(Photo courtesy of Venerando Cortez )
Okinawa, with its rich cultural tapestry and stunning landscapes, has become a home and source of inspiration for many. Among these is Vaughn Stewart, an American music producer who has seamlessly blended his life of beats and family into the serene environment of this island. In this spotlight, we delve into Vaughn’s journey, his creative process, and how he balances his various passions.
From Cleveland to Okinawa
Originally hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, Vaughn’s path to Okinawa began through a series of life-changing decisions. “After moving to North Carolina for college, I joined the Marine Corps and served 21 years on active duty. My first duty station was Okinawa, Japan, and I really enjoyed that time. I came back after retirement, and I’ve been here ever since. It’s my home,” he shares.
A Serendipitous Encounter
Meeting his spouse in Okinawa was a story right out of a rom-com. “I was in Nago doing a site/scouting survey with a couple of artists I was promoting at the time. At a local club, a young lady, who was quite drunk, tried to grab my attention. She asked if I liked Okinawan women and then if I wanted to meet her roommate. Intrigued, I agreed, and when I met her roommate, who was tired and frustrated but very beautiful, I introduced myself. We’ve been together for 19 years,” he recounts with a smile.
The Beat of Passion
(Photo courtesy of Venerando Cortez )
Vaughn’s journey into music production was as serendipitous as meeting his spouse. “An old friend asked me to work with his group as an engineer because of my background in car stereo installation. He suggested I become a music producer, and being someone who loves to learn, I taught myself to play the piano and eventually attended Berklee School of Music, focusing on music production and technology.”
Influences and Creation
Inspired by a wide range of music from his upbringing in Cleveland, Vaughn’s credits his father for instilling a deep love for all genres. “Cleveland is known for its diverse musical styles, and I love all types of music,” he says. When it comes to creating new beats, he describes his process as starting with musical ideas in his head and using programs like Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and Logic Pro to bring them to life.
For those interested in his music, Vaughn shares his work on various platforms:
- [Spotify]
- [SoundCloud]
- [AppleMusic]
Embracing Okinawa
Living in Okinawa has deeply influenced Vaughn’s creativity. “The local people are incredibly friendly, and the scenery is beautiful. The lifestyle and cultural influences here have had a huge impact on my life,” he says. He finds inspiration in the island’s quiet beaches where he practices daily meditation.
A Love for Golf
Golf is another passion Vaughn pursues vigorously. “I was introduced to golf while stationed at Camp Pendleton in the late 90s. It’s about that one good shot, the feeling of being successful on the course. It’s a mental game,” he explains. His favourite course in Okinawa was Awase, which no longer exists, but he now enjoys playing at Taiyo, Banyan Tree, and Chibana.
(Photo courtesy of Venerando Cortez )
Balancing Acts
Balancing his time between fitness, golf, music, and family is a testament to Vaughn’s time management skills. “Up until recently, I visited FOGO Gym & Golf four to five times a week. Time management is crucial, something I learned as a recruiter in Seattle,” he notes.
Family and Culture
Travelling and family gatherings are key activities Vaughn enjoys with his family. “We travel a lot, with recent trips to Tokyo and Seoul. My wife, who comes from a close-knit family, ensures we visit family often. My boys speak two languages and thrive in their multicultural environment,” he proudly shares.
Looking Ahead
(Photo courtesy of Venerando Cortez )
(Photo courtesy of Venerando Cortez )
When asked about future goals, Vaughn feels content with his achievements. “I’ve been fortunate to work with talented folks globally. I feel my Dad would be proud, and I know my Mom is!” he laughs. For aspiring musicians, his advice is clear: “Be a student of the game, learn the business, market yourself, network, be humble, and be consistent.”
Final Thoughts
In parting, Vaughn’s emphasizes the importance of understanding and respect in life. “Strive to understand that it’s not always about you.”
**About the Writer**
Venerando Cortez is an avid blogger who owns multiple online businesses. He specialises in helping businesses leverage AI to get more customers. Based in Okinawa, Venerando enjoys exploring the rich cultural landscape of the island and sharing the inspiring journeys of its residents. When not writing, Venerando can be found coaching bodybuilding or enjoying the local cuisine at FOGO Brazil Restaurant.
