Being a music producer sounds awesome, right? Working with recording artists, using fancy studio equipment, and making chart-topping hits. But hold on a sec, there's more to it than that. There are various audio production skills required for one to be a record producer and these are:
- Having an ear for sound (i.e., in the lines of sound design)
- A basic understanding of music theory (it's ideal for composing original music ideas)
- Ability to make a decent mix (it's necessary for making a reference mix)
- Music business acumen (i.e., an understanding of current popular music trends and the nature of the record business itself)
- Good communication skills when working with other record producers, singers and session musicians (it's self-explanatory isn't?)
Mastering one thing at a time
As an aspiring music producer you may want to try as much as possible to focus on one particular genre of music instead of trying to be a jack-off-all-trades. It's much easier to master music production techniques of one style of music. But then again with a steady approach and caution, there's nothing wrong with being influenced by certain nuances from other genres of music.
N.B. The ideal approach is to be good at one thing first, and then, later on, as an upcoming record producer you can can slowly proceed to learn new music composition tips and artistry about, for example, exotic foreign music that captives you.
Communication and collaboration
It's not all about the recording equipment and audio production software. You gotta be good with people too. You'll be working with all sorts of people – shy artists, artists full of ideas, musicians who need direction, and engineers who use technical jargon. You gotta be able to explain your ideas clearly, even if you have to get creative with how you say things. Working together is key in the studio – imagine being the glue that holds the whole creative crew together, making sure everyone feels heard and their ideas contribute to the final product.
Music business acumen
Having some business sense is a bonus and a useful one. Understanding record contracts, royalties, and the ever-changing music industry can protect you and your projects. Imagine knowing how much an artist should get paid for their work, or how to deal with the legalities of using a sound from another song. Plus, knowing how to promote yourself and your work never hurts. Building a website (or have someone do it for you), having a cool online presence, and connecting with the right people can open doors you never knew existed.
