Ghost Production 101: What Exactly is it & How Do I Become One?

Ghost production is a rapidly growing aspect of the music industry, pretty much taking over the music scene underground.

It’s getting super popular because it allows artists to maintain a consistent release schedule without producing every track themselves. 

As a producer, knowing all about ghost production is essential. 

It can help you expand your career opportunities, enhance your production skills, and secure a steady flow of income. 

That’s why we’re breaking down everything about ghost producing, including:

• What is Ghost Production? Breaking it Down ✓
• Why Ghost Production? ✓
• How to Become a Ghost Producer at a Major Record Label ✓
• Legal Aspects of Ghost Production ✓
• Required Skills for Ghost Producing ✓
• Marketing Yourself as a Ghost Producer ✓
• Pricing Your Ghost Production Services ✓
• Ghost Production Success Stories (Famous Ghost Producers) ✓
• Challenges in Ghost Production When Your Release Songs ✓
• Tips for Aspiring An Aspiring EDM Ghost Producer ✓
• Bonus: EDM Ghost Producers ✓

After reading this article, you’ll know everything about ghost production and all its requirements and secret benefits.

It will help you to lock down a job as a ghost producer, work with top artists, and earn a reliable income. 

Plus, you’ll be able to navigate the music industry with confidence and build a long-lasting, successful career in ghost production.

So, let’s dive in…

What is Ghost Production? In a Nutshell

Ghost production is where a professional music producer creates music for another artist, who then releases it under their own name. 

It allows artists to maintain a steady output without producing every track themselves, and lets producers make some extra cash (yes, without any clout).

For instance, many top DJs in the electronic dance music scene rely on ghost production to keep up with their demanding schedules. 

Platforms like EDM Ghost Producers connect these artists with skilled producers who can deliver top-quality music tweaked to their needs. 

Ghost producers use tools like Pro Tips, FL Studio, and Logic Pro to create ghost tracks that match the artist’s unique style and vision. 

Legal agreements and confidentiality clauses protect both parties 一 ensuring the producer remains anonymous. 

This arrangement benefits both the artist, who gets new music, and the producer, who gets paid for their skills.

Don’t worry, we’ll be breaking everything down in detail throughout the article so you can get the full picture.

Why Ghost Production? Breaking itDown

Ghost production offers epic advantages for both producers and artists. Understanding these benefits can help you decide if this path is right for you and your career goals.

• Benefits for Producers

Ghost production provides a pretty stable and potentially lucrative income stream for music producers who really know what they’re doing.

For example, a music producer like yourself can work on projects for various artists, exploring genres like deep house and progressive house (which are the most popular).

Platforms like EDM Ghost Producers connect producers with clients 一 offering consistent work and opportunities to build a diverse portfolio. 

Ghost production also lets you focus solely on music creation without the pressure of marketing yourself or performing live. 

Which, in my opinion, is a pretty sweet gig and is super appealing if you enjoy the more technical aspects of music production.

As another added bonus, producing ghost tracks for well-known artists can lead to valuable industry connections, opening doors to some killer opportunities. 

Ultimately, ghost production allows you to do what you love while earning a solid income.

• Benefits for Artists

Artists can also benefit in a major way from ghost production by maintaining a consistent release schedule, which keeps their fanbase engaged and their brand strong. 

For instance, a DJ can release/upload tracks frequently without the time-consuming process of creating them all day long.

It allows artists to focus on performances and touring while still providing fresh music for their audience (which is what it’s all about).

Ghost production ensures that the music released under the artist’s name is guaranteed to be of high quality, as professional producers handle the creation process. 

This can lead to better reception from fans and increased chances of chart-topping and playlist success. 

Additionally, artists can experiment with new styles and sounds by collaborating with different ghost producers and finding their vibe.

This versatility can help artists stay relevant and appeal to a broader audience.

• Music Industry Demand

The demand for ghost production in the music industry is extremely high right now due to the need for consistent and high-quality music output. 

As I’m sure you know, people have the attention span of a fly and there’s also new music being pumped out every minute, so it’s super important.

Many artists, especially in the EDM scene like I mentioned before, rely on ghost producers to meet the expectations of their fans and record labels. 

This has led to the rise of ghost production platforms that connect artists with skilled producers that can meet their vision.

 

As a result, the industry sees a continuous supply of fresh and innovative tracks (win, win, am I right?).

Bottom line, ghost production helps artists maintain their public image and reputation by ensuring a steady flow of releases and helps professional producers who like to work behind the scenes.

How to Become a Ghost Producer at a Major Record Label

Becoming a ghost producer involves having specific skills/knowledge, and understanding the industry’s inner-workings. So let’s break down what you’ll need to know in order to start a career in ghost production.

