Undoubtedly, the 21st century has seen an eclectic range of music production talent. From techno-wiz kids to hip-hop legends, music producers are a key component of the modern music industry.
This list celebrates this century’s 50 best music producers, highlighting their pioneering achievements and unique styles. It includes producers from various genres, including rock, pop, electronic music, and more.
So, with all that said, let’s begin this list of the 50 best music producers of the 21st century.
Max Martin
Max Martin is one of the most renowned producers of the 21st century. The Swedish-born producer has collaborated with some of the biggest music stars in the world, including Britney Spears, Taylor Swift, Backstreet Boys, The Weekend, and more.
He is known for his ability to create catchy pop music and has crafted some of the most beloved tunes in recent decades. His signature production style combines strong basslines, pounding drums, and intricate melodies to create an unforgettable sound.
Kanye West
Kanye West is largely responsible for the mainstream acceptance of rap and hip-hop production techniques in the 21st century. His style consists of a mix of sample-based production, heavily syncopated rhythms, and often avant-garde use of multiple vocal samples.
West has produced some of the most recognizable hits this century, including “Golddigger,” “Stronger,” “All of the Lights,” and “Runaway.” He has also produced tracks for highly successful artists such as Jay-Z, Rihanna, and Beyonce.
Kanye West isn’t just one of the best music producers of the 21st century; he is widely recognized as one of the best producers of all time and hip-hop history.
Rick Rubin
Few producers can stack up to Rick Rubin‘s achievements in the music industry. Over the years, Rubin has produced albums such as “License to Ill,” “Californication,” and “Renegades.” However, Rick Rubin is unmistakable in making his mark across music history.
However, Rick Rubin’s work isn’t solely exclusive to the 21st century. Over the past decades, Rubin has produced music for artists across various genres and ages.
Popular mentions include Johnny Cash, Danzig, Beastie Boys, Slayer, Metallica, Run-DMC, and other artists from before the 2000s, Limp Bizkit, SOAD, Shakira, and Justin Timberlake post-2000s.
Rubin is an acclaimed rock music producer named on Time’s list of “100 Most Influential People in the World.”
Moreover, Rubin has several Grammy Awards and doubled the nominations. His latest Grammy Award came in 2021 for Best Rock Album.
Avicii
The late Swedish D.J. record producer and remixer Avicii (Tim Bergling) was one of the defining producers of the 21st century. He was responsible for creating several of the decade’s most recognizable pop hits, including “Wake Me Up” and “Levels, as well as a handful of E.D.M. classics.
His signature sound combined progressive house and melodic trance elements with a relatively simplistic production style. He was widely praised for his songwriting and production, and he was highly respected in the E.D.M. community prior to his passing in 2018. Few music producers changed the face of E.D.M. the way Avici did.
Linda Perry
American singer-songwriter, record producer, and multi-instrumentalist Linda Perry is one of the most acclaimed producers of the 21st century. Perry had quite an innovative production style and songwriting chops; she has crafted some of the most iconic songs in recent history, such as Christina Aguilera‘s “Beautiful” and Pink‘s “Get the Party Started.”
Perry’s songs are often noted for their sonic complexity and her ability to blend multiple musical elements seamlessly. In addition, her impassioned and dynamic production style has inspired generations of music producers, and her influence is still felt throughout the industry today.
Dr. Dre
Yet another legendary hip-hop producer and artist, Dr. Dre (Andre Romelle Young), needs no introduction. The legendary hip-hop artist and producer has had a major hand in shaping the sound of modern hip-hop music.
He is credited with producing some of the most influential albums and singles of the 21st century, from Eminem’s “The Marshall Mathers LP” to Kendrick Lamar’s “good kid, m.A.A.d city.” He’s also produced legendary tracks, such as 50 Cent’s “In Da Club.”
Dr. Dre is also regarded as a pioneer in music production for his innovative use of warm soul samples, layered synths, and hard-hitting beats.
While primarily a hip-hop music producer, Dr. Dre’s ability to create revolutionary samples has landed him production gigs with all major hip-hop artists of the 21st century and beyond. There’s always been a queue for an audience with the doctor himself. Dr. Dre’s work has left a mark on hip-hop and urban music.
