The 17 Best Mixing Engineers In The Music Industry (2024)

Mixing engineers are the rockstars behind the scenes in music production. 

 

They can take raw recordings and transform them into polished tracks that captivate listeners and dominate the charts. 

 

Successfully blending individual elements into a cohesive mix requires serious talent (and experience doesn’t hurt either).

 

It’s all about balancing levels, creating space, and enhancing the overall emotional impact of a song. 

 

Today, we’re talking about the 17 best mixing engineers in the game 一 they’ve been crowned the best because they:

 

• Worked with the biggest names in the industry ✓
• Have an insane track record of hits ✓
• Know the most legendary techniques ✓
• Use the latest and greatest gear ✓
• Deliver mind-blowing mixes every time ✓
• Achieve epic levels of sound quality ✓
• Set trends everyone follows ✓
• Push the boundaries of what’s possible ✓
• Make vocals sound crystal clear ✓
• Master multiple genres effortlessly ✓
• Have many accolades & an established mixing career ✓
• Create unforgettable sonic experiences ✓
• Innovate with every mix they touch ✓
• Much more ✓

 

Each unique mixing engineer is legendary in their own right thanks to their unique skills and techniques which have truly shaped the sound of modern music.

 

So, get ready for an epic breakdown of what makes each of these engineers the best in the business and how their contributions continue to influence the music we love.

 

And, if you’re a music producer, knowing the legends who have come before you can bring some serious inspiration and maybe even help guide your own mixing journey.

 

Let’s dive in…

 

#1. Serban Ghenea

 

 

Serban Ghenea is a famous mixing engineer who’s name is synonymous with hit records, having mixed songs for major artists such as: 

 

• Taylor Swift
• The Weeknd
• Ariana Grande

 

His ability to create a clean, polished sound has made him one of the most sought-after mixing engineers in the music industry. 

 

Ghenea’s recent work on Taylor Swift’s “1989 (Taylor’s Version)” and Olivia Rodrigo’s “Guts” highlights really earned him the respect he deserves.

 

His expertise in balancing intricate vocal layers with powerful instrumentals is epic 一 ensuring each song mixed by him becomes a chart-topping hit.

 

What sets Ghenea apart is his proficiency in both analog and digital domains. 

 

He combines analog gear with digital tools like magic, which is why the final product always sounds so rich and dynamic.

 

Ghenea also mixes for artists like Bruno Mars and Doja Cat.

 

When you listen to one of his tracks, you’ll instantly hear his talent for creating punchy and aggressive sounds (that stand out on any playback system). 

 

His attention to detail and use of advanced audio plug-ins based on top equipment ensures every track meets the highest quality standards.

 

For this reason and so many more, he is definitely one of the best mixing engineers in the game.

 

#2. Derek “MixedByAli” Ali

 

 

Derek “MixedByAli” Ali (who raised $7.5M for his music tech startup EngineEars) has really been a driving force in the hip hop industry as of late.

 

He’s best known for his work with artists from Top Dawg Entertainment (TDE), including: 

 

• Kendrick Lamar
• SZA
• Schoolboy Q

 

Ali’s mixes are super impressive, as he’s a master at depth, clarity, and bringing out the rawest emotions of each track.

 

His mixing and mastering on Kendrick Lamar’s critically acclaimed albums “Good Kid, M.A.A.D City” and “To Pimp a Butterfly” showcases his ability to balance sick lyrical content with dynamic, hard-hitting beats.

 

Each one of the songs he’s mixed is a powerful listening experience.

 

He spends countless hours tweaking each mix 一 ensuring every detail is thoroughly addressed and manipulated to perfection.

 

He doesn’t skimp out on precision or accept anything less than greatness (as he’s said in various videos) so it’s no wonder he’s one of the best mixing engineers around.

 

One of his most standout techniques is his creative use of reverb and delay to create a sense of space and depth, which can be heard on tracks like SZA’s “The Weekend.” 

 

Ali’s commitment to quality and his innovative production skills have earned him a reputation as one of the best mixing engineers in hip hop today.

 

And I wholeheartedly agree.

 

He continually pushes the boundaries of the genre and is really less of a mixing engineer and more of a freakin’ prodigy.

 

If you’re a producer and want to learn how to mix beats or how mixing engineers can blow up in the industry and make major waves, he’s the perfect example.

