What to Consider Before Working with a Music Producer

The Best Projects Start With a Little Homework

Working with a music producer is exciting. You've got songs, you've got ideas, and you're ready to hear them sound like real records. But the artists who get the most out of a producer are usually the ones who did a little thinking before the first session.

I've written before about how to choose the right music producer in Chicago. This one is about you: what to figure out on your end before you book anyone.

What Is This Song Supposed to Do?

Is it a single you're pitching to playlists? A song you want placed in TV or film? A personal project you want to sound great for your friends and family? All of those are valid, but they lead to different decisions about budget, sound, and timeline. Knowing the goal helps your producer make the right calls.

Be Honest About Your Budget

Nobody loves talking about money, but it's way better to have that conversation up front. Know what you can spend, and ask what's included. Production, session musicians, vocal production, mixing, and mastering can all be separate line items. A good producer will help you figure out what's worth spending on and where you can save.

Have Some References Ready

"I want it to sound like a sunset" is a beautiful sentiment, but three reference tracks will get us there a lot faster. Pick songs that capture the vibe, the energy, or even just one element you love, like a drum sound or how the vocal feels.

Think About Ownership and Credits

Who owns the master recording when you're done? How are songwriting splits handled if the producer contributes to the writing? These questions aren't awkward, they're professional. Get it in writing before you start. Future-you will be grateful, especially if the song takes off or lands a sync placement.

Know Your Timeline

If you have a release date, a tour, or a pitch deadline, say so on day one. Good production takes time, and rushing usually shows. Building in some breathing room means you get your best work instead of your fastest work.

Be Ready to Collaborate

The magic happens when you bring your vision and stay open to new ideas. Sometimes the part you weren't sure about becomes everyone's favorite moment in the song. Sometimes it doesn't, and that's what revisions are for.

Let's Make Something

If you've thought through these and you're ready to get started, reach out about your project. And if you haven't figured it all out yet, that's okay too. Talking it through is part of the process.