So you’re a producer right? I just need to make sure because this often gets confused with being a beat maker. Personally, I get offended when someone refers to my works as “beats”. It hurts my soul, almost degrading. Like, really!? I didn’t spend all those late nights and restless hours, only to put together a simple kick and snare or basic melody.
A lot of people may not even realise there’s a difference, but never be afraid to correct them. Be proud of what you do!
As a producer it’s essential that your work is of a good standard, after all it is representing you in a way. This means making sure melodic and rhythmic parts are quantized. Always check this as you go along, before beginning another section of your track. Something as simple as this could make a big difference by helping the general feel of the track gel together.
Secondly, when you’re choosing instruments and sounds to record, ensure that they reflect the nature of what you’re trying to achieve. Do they support the song’s message? Do they correlate with each other? Don’t just pick random sounds based on the fact that, that’s what’s being used in chart music or because Rick Rubin had a smash hit by using similar sounds. The different elements and components have to work together, just like ingredients for making a cake. If your sounds aren’t right, your music is going to be a waste of time.
For anyone just starting out, I’d encourage you to experiment as much as possible. That’s the best way to help with self-teaching. Listen to songs that you like to begin with and try to recreate sections via your own interpretation. Just have fun with it, production is a form of expression so get creative!
These are just some basic tips to think about. Hope this helps!
Rianne's World 
While I agree that there’s a difference between being a beat-maker and a producer, I think that the latter is actually more than just creating a song (I.e. choosing the right sounds and making sure they have a rhythm, etc.). I believe a producers job may encompass a wide range of duties as they oversee an entire project or production. From the initial writing/composing or gathering of composers, to the beat-making and actual producing of the music, to the editing/arranging or management of an editor/arranger, to the far out like maybe transporting and feeding the singers/songwriters on the project in the studio; maintaining of the equipment, and so forth.
To be a producer of music is to accept the entire role and take on what needs to be done to get a project finished and complete. You are the boss!
Thanks for the article and tips!
M!ke
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You are definitely right! The role of a producer extends much further than the physical process. I shall have some more tips coming soon. Thanks for your comment. Stay tuned!
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Will do, thanks!
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