Think Out Loud

From humble Portland roots to worldwide reach, Tape Op magazine celebrates 30 years

By Sheraz Sadiq (OPB)
Sept. 29, 2026 1 p.m.

Broadcast: Tuesday, Sep. 29

Tape Op is an independently published magazine about the art and science of recording music founded 30 years ago and edited by Portland music producer and studio owner Larry Crane. The magazine features interviews with the skilled technicians and creative minds who help bands and artists realize their vision in the recording studio. The albums they’ve worked on span decades and genres, from hip-hop to bluegrass, pop to death metal and more.

“Making Music: Conversations with Record Producers,” is a newly published collection of interviews from the Tape Op archives. Crane co-edited the book with Tape Op publisher John Bacigalupi. It contains two dozen conversations Crane and others did with producers who’ve worked with artists like U2, Kendrick Lamar and The Beatles.

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Crane joins us to share the enduring appeal of Tape Op and the songs that still inspire him in the studio and beyond.

“Think Out Loud®” broadcasts live at noon every day and rebroadcasts at 8 p.m.

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THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR:
THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR:

THANKS TO OUR SPONSOR: