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The record producer plays an important role for artists in the music industry. Depending upon an artist’s music education and the producer’s music, that role can range. Many great music producers are also writers and have co-written with the artist they are producing to help craft the song, feel, sound, and the overall sonic aesthetic of that particular artist. Jeff Rabhan, Music Industry Essentials contributor and Clive Davis Institute of Recorded Music Department Chair, talks through the role of the music producer and how to find the right one to work with.
Famous Producers
In many cases, the producers start more famous than the artist themselves. Look at the following producers to learn the massive role they play in music production.
- Pharrell: crafts an artist’s sound
- Drac: discovers music artists; produces and appear on the records themselves
- P. Diddy: produces, impresario, label owner, performer, and part of the overall feel and aesthetic of that artist
Behind the Scenes Work
Many music producers remain behind the scenes — like Rick Rubin, who’s historically the best at getting a great performance out of the artist. Other producers are former artists themselves, who continue to co-write and create a soundscape for artists. A producer’s role is often behind the scenes but crucial in many different ways.
Finding the Right Producer
Producers can craft the sound of the performance. They can create the soundscape for your band, or in the most simplistic ways, they can also engineer the record and capture what you want. It depends on the kind of relationship you’re looking for and what you need. In many instances, finding the right producer can make the difference between making a good record and making a great record.
Are you a new music producer who is looking to complete tracks? Check out this Music Production Checklist to help optimize your process so you can focus on the creativity behind a track.
