If you’re a producer looking to make your mark in 2023, you know that there’s a lot on your plate. You have to create great music, achieve a professional sound, and build a fanbase. It’s a balancing act for today’s creators.
But here’s the question that’s probably on your mind: What does a producer really need in 2023?
In this article, I’ll break down the most important things you need for a modern music creator’s workflow. Let’s get started.
1. The power to create whatever you want
It all begins with a spark of inspiration.
The primary focus for every producer in 2023 is to craft fresh music; this marks the origin of your creative journey.
Yet, every producer employs a distinct approach when it comes to kindling that initial idea.
How do you initiate a new track? Do you start with a sample, perhaps? Or do you prefer to groove with your instrument? Maybe it all begins by crooning a catchy vocal hook?
Regardless of your source of inspiration, the crucial element is having the necessary tools to transform that inspiration into a budding idea.
For most of us, this entails utilizing production tools like samples, virtual instruments, DAW software, and other essential materials that ignite creativity and mold your ideas into tangible form.
2. The best ways to collaborate with others
In 2023, many of the top music tracks are the result of artists working together. This fact alone highlights the incredible power of collaboration!
But the benefits of musicians teaming up with one another go beyond what’s popular on the charts. Throughout different music genres, styles, and time periods, creative partnerships have driven musical innovation for generations.
For many musicians, collaboration is a natural part of their creative process, while others may face challenges when they can’t physically be with their musical collaborators.
When you can’t be in the same place as your fellow musicians, maintaining strong creative relationships can be tough.
Creators need tools that support collaboration in all its forms, allowing them to make the most out of any musical partnership.
3. The polishing and perfecting tools
Mixing music represents a crucial phase in a song’s journey. It significantly influences how your listeners perceive your music.
A great mix can pull listeners in, creating a strong connection with your material, while a poor one can push them away.
However, mixing can be quite challenging, with a steep learning curve and a multitude of production tools to master.
Despite the abundance of plugins and techniques available, it’s essential to have a set of reliable basic tools in your arsenal for everyday mixing tasks.
4. Take command of your digital rights
Many top-tier artists hire entire publishing firms to handle their music rights, but most independent producers often neglect this crucial aspect of the music industry.
Why does this happen? In many cases, independent producers are swamped with other tasks, and they may not fully grasp the importance of managing their rights.
However, managing your copyrights is a fundamental step in protecting your intellectual property and ensuring you get paid for your work.
If you aspire to earn royalties from streaming or pursue licensing opportunities, rights management is your first stop on the journey to success.
5. Learning and improvement resources
Being an artist is an ongoing journey without a definite endpoint.
No matter how skilled you become, there’s always room for growth and further achievement in your craft.
Moreover, embracing new challenges and dedicated development is vital for nurturing your creativity.
So, how can you continue learning and draw inspiration from fresh ideas and techniques along the way?
The solution lies in online learning resources tailored for music producers.
Whether you’re interested in mastering music theory, enhancing your mixing skills, or boosting your online presence, you’ll discover expert guidance at every significant stage in the life of a song.
6. Reaching the Broadest Audience
In 2023, music thrives on streaming platforms, and so do your potential listeners.
The secret to connecting with a vast audience lies in being present where they spend their time.
In reality, the streaming landscape offers more diversity than meets the eye.
To ensure your music reaches as many people as possible, you require a distributor capable of consistently delivering your content to a wide array of global streaming platforms.
When expanding your reach is essential, securing top-notch coverage in critical markets becomes paramount.
7. A Supportive Community of Peers and Mentors
Music is not created in isolation.
It’s a shared experience among fans, artists, and creators alike.
Connecting with fellow musicians can be a catalyst for reaching new creative heights.
And seeking guidance from a mentor can provide fresh insights and guidance.
But how do you locate your musical community in an increasingly digital world? What do you do when you require an external perspective on your music or expert assistance to overcome obstacles?
Are you in need of a skilled instrumentalist, a captivating vocal hook, mixing expertise, or candid feedback on your own mixing endeavors?
Networking is where you establish your musical community and gain access to the best resources the industry has to offer.
8. The ideal finishing touch
In the world of music production, those final touches can make a world of difference.
I’m talking about the essential phase called mastering, which represents the last step in refining your sound and transforming a final mix into a fully polished, finished product.
In today’s fiercely competitive music landscape, your songs must shine on playlists, standing out amidst a sea of tracks.
Mastering is the magic that fine-tunes your mix, ensuring it sounds its absolute best in any context. It’s the key to creating a truly captivating musical product.
Final thoughts
Every producer is unique, with their own set of goals and individual needs in 2023.
Ultimately, deciding what truly fits into a producer’s workflow is a personal decision. It’s entirely up to you.