David Guetta
David Guetta is one of the most influential producers of the electronic music genre. He’s been a major influence in the E.D.M. and mainstream music scenes, particularly in Europe. His hypnotic beats and anthemic melodies often characterize his productions, and he was one of the first to popularize E.D.M. in a mainstream context.
David Guetta is responsible for producing many of the biggest hits in recent years, from “Titanium” to “Love Don’t Let Me Go” and more. While primarily an E.D.M. producer, Guetta’s production work is so versatile that he’s even a mainstay in modern pop music production.
Timbaland
A producer with an unmistakable eye for talent and production skills, Timbaland is one of the most influential hip-hop producers of all time, not just in the 21st century. However, much like all the greats, his production style spans multiple genres, from hip-hop to pop and R&B.
Timbaland has worked with some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Justin Timberlake, Nelly Furtado, and Missy Elliott. In addition, his talent for production has earned him multiple Grammy nominations, as well as nominations for his own solo projects.
His production has been described as a hybrid of hip-hop and electronic music, and his beats are instantly recognizable to fans of modern music. Over the years, Timbaland has produced records that have stayed on the Billboard Top 100 for weeks and have sold hundreds of millions of copies.
Tainy
Tainy, born Marcos Efrain Masis Fernandez, is a Puerto Rican-born record producer and songwriter. He has worked with some of the music industry’s biggest names, such as Bad Bunny, J Balvin, and Ozuna.
He is known for creating a unique blend of reggaeton, hip-hop, and Latin trap music styles. Tainy’s signature sound has made him one of the most in-demand producers of the 21st century.
Jay Joyce
Jay Joyce is another American producer that has been making waves in the music industry in recent years. His work has been featured on albums by major artists such as Carrie Underwood, Eric Church, and Cage the Elephant.
He is known for his distinct sound, combining rock, blues, and country elements. He is considered a modern pioneer of music production, incorporating aspects of the past while pushing the boundaries of the genre.
Tricky Stewart
Another one of the most influential music producers of the 21st century is Tricky Stewart. The Illinois-based producer and songwriter has produced some of the biggest hits in the last decade, such as Rihanna‘s “Umbrella,” Beyoncé‘s “Single Ladies (Put a Ring on It),” and Ciara‘s “Like a Boy.”
He has also collaborated with other acclaimed producers like Timbaland and Dr. Luke. Stewart’s music has heavily influenced the sound of hip-hop and R&B during the early 21st century, and his influence can still be heard in today’s popular music.
Mike Will Made-It
Mike Will Made-It is one of the most iconic music producers of the 21st century. An Atlanta native, Mike Will Made-It, started producing mixtapes for local artists before producing for major artists such as Lil Wayne, Drake, and Future.
He is best known for producing hits such as “No Lie” by 2 Chainz featuring Drake and “Pour It Up” by Rihanna. He has also produced songs for Creed, Coming to America 2, and Creed II film soundtracks.
Just Blaze
Just Blaze‘s sounds have been heavily sampled, and the producer has been featured in numerous projects by artists such as Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, and Kanye West.
Throughout his career, Blaze has developed a signature sound that has been described as “stadium-ready” and “epic,” blending elements of hip-hop and soul. Just Blaze has created classic tracks like “Girls, Girls, Girls” by Jay-Z and “Touch the Sky” by Kanye West.
Lil Jon
The Atlanta-based producer and rapper is known for his aggressive and hard-hitting sound that has heavily influenced the sound of hip-hop, trap, and E.D.M. over the last two decades.
He has produced hits like “Turn Down For What” by D.J. Snake, “Lovers And Friends” by Usher featuring Ludacris, and “Get Low” by the Ying Yang Twins. His music has served as an inspiration to many producers since the start of the 21st century and continues to be a major influence in popular music today.
The Neptunes
Chad Hugo and Pharrell Williams are responsible for producing some of the most influential beats ever. Originating from Virginia Beach, The Neptunes are quite successful as a group, having worked with artists such as Britney Spears, Jay-Z, and Nelly.
