From Music to Mastery

Jeff Meacham, Sound Designer at Scopely.

Jeff Meacham is a seasoned audio engineer and sound designer with over 17 years of experience in the gaming industry. He has worked on notable projects, including the Madden series, and is passionate about sharing his journey and insights with aspiring audio professionals.

When I first embarked on my career journey, the idea of working in audio engineering wasn't even on my radar. I initially pursued a degree in criminal justice, driven by the notion that it was a practical choice. However, a pivotal phone call from a friend steered me towards a path that would ultimately become my passion and profession.

My friend was attending Full Sail University for film school and noticed their audio program. Knowing my penchant for creating music and sound effects, he suggested I look into it. His encouragement, coupled with my father's timeless advice—"Find something you love to do and learn how to get paid for it"—prompted me to take a leap of faith. I sold my belongings, moved to Florida, and enrolled in Full Sail's audio program.

Networking played a crucial role in my career breakthrough. While at Full Sail, I befriended an art director at Electronic Arts (EA). This connection led to an introduction to the audio director for the Madden series. Rather than focusing solely on business, I bonded with the audio director over personal stories, which forged a genuine connection and opened doors for me. He started giving me projects, and I began working for EA six months before I even graduated.

One of my first major challenges was a disorganized project for the game "Superman Returns." The script was a mess, with pages out of order and no clear organization. Determined to prove myself, I spent countless hours organizing and editing the materials, eventually delivering a well-organized and improved version of the project. This dedication impressed my superiors and solidified my place on the team.

Throughout my 17-year career, I've learned the importance of perseverance. One of my teachers at Full Sail shared his collection of rejection letters to illustrate that even successful professionals face setbacks. This lesson has stayed with me, reminding me to remain resilient despite industry layoffs or project rejections.

Initially, I envisioned a career in music, but my journey led me to sound design, where I discovered a new passion. The collaborative environment of the gaming industry, surrounded by talented artists, animators, and engineers, has been incredibly fulfilling. I've had the privilege of contributing to various projects, including the Madden series and other video games.

For those aspiring to enter the audio industry, my advice is simple: network genuinely, remain adaptable, and never give up on your dreams. The journey may be challenging, but if you stay dedicated to your passion, the rewards are immeasurable.

Reflecting on my path, I realize that sometimes the unexpected detours lead to the most rewarding destinations. From criminal justice to audio engineering, my career has been a testament to following one's passion and the power of perseverance.