10 Things New Music Producers Must Do To Succeed

As a seasoned producer who has worked with hundreds of artists across various genres, I’ve seen firsthand what works and what doesn’t. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your skills, these ten tips will help you elevate your craft and build a successful career in the music industry.

1. Master Your DAW

Why It Matters: Your DAW is the heart of your production setup. Whether you’re using ProTools, Logic Pro, Ableton, or FL Studio, mastering your DAW will drastically improve your workflow and creativity.

How to Do It:

• Learn the Shortcuts: Familiarize yourself with keyboard shortcuts to speed up your process.

• Explore Plug-ins: Experiment with different plug-ins to find your unique sound.

• Continuous Learning: Follow tutorials and online courses to stay updated with the latest features and techniques.

2. Invest in Quality Monitoring

Why It Matters: Accurate sound reproduction is crucial for making informed decisions during the mixing and mastering stages. Good monitors and headphones can be the difference between a track that sounds great and one that falls flat.

How to Do It:

• Choose the Right Monitors: Invest in flat-response studio monitors that offer clear, unbiased sound.

• Treat Your Room: Use acoustic panels and bass traps to minimize unwanted reflections and standing waves.

• Test Your Mixes: Always test your mixes on different systems (car speakers, earbuds) to ensure they translate well.

3. Build a Strong Network

Why It Matters: The music industry thrives on connections. Networking can open doors to collaborations, gigs, and opportunities that you wouldn’t find on your own.

How to Do It:

• Attend Industry Events: Go to music conferences, workshops, and networking events.

• Join Online Communities: Engage in forums, social media groups, and Discord channels dedicated to music production.

• Collaborate: Work with other artists, producers, and songwriters to expand your reach and skill set.

4. Understand the Importance of Pre-Production

Why It Matters: Pre-production is where the foundation of your track is laid. It saves time during recording and mixing by identifying potential issues early on.

How to Do It:

• Plan Your Sessions: Decide on the arrangement, tempo, and key before hitting record.

• Create a Demo: Use rough takes to map out the structure and feel of the track.

• Communicate with Artists: Make sure everyone involved understands the vision and direction of the project.

5. Stay Organized

Why It Matters: A cluttered workspace can lead to a cluttered mind. Keeping your sessions and files organized helps you focus on what really matters—creating great music.

How to Do It:

• Label Your Tracks: Clearly label each track and use color-coding for different sections (e.g., drums, vocals).

• Create Templates: Set up session templates for different types of projects to save time.

• Backup Regularly: Use external drives or cloud storage to backup your projects and avoid losing important work.

6. Develop a Signature Sound

Why It Matters: In a saturated market, having a distinct sound can set you apart from other producers. Your signature sound is your brand, and it’s what keeps artists coming back to work with you.

How to Do It:

• Experiment with Effects: Use reverb, delay, distortion, and other effects to create unique textures.

• Focus on Sound Design: Create your own samples and presets instead of relying solely on stock sounds.

• Stay Consistent: While experimenting is important, maintaining a consistent style will help solidify your brand.

7. Understand Music Theory

Why It Matters: A solid understanding of music theory can take your productions to the next level. It allows you to communicate effectively with musicians and create more complex and interesting compositions.

How to Do It:

• Learn the Basics: Study scales, chords, and progressions to build a strong foundation.

• Apply It in Your DAW: Use MIDI and virtual instruments to experiment with different chord progressions and melodies.

• Practice Regularly: Continuously challenge yourself by creating tracks in different keys and time signatures.

8. Embrace Feedback

Why It Matters: Constructive criticism is invaluable for growth. Getting feedback from other producers, artists, or even fans can provide new perspectives and ideas.

How to Do It:

• Join Critique Groups: Participate in feedback groups on platforms like Reddit or Facebook.

• Ask for Honest Opinions: Encourage people to give you candid feedback, even if it’s not what you want to hear.

• Reflect and Improve: Use the feedback to identify areas for improvement and refine your skills.

9. Keep Up with Industry Trends

Why It Matters: The music industry is constantly evolving. Staying updated with trends ensures that your productions remain relevant and competitive.

How to Do It:

• Follow Industry News: Subscribe to music blogs, YouTube channels, and podcasts that focus on industry trends.

• Experiment with New Genres: Don’t be afraid to dabble in trending genres or incorporate popular elements into your music.

• Analyze Popular Tracks: Study the structure, production techniques, and sound design of chart-topping songs.

10. Prioritize Mental and Physical Health

Why It Matters: The creative process can be mentally and physically draining. Prioritizing your well-being is essential for sustaining a long and successful career in music.

How to Do It:

• Take Breaks: Step away from your work regularly to avoid burnout and maintain creativity.

• Stay Active: Incorporate exercise into your routine to keep your body and mind sharp.

• Seek Balance: Make time for hobbies, friends, and relaxation to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Starting out as a music producer or singer-songwriter can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can turn your passion into a thriving career. Implement these tips into your daily routine, and watch as your skills, network, and opportunities grow. Remember, persistence and continuous learning are key. Stay dedicated, and the results will follow.

Join the Conversation: Follow @ArtistFirstProduction on Instagram for tips, industry insights, and more. Share your own tips and success stories in the comments below.