How to Become A (Legitimate) Music Producer in A Crowded Industry

The first thing you need as a music producer is an endless passion for music. The thought of becoming rich and famous can only carry someone so far through hard times and competitive work. Especially now that so many people claim to be producers, it a very crowded industry to try and stand out from the rest.

Your passion for music is was you will have to rely on as you build a fanbase and network of collaborators. If that doesn’t sound like some that will motivate you, consider a different field to work in.

Passion is what makes the difference between succeeding and failing as a producer.

Despite being necessary, passion will only get you so far. To really succeed, you also need to be good. There are several hard skills that you need to learn and master in order to become a good producer.

Many of the best producers have taken the time to go to school to learn sound engineering and mixing. School will give you ample experience and opportunity to become fluent in sound and the programs used to mix music.

However, not everyone goes through schooling. It is certainly something that can be self taught, but that relies heavily on your work ethic to become a pro.

One major advantage to formally studying music production are the internship and job placement opportunities associated with the school. Hiring managers from production companies like seeing legitimate experience in their applicants.

You can never have too many friends and connections. The adage “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know” certainly hold true in the music industry. A single connection to someone at a record label could be your break.

Because of this, it’s important to collaborate with other musicians, reach out to blogs, and be generally a nice person to the people you meet. Most people have a very long memory for first impressions and if you’re remembered as kind, that will help you one day. Your reputation has a huge impact on a musician’s willingness to work with you and managers interest in working for you.

Basically, work hard and be nice.

Lastly, you need to do something that will make you unique. You need to stand apart from other music producers in the industry. Anyone can produce music by the book. You need to do write music that only you can write. This will make you desirable to musicians, as well as give you a way to make a name for yourself in this very crowded industry.