A music producer is a jack-of-all-trades who frequently combines strong interpersonal skills with technical production expertise. A producer may interact with artists and musicians, edit music, or oversee marketing strategies for a finished product, depending on the type of project. Although it is not required for the job, many producers have prior experience as musicians or recording artists.
Although there are many paths to becoming a music producer, some experts believe that the most basic requirement is a passion for and understanding of music. Some producers have college or graduate degrees in audio engineering, composition, or performance, but many others have no formal training. Because producers work on a variety of projects, having more experience can lead to more opportunities and a wider range of job opportunities.
Skills in music production can lead to a variety of opportunities in the industry. Some producers work for a recording studio directly, managing the studio’s day-to-day operations and interacting with artists and technicians. Others form partnerships with specific bands or artists to produce albums and live events for their customers. Producers with a passion for discovering new talent can work as freelance scouts or for record labels, identifying new artists and assisting them in developing their work into an album.
As the go-between for recording artists, technicians, and studio or label executives, producers must have excellent communication skills. Because money is often on the line in music production, tensions can run high between the various parties involved. A good music producer can act as a mediator and a voice of reason, protecting the interests of all parties involved. Excellent people skills can be extremely beneficial to a producer, as they will help to ensure that both artists and studios maintain healthy relationships.
Although a passion for music is extremely beneficial to a music producer, it is also important to remember that a financially successful career typically requires excellent sales skills. While there is a lot of great music out there, not all of it will make you money. To make a living, a music producer must be able to not only recognize great music, but also work with material that has the potential to be profitable. Many successful producers conduct extensive research into the industry market in order to assist in the selection of artists who are most likely to generate the highest profits.