How to Find a Producer for Indie Music

Indie artists and rock bands do everything on their own, from writing songs to lugging gear. But when the time comes to go into the studio, it pays to have the best producer possible to sweeten and tweak your songs. Here's how to find a skilled indie music producer.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Look for producer names on CD booklets. Check out the small type on the back of indie CDs that share your band's musical style. Once you locate the producer's name, find out how to contact him and then send him a demo. If he made another band sound great, he'll be able to do the same for you.
   

2. Catch up on indie music news. Musicbizacademy and school sites like Musicians Institute provide you with great networking opportunities as well as indie news.

3. Locate producers through online directories such as Indie Music.

4. Browse through stories on the Electronic Musician website to find out about the hottest new producers.

5. Flip through music industry producer listings and books like "The Indie Bible" for producer information.

6. Hire a new but talented producer. Put all your indie music connections to good use and ask other musicians, club owners and indie fans if they know a great producer-or someone who'd be a great producer-if given the chance.

Resources

• Music Biz Academy website
• Musicians Institute
• Directory of indie music labels.
• Matador Records Label