"I met Suede Stout in February of 1990 and it was life changing for a few reasons. One- I got to make music with a talented guy who's been a dear friend ever since and as well he also introduced me to Scott Bennett who has been a friend and musical partner ever since.  So I owe a lot to this man who has caused a ripple effect of positivity, creativity, and prosperity in my life.  Suede's a constant ray of sunshine to work with or be with, and his love of all genres of music is apparent in the fruits of his work. He's comfortable on both sides of the glass in the studio and charismatic on stage. What a guy.”

Todd Sucherman 
Styx, Brain Wilson, recording session artist
"It's been nearly impossible to find a studio in the suburbs that I feel comfortable working in, but Darwin Records has been a lifesaver. Working at Darwin Records puts me in a great frame of mind to be creative and record great sounding tracks. It's a perfect blend of vibe and great sounding gear without the pretentiousness of most suburban studios. Darwin Records is the only place to record north of Chicago."

Matt Walker
Composer / Drummer Smashing Pumpkins, Filter, Garbage
"Suede and I have worked together for many years, and it's always great because:
a. He knows how to help get the best out of the song and the artist. 
b. He knows how to make the atmosphere fun and creative. 
c. He is a giving collaborator, not one of those producers who force their vibe on a project.  
d. His studio has great recording gear and instruments (when I was in town last fall, I got my favorite drum sound for my new CD there).
e. The studio has a great vibe and it's nice to chill out in such a beautiful area. Simply put, you'll sound and feel great working with Suede."

Scott Bennett
Session Musician / Singer / Songwriter
(Performed with: Paul McCartney, Eric Clapton, Sheryl Crow, Brian Wilson, Neil Young, Paul Simon & many more).
“I am very proud of the two records and four individual songs that I have recorded with Suede. My listeners frequently say things like, “Excellent recording quality,” “Pristine production,” “Great sound. Who did your recording?” I think that people are especially impressed with Suede’s work because he distinguishes himself as a producer/engineer by bringing to the studio his musician's ear, vast technical knowledge, and years of experience, a combination that most musicians can’t bring to their at-home studios, even when they have the latest equipment. Suede is an encouraging producer who hears the possibilities of a song and draws out the best in his artists. I highly recommend him and look forward to working with him again.”

David Hawkins
Singer / Songwriter / performer
"Suede sings smooth, rocks hard, listens acutely, and makes everyone look and sound great."

Mike Konopka
Thundertone Audio / Metro Mobile Sound ​
“A musical genius. From the day I first met Suede, I knew I was in the presence of that very rare and unparalleled type of musical greatness. The combination of his vast knowledge of music and his many years of experience, make him a producer of an intensely amazing caliber. His gifted ear, is unequaled – He can take a song you love, and reinvent it beyond what you even thought possible. Suede hears what the song should be in his mind before anyone else can even begin to envision it. He is the embodiment of professionalism and passion. He lives and breathes his art. Derrick “Suede” Stout is the definition of what it means to be a music master.”

Sharon Muthu
Singer Songwriter / Session Musician
“Suede has been composing for my ongoing series since the beginning and he always captures the essence of any given scene elevating the project and helping to navigate complicated tonal shifts. I've also just laid some of his licensed music over several scenes in the series and they consistently seem to drop in perfectly like the puzzle piece I didn't even know I was looking for. Suede's the guy.” 

Jake Jarvi 
Writer / Director / Creator of PoPS
"I've used Suede on several music projects, and he knows his stuff.  No matter what role he needed to fill, he was at the center of the creative action.  Not only is he an extremely talented and versatile musician, he also can compose when needed, and knows his way around the technical side of music.  Suede is one great all-around music producer and for him to be in the Chicago area is a blessing." 

Leroy Koetz
Director / Producer / Musician ​
"Derrick 'Suede' Stout and I grew up crafting the pop hooks.  He's a multi-talented guy with great musical instincts that you don't find too often."

Doug McBride
Producer / Engineer / Songwriter
 (Rachel Yamagata, Fall Out Boy & Oh My God).
​"The sonic quality of the music Suede produces is incredible. The studio is wonderful and the ambiance is very conducive to creating the best possible product.  Suede and his staff provide unbelievable personal attention and Suede is an amazing producer.  He took such care making sure that every microphone was placed properly, and that every musician playing on my session was groovacious. He was able to get the best possible performance from me, and everyone else every time, while always remaining true to my original compositions & creative concepts."

Jeannie Tanner   
Session Musician / Singer Songwriter