Becoming a Producer...

[Mip]

As well as planning on starting my own recording studio and independent label, i've been thinking of advertising myself as a producer. I'm just not sure if i'm "qualified" for it.
What qualities should a producer have? Are there any tricks of the trade that a producer should know? Should a producer have any training, or is there anything I should know, at least for starting out?
I've been playing music for about 12 years (since I was 7), been playing in bands for about 5 years, and want to make music my job. Is this enough to call myself qualified?
And finally, how much should a beginner producer charge?

 

[bvaleria]

The fundamental role of a producer is to provide an objective outlook on the creative vision of the artist. Many artists are too close to their own work to objectively make decisions on song quality and calibre, so an "outside opinion" is essential. In addition, the artist's vision may not necessary align itself commercially, and in the case of signed talent, the producer also provides an interface between the label and the artist. As well, the producer is the final decision-maker in any creative questions/disputes that arise within a band regarding its works.

A producer needs to have strong interpersonal & communication skills, decision-making abilities, and bear the brunt of both artists and labels wrath! A producer doesn't need to be a musician, but does require good listening skills and a decent set of ears never hurts.

I don't think there is a "producer's school" (well, maybe there is in LA!), you simply have to get your feet wet, and if you're any good, you'll make a name for yourself. If you work with a label, they will assign you bands to work with. As an independent, bands would hire you based on your reputation. Either way, it can be tough to break into....

As far as how much to charge - if you're trying to build a rep, you're only gonna be able to charge what bands are willing to pay! When you've established yourself, THEN you'll be able to "set your price"...

Good luck!

Bruce Valeriani
Blue Bear Sound

 

[junkyardearl]

I'm interested, what sort of music will your label be putting out. What kind of bands, what format will the records be (CD, 7" record, etc). These are probably important. If you just recording the bands then I'd just call myself an enginer. Now, the fact that you own the record label makes me think that you're going to be acting a little more like a producer in the situation. If you're working with high school age punk bands, don't call yourself a producer. It will just sound bad, enginer. Most of all, good luck and don't take on too many projects with your label at once! I knew a guy that told 7 different bands that he was going to put out their records. He ran out of money after one split label release and now everyone (including me) involved with him are really angry. HAVE A GOOD TIME!!!!

~james

 

[Mip]

Bvaleria, thanks for the reply. I think i'll see if a couple of bands that I know personally would like me to produce.

And Junkyardearl, at first my label will just be putting out CD's from my own band (which will probably only be me on guitar, bass, drums, and a singer in the studio. And maybe a keyboard player). We are aiming for a very electronic, industrial metal sound.

Later on i'll probably take on one band for starters. I'm aiming to take on a heavy band, although i'm going to consider anything (except boy bands, country, etc). I'll be producing their first CD, then maybe spring for somebody else to do it.

And, no i'm not taking on high school age punk bands, because my area is full of them and they're full of themselves, and sound really really REALLY bad.

cya's