Producing Hit Records: Secrets from the Studio (Omnibus Press) [Paperback]

David John Farinella (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 1, 2006

From the early days of music, record producers have served an important role in the studio, providing musical ideas, sonic beds and inspiration. Styles range from Svengali-like dictators to the nearly absent, yet producers are a constant in some of the best known recordings of the day.

"Producing Hit Records" takes a behind the scenes look with today's top record producers at what it takes to sit in the big chair. Producers talk about how they got into the field, how they continue to get work, how they motivate artists to come up with that great take and what it's like to work in an industry that's constantly changing.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

David Farinella has been writing about music for over 15 years. His work has appeared in many media outlets, including Launch, CNN Interactive, Rolling Stone, San Francisco Chronicle, BAM, Penthouse, Performing Songwriter, Spin, Modern Drummer, Guitar Player, Billboard, and the Hollywood Reporter.

Product Details

• Paperback: 288 pages
• Publisher: Schirmer Books (April 1, 2006)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0825672996
• ISBN-13: 978-0825672996
• Product Dimensions: 9.8 x 6.9 x 0.5 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,267,598 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

12 of 13 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Great Insights for Musicians and Music Listeners, August 5, 2006

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Hi, I'm Steve (Pacifica, CA United States) - See all my reviews

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This review is from: Producing Hit Records: Secrets from the Studio (Omnibus Press) (Paperback)

David Farinella's well-written book is based on interviews with an astonishingly diverse group of A-list music producers. They speak candidly about the creative process, covering everything from technology in the studio, to weird working hours, to coping with substance abuse. Musicians will appreciate the producers' perspectives on the dynamics of making records (the nuts and bolts of recording great songs and realizing the artist's vision). Record collectors will look more closely at the producer credits on their records (which may not even show up on downloads!).

The book says as much about the recording industry as it does about the role of the producer, because the fact is that there would be no such industry without the people featured in the book. They are as indispensable as the artists themselves, though they may not enjoy the respect and appreciation that they clearly deserve. Record companies chisel away at their earnings, consumers don't know who they are or what they do, and uninitiated artists often don't trust them.

What emerges clearly is that the producers are all in it for the music. They are dedicated to bringing great songs to light and will make any sacrifices necessary to achieve that goal. David Farinella has given many of them an open forum where they share honest, frank opinions about their role in the artistic process. It is a fascinating and informative book.