Pharell Williams also has a successful solo career and is best known for having many recording techniques. The Neptunes produce hip-hop music primarily, but they’ve also ventured into pop and rhythm and blues.
Polow Da Don
Polow Da Don is a multi-platinum music producer, songwriter, and record executive from Atlanta, Georgia. He has produced some of the hottest singles of the last decade, including “Love in This Club” by Usher featuring Young Jeezy, “Lie” by Nelly, and “Hero” by Nas and Keri Hilson.
His production style has been heavily influenced by the Hip-Hop and R&B music of the South and has helped bridge the gap between the two genres. He is one of the most influential producers of the 21st century, and his beats can
Mike Dean
Mike Dean is an American record and audio engineer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist from Houston, Texas. Dean has produced music for legendary artists, such as Kanye West, Selena Gomez, Lana Del Ray, and The Weekend.
Dean began his music career by mixing music for Selena Perez and various other Texan artists. He quickly launched to stardom and began collaborating with West Coast rappers such as Nate Dogg, 2Pac, and the Ghetto Boys.
He has seven Grammy Awards and numerous nominations throughout his career.
Missy Elliott
Missy Elliott is another one of the most iconic producers from the 21st century. Elliott is one of the best-selling female rap artists of all time and is a master of her craft.
She is known for her innovative hip-hop beats and her use of futuristic sounds and samples. She is also known for her collaborations with other artists, including Timbaland, Pharrell Williams, Ciara, and many more.
SOPHIE
SOPHIE is an English record producer and singer-songwriter who has worked with prominent artists such as Charli X.C.X. and Vince Staples. She is known for her unique sound, which is often described as a mix of eclectic and pop.
Her production style is often characterized by heavily layered synths and distorted vocals, making her one of the most innovative producers of the 21st century. Despite her relatively short career, she has already won multiple awards and is considered one of the most influential music producers of our time.
Diplo
Diplo, born Thomas Wesley Pentz, is an American D.J. record producer and songwriter. He is the founder of the electronic music project Major Lazer. He has worked with various artists such as Justin Bieber, MØ, and Jack Ü. Diplo is known for his fusion of various styles of music, incorporating elements of hip-hop, reggae, house, and trap.
His unique sound has made him one of the most sought-after music producers of the 21st century, and his production has been featured on some of the most popular songs of the last decade. He is also credited with revolutionizing the current soundscape in mainstream music, bringing new elements to the forefront.
Jazze Pha
Jazze Pha is a well-known music producer, songwriter, and record executive from Memphis, Tennessee. He has produced music for some of the biggest names in rap music, including The Notorious B.I.G. and Rick Ross.
His production style is heavily influenced by Southern hip-hop and combines elements of crunk, trap, and R&B. He is one of the most influential music producers of the 21st century, and his beats can still be heard on the radio today.
Swizz Beatz
Kasseem Dean, better known as Swizz Beatz, is a Grammy award-winning producer and rapper from the Bronx, New York. He first rose to prominence in the late 90s when he collaborated with D.M.X., Busta Rhymes, and Jay-Z, among others.
He has since gone on to work with some of the biggest names in the industry, including Beyoncé, Lil Wayne, and Alicia Keys. He is known for his layered production style, seamlessly blending elements of hip-hop, rap, and R&B. His ability to blend different genres has made him one of the most versatile music producers of the 21st century.
Daft Punk
Daft Punk, the legendary French electronic music duo, has been at the vanguard of dance and electronic music for over two decades. Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and Thomas Bangalter, the group’s two members, have released numerous critically acclaimed albums and singles.
Their signature sound is a mix of funk, rock, electro, and dance music, often incorporating elements of the blues and house music as well. They have influenced countless artists in the electronic music scene, and their influence can still be felt today in the production of many modern artists.
Jim Jonsin
Jim Jonsin is a Grammy-nominated musician and music producer. He is best known for his work with Beyonce, Usher, Lil Wayne, and T.I.
His production style is heavily influenced by the R&B and soul music of the 1970s and 1980s, dance music, pop, snap, and electronic music.
