Behind the Music: John Altman - The Hidden Man

John Altman, a distinguished composer, musician, and arranger, embodies the philosophy of embracing opportunities, regardless of prior experience. Throughout his illustrious career, which includes contributions to over 4000 advertisements and collaborations with musical legends, Altman emphasizes the significance of an open-minded approach in the creative arts. By advocating for the adage of never declining an opportunity simply due to inexperience, he imparts invaluable wisdom to aspiring musicians and creatives.This episode delves into the essence of sustaining a successful career in music while remaining true to one's passion and love for the craft. Altman's journey serves as an inspiring testament to those who seek to navigate the complexities of the music industry with humility and enthusiasm. The discussion with John Altman, a luminary in the realm of music composition and arrangement, offers a profound exploration of his illustrious career, characterized by over four thousand advertisements and collaborations with music icons.Altman’s philosophy of 'never turning down an opportunity' resonates throughout the episode as he candidly shares his journey, marked by a commitment to diversity and creativity. His insights into the music industry provide a blueprint for aspiring musicians, encouraging them to embrace challenges with open arms and to continuously seek growth in their craft. As we delve deeper into Altman’s experiences, he reflects on pivotal moments that shaped his artistic identity, from his early encounters with jazz legends to his impactful contributions to film scores. The narrative is interspersed with anecdotes that highlight the collaborative nature of music and the unexpected paths that can lead to success. Altman’s infectious passion for music, coupled with his humble demeanor, serves as a source of inspiration for creatives navigating their own artistic landscapes. This episode not only celebrates Altman's achievements but also serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and the joy of making music.Takeaways:John Altman emphasizes the importance of never turning down opportunities, even if one feels inexperienced.His expansive career includes collaborations with numerous music legends across diverse genres and platforms.The philosophy of diversifying one's skill set is crucial for sustaining a successful music career.Altman reflects on how being humble and loving to play has shaped his journey in the music industry.Companies mentioned in this episode:PradaLevi'sRenaultPeak PracticeLife of BrianTitanicGolden EyeNo Time to DieLittle VoiceLeonShall We Dance?Hot ChocolateJoss StoneEvan Rachel WoodBjorkGeorge MichaelAlison MoyerPhil CollinsJeff BeckChet BakerAndy SamuelsAmy WinehouseCynthia ErivoAriana GrandeLionel RichieAlicia KeysShaka KhanPeter GreenFleetwood MacJimi HendrixBob MarleyEric ClaptonVan MorrisonLittle RichardTina TurnerJimmy PageDiana RossSalman RushdieDon WilliamsTelly SavalasJames BondKelsey GrammarMr. St. NickAled JonesJacob Collier