Our top 5 producers of all time

Why we’ve chosen these producers

The music producers featured in this article represent the pinnacle of creativity, innovation, and influence within the music industry. We’ve chosen them not only for their ability to craft unforgettable songs but also for the transformative impact they’ve had on the artists they’ve worked with and the genres they’ve shaped.

Each producer on this list has a unique signature sound. Take the raw, cinematic beats of RZA, the soulful elegance of Raphael Saadiq, or the futuristic grooves of Aphex Twin, for example – they’re all completely distinguishable. And yet, they all share a common thread: the ability to redefine what’s possible in music.

What makes these producers truly the greatest is their ability to elevate the artists they collaborate with, pushing them to explore new sounds and ways of making music. But beyond this, we’ve also chosen these producers for their understanding of what music is at its core: emotion  All the people on this list create tracks that resonate with listeners on a deep level.

All in all, in choosing these producers, we’ve focused on their lasting influence, iconic productions, and undeniable contributions to music history.

The greatest music producers of all time

1. George Martin (1926 – 2016)

Widely known as the “Fifth Beatle,” George Martin was a pioneering music producer, known particularly for his work with The Beatles. His ability to blend classical influences with rock revolutionised studio techniques and elevated popular music to an art form.

Martin worked on iconic albums like Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band and Revolver, showcasing his innovative use of orchestration and multi-track recording. Beyond The Beatles, he also produced for Gerry and the Pacemakers and Shirley Bassey. His use of Mellotrons, string arrangements, and tape loops helped define an era.

To get George Martin’s iconic sound in your mix, we recommend the Arturia Mellotron V as this replicates the tone of the original instrument with meticulous detail.

Recommended listening: “A Day in the Life” by The Beatles from Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club – a perfect example of Martin’s work as the “Fifth Beatle.”

2. Trevor Horn (1949 – )

Known as the “Man Who Invented the Eighties,” Trevor Horn reshaped pop music with his futuristic sound and groundbreaking production techniques. His work often featured lush synths, layered vocals, and bold use of sampling, which set the standard for studio innovation in the 1980s and beyond.

Horn produced iconic tracks like “Relax” by Frankie Goes to Hollywood, “Video Killed the Radio Star” by The Buggles, and “Owner of a Lonely Heart” by Yes. His meticulous approach brought a cinematic quality to his productions, blending analog warmth with digital precision.

A fan of synthesizers and samplers, Horn utilised gear like the Fairlight CMI, which revolutionised electronic production. Modern producers can explore Arturia’s software synths to replicate his rich, layered soundscapes.

Recommended listening: “Relax” by Frankie Goes to Hollywood – a perfect example of Horn’s ability to merge pop hooks with innovative production.

3. Prince (1958 – 2016)

A true musical visionary, Prince was not just a performer but also a masterful producer who shaped his own sound and influenced countless artists. His productions are known for their genre-blending brilliance, fusing funk, rock, pop, and R&B with experimental flair.

Prince produced groundbreaking records like “Purple Rain” and “1999,” crafting hits that defined the sound of the 1980s. He also worked with artists like Sheila E., The Time, and Vanity 6, creating tracks that pulsate with rhythm, groove, and emotion.

Renowned for his hands-on approach, Prince used gear like the LinnDrum drum machine and Oberheim OB-Xa synthesizer – the voice of which is available in the Oberheim OB-X8 – to craft his distinctive sound.

Recommended listening: “Purple Rain” by Prince & The Revolution – a perfect showcase of his innovation, combining heartfelt lyrics with masterful instrumentation.

4. Quincy Jones (1933 – 2024)

A titan of music production, Quincy Jones blended jazz, soul, pop, and R&B into timeless hits. He was known for his impeccable arrangements, which often included lush orchestration and groove-driven rhythms, and knack for collaborating with artists.

Jones produced Michael Jackson’s legendary albums Thriller and Off the Wall, cementing his place in music history. He also worked with Frank Sinatra on It Might As Well Be Swing and Ray Charles on early recordings.

Jones frequently employed state-of-the-art gear, including classic Neumann microphones and SSL mixing consoles, to achieve his polished productions. Software-wise, we recommend Universal Audio plugins to emulate his studio sound.

Recommended listening: “Billie Jean” from Thriller – a masterclass in dynamic production and unforgettable grooves.

