The music industry has seen a massive evolution over the years, and behind every hit song or chart-topping album is a talented producer. These individuals often work tirelessly behind the scenes, shaping the sound and direction of music that captures the hearts and ears of audiences around the world. In this article, we present an in-depth look at the top 100 music producers of the year. Each entry includes essential details such as their top works, contributions to the industry, and links to their music, allowing you to explore their significant impact in more detail.
The Top 100 Music Producers
1. Max Martin
- Notable Works: "Blinding Lights" by The Weeknd, "Shake It Off" by Taylor Swift
- Background: A Swedish producer and songwriter whose influence on pop music cannot be overstated. He has created multiple chart-topping hits spanning decades.
- Listen Here: Blinding Lights
2. Pharrell Williams
- Notable Works: "Get Lucky" by Daft Punk, "Happy"
- Background: A multi-talented artist, Pharrell is renowned not only as a producer but also as a vocalist and fashion designer.
- Explore His Work: Get Lucky
3. Rick Rubin
- Notable Works: "Walk This Way" by Aerosmith & Run-D.M.C.
- Background: A legendary figure in production, Rick has worked across diverse genres, blending rock, hip-hop, and country sounds.
- See His Impact: Walk This Way
4. Dr. Dre
- Notable Works: "Still D.R.E." by Dr. Dre featuring Snoop Dogg
- Background: A pivotal figure in hip-hop, Dr. Dre is notable for his innovative production techniques and as a founding member of N.W.A.
- Watch His Influence: Still D.R.E.
5. Timbaland
- Notable Works: "Cry Me a River" by Justin Timberlake
- Background: Known for his unique beats and creative sampling, Timbaland has defined much of the sound of modern R&B and hip-hop.
- Check It Out: Cry Me a River
6. Jack Antonoff
- Notable Works: "Lover" by Taylor Swift, "Melodrama" by Lorde
- Background: A former member of fun., Antonoff has emerged as a leading producer with a distinct pop sensibility.
- Dive Into His Music: Lover
7. Finneas O’Connell
- Notable Works: "Bad Guy" by Billie Eilish
- Background: As Billie Eilish’s brother and primary collaborator, Finneas has played a crucial role in shaping her sound.
- Listen Here: Bad Guy
8. Calvin Harris
- Notable Works: "Summer", "This Is What You Came For"
- Background: A powerhouse in electronic dance music, Calvin Harris has dominated charts and festivals alike.
- Explore His Hits: Summer
9. Shellback
- Notable Works: "One More Night" by Maroon 5, "Since U Been Gone" by Kelly Clarkson
- Background: A frequent collaborator with Max Martin, Shellback has crafted a plethora of mainstream hits.
- Check This Out: Since U Been Gone
10. Kanye West
- Notable Works: "Stronger", “Heartless”
- Background: Known for pushing boundaries in hip-hop, Kanye’s production style incorporates a wide range of genres and influences.
- Watch His Approach: Stronger
11. J. Cole
- Notable Works: "Middle Child", "KOD"
- Background: Besides his prowess as a rapper, J. Cole is also a significant producer known for his introspective beats and meaningful lyrics.
- Explore His Work: Middle Child
12. Benny Blanco
- Notable Works: "Eastside" by Benny Blanco, Halsey & Khalid
- Background: After writing and producing for several pop stars, Benny Blanco has emerged as a major artist in his own right.
- Listen Here: Eastside
13. Danja
- Notable Works: "Gimme More" by Britney Spears
- Background: A close collaborator with Timbaland, Danja has been influential in shaping modern pop and R&B sound.
- See What He Can Do: Gimme More
14. Skrillex
- Notable Works: "Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites"
- Background: A leading figure in electronic music, Skrillex’s high-energy beats and collaborative spirit have made him a sought-after producer.
- Check It Out: Scary Monsters and Nice Sprites
15. Murda Beatz
- Notable Works: "Nice for What" by Drake
- Background: An influential figure in hip-hop production, Murda Beatz has crafted numerous hits that resonate with listeners globally.
- Listen Here: Nice for What
16. Emile Haynie
- Notable Works: "Love" by Lana Del Rey
- Background: Known for his cinematic production style, Emile Haynie has collaborated with many top-tier artists across genres.
- Check This Out: Love
17. George Ezra
- Notable Works: "Shotgun"
- Background: Not just a talented musician, George Ezra has also lent his production skills to various projects, increasing his influence.
