MUSIC PRODUCERS

Just like an artist, a great producer is somebody who has their own distinct sound. Many producers will mimic others, and while they might sell a few tracks, they will never really make it until they develop their own production style. Timbaland is a great example of individuality in production. Timbaland is a super-producer from Virginia who got his start when he auditioned for Jodeci member Devante Swing and signed to his Swing Mob label in the early 90’s. He was collaborating with label mate Ginuwine and would produce his first hit single with Ginuwine’s smash hit “Pony” in ‘96 (he also produced every song on the album). He would then go on to produce countless hit singles for artists such as Missy Elliot, Aaliyah, Jay-Z and more recently Justin Timberlake and Nelly Furtado. Timbaland is one of the most diverse producers in the game and one of the few that can produce a hot R&B track, a hot hip-hop track and a hot pop track.

His style is very distinctive often using unusual drum patterns and foreign instrumentation on his tracks. His odd sound effects make his music instantly recognizable. They also make him the go to guy right now for that hit single. And while he may or may not get a half a mill for his beats like he said on “Give it to Me,” you better make sure that you’re prepared to shell out upwards of $75,000 for that hit.