5. Tony Visconti (1944 – )

There’s a reason Tony Visconti had such long-standing collaborations with David Bowie – he has a fantastic experimental approach that blends acoustic and electronic elements into distinctive sonic textures.

Visconti produced Bowie’s iconic albums Heroes, Low, and Blackstar, shaping the sound of art rock and beyond. He also worked with T. Rex on Electric Warrior and Thin Lizzy on Bad Reputation. He’s an extremely innovative producer, using inventive microphone techniques and pioneering the use of digital effects to get his sound.

Visconti is known for using Eventide harmonisers, reel-to-reel tape machines, and dynamic mic setups. If you want to achieve the same pitch-shifting and layering effects, we recommend Eventide plugins.

Recommended listening: “Heroes” by David Bowie – an iconic track that showcases Visconti’s mastery of atmosphere and emotion through production.

6. Arif Mardin (1932 – 2006)

Arif Mardin was a groundbreaking producer and arranger whose career spanned over four decades, leaving an enduring legacy in popular music. Renowned for his versatility, he seamlessly worked across genres including soul, jazz, R&B, pop, and even country, shaping the sounds of iconic artists.

His ability to enhance an artist’s unique style while delivering timeless, polished productions earned him legendary status.

Mardin’s most celebrated works include Aretha Franklin’s “Respect,” a definitive anthem of empowerment; the Bee Gees’ “Jive Talkin’,” which helped spearhead the disco era; and Norah Jones’ Come Away With Me, a genre-defying masterpiece that won multiple Grammy Awards.

He utilised classic Neve consoles and ribbon microphones to create warm, rich recordings. The sE Electronics RNR1, the ribbon microphone designed alongside Rupert Neve, is a great place to start if you’re influenced by Arif Mardin.

Recommended listening: Come Away With Me by Norah Jones – a perfect example of Mardin’s ability to craft intimate, soulful recordings.

7. Daft Punk

Daft Punk, the iconic French electronic duo, redefined music production with their futuristic sound, blending house, funk, disco, and pop. Known for their innovative use of technology and live instrumentation, their work has influenced a generation of producers and artists.

While they’re best known for their own albums like Discovery and Random Access Memories, Daft Punk also contributed their production talents to other artists. They worked with The Weeknd on “Starboy” and “I Feel It Coming”, blending their signature retro-futuristic sound with modern R&B. They also produced Pharrell Williams’ “Gust of Wind” and collaborated with Julian Casablancas on “Instant Crush.”

Daft Punk’s use of gear like the Roland TR-909 drum machine (replicable with Roland Cloud virtual instruments), Minimoog synthesiser, and vocoders contributed to their distinctive sound.

Recommended listening: “One More Time” from Discovery – a modern disco classic showcasing their mastery of groove, melody, and production.

8. J Dilla (1974 – 2006)

One of the most influential hip-hop producers of all time, J Dilla had an innovative approach to beat-making, with off-kilter rhythms, warm samples, and soulful loops. He redefined the genre and set a new standard for musicality in production. His work transcended hip-hop, influencing genres like neo-soul and electronic music.

J Dilla worked with legendary artists such as A Tribe Called Quest, producing tracks like “Find a Way”; Common, crafting much of the acclaimed Like Water for Chocolate album; and Erykah Badu on songs like “Didn’t Cha Know.” His productions have an organic, human feel, achieved through techniques like chopping samples and eschewing quantisation for a natural groove.

A master of the Akai MPC3000, Dilla’s techniques are still studied and emulated today – and you can do so on the Akai Professional MPC One Plus and with Serato Sample.

Recommended listening: “The Light” by Common – a journey of emotive, sample-based storytelling.

9. Giorgio Moroder (1940 – )

“Father of Disco” Giorgio Moroder revolutionised music production by integrating electronic elements into mainstream pop and dance music. His pioneering use of synthesizers, drum machines, and sequencers helped define the sound of the ’70s and ’80s, laying the groundwork for electronic music as we know it today.

Moroder’s career includes producing timeless hits for Donna Summer, including the groundbreaking “I Feel Love,” which is credited as one of the first fully electronic dance tracks. He also worked with David Bowie on “Cat People (Putting Out Fire)” and Blondie on “Call Me.” His productions are known for their pulsing rhythms, lush textures, and cinematic drama.