 

#3. Tony Maserati

 

 

Tony Maserati is a grammy-winning audio engineer, and his contributions to the New York hip hop and R&B scenes are legendary. 

 

Best known for his work with: 

 

• Beyoncé
• Mary J. Blige
• Notorious B.I.G

 

He began his career at Sigma Sound Studios, which he said taught him the fundamentals to everything he knows about mixing music.

 

His mixes for Beyoncé’s “Lemonade” and Mary J. Blige’s “The London Sessions” alone proves his ability to enhance vocals and create immersive soundscapes. 

 

Maserati’s tracks are famous for their rich textures and powerful presence.

 

Maserati mixes with his favorite analog gear like the SSL console, alongside top digital software to achieve his unique signature sound.

 

His mixes are always top-notch, professional, and out of this world precise. 

 

NOTE: Waves Audio released his processing bundle a few years back, and it still remains a favorite in the music production world for emulating his signature sound.

 

Yes, it’s really that legendary.

 

Maserati’s innovative techniques and attention to detail ensure his mixes are always on point 一 making him one of the best mixing engineers in the industry by far.

 

#4. Dave Pensado

 

 

If we’re talking about the best mixing engineers in the business, Dave Pensado is going to be in every conversation, hands down.

 

He’s a true legend in the mixing world, known for his work with artists like: 

 

• Justin Timberlake
• Mary J. Blige
• Christina Aguilera
• Ice Cube
• So many more

 

Pensado’s Place, his renowned educational show, has become like a bible for audio engineers and producers of all genres and styles.

 

His extensive experience as a grammy-winning engineer and deep understanding of the mixing process make him a key figure in the music industry. 

 

Pensado’s ability to mix in the box using digital tools allows him to achieve clarity and precision in his work like no one else.

 

Pensado’s mixes for Justin Timberlake’s “Justified” and Christina Aguilera’s “Back to Basics” demonstrate his talent for creating vibrant, radio-ready tracks. 

 

His innovative use of vocal tuning and compression techniques ensures that every element in a mix stands out. 

 

Pensado’s approach combines the art and science of audio engineering like the true boss he is 一 making his mixes both technically flawless and creatively crazy. 

 

His contributions to the field have forever cemented his reputation as one of the best mixing engineers around, and that will never change. 

 

To say he’s one of the best mixing engineers of all time is an understatement.

 

Let’s just say if he’s the first mixing engineer you really draw inspiration from, it will be well worth your time.

 

#5. Chris Lord-Alge

 

 

Chris Lord-Alge (aka CLA) is known for his work with iconic rock bands like:

 

• Green Day
• Foo Fighters
• Muse

 

His aggressive use of compression and analog gear gives his mixes a powerful, in-your-face sound that has become his trademark. 

 

CLA’s work on Green Day’s “American Idiot” and Muse’s “Drones” showcases his ability to create dynamic, punchy mixes that cut through any mix.

 

Each one is perfect for radio, playlists, and live performances.

 

He frequently collaborates with both an electronics laboratory and top audio gear manufacturers to develop and refine his equipment.

 

So, needless to say, his sound is superior in quality.

 

With over four hundred albums that show his mixing and mastering skills, Chris Lord-Alge’s signature style is truly impressive. 

 

NOTE: He typically uses an analog SSL console and a variety of outboard compressors to shape his sound, if you were curious.

 

He’s one of the best engineers around and has literally helped to define the rock sound of the 2000s and beyond. 

 

Plus, his Waves Audio CLA Artist Signature Collection remains an absolute must-have for any producer looking to enhance their skills and mixing techniques.

 

Lord-Alge’s ability to blend the science and art form of mixing makes him one of the best mixing engineers in the music industry (and most successful, I might add).

 

#6. Spike Stent

 

 

Mark “Spike” Stent has worked with some of the biggest names in music, including: 

 

• Madonna
• Depeche Mode
• Beyoncé

 

He can blend various genres, manipulate audio, and level like nobody’s business, and if we’re talking about versatility and flexibility, Stent is unmatched. 

 

In fact, he’s achieved international success in almost any genre you can think of.

 

His work on Madonna’s “Ray of Light” and Beyoncé’s “Lemonade” will show you exactly how gifted he is at creating complex, multi-layered mixes.

