Don Was
S5 / Episode 13
About this episode
Few producers in the history of modern music have shaped records—and artists—the way Don Was has.
From his early days as a hitmaking artist with Was (Not Was) to becoming one of the most trusted producers in the business, Don’s fingerprints are on an extraordinary range of iconic recordings. Beyond the credits though, what defines him is his philosophy: serve the song, honor the artist, and know when not to interfere.
In this wide-ranging conversation, Don takes us inside his journey—from Detroit roots to working with legends like the Rolling Stones, Bonnie Raitt, and Bob Dylan—to his current roles as president of Blue Note Records and bandleader of the Pan-Detroit Ensemble. We also explore his deep musical partnership with Bob Weir in Wolf Bros, a collaboration that brought his career full circle as both producer and player.
Please note: this interview was recorded prior to the passing of Bob Weir.
This is a masterclass in taste, restraint, and what it really means to be a producer.