Moroder frequently used synthesizers like the Moog Modular and ARP Odyssey. You can capture the tone and warmth of the original Moog Modular with the Moog One 16-Voice Analog Synthesizer and digital sequencers like Ableton Live.

Recommended listening: “I Feel Love” by Donna Summer – a genre-defining masterpiece that showcases Moroder’s innovative use of synthesisers and hypnotic grooves.

10. Berry Gordy (1929 – )

Berry Gordy is a legendary figure in music history, best known as the founder of Motown Records and the architect of the Motown Sound. Gordy’s vision and production genius turned Motown into a hit-making powerhouse, crafting a sound that blended soulful melodies, infectious rhythms, and universal appeal.

Gordy worked with iconic artists like The Supremes, producing hits such as “Baby Love”; Marvin Gaye on classics like “I Heard It Through the Grapevine”; and The Jackson 5 with “I Want You Back.” Every song he’s produced is tight, has strong grooves, and emphasises vocal harmonies, often recorded with the legendary Funk Brothers session band.

Though not known for using studio gear himself, Gordy’s teams utilised vintage Neumann microphones and tape machines.

Recommended listening: “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” by Marvin Gaye – a quintessential track showcasing Gordy’s flair for timeless hits.

11. Brian Eno (1948 – )

Often called a “sonic sculptor,” Brian Eno has a knack for turning the studio into an instrument, crafting immersive soundscapes that blur the lines between sound and art.

Eno’s production credits include U2’s The Joshua Tree and Achtung Baby, David Bowie’s iconic Berlin Trilogy (Low, Heroes, Lodger), and Talking Heads’ groundbreaking Remain in Light. His signature style comprises atmospheric textures, bold experimentation, and the use of generative music principles. From tape loops to synthesizers and ambient effects, Eno’s creations feel both vast and intimate.

When it came to gear, Eno was all about pushing boundaries. He often turned to tools like the Yamaha DX7 synthesizer and the Eventide Harmonizer to shape his sound. Software like Cubase and the Eventide H910 Harmonizer make it easier than ever to channel some of Eno’s magic into their your projects.

Recommended listening: “An Ending (Ascent)” – an iconic track showcasing Eno’s mastery of mood and experimental layering.

12. Nile Rodgers (1952 – )

Nile Rodgers is a legendary producer, songwriter, and guitarist whose work has shaped the sound of disco, funk, and pop for decades.

As the co-founder of Chic, Rodgers as a guitarist alone is among the best in the world. And as a producer, he’s one of the greats, known for his tight, funk-driven rhythms and polished arrangements. Rodgers’ trademark sound often involves clean, syncopated guitar lines layered over driving bass and beats.

Rodgers has produced career-defining hits for artists such as David Bowie (“Let’s Dance”), Madonna (“Like a Virgin”), and Daft Punk (“Get Lucky”).

In the studio, Rodgers frequently uses Fender Strats and classic analog consoles. The Native Instruments Guitar Rig Pro 7, which captures the sound of classic amps and a great-sounding bass guitar VST such as Toontracks’ EZBass are great places to start if you want to achieve that Nile Rodgers sound.

Recommended listening: “Le Freak” by Chic – an iconic track that highlights Rodgers’ unmatched ability to craft timeless grooves and melodies.

13. Dr. Dre (1965 – )

Hip-hop producer Dr. Dre is a pioneer of West Coast G-funk. He incorporates heavy basslines, smooth synths, and impeccable drum programming into his music, creating tracks that are both hard-hitting and atmospheric.

Dre’s production credits include N.W.A’s revolutionary album Straight Outta Compton, Snoop Dogg’s iconic Doggystyle, and Eminem’s groundbreaking debut The Slim Shady LP. His work has propelled multiple artists to superstardom and consistently set new benchmarks in production quality.

He has an incredible ability to craft some of the best hooks and work with meticulous attention to detail. With the release of the new joint album with Snoop Dogg (Missionary), Dr. Dre further cements his legacy with his huge and in-your-face production style.

In terms of gear, Dre has been known to use the Akai MPC series (we recommend the Akai Professional MPC Key 37 MPC Production Keyboard), SSL mixing consoles (our pick is the SSL BiG SiX mixer), and Moog synthesisers.

Recommended listening: “Westside Story” by The Game & 50 Cent – a quintessential track showcasing Dre’s iconic west coast sound, with rich piano melody and huge drums.

