Nickelback "San Quentin"
Chris Baseford
Chris Baseford
Chris Baseford is a multi-platinum producer, mixer, and engineer known for his work with some of the biggest names in rock, metal, and industrial music. With a career spanning over two decades, Chris has become a trusted collaborator for artists such as Nickelback, Avril Lavigne, Shinedown, Rob Zombie, Tommy Lee, and Slash. His mixes are known for their powerful clarity, balanced energy, and ability to translate a band’s identity into a polished, radio-ready sound.
Originally from Canada, Chris began his journey in music production as a musician and aspiring engineer. Early in his career, he relocated to Los Angeles and began working under the guidance of legendary producer Bob Marlette. That mentorship helped him build a strong foundation in both the technical and creative sides of studio work. From there, he went on to work extensively with producer and artist Rob Zombie, serving as a key engineer and mixer on multiple projects and live recordings.
Chris has never been a performing member of a band, but his musical background as a guitarist and songwriter informs his approach behind the console. His ability to think like a musician helps him communicate effectively with artists and contribute creatively to the arrangement and overall direction of a record.
One of Chris’s defining strengths is his versatility. He’s equally skilled working on aggressive rock tracks, high-energy pop songs, or cinematic industrial productions. His studio workflow blends analog and digital techniques to achieve a sound that feels both modern and timeless. Known for his attention to detail, Chris consistently delivers mixes that are dynamic, spacious, and built to stand up in any listening environment.
Whether he is producing from the ground up or stepping in to mix an already recorded session, Chris brings professionalism, experience, and a calm, focused energy to the process. Artists often describe working with him as collaborative and efficient, with a strong emphasis on getting the best performance and making the right decisions for the song.
In addition to his studio work, Chris is a passionate educator who regularly shares his knowledge with up-and-coming producers and engineers. His sessions on Nail The Mix offer a rare look into how top-tier rock and pop records are made. He breaks down his approach to vocal production, drum mixing, guitar layering, and overall mix balance with clarity and insight, giving viewers a practical toolkit they can apply to their own projects.
Chris Baseford continues to be a leading figure in modern music production, known for helping artists elevate their sound while staying true to their roots. His work has topped charts, filled arenas, and earned critical acclaim, all while maintaining a reputation for integrity, quality, and innovation. Whether working with platinum-selling acts or rising stars, Chris brings the same commitment to excellence in every project he takes on.