 

Plus he can bring out the best in any and all electronic and acoustic elements, which makes his mixes both innovative and timeless.

 

His attention to detail and ability to create a flawless final product have earned him a reputation as one of the best mixing engineers around.

 

He’s always changing, evolving, and implementing new mixing techniques, so he won’t be going anywhere anytime soon.

 

#7. Manny Marroquin

 

 

Manny Marroquin is a seven-time Grammy-winning mixing engineer and mastering engineer known for his work with artists like: 

 

• Kanye West
• Rihanna
• Alicia Keys

 

Marroquin’s ability to enhance vocal performances and create balanced, dynamic mixes has earned him a killer reputation in the music industry. 

 

His work on Kanye West’s “Graduation” and Rihanna’s “Unapologetic” are prime examples of his skill in blending intricate arrangements with powerful vocals.

 

Marroquin is renowned for his use of the “Marroquin Bounce,” which is a technique that adds rhythm and groove to his mixes 一 giving them a unique, danceable quality. 

 

His studio, Larrabee Studios, is super impressive, including the SSL 9080J console and rare vintage gear like the Fairchild 670 compressor and the Pultec EQP-1A. 

 

Marroquin’s attention to detail is evident in his use of parallel compression and creative reverb techniques, which add depth and texture to his mixes. 

 

His ability to innovate and adapt has not only set trends but also ensured his place among the best mixing engineers for years to come.

 

#8. Phil Tan

 

 

Phil Tan has mixed for some of the biggest names in pop and hip hop, including: 

 

• Mariah Carey
• Ludacris
• Rihanna

 

His work on Mariah Carey’s “The Emancipation of Mimi” and Ludacris’s “Release Therapy” is especially impressive, as it’s some of the clearest mixes around.

 

Tan’s mixes are known for their clarity and balance 一 making them a favorite among top artists and making him a mixing legend.

 

His attention to detail and ability to create space within a mix ensure that every element is heard clearly and sounds cohesive.

 

His work has earned him multiple Grammy Awards (and most likely many more to come), which he deserves more than anybody.

 

Tan’s innovative techniques and dedication to his craft make him one of the best mixing engineers in the music industry, no doubt.

 

#9. Bob Clearmountain

 

 

Bob Clearmountain is a pioneer in the mixing world, known for his work with Bruce Springsteen, David Bowie, and The Rolling Stones. 

 

His innovative use of technology and analog gear has set the standard for modern day mixing and engineering.

 

Clearmountain often uses an analog mixing deck and various outboard gear to achieve his signature sound (and his signature plugin Apogee is epic).

 

His contributions extend beyond just mixing 一 Clearmountain has also been involved in developing new audio technologies and techniques. 

 

He is a notable member of the audio engineering society, where he shares his expertise and stays at the forefront of technological advancements.

 

His work as a mixing engineer has significantly impacted how modern mixing is approached, with many of his unique techniques becoming industry standards. 

 

His innovative use of reverb and dynamic processing has shaped countless hits. 

 

Clearmountain’s ability to blend technical precision with artistic edge has earned him numerous accolades, making him one of the best mixing engineers ever.

 

#10. Jaycen Joshua

 

 

Jaycen Joshua is renowned for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to enhance the sonic quality of a track with his signature mixing style. 

 

He has worked on some of the biggest hits of the decade, including Beyoncé’s “Single Ladies” and Justin Bieber’s “Sorry.” 

 

Joshua’s innovative use of stereo widening creates an expansive soundstage 一 making each one of his mixes feel larger than life.

 

He’s also known for his mastery of low-end frequencies, always achieving a punchy yet controlled bass that drives the track without overpowering other elements. 

 

His studio setup includes high-end analog gear such as the Neve 1073 preamp and the Manley Massive Passive EQ, combined with cutting-edge digital plugins.

 

He claims his favorites are from Waves and FabFilter.

 

Joshua’s unique approach to vocal tuning and dynamic range control sets him apart, which is why he knocks it out of the park every time.

 

His contributions to modern music production have not only set industry standards but also made him one of the best mixing engineers for top artists worldwide.