14. George Clinton (1941 – )

George Clinton, the mastermind behind Parliament-Funkadelic, is a revolutionary producer and artist who redefined funk music. Known for his cosmic themes, psychedelic grooves, and electrifying stage presence, Clinton’s work laid the foundation for modern hip-hop, R&B, and electronic music. You’ll recognise his work for its complex arrangements, deep basslines, and the use of synthesizers to create otherworldly textures.

Clinton’s production credits include groundbreaking tracks for Parliament like “Give Up the Funk (Tear the Roof off the Sucker),” Funkadelic’s “One Nation Under a Groove,” and Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Freaky Styley.

A pioneer of studio experimentation, Clinton utilised gear like the Minimoog and ARP Odyssey synthesizers, along with elaborate effects processing. You can emulate his sound with Arturia’s synth plugins or drum machines like the Roland TR-08 Rhythm Composer Drum Machine.

Recommended listening: “One Nation Under a Groove” by Funkadelic – a genre-defining track that showcases Clinton’s ability to blend funk, rock, and soul into a unified groove.

15. The-Dream (1977 – )

Terius Nash, or as he’s more commonly known, The-Dream, is one of the most influential producers and songwriters in modern R&B and pop. Renowned for his lush, melodic soundscapes and emotionally charged lyrics, his productions have shaped countless hits and defined the sound of the 2000s and beyond.

The-Dream’s production credits include Beyoncé’s chart-topping anthem “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It),” Rihanna’s sultry “Umbrella,” and Mariah Carey’s heartfelt “Touch My Body.” His sound is marked by layered harmonies, sophisticated chord progressions, and the seamless blending of electronic and acoustic elements.

In the studio, The-Dream is known for his use of software-based tools like Logic Pro and synthesizers such as the Yamaha Motif. Producers inspired by his style can explore our vinyl synthesizer libraries to create similar polished, emotive productions.

Recommended listening: “Umbrella” by Rihanna – a timeless track that showcases The-Dream’s knack for crafting infectious melodies and memorable hooks.

16. DJ Premier (1966 – )

As one-half of the iconic duo Gang Starr, DJ Premier set the benchmark for authenticity in hip-hop production by bringing a raw, jazzy, and deeply soulful sound to the genre. He is widely regarded as one of the best hip-hop producers ever, and his signature sampling style is instantly recognisable, with many of his samples being chopped up bars of very obscure tracks to create an infectious four/eight bar loop.

As well as sampling, DJ Premier’s music tends to feature intricate scratching and catchy drum loops and draws from jazz and soul records.

Premier has produced for a range of legendary artists, including Nas (N.Y. State of Mind), The Notorious B.I.G. (Unbelievable), and Jay-Z (D’Evils).

A master of the Akai MPC series and Technics turntables, Premier’s influence on beat-making is unmatched. If you’re an aspiring producer, you can replicate his sound with the Akai Professional MPC X Special Edition Standalone Production Machine and tools like Serato DJ Pro.

Recommended listening: “Mass Appeal” by Gang Starr – a quintessential Premier track that showcases his ability to blend soulful samples with gritty beats.

17. The Alchemist (1977 – )

The Alchemist, born Alan Maman, is one of the most revered producers in contemporary hip-hop, known for his moody, cinematic beats and exceptional sample manipulation. With a career spanning decades, The Alchemist has worked with some of the most respected lyricists, producing tracks that perfectly complement their storytelling and artistry.

He has produced for artists like Eminem (Chemical Warfare), Freddie Gibbs (Scottie Beam from Alfredo), and Prodigy (Keep It Thoro from H.N.I.C.). His style often features dusty, obscure samples, layered instrumentation, and minimalist yet impactful drum patterns. The Alchemist’s ability to create immersive soundscapes makes his work stand out in the crowded hip-hop landscape.

In the studio, he often uses Akai MPCs and vintage records for sampling, as well as DAWs like Logic Pro. Modern producers can explore his techniques with an Akai MPC or sampling tools like Serato Sample.

Recommended listening: “Worst Comes to Worst” by Dilated Peoples – a track that perfectly showcases his atmospheric production style and his ear for sampling.

18.  RZA (1969 – )

Legendary producer, rapper, and filmmaker RZA is best known as the architect behind the groundbreaking sound of the Wu-Tang Clan. His gritty, cinematic production style reshaped hip-hop in the 1990s, blending soul samples, raw beats, and Eastern influences into a sound that was both innovative and timeless.

