Interview - Michelle Sternberger of ComputeHer / 8-Bit Weapon

As a part of my research into Computer and Retro-tech music, I've come across some really impressive humans. Michelle Sternberger,  the non-electronic brain behind ComputerHer and 1/2 of 8-Bit Weapon, was kind enough to answer some of my questions! 

​
1) Do you have a memory of when you first realized computers were used to make music?
I discovered chipmusic in 2004 and that's when I realized people could make modern music using vintage computers.  I was looking for new music in Hollywood, California when I discovered a club called Club Microwave.  Club Microwave was the first monthly club in the USA to host chipmusic nights.

2) Do you remember the first computer you ever used? Also, did you have a pet name for it?
The first computer I ever used was the Commodore 64.  I have an older brother and when he got his C64, he let me play games on it.  I was really lucky to have him introduce me to all of the awesome games that were made for the C64.  I didn't have a pet name for it.

3) Can you describe your song writing process? 
First I start writing songs with my Game Boy using LSDJ music software. I usually write a drum beat to set the beats per minute. The beat is the back bone of every song and sets the tone. From there I pick a key to write the song in. Next I use a small electronic keyboard to figure out what kind of bass line and melodies I want. That's the demo process of my songwriting.

How do you get from something in your head to something downloadable? Do you have an atom-based portion of the process, or is it all "in-machine"? 
After writing a song on my Game Boy, I then record all of the parts off of my Game Boy into the computer using Ableton.  I convert the notes from the Game Boy into MIDI sequences by hand. I can then assign any other computer and/or game console's sound chip to the MIDI sequence. I then record the new sounds into the arrangement.  Some original Game Boy parts make it into the final released version.  Once the album is complete, I then copyright all of my material before posting anything publicly.  From there I publish my music on Bandcamp, iTunes, Amazon and other outlets. 



4) How much of the work you put into your music is some form of maintanance/technology up-keep? How do you source your tech?
I'm always replacing something it seems since the hardware I use is so old.  I usually am looking for parts if I'm thrift store shopping or at a classic video gaming expo.  If i'm desperate for a part, I start asking around and people usually love to donate their loved, but neglected vintage computers and game consoles sitting in their garages, etc.  People feel happy that their old computer or gaming console has been given new life and a new purpose!  My last resort is usually Ebay because it seems to be the most expensive there.

5) What's your arsenal of equipment you use to create your music?
I use Game Boy, Commodore 64, Apple ii, NES and the Atari 2600

6) Ultimately, who do you create your music for?
I always create music for myself unless someone hires me to create music for them.  I started posting my songs on Myspace back in 2005 and people started following and supporting what I was doing there.  It surprised me because I didn't think that would happen and I originally was putting my music online to show my friends and family.  The next thing I know within the same year, I was sitting face to face with Mark Mothersbaugh of Devo who hired me to help with chipmusic for what is now a vaporware project.  That chain of events made me take my music more seriously and I became more productive musically.   

7) What role do you see the internet playing in the production of music?
I'm not sure since I don't use the internet to produce my music.  If anything I can see having a song swap for someone else to produce my music, but as for now all of my music if produced offline.