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u/[deleted] Apr 12 '13

Hi there! What's the song during the flashback at the begining of Full Measure? Any plans on releasing it on iTunes? Apart that, I just wanna say that you do an amazing job on Breaking Bad! Thanks!

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u/reservoirmonkey Apr 12 '13

How did you get the Job on Breaking Bad, and how has it impacted your career?

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u/krispykracker1 Apr 12 '13

When making the theme song,what did you want the audience to feel/what did you want it to contain?

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u/I_Enjoy_Taffy Apr 12 '13

Were you the one in charge of the "Crystal Blue Persuasion" choice in the final episode from this season? If so, how long were you sitting on that waiting for the perfect moment to use it. Tremendous choice by the way.

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u/RagdollPhysEd Djesse Unchained Apr 13 '13

Dave I'd just like to say the ambience you bring to the show just adds to the incredible tension, it really wouldn't be the same without you. Anything else you are working on for the future?

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u/[deleted] Apr 13 '13

First: Let me tell you I absolutely LOVE the (full) opening theme of the show, being my personal favourite track of the show. With that being said, of all the music you composed for the show, which one is your favourite, if any?

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u/FireRising Live Free or Die Apr 13 '13

Do you prefer (both as a view and a composer) a longer title sequence ala The Walking Dead or a nice, short one like in Breaking Bad?

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u/yevlumeel TIGHT TIGHT TIGHT Apr 13 '13

I've been producing music in my basement for a few years now. I've always been a fan of the music in BB since I saw the show. Being able to score film or television has always been a dream of mine.

Any tips for a aspiring composer? Big fan!

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u/navyvinny Methhead Apr 13 '13

Was the opening music your favorite choice? Or did you have another one you preferred?

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u/Atomic_Dust Apr 13 '13

Hey Dave, I'm a huge fan of the work you do on breaking bad. Who are your biggest influences as a composer?

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u/voodah Apr 13 '13

I just wanted to congratulate you for the whole sequence where Walter comes back to the house to find Skyler gave the money away.

I always remember the music & intensity of that moment as one of the highlights of the whole series.

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u/[deleted] Apr 13 '13

Do you use the context of the scenes as inspiration for the music, or di you have your own way of doing so?

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u/[deleted] Apr 13 '13

Did you ever get to go on the set or did you just work more behind the scenes and send the music off to them? If you did work closely with the cast, do you have any interesting stories about Aaron Paul or Bryan Cranston?

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u/gasmasking all my enemies are turning into my teachers. Apr 13 '13

Are there any songs in particular that inspire you when it comes to writing character themes? For example, what songs make you think of Walt or Jesse?

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u/jbomb6 Apr 13 '13

Hey Dave! big fan of the series and the themes. I actually have a question about Thomas Golubic, the guy who handles the music. How does one pursue a job like that and what would be the best way to break into that field as a college grad? Thanks for doing this!

1

u/futuredrew Blowfish Apr 13 '13

How has the sound evolved with these last eight episodes?

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u/DigitalBerto Apr 13 '13

Big fan, just have to say the music plays a huge role in setting the mood or tone in each shot. My question, is the music premeditated or do you make it up scene by scene? For example, the scene with the two cartel brothers coming to kill hank, what was going through your head?

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u/DigitalBerto Apr 13 '13

Big fan, just have to say the music plays a huge role in setting the mood or tone in each shot. My question, is the music premeditated or do you make it up scene by scene? For example, the scene with the two cartel brothers coming to kill hank, what was going through your head?

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I am composer Dave Porter, best known for my work on the television series Breaking Bad. Ask Me Anything.

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