RZA’s production credits include Wu-Tang Clan’s seminal album Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers), Method Man’s Tical, and Raekwon’s Only Built 4 Cuban Linx… His productions are marked by eerie loops, chopped samples, and a lo-fi aesthetic that gives his beats a raw, unfiltered quality.

RZA is known for using gear like the Ensoniq ASR-10 sampler and Akai MPC60, tools that helped define his signature sound. To achieve the same sound, explore our wide range of Akai gear or vintage-style sampling tools like Arturia’s software emulations.

Recommended listening: “C.R.E.A.M.” by Wu-Tang Clan – an iconic track showcasing RZA’s ability to blend haunting melodies with hard-hitting beats.

19. Trent Reznor (1965 – )

Trent Reznor, the creative force behind Nine Inch Nails, is a visionary producer and composer known for his dark, industrial soundscapes and innovative approach to music production. His work combines raw emotion, layered textures, and cutting-edge technology, pushing the boundaries of alternative and electronic music.

You can hear Reznor’s production style in all its glory in Nine Inch Nails’ The Downward Spiral, an industrial rock masterpiece, Marilyn Manson’s Antichrist Superstar, and Halsey’s If I Can’t Have Love, I Want Power. His productions often feature distorted synths, intricate sound design, and haunting melodies, creating an immersive and visceral listening experience.

Reznor frequently uses gear like Moog synthesizers, modular systems, and digital audio workstations such as Pro Tools. Sound design tools like Native Instruments’ Kontakt are a great place to start if you want to produce a similar sound.

Recommended listening: “Beautiful People” by Marilyn Manson – a track that epitomises Reznor’s ability to blend industrial grit with hypnotic rhythms and emotive depth.

20. King Tubby (1941 – 1989)

King Tubby (Osbourne Ruddock) is a pioneering producer and sound engineer who revolutionised reggae and gave birth to dub music. Known for his innovative use of studio equipment, Tubby transformed the mixing desk into an instrument, creating echo-laden, bass-heavy tracks that redefined the boundaries of sound production. He has also been credited with inventing and popularising the concept of the ‘remix’.

Tubby worked with legendary artists such as Augustus Pablo on King Tubby Meets Rockers Uptown, Horace Andy on dub versions of his roots reggae classics, and Lee “Scratch” Perry in crafting experimental dub remixes. His signature sound includes reverb-drenched effects, stripped-back arrangements, and thundering basslines, creating immersive, hypnotic tracks that influenced genres like hip-hop, electronic, and beyond.

In the studio, Tubby relied on gear like analog mixing consoles, tape echo machines, and spring reverbs. Producers can explore his ‘spaced out’ production style with the Universal Audio Galaxy Tape Echo or plugin libraries such as Native Instruments Komplete – giving you all the drum and guitar sounds you need to create that classic dub style.

Recommended listening: “King Tubby Meets Rockers Uptown” by Augustus Pablo – a genre-defining track that exemplifies Tubby’s mastery of dub production and inventive studio techniques.

21. Liam Howlett (1971 – )

Liam Howlett, the creative mastermind behind The Prodigy, is a pioneering producer who brought breakbeat, big beat, and rave culture into the mainstream. Known for his high-energy productions and genre-defying sound, Howlett’s work blends punk attitude with dancefloor euphoria.

Howlett’s production credits include The Prodigy’s seminal albums like The Fat of the Land, featuring hits like “Firestarter” and “Breathe”, as well as Music for the Jilted Generation. While primarily associated with The Prodigy, he has also collaborated with artists like Maxim on solo projects and remixed tracks for Oasis and Method Man.

His productions are defined by heavy basslines, intricate drum patterns, and an aggressive, layered sound that resonates in both clubs and arenas. Howlett frequently uses Roland synthesizers, Akai samplers, and DAWs like Reason to craft his explosive soundscapes. We recommend using tools like Roland TR-8S or virtual instruments in Reason if you’re inspired by Liam Howlett.

Recommended listening: “Breathe” by The Prodigy – an iconic track that perfectly encapsulates Howlett’s high-octane production and unique fusion of styles.

