Student releases album, manages own company

By Alicia Swan
Staff Writer

A junior in the schools of Engineering continues to live a double life as he releases his third album, "Heaven Sent," today.

Brandon Paschal's album will be available at Von’s Music in West Lafayette and Indianapolis area Karma Records.

Also known as ‘Socrates,’ Paschal juggles 18 credit hours, his own record company and recording duties.

"Music’s always been pretty much a passion that I’ve had," he said.

Paschal played the piano for seven years and participated in a symphony for eight.

As a freshman, Paschal released his first work, "I’m Brandin," and by the time he was a sophomore, his second production and first solo effort, "The Connection," was also available in stores.

"The balance has been pretty crazy. I end up meeting some really good guys who really helped me out,"said Paschal of those he has worked with on his albums.

Paschal has created his record company, Philosophic Productions, using his own funds and a lot of motivation. "It all started with research," said Paschal. "I turned all the passion I had into actual research."

After gaining a wealth of information from bureaus and filling out the appropriate tax documents, Paschal felt that he could revolutionize the music industry by taking advantage of technological developments in the do-it-yourself music industry.

"Not only can I do this like people in the industry, but I can make it professional, presentable, more efficient and cost effective through technological advances," said Paschal.

Paschal does the work of several people. Not only did he record the music, but he also tackled promotion, graphics, production and writing for all of his albums. "To put it all together and see this final shrink-wrapped product is kind of nice,"said Paschal.

"I’m blessed to have both parents in complete support of what I’m doing," he said.

With a title like "Heaven Sent," Paschal also admits that his spirituality plays a large part of his musical career. His album contains no explicit or degrading lyrics. Paschal feels that this is a positive change from the popular lyrics of today’s music that he sees as unfit for some age groups.

"There’s always some type of message," admits Paschal. "We’re trying to philosophically expand the hip-hop nation."

Although Paschal finds his musical career incredibly satisfying, he will continue to pursue an MBA in Chemical Engineering. "My hobby is also kind of like a job, it’s like doing what you love as a business. I wake up in the morning wanting to record, but I have to go to class."

Paschal has made sacrifices outside of lack of sleep in order to release three albums and stay in college.

"I could have either have 'The Connection' (his second album) come out, or I could have gone on a super-awesome spring break trip," recalls Paschal. He chose the former and suffers no regrets.

With his third album, Paschal will pursue new avenues. "Capital’s always going to be a factor," said Paschal. "It was all about breaking even, but now, it’s what’s best for the business."

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