Joey Moi
The South Florida songwriter, mixer, and music producer is most notable for his early 2000s work with rock groups such as Nickleback and My Darkest Days. Moi also dedicated a large portion of his time to producing country music for Chris Lane and Dallas Smith, among other artists.
His lucrative producing career has landed him numerous rock and country music awards, including the “Single of the Year” Awards for Cruise H.O.L.Y.
Madlib
Madlib, born Otis Jackson Jr. in the city of Oxnard, California, is one of the most interesting music producers of our time. He is a multi-instrumentalist and producer who has worked with a variety of artists such as MF DOOM, Jay Z, and J Dilla.
He is also known for his unique style and production techniques which often blur the lines between hip-hop and jazz.
Dr. Luke
Another music producer of the 21st century is Dr. Luke, born Lukasz Sebastian Gottwald in Providence, Rhode Island. He is known for his work in the hip-hop and pop music genres, producing hits for artists like Katy Perry, Ke$ha, and Pink.
Unlike other producers, Dr. Luke works with a pop-centered approach to production and songwriting, which includes heavy use of synths and gritty drum breaks and vocal processing techniques. He has also been credited with popularizing the use of Auto-Tune in pop music.
Ariel Rechtshaid
Ariel Rechtshaid is a music producer and composer who has collaborated with a variety of artists over the years, most notably U2, Madonna, and Beyonce.
He is known for his unique approach to music production, which often incorporates rock and ska/pop-punk elements. His compositions have been featured in both soundtracks and concert performances, and he has been awarded three prestigious Grammy music awards.
Joel Little
The Auckland, N.Z., based music producer, songwriter, and musician has worked with some of the biggest names in pop music. The list of artists Joe Little has produced records for includes Taylor Swift, Sam Smith, Imagine Dragons, Ellie Goulding, and more.
Joel Little began his career as a session musician in New Zealand. He began his production career in 2010 with Dane Rumbles’ “What Are You Waiting For.” He has two A.P.R.A. awards, five A.P.R.A. Silver Scroll awards, and was nominated for the Golden Globe in 2015.
Joel has made a name for himself in the R&B and pop music genres. While relatively new in the industry, Joel is still one of the most influential music producers of the 21st century.
Greg Kurstin
Gregory Allen Kurstin is a record producer, multi-instrumentalist, and songwriter from L.A. He began his music career as a guitarist for a local band when David Byrne signed them to his record label.
Greg has nine Grammy Awards to his name. He even has two “Producer of the Year” awards in 2017 and 2018. Greg has produced music for Adelle and co-produced “Easy on Me.” Moreover, Greg has produced work for Kelly Clarkson, Halsey, the Foo Fighters, Lilly Allen, and Pink.
DJ Mustard
Dijon Isiah McFarlane, more commonly known by his stage name DJ Mustard, is an LA-based DJ, beatmaker, songwriter, and record producer. DJ Mustard first entered the music scene with his debut album, “10 Summers,” in 2014.
He is a relatively new name in the music production scene, having collaborated with fellow Cali artists YG and Ty Dolla Sign. His specialty is hip-hop and R&B; his most famous work is Tyga’s “Rack City.”
Arca
Arca, born Alejandra Ghersi Rodriguez, is a relatively young DJ, musician, mixing and audio engineer, and record producer from Venezuela. She initially began her music production career on Kanye West’s “Yeezus” in 2013 and has since worked with other artists, such as F.K.A. Twigs and Bjork.
Arca’s musical style is best described as “experimental.” She loves using hip-hop and E.D.M. elements in her work while also creating “dreamy synth-pop” music. She has one U.K. Music Video award to her name and numerous nominations.
George Martin
George Martin is anything but an unknown name in the music production industry. Martin’s production career spans several decades and he has produced music for the Beatles, Michael Jackson, John Lennon, and Elton John.
Martin’s most famous work is with the Beatles. He is even more commonly known as the “Fifth Beatle.” Throughout his life, he has worked with numerous other Liverpool-based rock groups and is one of the most highly influential producers of all time. He ranks lower on our list because most of his work is based in the previous century.