- Explore His Sound: Shotgun
18. Major Lazer
- Notable Works: "Lean On" featuring MØ and DJ Snake
- Background: The collective known as Major Lazer has blended reggae, dancehall, and electronic music to create groundbreaking hits.
- Watch Their Work: Lean On
19. Scott Storch
- Notable Works: "Lean Back" by Fat Joe
- Background: After early success as a member of the Roots, Scott Storch became a significant figure in hip-hop production.
- See His Impact: Lean Back
20. Hit-Boy
- Notable Works: "Sicko Mode" by Travis Scott
- Background: A five-time Grammy-winning producer, Hit-Boy is known for his hard-hitting beats and innovative production style.
- Explore Here: Sicko Mode
21. Jay Rich
- Notable Works: "What You Need" by Alesso
- Background: Emerging as a dynamic force in electronic and pop music production, Jay Rich is rapidly gaining recognition.
- Listen Here: What You Need
22. Kota the Friend
- Notable Works: "Colorado"
- Background: Blending indie and hip-hop sounds, Kota the Friend produces music that resonates with authenticity and honesty.
- Check It Out: Colorado
23. Lin-Manuel Miranda
- Notable Works: "Hamilton"
- Background: Renowned for his revolutionary work on Broadway, Miranda’s skills as a composer and producer have made waves in the music industry.
- Discover His Genius: Hamilton Soundtrack
24. Dre Andre
- Notable Works: "Roots" by Cardi B
- Background: With a fresh sound that speaks to a younger generation, Dre Andre’s productions are characterized by gripping hooks and beats.
- Explore His Work: Roots
25. Alesso
- Notable Works: "Heroes (We Could Be)" featuring Tove Lo
- Background: A cornerstone of the progressive house genre, Alesso merges melodies and electronic beats seamlessly.
- Listen Here: Heroes
26. Mike Will Made It
- Notable Works: "Black Beatles" by Rae Sremmurd
- Background: Known for his high-energy productions and catchy hooks, Mike Will Made It is a versatile producer in hip-hop.
- Check This Out: Black Beatles
27. The-Dream
- Notable Works: "Umbrella" by Rihanna
- Background: With a signature sound that combines R&B and pop, The-Dream has influenced numerous artists and collaborated extensively.
- Explore His Music: Umbrella
28. Dimitri Vegas & Like Mike
- Notable Works: "Mammoth"
- Background: This duo has gained international acclaim for their electrifying electronic dance music.
- Watch Them In Action: Mammoth
29. El-P
- Notable Works: "Run the Jewels" series
- Background: Not only a rapper, El-P is also a phenomenal producer known for avant-garde sounds and beats.
- Discover His Work: Run The Jewels
30. Avery Lipman
- Notable Works: Various projects under Universal Music Group
- Background: As a prominent figure in the music industry, Lipman’s influence extends beyond production, playing a vital role in artist development.
- Explore His Projects: Universal Music Group
31. Metro Boomin
- Notable Works: "Bad and Boujee" by Migos
- Background: Renowned for his dark beats and innovative soundscapes, Metro Boomin has become a significant force in contemporary hip-hop.
- Check His Music: Bad and Boujee
32. BDM
- Notable Works: "Need You Now" by Lady A
- Background: This producer has made a name in country and pop, crafting memorable tracks that resonate with audiences.
- Listen Here: Need You Now
33. Tainy
- Notable Works: "I Like It" by Cardi B
- Background: A leading figure in Latin music, Tainy is known for blending genres seamlessly.
- Explore Here: I Like It
34. Ronnie J
- Notable Works: "Cloud 9" by XXXTentacion
- Background: A key player in the SoundCloud rap scene, Ronnie J’s distinctive style has launched many artists into stardom.
- See His Impact: Cloud 9
35. DJ Khaled
- Notable Works: "Wild Thoughts" featuring Rihanna
- Background: Known for his catchphrases and collaborative spirit, DJ Khaled has amassed a portfolio of hits in popular music.
- Listen Here: Wild Thoughts
36. Charlie Puth
- Notable Works: "See You Again" featuring Wiz Khalifa
- Background: Besides his career as a singer, Puth is an accomplished producer known for crafting emotive ballads.
- Explore His Hits: See You Again
37. Ashe
- Notable Works: "Moral of the Story"
- Background: An up-and-coming artist and producer, Ashe has been making waves with her uniquely personal songwriting style.
- Check It Out: Moral of the Story
38. Khalid
- Notable Works: "Talk"
- Background: Khalid has not only produced chart-topping hits but has also collaborated on various projects with fellow artists.
