What does a music producer actually do?

I'm super into music and considering a career related to it. Can someone explain what a music producer's job involves? Is it more about the creative side the technical side, or both?

Music producers play an essential role in the creation of a song or an album by overseeing and managing the recording process. The job is both technical and creative, which makes it a unique career in the music industry.

From a technical standpoint, music producers may work on sound engineering, audio mixing, and mastering. These aspects involve manipulating the quality of sound, balancing different instruments and vocals, and ensuring every element of the music comes together in a cohesive and melodious manner.

On the creative side, music producers contribute to songwriting, arrangement, and sometimes even vocal coaching. They provide input on the musical arrangement, including the structure of songs and the types of instruments used. They also work with musicians to help them deliver the best performances possible, guiding them through the recording and ensuring the artist’s vision is met.

Moreover, a music producer also often plays a significant logistical role. They may manage the recording budget, coordinate with session musicians, or liaise with the record label on various details.

The exact responsibilities can vary significantly based on the individual producer's skills, the artist or band they're working with, and the specific requirements of the project. For example, some producers may focus more on the creative process and less on engineering, leaving technical tasks to specialists in audio engineering.

In essence, being a music producer is about guiding and shaping the production of a track or album, from its initial concept to the finalized product, touching on a wide variety of tasks along the way. They can be seen as the project managers of the music world, making crucial decisions and providing creative input to ensure the success of the project.