Steve Chandler was named Engineer of the Year for the second time in a row at the recent International Bluegrass Music Association Industry Awards.
Chandler lived in Owensboro and was director of entertainment at the Executive Inn before moving to Nashville. He eventually became the resident sound engineer at the Bluegrass Music Hall of Fame & Museum.
Receiving the award for the second year in a row was an honor, he said.
“I was kind of surprised, you know, but it felt good because your peers voted on it and it’s a lot of good engineers that were nominated as well. I was just really honored,” Chandler said.
With over 45 years in the recording business, Chandler said his job has brought him to meet and work with several high-profile acts including the Beach Boys, Dolly Parton, Wynonna Judd, and more.
He said that when working with Parton and Judd, the artists would often bring guests and he never knew who was going to be behind the studio door.
“That was the fun part. You make those connections and friendships with them, even as far as Wayne Newton from the Vegas era,” Chandler said. “…Some of the biggest artists I’ve ever worked with are some of the most nice and humble people I’ve met.”
Reflecting on changes over the years, he said the main difference has been the leap in technology as he has moved from recording on tap to using Adobe Pro tools. However, he said he was never scared to make the move and welcomed the change because he wants to offer his clients the best options.
Chandler still remembers how things used to be, though.
“We still use the word tape just like people use the word records. We still cut records, so it’s a blessing to have been able to work and live through those times as well because those are good times,” he said.
While Chandler is still hard at work in Nashville, he works in Owensboro from time to time. He helps the Hall of Fame with their engineering, and offers services at Owensboro Christian Church a few times a month.