 

#11. Mike Dean

 

 

Mike Dean is a legend in the hip hop world who has mixed for top artists like: 

 

• Kanye West
• Travis Scott
• Pop Smoke (R.I.P)

 

Dean’s ability to create atmospheric, hard-hitting mixes has earned him a solid reputation as one of the best mixing engineers in the industry. 

 

His favorite DAW is Pro Tools software and his expert use of analog synthesizers helps him create mind-blowing, textured mixes that stand out in the hip hop game. 

 

Dean’s attention to detail and creative use of compression techniques really makes him stand out as a mixing engineer. 

 

He’s super innovative and impactful, and his mixing career speaks for itself.

 

Dean’s work on albums like “The Life of Pablo” by Kanye West just proves his ability to push the boundaries of hip hop production.

 

NOTE: Dean’s music studio is known for its incredible array of analog equipment, including vintage synthesizers and an SSL console that costs more than my house.

 

• Fun Fact

 

In addition to his mixing and mastering work in the studio, Dean has been instrumental in shaping the sound of modern hip hop.

 

Dean’s signature style (deep basslines and intricate synth work) has made him one of the best mixing engineers in the music industry, period.

 

#12. Leslie Brathwaite

 

 

Leslie Brathwaite is one of the best mixing engineers around, known for his exceptional mixing and mastering for artists like: 

 

• Pharrell Williams
• Cardi B
• Beyoncé

 

He actually played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Cardi B’s Grammy-winning album “Invasion of Privacy,” where his mix brought out the raw energy and charisma.

 

Brathwaite is also celebrated for his contributions to the iconic sound of OutKast’s “Speakerboxxx/The Love Below,” which earned the Grammy for Album of the Year. 

 

His ability to create crisp, clear mixes that emphasize both the vocals and instrumental details sets him apart in the industry.

 

In addition to his acclaimed mixing work, Brathwaite is an active mentor in the music community 一 sharing his expertise through workshops, seminars, and courses.

 

He often collaborates with top-tier producers and utilizes state-of-the-art equipment like the SSL 4000G console and the UAD-2 Satellite for precise digital processing. 

 

Brathwaite’s innovative use of automation has become his hallmark style.

 

His dedication to preserving the artist’s original vision while enhancing the overall sound quality is why he’s one of the best mixing engineers you’ll ever know.

 

#13. Andrew Scheps

 

 

Andrew Scheps is one of the best mixing engineers in the world, known for his Rear Bus mixing techniques that he developed working on his 64 input Neve 8068

 

Plus his love for distortion of all kinds, which he’s certainly mastered.

 

Andrew Scheps has worked with top artists like:

 

• Red Hot Chili Peppers
• Adele
• Metallica

 

Scheps’s ability to create powerful, dynamic mixes has made him one of the most respected figures in the audio engineering community. 

 

His work on Adele’s “21” and Red Hot Chili Peppers’ “I’m With You” showcases his talent for crafting impactful mixes that are bursting with clarity and depth.

 

Scheps often employs a unique approach to mixing 一 preferring to work in the box using digital tools while maintaining the warmth of analog gear. 

 

Plus his innovative use of Pro Tools HD and his attention to detail make his mixes stand out and put some of the other best mixing engineers to shame.

 

NOTE: Andrew collaborated with Waves in order to create his own line of plug-ins which include the Scheps 73 EQ and the Scheps Parallel Particles.

 

If we’re talking about the best mixing engineers, he has definitely earned a spot.

 

#14. Greg Wells

 

 

Greg Wells is a super versatile mixing engineer, with streaming numbers in the billions, known for his work with: 

 

• Adele
• Katy Perry
• OneRepublic

 

Wells’s ability to enhance the emotional depth of a track while maintaining technical excellence has made him a favorite among your favorite artists and producers. 

 

His skills on Adele’s “21” and Katy Perry’s “Teenage Dream” demonstrates his talent for creating mixes that are both commercially successful and artistically profound.

 

I actually met Greg Wells at an industry event a few years back, and he performed mixing duties smoother than most (which is very impressive).

 

Plus his studio is equipped with an impressive array of analog equipment, which he uses to add character and depth to his mixes. 

 

Wells’s attention to detail and innovative techniques ensure that every song mixed by him stands out in the music industry. 

 

So, needless to say, Wells will always be one of the best mixing engineers in the game.

