A Midlands based singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, Renee is currently working with esteemed artists such as Janet Jackson, Tito Jackson, and Disney’s Big Time Rush.
Female music producers make up just 2.6% of producers within the music industry, so to see a female majority cohort for Tileyard Education’s MA Commercial Music Producer in 2022 is a means for celebration.
In honour of this we sat down with one of our graduates, Renee Rain Thomas (aka The Goddess). A Midlands based singer-songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist, Renee is currently working with esteemed artists such as Janet Jackson, Tito Jackson, and Disney’s Big Time Rush.
How did you get into songwriting and music production?
Ever since a young age, I’ve always loved the arts. Growing up I’d write poetry which then as I got older developed into songwriting. It was my dad who inspired me to get into production when he bought me a Yamaha DJX, and I used to play around making songs on that.
I didn’t take music production seriously until a family friend asked me for help with a song, which,once released, was picked up by BBC Radio. This was the moment I realised that perhaps commercial music production is the way to go.
What made you choose to study at Tileyard Education instead of its competitors?
I first heard about Tileyard Education through a friend, who had attended an A&R session hosted monthly in the Samsung KX space in Kings Cross. by Tileyard Education. After hearing only amazing things, I checked out their website and was instantly blown away by the lecturers who were involved!
I love Tileyard. They have a great ethos and an all-around good vibe. I owe a lot of my success to the university; I’ve come out of my shell since applying for the course.
What was your favourite part about the course?
I loved just how accessible all my tutors wereand how attentive they were, even though I chose to study online! I really enjoyed how detailed my lectures were, and the wealth of knowledge that was made available.
What doors has Tileyard opened for you?
The live Briefs of the Week opened so many doors for me. Tileyard Education has access to live commercial briefs that are exclusive to Tileyard Education students and they’re an amazing way to get your music out there and heard by important people. These allowed me to get placements with labels like Felt Music. Being told I was the first person in Tileyard Education history to fully write, perform, and produce a synced track, was a wonderful feeling.
What advice do you have for female music artists looking to break into the industry?
Work on your craft, and always remember to challenge yourself. Don’t be afraid to showcase your art, as female representation in this industry is so important. That’s why I feel so privileged to be doing this interview, and hopefully it helps inspire other women of colour to follow their dreams.
Finally, what music projects are you currently working on?
My team and I are currently in the process of writing music for Janet Jackson’s newest album, we’ve written 10 tracks for her so far, with the aim to have a whole album worth of songs!
And personally, I’m currently working on my new EP ‘Heaven’, with the title-track single being released on the 25th of November!
About Tileyard Education
Tileyard Education provide validated Higher Education and professional short courses, on site and online, from the largest independent music community in the world, home to 110 professional recording studios and 250 entertainment businesses. Take advantage of small class sizes, great studio access, 1-2-1 mentoring, weekly commercial song briefs and direct links to the industry.