- Listen Here: Talk
39. Eric Valentine
- Notable Works: "The Best Of" by Smash Mouth
- Background: With experience across multiple genres, Valentine’s production brings a polished sound to mainstream music.
- Explore His Work: The Best Of
40. Two Friends
- Notable Works: "Look Alive"
- Background: This electronic duo seamlessly blends genres and has gained attention for their innovative remixes.
- Watch Their Music: Look Alive
41. Bergy Sapp
- Notable Works: "My Type" by Saweetie
- Background: Emerging as a powerful force in hip-hop, Sapp’s beats and production style resonate strongly with fans.
- Explore His Sound: My Type
42. Boys Noize
- Notable Works: "Shame On Us"
- Background: This German producer has made a name for himself with groundbreaking work in electronic music.
- Check It Out: Shame On Us
43. DJ Mustard
- Notable Works: "Rack City" by Tyga
- Background: Known for his West Coast sound, DJ Mustard has been pivotal in shaping modern hip-hop.
- Listen Here: Rack City
44. Sia
- Notable Works: "Titanium" by David Guetta
- Background: As both a singer and a producer, Sia’s influence in the music industry is profound.
- Explore Her Work: Titanium
45. Benny Benassi
- Notable Works: "Satisfaction"
- Background: A pioneer in the electronic music scene, Benassi has crafted many classic hits that define the genre.
- Watch This: Satisfaction
46. Raphael Saadiq
- Notable Works: "Ask Of You"
- Background: A Grammy-winning artist and producer, Raphael’s smooth production style has greatly influenced contemporary R&B.
- Check It Out: Ask Of You
47. Noah "40" Shebib
- Notable Works: "Take Care" by Drake
- Background: Known for his atmospheric soundscapes, "40" has been a key player in shaping Drake’s distinctive sound.
- Explore Here: Take Care
48. Finis Henderson
- Notable Works: "Can’t Stop" by Wild Belle
- Background: A rising force in funk and pop music, Henderson’s production style merges old-school grooves and modern elements.
- Listen Here: Can’t Stop
49. Mura Masa
- Notable Works: "Love$ick" featuring A$AP Rocky
- Background: A British producer known for blending diverse genres, Mura Masa has been recognized as an innovative force.
- Watch This: Love$ick
50. Kenny Beats
- Notable Works: "Sugar" by Brockhampton
- Background: A talented producer recognized for his collaborative approach, Kenny Beats has influenced the sound of many rising artists.
- Check This Out: Sugar
51. Andrew Huang
- Notable Works: "Goodbye"
- Background: A popular producer and YouTube influencer, Huang’s ingenuity shines through in various projects.
- Explore His Work: Goodbye
52. Sofi Tukker
- Notable Works: "Swing"
- Background: A dynamic duo known for their blend of electronic and world music, Sofi Tukker’s sound is vibrant and refreshing.
- Listen Here: Swing
53. Steve Aoki
- Notable Works: "Boneless"
- Background: An established figure in EDM, Aoki’s energetic performances and collaborations have gained international acclaim.
- Watch This: Boneless
54. Cameron Hayes
- Notable Works: "Lost in Japan" by Shawn Mendes
- Background: Hayes has earned recognition with his crisp production style and has risen quickly in the music industry.
- Check It Out: Lost in Japan
55. Missy Elliott
- Notable Works: "Work It"
- Background: An iconic figure in hip-hop, Missy Elliott has broken barriers as a female producer, continually pushing the envelope.
- Listen Here: Work It
56. David Guetta
- Notable Works: "Titanium" featuring Sia
- Background: A world-renowned DJ and producer, Guetta has been a pivotal player in the rise of dance and electronic music.
- Explore Here: Titanium
57. Billie Eilish
- Notable Works: "When the Party’s Over"
- Background: Graduate of the sound-engineering school of life, Eilish crafts hauntingly beautiful melodies that captivate listeners.
- Listen Here: When the Party’s Over
58. Jussie Smollett
- Notable Works: "Hurt People"
- Background: Aside from his acting career, Smollett has made a name for himself in music production.
- Explore His Sound: Hurt People
59. G-Eazy
- Notable Works: "Me, Myself & I"
- Background: Known for his introspective lyrics and catchy hooks, G-Eazy also has prowess behind the production board.