 

Fun Fact: Wells is also an accomplished multi-instrumentalist who has played various instruments on many of the records he has produced and mixed.

 

This includes drums, bass, guitar, and piano. 

 

The musical versatility that comes with playing different instruments like that brings an even more unique perspective to his mixing process.

 

He really understands the intricacies of each instrument’s role in a track.

 

#15. Tchad Blake

 

 

Tchad Blake is renowned for his unique, organic mixing style and his work with artists such as Arctic Monkeys, Sheryl Crow, and The Black Keys. 

 

Blake’s ability to create raw, textured mixes that capture the essence of a performance has earned him a distinctive place among the best mixing engineers. 

 

His mixing and mastering work on The Black Keys’ “El Camino” and Sheryl Crow’s “Tuesday Night Music Club” highlights his talent for blending various genres.

 

When it comes to analog gear and unconventional recording techniques, Blake seriously can’t be touched. 

 

He is known for his creative use of parametric equalization and dynamic processing to enhance the individual elements of a mix. 

 

Blake’s mixes are both innovative and timeless 一 making him a favorite among artists looking for a distinctive sound. 

 

His experience and contributions to the music industry have solidified his reputation as one of the most successful mixing engineers.

 

#16. Michael Brauer

 

 

Michael Brauer is a highly respected mixing engineer and mastering engineer known for his work with Coldplay, John Mayer, and Florence + The Machine. 

 

Brauer’s ability to create spacious, dynamic mixes has made him one of the most influential figures in the music production world. 

 

His work on Coldplay’s “A Rush of Blood to the Head” and Florence + The Machine’s “Ceremonials” are two of the most impressive in my opinion.

When it comes to emotive, powerful mixes, Brauer is a true boss.

 

His preference for analog gear (including SSL consoles) helps him achieve a warm, rich sound that has become his trademark. 

 

Brauer’s innovative approach and attention to detail make his mixes stand out in the competitive music industry and makes him one of the best mixing engineers ever.

 

His love for music and endless hustle as an audio engineer/mixing engineer still continue to innovate and inspire every single day.

 

#17. Jason Goldstein

 

 

Jason Goldstein, a renowned grammy-winning recording engineer/mix engineer, has worked for some of the best in the game, like:

 

• Beyoncé
• Jay-Z
• The Roots

 

His ability to create detailed, polished mixes has made him a top studio engineer in the game. 

 

Goldstein’s work on Beyoncé’s “Dangerously in Love” and Jay-Z’s “The Blueprint 3” highlights his skill in balancing intricate arrangements with powerful vocals. 

 

His ability to turn a good track or rough mix into a mind-blowing one alone makes him one of the best mixing engineers around. 

 

Some best mix engineers get sloppy in a certain area or are only partly responsible for their success, and Jason Goldstein is not one of them. 

 

Mixing and mastering is his speciality, and if you hear his work, you’ll certainly see why.

 

Every piece of equipment he touches turns into a functional tool for success 一 his skills are really that immaculate. 

 

Plus studio setup includes a show-stopping variety of outboard compressors and analog mixing decks, which should really earn him a technical achievement or something. 

 

Goldstein’s attention to detail and innovative techniques ensure that every final product he delivers is of the highest quality. 

 

His contributions to the music industry have solidified his reputation as one of the best mixing engineers, period.

 

Best Mixing Engineers: Final Thoughts

 

The best mixing engineers in the game all possess an incredible ear for detail and a deep understanding of both the technical and artistic sides of music production. 

 

They know how to balance levels, create depth, and enhance the emotional impact of a track to perfection. 

 

While it might seem simple on the surface, being a mixing engineer is a super complicated job that requires years of experience and dedication. 

 

The 17 best mixing engineers we broke down today are all masters of their craft and pioneers in their field. 

 

If you’re a music producer, you can definitely learn countless things from these legends, so don’t overlook their talent.

 

If you want to elevate your skills, check out the #1 Beatmaker Course in the world. 

 

This course covers everything from laying down a track to mixing and mastering.

 

It divulges all the hidden industry secrets to making hit beats, mixing like a professional, and getting placements in no time.

 

With this course, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills to make top artists beg for you to mix their tracks. 

 

So, keep learning, evolving, and growing in your music journey, and who knows 一 you might just become the next big name in the world of mixing engineers.

 

Until next time…