Superstar producer Greg Wells on his hitmaking career

Q with Tom Power45mApril 14, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In this re-aired episode of Q with Tom Power, acclaimed Canadian record producer Greg Wells reflects on his remarkable journey from a shy church kid in Peterborough, Ontario, to one of the most influential producers in global pop music. Wells shares intimate stories from his early days playing piano and organ in church, his formative experiences with artists like Katie Lang and Celine Dion, and the pivotal moment when he chose to become a producer rather than a touring musician. He recounts the behind-the-scenes drama of producing OneRepublic's mega-hit 'Apologize,' where he convinced a skeptical band to record a song that defied their rock identity, ultimately launching both the band and his career—though he remained uncredited for years. The conversation then turns to his most personal project: purchasing and transforming an old Anglican church in Winterton, Newfoundland, into Trinity Hall, a world-class studio and performance space. Inspired by a dream-like moment with his daughter, Wells created Silly Cove Records, a nonprofit label that supports local Newfoundland artists and channels all profits to community causes. His mission is rooted in gratitude, legacy, and the transformative power of music, which he sees as a form of magic that uplifts individuals and communities.

Key Takeaways
1

Music can be a life-changing force—Wells' own life was transformed at age 3.5 by seeing Jesus Christ Superstar.

2

Success isn't just about hits; giving back to your roots can be the most meaningful achievement.

3

The most powerful creative decisions often come from intuition, not logic—Wells bought a church based on a gut feeling.

4

True wealth isn't money—it's the ability to empower others through art and community.

5

Even the biggest producers can be invisible—Wells didn't get credit for 'Apologize' for years.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
2 min

Introduction and the Order of Canada Surprise

I could cry talking about it. What was really meaningful to me is that it has nothing to do with the music business. It's not like an accolade for anything I've done career-wise.

Highlight
2:00
7 min

From Church Pianos to Musical Awakening

Wells traces his musical roots to his childhood in Peterborough, where his love for music began in the church. He recalls the profound influence of organist Barbara Scott, who nurtured his early talent, and his early exposure to music through films like Jesus Christ Superstar and shows like Soul Train, which ignited his passion for performance and rhythm.

9:00
8 min

The Turning Point: From Touring to Producing

I didn't really know what I was doing as a songwriter then. And she knew that. But I guess she could tell something. There was some sort of kernel of possibility in there beyond just me being a musician for hire.

Highlight
17:00
18 min

Breakthroughs: Aerosmith, Celine Dion, and the 'Apologize' Mutiny

I said to the guys, look, let's give it a shot. It's my job as your producer to... If it sucks, we will all know it and it won't leave the studio.

Highlight
35:00
15 min

Wicked, MIDI, and the Art of the Impossible

Wells reveals his experience as music producer on the film Wicked, where he had to create fully MIDI-based tracks to allow flexibility during filming. He describes the challenge of mixing vocals recorded on set with boom mics, calling it an 'ass-kicking' process, and praises Cynthia Erivo’s performance as transcendent.

High-Impact Quotes
I'm not sure I have an answer... But it's paying tribute to my ancestors. That feels great. Like there's wealth. People often think money is wealth. Trust me, it is not.
Greg Wells41:22
Viral: 95.0
I could cry talking about it. What was really meaningful to me is that it has nothing to do with the music business. It's not like an accolade for anything I've done career-wise.
Greg Wells4:25
Viral: 92.0
I said to the guys, look, let's give it a shot. It's my job as your producer to... If it sucks, we will all know it and it won't leave the studio.
Greg Wells22:06
Viral: 88.0
Speakers

Host

Tom Power

Guest

Greg Wells
Topics Discussed
Music Production and Studio Work95%The Emotional Power of Music94%Community-Based Creative Spaces92%Canadian Identity and National Recognition90%Nonprofit Music Initiatives89%Artistic Mentorship and Legacy88%Personal Transformation and Purpose87%The Role of Intuition in Creative Decisions85%
People & Brands

Greg Wells

person

18xPositive

Tom Power

person

12xPositive

Newfoundland and Labrador

other

12xPositive

Winterton

place

10xPositive

Trinity Hall

other

9xPositive

Silly Cove Records

other

8xPositive

Katie Lang

person

8xPositive

OneRepublic

other

7xPositive

Aerosmith

other

6xPositive

Order of Canada

other

6xPositive

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