Sounwave

Sounwave (born Mark Anthony Spears on June 13, 1984) is an American record producer, songwriter, and DJ. He is best known for his work as a core producer for Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE), primarily collaborating with Kendrick Lamar. Sounwave's production style is characterized by its experimental nature, often blending elements of jazz, funk, soul, electronic, and hip-hop to create distinctive and complex soundscapes.

He began his production career in the late 2000s and gained significant recognition for his contributions to Kendrick Lamar's breakthrough album, Section.80 (2011). He has since served as a major creative force behind Lamar's subsequent critically acclaimed albums, including good kid, m.A.A.d city (2012), To Pimp a Butterfly (2015), DAMN. (2017), and Mr. Morale & the Big Steppers (2022).

Beyond his work with Kendrick Lamar, Sounwave has produced tracks for other artists on TDE, such as Schoolboy Q, Ab-Soul, and Jay Rock. He has also collaborated with artists outside of TDE, including Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Travis Scott.

Sounwave's contributions to music have earned him numerous awards and nominations, including multiple Grammy Awards for his production work. He is widely regarded as one of the most innovative and influential producers in contemporary hip-hop. He is known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to create sonic textures that enhance the lyrical content of the songs he produces. His work has significantly impacted the sound of modern hip-hop and continues to shape the genre.