We recently had the chance to connect with Naji Bent-Vasquez and have shared our conversation below.
Naji, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
Integrity, hands down. Intelligence and energy can take you far, but without integrity, it’s easy to lose trust, burn bridges, or make moves that don’t align with who you are. In the long run, integrity builds lasting relationships, reputations, and opportunities. You can always learn more or grind harder, but if people can’t trust your word, none of that matters.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
My name is Naji, but most know me as LucidMixedIt. I’m a recording and mixing engineer, studio owner, and artist consultant. I run Lucid Recording Studioz, where I help independent artists elevate their sound and their careers. I’ve mixed thousands of songs, been featured in magazines, and reached over 8 million streams. What sets me apart is the full experience I give my clients—engineer, strategist, and sometimes even therapist. I’m building a legacy around quality, trust, and creative growth. Right now, I’m expanding into Dolby Atmos and launching digital tools to help artists win.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who taught you the most about work?
My father. He’s an engineer too, and growing up I watched how committed he was to his craft. He taught me that showing up, solving problems, and doing things the right way matters more than shortcuts. That mindset shaped how I approach my work today—as an engineer, a business owner, and a creator. I saw firsthand what it looks like to take pride in what you do, and that’s a lesson I carry into every session, mix, and move I make.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Plenty of times. Running a business isn’t easy—especially in a creative field where income can be unpredictable. There were moments when the bookings slowed down, bills piled up, and I questioned if it was worth it. But every time I hit that wall, I remembered why I started. I’m not just building a studio—I’m building a legacy, a space where artists feel heard, supported, and empowered. That vision keeps me going, even on the hardest days.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What are the biggest lies your industry tells itself?
That everything is about numbers—streams, followers, views. The truth is, real impact isn’t always visible on a chart. The industry also pushes the idea that you need clout to be taken seriously, when in reality, talent, work ethic, and consistency build real careers. Another lie is that mixing and engineering are “behind-the-scenes” roles that don’t deserve shine—when we’re the ones shaping how the world hears the music. The industry undervalues the people who bring the sound to life.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
I hope people say I was someone who genuinely cared. That I used my skills to help others find their voice, believe in themselves, and grow—both creatively and personally. That I made the industry feel more honest and connected. I wasn’t just in it for money or recognition—I was building something meaningful. I hope they say I left behind more than just great mixes… I left behind impact, inspiration, and a blueprint others could build from.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.lucidmixedit.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucidmixedit
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lucidrecordingstudioz
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@lucidmixedit?si=qITG7QFCtxxc_Aon
Image Credits
Bawsebrody/ hediditfilms