22. Aphex Twin (1971 – )

Aphex Twin blends ambient, techno, and IDM (intelligent dance music) into complex, otherworldly soundscapes. His music is as innovative as it is influential, with a style that has inspired countless artists across electronic and mainstream genres.

While Aphex Twin primarily focuses on his own releases, he has worked with and influenced artists like Squarepusher, Venetian Snares, and Björk, notably remixing her track “Unravel”.

His productions are characterised by intricate rhythms, eerie melodies, and a deep understanding of sound manipulation. Seminal works include albums like Selected Ambient Works 85-92 and Richard D. James Album.

Aphex Twin is known for using customised gear, including analogue synthesizers like the Roland TB-303 and software like Max/MSP. You can explore his techniques with tools like Novation Bass Station II Analog Synthesizer (which includes the AFX Mode – created alongside Aphex Twin himself) and modular synths.

Recommended listening: “Windowlicker” – a mind-bending track that showcases Aphex Twin’s ability to merge haunting melodies with innovative production techniques.

23. Raphael Saddiq (1966 – )

Raphael Saadiq is a masterful producer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who seamlessly blends classic soul with modern R&B. A key figure in neo-soul, Saadiq’s timeless sound has influenced countless artists, while his production work has crafted some of the genre’s most iconic tracks.

Saadiq has produced for D’Angelo (“Untitled [How Does It Feel]”), Solange (“Cranes in the Sky” from A Seat at the Table), and John Legend (“Show Me” from Once Again). His hallmark production style features warm basslines, lush strings, and intricate vocal arrangements, all steeped in the rich tradition of ’60s and ’70s soul.

In the studio, Saadiq favours analogue equipment like vintage Fender basses, Rhodes pianos, and classic tape machines. Modern producers can emulate his sound with tools like Arturia’s Analog Lab or DAWs such as FL Studio.

Recommended listening: “Cranes in the Sky” by Solange – a stunning track that highlights Saadiq’s ability to create minimalist yet deeply emotive productions.

24. The Neptunes

The Neptunes, the iconic production duo of Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo, revolutionised pop and hip-hop in the late 1990s and early 2000s with their distinctive, futuristic sound. Known for minimalistic beats, catchy melodies, and unconventional textures, their work has left a lasting impact across genres.

The Neptunes have produced hits for Jay-Z (“I Just Wanna Love U [Give It 2 Me]”), Britney Spears (“I’m a Slave 4 U”), and Nelly (“Hot in Herre”). Their signature production style includes heavy use of synths, sparse yet impactful drum patterns, and a blend of funk, hip-hop, and electronic elements.

Their ability to craft tracks that sound ahead of their time while remaining irresistibly catchy is why they’re among the greatest producers.

They’re known for using tools like the Korg Triton workstation and vintage drum machines. You can explore their techniques with software emulation of classic modular gear such as the Cherry Audio PS-3300 or synths in Ableton Live.

Recommended listening: “Hot in Herre” by Nelly – a defining track that showcases The Neptunes’ ability to craft infectious hooks and genre-defying beats.

25. Wiley (1979 – )

Wiley, often referred to as the “Godfather of Grime,” is a groundbreaking producer and artist who played a pivotal role in creating and popularising the grime genre. He helped shape the sound of UK urban music, blending elements of garage, jungle, and dancehall with raw, energetic delivery.

It’s not very often you can pinpoint the birth of a genre, but Wiley was one of the pioneers who created the sound of Grime. Wiley’s production credits include Roll Deep’s “When I’m ‘Ere,” Skepta’s “Rolex Sweep,” and Dizzee Rascal’s early tracks like “We Ain’t Having It.”

His productions tend to have sharp, syncopated drum patterns, icy synths, and basslines designed to shake the dancefloor. Wiley’s use of minimalism in grime production set a new standard for raw yet infectious beats.

Wiley is known for his use of FruityLoops (now FL Studio) and synthesizers like the Korg Triton to craft his iconic sound. We recommend using hard-hitting drums from virtual instruments such as UJAM’s Beatmaker Hustle to create his sound.

Recommended listening: “Wot Do U Call It?” – a defining track that encapsulates Wiley’s role in establishing grime as a genre and his innovative approach to production.

26.  Skream (1986 – )

Oliver Jones, or as he’s professionally known, Skream, is a pioneering producer and DJ who played a pivotal role in the development of dubstep, pushing the genre from underground raves to global recognition. Known for his deep, atmospheric sound and innovative basslines, Skream has been a trailblazer in electronic music since his teenage years.

