4/17/2014

Hip Hop Producers New Role In The Music Industry

By Jerry K. Lewinski


At one point in time, Hip Hop producers did not necessarily need to know about every aspect of the process involved with putting an album together. They were able to get by focusing primarily on the recording process. However, music producers new role in the music industry dictates that they must wear many hats, and be familiar with all of the aspects of the business.

In the last several years, the recording industry has changed a lot. Internet marketing and music downloads have eclipsed the sales of physical records and the importance of record stores. Even traditional radio is not as influential as it once was. The digital revolution has transformed the industry's whole landscape.



The role of a Hip Hop producer has changed just as much as the industry itself. There are a number of new hats the producer must wear, involving many facets of an artist's career. Here a few of the things he or she must be familiar with. This list is not exhaustive, but it gives a good overview of the things that are of the greatest concern. A music producer must also be:

1. Recording engineer. A good producer must know about both classic and new techniques for recording music. He or she needs to stay informed about the latest technology, while knowing which classic techniques are still viable. This is necessary to advise the artist, and to make decisions about how to bring the best sound to the material. This is something that has always been a big part of a producer's job. That has not changed.

2. It is important to know about the basic tenets of music theory in order to advise people who make music. If you are knowledgeable, they will respect and trust your opinion. You need to be familiar with the basics in order to envision how to enhance them with recording equipment and techniques. No matter what your profession, you should always become familiar with the basic aspects of your product.

3. A & R executive. Artist and repertoire is the aspect of the business that involves searching out new talent, and helping both new and established talent to grow artistically. An A & R executive supervises the evolution of an album during the recording process, and serves as a bridge between the record company and the artist.

4. Marketing expert. In the age of the internet, marketing is more complicated than it was when it simply involved ad campaigns, press releases, and interviews. Now, social networking is an extremely important marketing tool. A good Hip Hop producer should be able to help artists develop a brand, advise them on their handling of social media, and also advise them on public image in situations like interviews or tv appearances. Marketing is a 24-hour-a-day job.

These are only a few of the roles Hip Hop producers in Los Angeles must play. New issues and responsibilities arise constantly in this ever-changing industry. To keep yourself fresh and informed in your profession, you must stay on top of these changes. You should seek to understand every dimension of the music industry in which you work and the work you do.




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