Nonetheless, Martin has six Grammy Awards, 23 number-one hits in the U.S., and 30 number-one hit songs on the U.K. charts. In addition, Martin’s work in rock music puts him one of the most famous producers in rock history.
Phill Spector
Harvey Phillip Spector, more commonly known as Phill Spector, is a NY-based record producer and songwriter. Spector’s career spans half a century long, having worked with various pop and rock groups.
Some of Spector’s most famous work is tied to the 60s, having worked with the Beatles, John Lennon, and George Harrison. With numerous music awards to his name, Phill Spector was ranked number 63 on Rolling Stone’s list of “Greatest Artists of All Time.”
Skrillex
Skrillex, born Sonny John Moore, is an American E.D.M. DJ and music producer. He is most famous for his solo career and has won eight Grammy Awards, an Annie Award, and two MTV Video Music Awards.
Skrillex’s list of collaborations is anything but small. He’s worked with artists such as Diplo, Boys Noize, Dog Blood, Rick Ross, Yogi, A$AP Ferg, and others.
Sam Sneed
A music producer and rapper, Sam Sneed is most famous for producing music for K-Solo and Hit Squad. While initially a member of Death Row Records, Sneed collaborated with Dr. Dre and various other artists in the 90s.
In the early 2000s, Sneed produced for G-Unit, Scarface, and Jay-Z. In 2010, Death Row Records released previously unreleased songs from his time with the major label, which also included a new album.
Michael Beinhorn
Michael Beinhorn is an American musician and record producer. He’s most famously produced for Red Hot Chili Peppers, Marilyn Manson, Hole, and Soundgarden. Beinhorn began his music career as a synthesis.
In the 2000s, Beinhorn produced for Korn, Eminem, The Bronx, Pete Yorn, and Dave Grohl. Beinhorn has several Grammy Award nominations and five V.M.A. nominations.
DJ Premier
DJ Premier, born Christopher Edward Martin, is also known as Preemo or D.J. Preem. He’s a Texas-based record producer and D.J. and is most famous as a member of Gang Starr.
D.J. Premier is a well-known and respected name in hip-hop, having forged a tight bond with fellow rapper Guru and Royce da 5’9″. Over the years, Preemo has produced music for Big Daddy Kane, Big L, Blaq Poet, Christina Aguilera, LL Cool J, Dr. Dre, Fat Joe, Kanye West, Snoop Dogg, and dozens of other rappers.
D.J. Premier is one of the most influential West Coast music producers of all time, having been selected on The Source’s list of 20 greatest producers of all time. Premier produced for several record labels, including Virgin, Wild Pitch, and Chrysalis.
Stargate
Stargate are one of the best music producers of the 21st century. The production duo, composed of Tor Erik Hermansen and Mikkel Eriksen, has created some of the most iconic hits in the music industry.
Since the late 1990s, these two have crafted classic songs for artists like Beyonce, Rihanna, and Ne-Yo. Not only have they had success in the pop world, but they also have had success in the R&B and hip-hop world.
Metro Boomin
Metro Boomin is widely considered one of the top music producers of the 21st century. The hip-hop artist, born Leland Tyler Wayne, has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the music industry, such as Drake, Future, and Travis Scott.
He has produced songs like “Jumpman,” “Mask Off,” and “Tunnel Vision.” His skills in the production studio have earned him accolades, with two Grammy Award nominations and being named Producer of the Year at the 2019 B.E.T. Hip Hop Awards.
Aphex Twin
Aphex Twin, born Richard David James, is known under various stage names. The list includes GAK, A.F.X., Blue Calx, Bradley Stinger, Phonic Boy, The Dice Man, etc.
Aphex Twin was born in Cornwall, England, and is a musician, composer, DJ, and producer. He’s worked with various artists, including James and Johnny Clayton. He has one Grammy Award, N.M.E. Award, Prix Ars Electronica Award, and numerous nominations for various E.D.M. awards.
Red One
Having made the Billboard List for the Top 50 Music Producers of the 21st century, Nadir Khayat, more commonly known by his stage name Red One, is a lead singer, songwriter, and record producer.
