Producing vs Production: What’s the Difference, and Why Should You Care?
If you’ve ever asked “what does a producer actually do?” you’re not alone — even producers argue about it.
Historically Speaking…
Production used to mean the technical side: recording, mixing, mastering — the nuts and bolts.
Producing was the creative side: guiding the artist, shaping the sound, making big-picture decisions.
Think of it like this:
Production = building the spaceship
Producing = deciding where it flies and whether it needs lasers
In the old-school studio model, these were separate roles. You had engineers in lab coats (probably), and producers with sunglasses indoors (definitely). But in today’s DIY world, the lines are blurrier than a lo-fi Instagram filter.
So What Does Producing Actually Mean Now?
Helping shape the arrangement
Suggesting sonic textures or instrumentation
Nudging the artist toward stronger performances
Saying “what if we cut this verse and add a llama sample instead?”
It’s part therapist, part hype man, part sonic architect.
Why I Include Production Free of Charge
Here’s the kicker:
I don’t believe in charging extra for something that makes the final mix actually work.
If I hear a vocal that needs a little re-arranging, or a beat that’s 80% there — I’ll step in. Not to take over, but to elevate. Because I’m not just mixing your track, I’m helping it land.
Production tweaks are baked into my process. No surprise invoices. No “that’ll be an extra £200 for the tambourine suggestion.” Just better music.