- Watch This: Me, Myself & I
60. Tyler, The Creator
- Notable Works: "See You Again" featuring Kali Uchis
- Background: Known for his eclectic style and artistic vision, Tyler’s influence spans across both music and design.
- Explore His Impact: See You Again
61. T-Pain
- Notable Works: "Buy U a Drank"
- Background: A pioneer of the Auto-Tune style, T-Pain has revolutionized the sound of contemporary R&B.
- Check It Out: Buy U a Drank
62. Kero Kero Bonito
- Notable Works: "Only Acting"
- Background: This eclectic group brings a playful sound to electronic pop, often touching on themes of everyday life.
- Listen Here: Only Acting
63. Daft Punk
- Notable Works: "Get Lucky"
- Background: Known for their seamless blend of house music and funk, Daft Punk’s production style is iconic in the electronic music landscape.
- Explore Their Legacy: Get Lucky
64. St. Vincent
- Notable Works: "Digital Witness"
- Background: A powerhouse in indie rock, St. Vincent is celebrated for her innovative sound and artistic vision.
- Watch This: Digital Witness
65. Jessie Ware
- Notable Works: "Say You Love Me"
- Background: Jessie blends elements of R&B and pop, creating a unique sound that resonates with listeners.
- Check It Out: Say You Love Me
66. Chris Lake
- Notable Works: "Turn Off The Lights"
- Background: A formidable presence in the house music scene, Chris Lake has gotten recognition for his dance floor hits.
- Listen Here: Turn Off The Lights
67. Lil Jon
- Notable Works: "Get Low"
- Background: An influential figure in crunk music, Lil Jon’s production influenced a generation of hip-hop.
- Watch This: Get Low
68. Disclosure
- Notable Works: "Latch" featuring Sam Smith
- Background: The British electronic duo has put their unique stamp on dance music with catchy hooks and intricate production.
- Explore Their Work: Latch
69. Ariana Grande
- Notable Works: "Thank U, Next"
- Background: In addition to being a pop superstar, Grande’s artistic vision also extends to production collaborations.
- Listen Here: Thank U, Next
70. Little Mix
- Notable Works: "Black Magic"
- Background: This girl group is known for their vocal harmonies and captivating pop productions.
- Check This Out: Black Magic
71. FKA Twigs
- Notable Works: "Cellophane"
- Background: An avant-garde artist known for her unique production approach, blending pop music with experimental sounds.
- Explore Her Craft: Cellophane
72. Lil Uzi Vert
- Notable Works: "XO TOUR Llif3"
- Background: A game-changer in hip-hop, Uzi’s unique flow and influence in production are significant.
- Listen Here: XO TOUR Llif3
73. Tones And I
- Notable Works: "Dance Monkey"
- Background: With her viral success, Tones And I has thrust herself into the spotlight through innovative production and lyrics.
- Check It Out: Dance Monkey
74. Kacey Musgraves
- Notable Works: "Golden Hour"
- Background: Known for her unique blend of country and pop, Musgraves’ artistic vision extends beyond singing into production.
- Explore Her Work: Golden Hour
75. Rico Nasty
- Notable Works: "Smack a Bitch"
- Background: A fierce voice in contemporary rap, Rico Nasty’s bold style reflects in her energetic production.
- Watch Her Music: Smack a Bitch
76. Sofia Reyes
- Notable Works: "RIP" featuring Rita Ora and Anitta
- Background: Emerging as a cross-genre sensation, Reyes’ production brings a fresh sound to pop music.
- Listen Here: RIP
77. Kali Uchis
- Notable Works: "Telepatía"
- Background: A stunning blend of R&B, pop, and soul, Uchis’ unique sound has introduced her as a leading new voice in music.
- Explore Here: Telepatía
78. Megan Thee Stallion
- Notable Works: "Savage"
- Background: The Houston rapper has taken the music industry by storm with her confidence and savvy production style.
- Check This Out: Savage
79. JoJo
- Notable Works: "Leave (Get Out)"
- Background: JoJo’s powerful vocals and committed artistry have made her a mainstay in pop music for years.
- Listen Here: Leave (Get Out)
80. Troye Sivan
- Notable Works: "Youth"
- Background: As a talented singer and passionate advocate, Sivan often merges personal storytelling with powerful production.
- Explore His Work: Youth
81. Ava Max
- Notable Works: "Sweet but Psycho"
- Background: Fast rising in the pop realm, Ava Max’s music embodies catchy hooks and strong production elements.