Just like Wiley, Skream was at the forefront of the birth of Dubstep alongside Benga, Appleblim, Hatcha and others. Skream’s production credits include La Roux’s “In for the Kill (Skream’s Remix)” and tracks for Katy B, such as “Katy on a Mission.”

His early works, like “Midnight Request Line,” are iconic in shaping dubstep’s dark, minimalistic aesthetic. Over time, his sound evolved to encompass house, disco, and techno, showcasing his versatility and innovation.

Skream’s studio setup often includes software like Logic Pro and synthesizers such as the Access Virus. If you want to emulate his sound, Rob Papen’s eXplorer bundle is a great place to start as it boasts a wide array of synth plugins including SubBoomBass.

Recommended listening: “Midnight Request Line” – a foundational track in dubstep that showcases Skream’s talent for blending deep bass, haunting melodies, and hypnotic rhythms.

27. Calibre

Calibre is one of the greatest producers in the drum and bass scene, known for his soulful, melodic, and deeply emotive sound. His work has set a benchmark for quality and innovation within the genre, blending intricate rhythms with rich musicality to create tracks that resonate with both DJs and listeners alike.

He is also one of the main driving forces behind the uprising of liquid drum and bass, regarded for his highly melodic and chilled-out production. Calibre has produced for artists such as Marcus Intalex, collaborating on tracks like “Lover”; High Contrast with remixes like “Music Is Everything”; and SpectraSoul on their soulful releases.

His productions are characterised by smooth basslines, lush melodies, and a minimalistic yet impactful approach, which has earned him a loyal following. Calibre’s studio setup often includes analogue equipment like the Roland Juno synthesizer and software tools such as Logic Pro. Modern producers can explore his techniques with Roland virtual instruments.

Recommended listening: “Even If” – a quintessential Calibre track that highlights his signature fusion of deep grooves, soulful melodies, and atmospheric textures.

28. Calvin Harris (1984 – )

Calvin Harris is one of the most successful producers and DJs in modern electronic music. Known for his chart-topping hits and ability to blend electronic dance music with pop, Harris has become a global icon with a sound that dominates clubs and airwaves.

Harris has produced for major artists including Rihanna (“We Found Love”), Dua Lipa (“One Kiss”), and Ellie Goulding (“I Need Your Love”). His productions are characterised by infectious hooks, polished arrangements, and anthemic energy, seamlessly blending house beats with pop sensibilities. His work has not only defined mainstream EDM but also reshaped pop music, with countless number-one hits.

In the studio, Harris frequently uses synthesizers like the Moog Voyager and software tools such as Logic Pro. You can emulate his sound with virtual synths like Arturia’s V Collection.

Recommended listening: “I Need Your Love” by Ellie Goulding – a global hit that showcases Harris’ knack for creating euphoric, dancefloor-ready tracks.

FAQs

Who is considered the best music producer of all time?

The best music producer of all time is widely considered to be Quincy Jones. Renowned for his work with Michael Jackson on albums like Thriller, Jones revolutionised music production. His influence spans genres, setting unmatched benchmarks in artistry and innovation.

Who is the most popular beat producer

Dr Dre is the most popular and influential figure in rap music. He is the pioneer of West Coast G-funk and has become one of the greatest music producers of all time.

Who is the best music maker ever?

Beyond the wealth of music producers we’ve discussed here, one of the best music makers ever (across all genres and of all time) is often considered to be Ludwig van Beethoven. He was a genius whose work has inspired and influenced all styles of music, with his groundbreaking compositions that bridged classical and romantic styles.

Final thoughts

From legendary pioneers to modern innovators, the greatest music producers of all time showcase the diverse talents that have shaped the soundtracks of our lives. Each producer brought their unique style and vision, leaving an indelible mark on music history.

Whether it’s the experimental genius of Brian Eno, the soulful grooves of Raphael Saadiq, or the game-changing beats of Dr. Dre, every name on this list demonstrates the power of creativity and innovation.

If you’re looking for more articles and production tips check out the links below:

How To Sample A Song – A Guide To Music Sampling

Hip-Hop Production – Our Tips For Making Hip-Hop Beats

The 11 Best Synthesizers For Enthusiasts and Professionals