Donelle Smith’s Journey from BVI to Billboard with Barbie

Donelle Smith a British Virgin Islander rising in the world of engineering in Los Angeles, California, has recently celebrated a triumph that echoes far beyond the shores of his island home. As one of the engineers behind the acclaimed Barbie movie soundtrack, which clinched the Best Soundtrack title at this year’s Billboard Music Awards, Donelle’s story is one of passion, perseverance, and a touch of sonic magic.

From College to the Studio: A Sonic Odyssey

The 29-year-old’s journey into the realm of audio engineering commenced in 2015 during his college years. However, it wasn’t until 2018, when he immersed himself as an intern at Neighborhoodwatche Studios, that he truly grasped the intricacies of the music industry. In those hallowed studio walls, Donelle learned more than just technical skills—he acquired the art of studio etiquette, client interaction, and handling the diverse challenges that come with the profession.

“I’ve made mistakes along the way, and I still do from time to time, which is normal—it’s how you learn and grow. Being an engineer is not a walk in the park; there’s a lot of pressure that comes with this job,” reflects Donelle, highlighting the demanding nature of his chosen path.

Barbie Beckons: A Perfect Harmony

Donelle’s involvement in the Barbie project was serendipitous, stemming from a studio session with Trinidad James, a major player in the music industry. Trinidad James, along with collaborators Young Fyre and Kaine, opened the door to a project that would go on to make musical history.

Recalling the genesis of the Barbie collaboration, Donelle explains, “The label was finishing up the soundtrack for the Barbie movie, so Kaliii was actually coming to the studio that night to record her verse for the song. She was coming to work on another song too, so you could say it was like a perfect timing kind of situation.”

The Creative Alchemy Behind Barbie: A Symphony Unveiled

Working on the Barbie movie soundtrack was not just a professional milestone for Donelle; it was a surreal experience that unfolded like a cinematic plot twist. “If I’m being very honest, I didn’t even know a Barbie movie was being made at all until Kaine had brought it to our attention in the session,” confesses Donelle. The realization of contributing to such an iconic brand left an indelible mark on him.

One of the standout moments for Donelle was working with Kaliii, who was still riding the wave of her breakout hit, “Area Codes.” “It’s crazy how I used to make fun of my sister with her Barbie dolls growing up, and now I’m part of the soundtrack for the movie,” he chuckles, highlighting the poetic full circle of life.

Engineering Magic: Shaping Barbie’s Sonic Universe

Donelle’s engineering expertise played a pivotal role in shaping the sonic landscape of the Barbie movie soundtrack. An ingenious decision to add a vocal stutter to Kaliii’s verse not only filled a creative void but also became a defining element of the final release. “I got flavors a-a-assortments,” he grins, describing the subtle touch that made it to the Billboard-winning version.

Collaboration: Balancing Technical Precision and Creative Flow

Working alongside industry heavyweights like Trinidad James, Young Fyre, and Kaine presented its own set of challenges. Donelle reflects on the delicate art of collaboration, noting, “It can be challenging, but you have to be able to read the room. Know when to give your input and know when to just be there and don’t say anything at all unless you’re asked for your opinion.”

A Billboard Triumph: Reflecting on Barbie’s Impact

The recognition of winning Best Soundtrack at the Billboard Music Awards is not lost on Donelle. Reflecting on the success of the Barbie movie soundtrack, he believes its universal appeal, coupled with Barbie’s cultural significance, set it apart. “Barbie is a brand every generation can gravitate towards. It’s a huge cultural brand. Little girls around the world are probably singing these songs word for word—you can’t get any bigger than that,” he proudly asserts.

As the accolades pour in and the echoes of Barbie’s melodies resonate worldwide, Donelle Smith stands as a testament to the transformative power of passion and expertise. From the serene shores of the British Virgin Islands to the dazzling lights of Billboard success, Donelle’s journey is a harmonious symphony of talent, dedication, and the timeless allure of Barbie.