What does a Music Producer actually do?
At Music Technology Forum this week Steve discussed the role of the producer and one thing that really stood out for me is how much a producer needs to clarify for themselves exactly what they are required to contribute to make the particular project a success. This needs to be clearly defined with all parties involved.
A producer is often responsible for planning and co-ordinating many areas of the production as mentioned by Steve. They responsible for:
The Products sound. Some producers have a trademark sound that they bring to the recording others will personalise to the band or labels requirements depending on who’s employing them on information gained during pre-production.
The performance that is captured. Some bands just want a snap shot of where they are at that particular time and other want the producer to guide the performance every step of the way.
Some go to the extent of working on arrangements, song choices or what songs appear on the CD and in what order, they may edit tracks or decide to do radio edits, re-arranging songs, give input on performance or even co-song write.
Budget Distribution. To guide the budget to ensure a product is delivered to the required standard within the required timeframe.
“Kicking Goals” Producers as with other managers need to be good communicators to “grease the wheels and get things done”.
They motivate and get the best out of the band members.
Avoid disruptions and keep band members happy by encouraging a stress free environment.
Keep everyone on target to make each session a productive one.
A well-rounded producer will have skills in the above areas or at least some of them. They may have two of these but a great track record and/or team working for them. I believe that a producer collects all of pieces of the project together and has a solid image of where the project is going. This will only happen by gaining insights from all parties involved. Pre-Production, Pre-Production, Pre-Production Oh Pre-Production, Plan, Execute but be flexible, it is art after all. Isn’t it?
References:
Music Technology Forum-EMU Adelaide Uni, Lect:Steve Fieldhouse
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