- Listen Here: Sweet but Psycho
82. Lizzo
- Notable Works: "Truth Hurts"
- Background: As a singer, rapper, and flutist, Lizzo brings empowerment to her music, combined with creative sounds.
- Check It Out: Truth Hurts
83. Charli XCX
- Notable Works: "Boom Clap"
- Background: Known for her innovative contributions to pop and experimental music, Charli is shaping the future of the genre.
- Explore Her Hits: Boom Clap
84. MUNA
- Notable Works: "Number One Fan"
- Background: This indie-pop trio is known for their intricate harmonies and thoughtful production that resonates with a wide audience.
- Watch Their Music: Number One Fan
85. Lainey Wilson
- Notable Works: "Things a Man Oughta Know"
- Background: Tapping into her roots, Wilson’s production merges modern country with traditional sounds.
- Listen Here: Things a Man Oughta Know
86. Chase Atlantic
- Notable Works: "Into It"
- Background: This Australian band blends pop and alternative styles while showcasing stellar production expertise.
- Explore Their Work: Into It
87. Alessia Cara
- Notable Works: "Scars to Your Beautiful"
- Background: An accomplished singer-songwriter, Cara’s work often reflects her experiences with moving melodies and solid production.
- Listen Here: Scars to Your Beautiful
88. H.E.R.
- Notable Works: "Best Part" featuring Daniel Caesar
- Background: With her soulful vocal style, H.E.R. has garnered attention for blending various genres seamlessly through her productions.
- Check This Out: Best Part
89. Rina Sawayama
- Notable Works: "XS"
- Background: Known for her genre-defying style, Rina has carved a niche in pop culture music with bold themes and stunning production.
- Explore Her Sound: XS
90. Dude Skywalker
- Notable Works: "Sunset" by RINI
- Background: Emerging from the waves of R&B, Skywalker’s production brings fresh elements to established formats.
- Listen Here: Sunset
91. Jaden Smith
- Notable Works: "Icon"
- Background: The multi-talented artist’s production work blends hip-hop with his unique vision of contemporary music.
- Check This Out: Icon
92. Demi Lovato
- Notable Works: "Sorry Not Sorry"
- Background: Lovato’s bold musical style and inspiring lyrics have solidified her presence as a pop icon and talented producer.
- Explore Her Work: Sorry Not Sorry
93. Panic! At The Disco
- Notable Works: "High Hopes"
- Background: With an evolution from pop-punk roots to grand productions, Panic! continues to innovate and captivate audiences.
- Listen Here: High Hopes
94. Lil Nas X
- Notable Works: "Old Town Road"
- Background: With innovative production, Lil Nas X has blended genres in a way that has revolutionized country music and hip-hop.
- Check It Out: Old Town Road
95. Alok
- Notable Works: "Hear Me Now" featuring Bruno Martini
- Background: A Brazilian DJ with a passion for electronic music, Alok is shaping the global EDM scene with his innovative sound.
- Explore His Work: Hear Me Now
96. NLE Choppa
- Notable Works: "Shotta Flow"
- Background: The young rapper’s combination of energy and production talent has catapulted him into the rap limelight.
- Listen Here: Shotta Flow
97. Cynthia Erivo
- Notable Works: "Stand Up" from the Harriet soundtrack
- Background: As a Tony and Grammy-winning actress, Erivo’s musical contributions are being recognized and celebrated.
- Watch This: Stand Up
98. Khalid
- Notable Works: "Talk"
- Background: A talented artist passionate about exploring various music genres, Khalid’s work demonstrates keen production skills.
- Check It Out: Talk
99. Richard X
- Notable Works: "Being Nobody"
- Background: A pioneer in British electronic music, Richard X has produced many successful projects across genres.
- Explore His Impact: Being Nobody
100. Travis Scott
- Notable Works: "Sicko Mode"
- Background: With his unique sound and collaborations, Travis has become a defining voice in modern rap and hip-hop production.
- Listen Here: Sicko Mode
Conclusion
The music producers mentioned in this article have cultivated not only unique sounds but also iconic songs that have become a staple of our playlists and cultural moments. With their tireless work behind the scenes, they have given artists the tools to succeed, shaping the evolving landscape of the music industry today. Whether you are interested in pop, hip-hop, or electronic music, understanding the work of these producers can deepen your appreciation for the songs you love.
Feel free to explore their collaborative projects, dive into their backgrounds, and discover the soundscapes that resonate with you. The journey from the studio to stardom is paved by their creativity and dedication, making these top 100 music producers truly deserving of recognition.