The Difference Between a Beatmaker And a Music producer

The words “beatmaker” and “music producer” are often used interchangeably. But there is a difference between the two.

In this article, I’m going to explain to you the difference between a beatmaker and a music producer.

After reading this post, you will have a better perspective.

So without wasting any more time, let’s dive in.

Beatmaker

The term beatmaker is pretty much self-explanatory. But let us try to understand the role of the beatmaker.

Most up and coming music enthusiasts have a computer at home or access to one. So let’s say you have the basic tools such as the PC as mentioned, a software program of your choice and a midi controller.

If you strictly make beats consistently using those tools, whether you are selling or handing them over to other artists (for free) – that makes you a beatmaker.

But why do I say that?

I will explain further, stick with me.

A beatmaker is a programmer, so in other words, you are basically putting the music together in order to compose the beat or instrumental. That’s it.

As soon as you sell or handover your music to someone else, your job is done.

And I hear some of you saying “But if an artist records vocals and releases a song using my beat, I should get the producer credit”

Sure in the industry that is acceptable and is a norm.

But remember earlier I said people tend to confuse or classify a beatmaker and producer as the same thing.

Let us go through the role of a music producer…

Music Producer

A music producer can be compared to a film director. He or she is the visionary and is often involved in the creative aspect from start to finish.

It is important to note that a music producer does not necessarily need to know how to program a beat from scratch (It helps to have the skillset though).

But as a producer, you should have ideas, the skill set and know-how to conduct the orchestra.

It is not uncommon for music producers to hire an engineer, keyboardists and guitarists in order to complete a song (or album) for an artist.

Dr Dre and Quincy Jones are good examples.

They do not necessarily make the beats and just hand them over to artists. 

The objective of a music producer is to complete the entire recording. So that means you should have the ability to guide an artist while recording vocals in the studio and be involved in the final mixdown too.

As you can see, a music producer takes more of a leadership role. And the responsibility is far greater than of a beatmaker. 

However, I must state, that sometimes you do find music professional that can play the beatmaker and music producer role very well.

Conclusion

A beatmaker and a producer both play an important role in the music industry. This post was just to highlight the difference between the two.

You can start off as a beatmaker and gradually improve your skills to become a music producer.

Or you can do both.

It is also important to know your personality and where you fit in.

Anyway, I hope you enjoyed this post. If you have any suggestions or if there’s anything I missed. Please do comment below.