Daniel Ellis' journey into the world of sound and production is as unique as it is inspiring. With almost two decades in the industry, his story is a testament to following one's passions and embracing opportunities as they arise. His career trajectory is not only evidence of his skills but also a nod to the importance of networking and friendship in the music industry.
Growing up with a love for music, Daniel found his initial engagement with the industry in Tyler, Texas. Despite his aversion to being in the spotlight, he discovered that his passion for music didn't necessarily have to mean being on stage. His parents' involvement in opening and running a venue provided him with an unconventional classroom where he learned the ropes of sound and lighting.
His first major experience came as a crew member for the band Isley, thanks to a long-standing connection with the band members. This familiar environment eased his transition from enthusiast to professional, allowing him to learn while contributing to the band's success.
As the front-of-house (FOH) engineer for We The Kingdom, Daniel Ellis' journey with the band began through a connection with their then-bass player and tour manager. This individual, whom Daniel had known from his time working with Copeland, was a former guitarist for the band Love Drug. Their prior acquaintance facilitated Daniel's introduction to We The Kingdom, illustrating the critical role of networking and maintaining relationships in the music industry. Daniel was initially slated to fill in for several Winter Jam shows. Still, when those plans were postponed in 2020, he eventually became a permanent member of their touring crew about a year later.
We The Kingdom's band setup is eclectic and engaging…
Currently out as direct support for Casting Crowns on the Awakening Tour. We The Kingdom's band setup is eclectic and engaging, showcasing a range of instruments that contribute to their rich and layered sound. At the core is the full drum kit, set up in what Daniel described as an unconventional manner with cymbals positioned high above and spread out, creating a visually striking and dynamic performance element. Complementing the drums is the bass guitar, providing a solid rhythmic foundation for their music.
The band features three electric guitars and a few acoustic guitars, adding depth and versatility to their sound. A couple of different keyboards further enhance the musical complexity. Vocals are a prominent feature, with six members contributing to both lead and harmony parts.
In addition to these core elements, the band's setup includes a range of auxiliary instruments that add textures. A distinct segment of their show features a bluegrass-inspired section, incorporating various acoustic instruments and stompboxes, allowing the band to explore diverse musical styles and captivate audiences with their dynamic performance.
The band normally travels with a Yamaha Rivage PM5 at FOH, but for this tour he’s using the Digico Quantum 338 console. “The challenge has been starting over on a new console, because I haven't spent a lot of time with Digico’s Mustard processing. So I'm forcing myself just to use the console as it comes, even though there's a Waves server I'm not touching it, so I'm just trying to keep it simple.” He adds, “Which is actually working out great.”
“…even though there's a Waves server I'm not touching it, so I'm just trying to keep it simple.” – Daniel Ellis, FOH Engineer, We The Kingdom
The tour is supported by CTS AVL, headquartered in Brentwood, TN. Known for their expertise in live production and audio-visual services, CTS AVL provides a comprehensive set of services to ensure the smooth operation of the tour. Using JBL VTX25 line array speakers, Shure Axient wireless systems, and Shure PSM 1000 in-ear monitors helps each night succeed.
Another critical component of the success of each performance is the role of the systems engineer (SE) provided by CTS AVL. Their role is responsible for ensuring that the audio setup is perfectly tailored to each venue, a process that begins with determining the optimal fly points for the PA system, using Array software to calculate the angles needed, ensuring even sound coverage and clarity throughout the venue, regardless of its size or shape. While Daniel is very capable of doing this himself, he has enjoyed having this handled, allowing him to spend time focusing on his mix.
In his quest for continual improvement, Daniel often finds time to flatten the settings on his audio console and, using Virtual Sound Check, can play back and listen to the raw audio. He gains new insights and ensures that his adjustments truly enhance the performance rather than cloud the natural sound.
When asked what advice he would offer to church tech directors or aspiring sound engineers, Daniel's response is succinct yet impactful: "Never stop learning." The ever-evolving nature of live sound technology coupled with the wealth of available educational resources means there are constant opportunities for growth and improvement.
Daniel passionately advocates for exploration and curiosity, encouraging technicians to experiment with new techniques and tools in a risk-free environment. This philosophy not only improves one's craft but also prepares them for diverse scenarios that can arise during live events.
Daniel Ellis’ journey through the music and production industry is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of community. His narrative underscores the vital role of connections, both personal and professional, in carving out a successful career. Through every chord and console, Daniel exemplifies dedication and enthusiasm, offering both inspiration and insight for those following in this path. He reminds us that the journey is as valuable and transformative as the destination.
