Mastering the Mix: How MixedByRQ Navigates the Industry

TheZachMichael recently spoke with MixedByRQ for an exclusive interview, the 45x platinum engineer behind hits for Mora, Jhayco, Akon, Nicky Jam, Anitta, and more. Signed with Elizabeth Music Group for publishing, RQ shared deep insights into his creative process, his role in shaping some of the biggest records in Latin music, and his approach to engineering. In this interview, he discusses his typical workflow when mixing, how he helps artists achieve their sonic vision, the intense process behind revamping Mora’s Primer Día de Clases, and his experience working on blockbuster hits like the remix of Volando. He also offers valuable advice for up-and-coming engineers and reflects on what’s next for his career.

TheZachMichael: What's your typical workflow when making music?
RQ: For me, the most important thing is to have a clear picture of the final result before starting a mix. Without a set goal in mind, it's hard to know when I'm done tweaking.

TheZachMichael: What's your advice for up-and-coming musicians?
RQ: Find a unique identity for yourself and your music. Your fans need to be able to identify you within seconds. A clear sonic brand will help people latch onto it and grow your fanbase.

TheZachMichael: What’s your favorite piece of gear or software that you use in your music, and why?
RQ: My Beyerdynamic 770s headphones. Having a stable, portable, and reliable way to monitor is key. That way, I can always be sure my mixes translate even if I'm working in an unfamiliar environment.

TheZachMichael: You've worked extensively with Mora, having contributed heavily to "Primer Dia de Clases." What was it like being involved on that album?
RQ: It was a lot of fun and very unexpected. I stepped in as an emergency; due to a leak, half of the album needed to change. We only had one day to bring seven songs up to speed with the rest of the album.

TheZachMichael: The remix of "Volando" ended up garnering billions of listens worldwide. What was it like finding out that Bad Bunny and Sech were going to create a remix of that record?
RQ: It was quite a surprise. I found out with a voice note recording of the song that Mora sent me with no additional context. Hearing Bad Bunny and Sech on the remix was surreal.

TheZachMichael: What are some essential skills you believe are necessary to be a good engineer?
RQ: A service mentality is key, in my opinion. Our job as engineers is to help artists reach their vision, not to impose ours. Recognizing that we're not the star of the show is important to separate ourselves from the end product and be objective with our decisions.

TheZachMichael: What's it like being signed with Elizabeth Music Group?
RQ: It's a refreshing approach, not only because I'm able to reach out to anyone in the Group with questions or ideas, but having a central place to collaborate with other members of Elizabeth Music Group in sync opportunities is a great way to network with people I wouldn't have met otherwise.

TheZachMichael: What’s a project or release you’re particularly proud of, and what makes it special to you?
RQ: Working on "La Bachata" by Manuel Turizo was a pivotal moment in my career, not only because of the success of the track but also because I did this mix with my close friend Lo Jedi. Collaborating with others is a great way to enjoy the process and enrich the end result.

TheZachMichael: What's been your proudest moment as a musician?
RQ: Listening to my work as part of the soundtrack of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. As a fan of the franchise, knowing I'm a part of it is a great feeling.