Music Technology Forum - Week 3: The Producer

In Music Technology Forum, we focused on producers and their role in Music Production. There are five main categories which distinguish the ‘good’ producers from the ‘elite’ producers.
1. Sound
2. Performance that’s captured
3. Song arrangement
4. Budget distribution
5. Communication skills

Sound:
Sound and sound quality is the most important factor when it comes to the production of music. Some producers spend hours, even days to come up with the perfect sound; whether it is a perfect harmony between singers, or a ‘click’ sound coming out of the bass drum – Rick Rubin trademark. Producers commonly find unique ways to differentiate themselves from each other.

Performance that’s captured:
It is important for the producer to capture the right performance for distinctive bands. There’s no point producing a heavy metal band which sounds weak. By using ideas from the band and own trademark skills, a Producer can capture the right performance that sounds appealing to the audience.

Song arrangement:
The arrangement of songs is an essential part of Music Production. Placement of certain sounds and audio should be arranged to give the song its full potential. With song arrangements also comes song choice, order of songs on an album and even producers co-writing songs.

Budget distribution:
The distribution of money can determine whether a producer keeps his job or not. A fair distribution of money between band members, sound labels, studios etc. and of course the producer will cause the least amount of conflict possible.

Communication skills:
Communication skills are a major factor for producers. Without great communication skills, there is no band to produce. These communication skills can be phone skills, skills of persuasion, and even to relax or possibly resolve issues between band members.

In conclusion, producers are vital to the music industry. Although they make their job look easy, it takes multiple years of training to reach their level. To be an elite producer, you would have to excel in these 5 categories, otherwise there’s no room for you in the field of producing.


Reference:
Steve Fieldhouse (2007). The Producer - Adelaide University.