In the competitive world of music production, success often comes down to more than just talent—it requires instinct, bravery, and a commitment to authenticity. This is the core philosophy of Mike Sabath, the producer and artist, whose insights are drawn from a recent interview in MBW’s World’s Greatest Producers series. Best known for his pivotal work on Raye’s landmark album My 21st Century Blues, Sabath’s journey from hustling for studio time to collaborating with global stars like Sabrina Carpenter, Liam Payne, and Shawn Mendes is a testament to trusting the artistic process over commercial pressure.
The Revelation on the Pyramid Stage
Sabath’s partnership with Raye—which began when they were just teenagers—led to a career-defining moment at Glastonbury 2025. Watching Raye perform the songs they made, standing with 100,000 people singing their lyrics, gave Sabath his own flash of revelation. It validated his belief that prioritizing authenticity yields the greatest results. As he puts it, “Getting to see the vision that I always had for her… and people crying, dancing and singing… It was absolutely beautiful. Making something that connects is such an insane feeling.” This success stemmed from a shared commitment to artistic integrity, proving that bold choices—like Raye leaving her label—can lead to monumental career shifts. Sabath champions this approach, stating, “Life ultimately comes down to honing your instinct, trusting that and letting it be the guide to making choices.”
Instinct, Art, and the Industry’s Battleground
Sabath’s deep-thinking, empathetic approach is why artists call him when they want to unlock their “true, artistic self.” This dedication to human connection fuels his own artistic side, too; after producing for eight years, he recently dedicated time to his solo career, releasing music and touring in an RV across America. This balance between producing and being an artist himself provides him with a crucial perspective on the industry’s landscape. He is vocal about the need for change regarding the financial recognition of songwriters and producers, commending figures like Big Jon Platt at Sony Music Publishing who actively fight for better business. Sabath observes that the industry is in transition, warning that a lack of sustainability for creatives makes space for non-human activity like AI, which he believes should not be at the forefront of music-making.
The Enduring Value of Authenticity
Ultimately, Mike Sabath’s career trajectory and collaborative philosophy offer a powerful lesson for all creatives: bravery is rewarded. The biggest success often comes from the riskier choice—the project you truly believe in—rather than chasing multiple commercial sessions. His call to action is clear: If you’re making music, do it because it fuels your soul, not to prove something to someone else. By fostering a space of “openness, trust, truth and love” with an artist, a producer’s job is to simply steer the ship while the talent connects with the human experience.
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