Red One has worked with numerous pop music artists, including Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez, and Nicki Minaj. He’s also worked with Enrique Inglesias, Daddy Yankee, French Montana, and various other Latin American artists.
He’s won three Grammy Awards and has seven additional nominations.
Trevor Horn
Trevor Horn is an English music producer, studio and record label owner, and musician that produced albums for the Pet Shop Boys, Dollar, A.B.C., and Frankie Goes to Hollywood. He played guitar for The Buggles and launched his own label, Z.T.T.
He then transitioned to music production, focusing on rock and contemporary music. The list of notable bands Horn produced for include the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, David Bowie, and the Beatles.
Q-Tip
Q-Tip, born Jonathan Williams Davis, is a rapper, singer, disc jockey, and record producer. Being a New York-based artist put Q-Tip in a position to produce work for the likes of A Tribe Called Quest, with Q-Tip being one of the main producers and M.C.s.
Q-Tip is one of the most influential people in hip-hop and rap and has several Grammy Award nominations to his name.
RZA
One of the most influential members of the Wu-Tang Clan, RZA. is an American rapper, actor, filmmaker, and music producer. He is a critically-acclaimed producer, having co-produced Kanye West’s “My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy,” The Genius’ “Words from the Genius,” Prince Rakeem’s “Ohh I Love You Rakeem,” and more.
RZA has two Grammy Award nominations with Wu-Tang Clan, nominations for the soundtracks of Kill Bill: Volume 1, American Gangster, and Wu-Tang: An American Saga.” He is one of the most famous people in rap production and a highly-respected artist.
Sam Phillips
Samuel Cornelius Phillips is a record producer and businessman from Memphis, Tennessee. He produced music for the likes of Elvis Presley and Jerry Lee Lewis and has his own record label, Sun Records.
Most of Phillips’ work comes from the previous century, but his work with Elvis Presley and other artists inducted him into the Memphis Music Hall of Fame.
Teddy Park
A Koren-American rapper, songwriter, and producer, Teddy Park might not be a name familiar to our audience. However, Teddy Park is a mainstay in the K-Pop genre, a popular music genre in South Korea. His work in Korean pop acts has made him one of the most famous K-Pop producers of all time.
Over the years, Park has produced music for K-Pop artists and groups such as Big Bang, Blackpink, and 2NE1. His influence over K-Pop music production has won him numerous Asian-based music awards, with him also being named the “Best Producer of the Year” at the Mnet Asian Music Awards in 2021.
Nigel Godrich
A music producer with a career spanning multiple genres, from alternative rock to hip hop, Nigel Godrich has worked on some of the biggest albums of the last two decades. He was best known for his work on Radiohead’s albums, but he has also had a hand in producing music for Beck, Paul McCartney, Travis Scott, and many others.
His influence has been felt across the music industry, as he has had a hand in creating some of the most recognizable works of the 21st century.
Tay-Keith
The Tennessee native has made waves in the music industry with his production of popular hardcore hip-hop songs. He is best known for producing hits like “Look Alive” by BlocBoy JB featuring Drake, “Tic Tac Toe” by Meek Mill featuring Kodak Black, and “Wish Wish” by DJ Khaled featuring Cardi B and 21 Savage for Atlantic Records.
Tay-Keith’s beats have a unique sound that bridges the gap between traditional rap music and trap. He also loves experimenting with beats, and his ability to inject emotion into any song cements him as one of the most influential music producers of the 21st century.
Andres Castro
Andres Castro is another top music producer of the 21st century. He is best known for producing some hit songs, such as “Fiebre” by Ricky Martin and “Amigos con Derechos” by Maluma.
Over the years, Castro has won 13 Latin Grammys and two Anglo Grammys, and his influence over Latin-American music is unquestionable.
Conclusion
That concludes our list of the 50 best music producers of the 21st century. What did you think of our list? Did we leave out apparent names? Let us know about it. If you are interested in becoming Music Producer make sure you read our article on HOW TO BECOME A MUSIC PRODUCER