• Essential Skills and Knowledge You’ll Need to Know

To become a successful ghost producer, you need a strong foundation in music production, including proficiency in DAWs like FL Studio, Pro Tool, Logic, Etc.

Understanding music theory, or at least the core principles, and composition is also key for creating well-structured tracks. 

For instance, knowing how to create a catchy melody or show-stopping chord progression can make your music stand out. 

Knowing some sick mixing and mastering techniques is always a plus as well, because the tracks you produce will have to meet industry standards.

In turn, your services will be more appealing to professional clients.

Familiarity with various genres, such as deep house, progressive house, trap, pop, and hip-hop will allow you to work with different client needs, which is a big plus.

Staying updated with the latest production trends and technologies keeps your skills relevant and competitive, so make sure to do that.

Also, knowledge of sound design and the ability to create unique sounds will set you apart from other producers in a major way.

Side note, if you’d like access to the most beneficial sound design course in the world right now, we’ve got you covered.

Finally, having a creative mindset and the ability to work under tight deadlines are essential traits to have as a ghost producer (so have an open mind!).

• Building a Portfolio As a Ghost Producer

Creating a strong portfolio is essential for attracting clients and showcasing your abilities as a ghost producer. 

It’s essentially your first impression which you absolutely do NOT want to mess up.

So, start by producing a variety of ghost tracks in different genres to demonstrate your: 

• Versatility
• Flexibility
• Skills
• Unique processes
• Etc.

Make sure to also collab with other artists and producers to expand your network and gain valuable experience 一 uploading your best ghost tracks to all platforms.

Anything you can do to reach a wider audience is always advised.

Also, consider offering free or discounted work initially to build a reputation and gather glowing testimonials from satisfied clients. 

Include detailed descriptions and credits for each track in your portfolio to highlight your role in the overall production process. 

A well-rounded portfolio will significantly increase your chances of being hired by artists and record labels, so make sure not to slack in this area.

• Networking and Music Industry Connections

Networking is key for success as a ghost producer (or any producer), as connections can lead to new opportunities and collaborations. 

Try to attend industry events, such as music conferences and workshops, to meet other professionals and potential clients, even digitally speaking.

Also, join some online communities and forums related to music production to share your work and get feedback, you never know what that could open you up to.

Use social media platforms to connect with: 

• Artists
• Other producers
• Industry insiders

Building relationships with record labels can lead to regular ghost production work and long-term contracts, so do everything you can to get your foot in the door.

Networking also helps you stay informed about industry trends and upcoming projects. 

Finally, don’t hesitate to reach out to other ghost producers for advice and potential collaborations as people love seeing initiative.

• The Best Ghost Production Platform Options

Several platforms can help you find ghost production work and connect with artists seeking your skills.

EDM Ghost Producers (which you can read all about below) is a popular choice with their ghost production shop. 一 offering a wide range of services and resources for both producers and artists. 

It’s all about buying and selling ghost produced tracks, which we’ll talk about in detail at the end.

Ghost Production Shop is one of the best ways to showcase your skills (and your best music track) as an EDM ghost producer. 

Each sold track, whether it’s melodic techno/melodic house, future bass, or anything in between can make you a great profit.

Ghost producer sites like these offer opportunities to showcase your work and gain visibility in the industry. 

Even platforms like SoundBetter and Fiverr can connect you with clients looking for custom ghost tracks and production services. 

Pro Tip

When choosing a platform, consider factors such as commission rates, user reviews, and the types of projects available.

Using multiple platforms can increase your chances of finding consistent work and building a strong reputation.

Required Skills for Ghost Producing: What Do I Need to Know?

Being a successful ghost producer requires a combination of technical skills and creative abilities. Let’s break down the essential skills needed to excel in this field.

• Understanding Client Requirements

Understanding client requirements involves translating their vision into a concrete production plan, including a detailed outline of the track’s structure and key elements. 

Use reference tracks provided by the client to align your production with their expectations, which is a great technique.

For instance, if a client wants a track similar to a popular deep house hit, analyze that track’s: 

• Structure
• Sounds/samples
• Arrangement
• Key techniques/effects
• Etc.

This way you can convey the desired mood, energy, and vibe of the track. 

Make sure to confirm the specific instruments and sounds the client wants to include, such as particular synthesizers or drum patterns. 

Establish milestones and deadlines for each stage of production to keep the project on track and everyone happy.

It will ensure that both you and the client have a clear understanding of the project scope and expectations so nobody gets disappointed.

• Composition and Arrangement

Composition and arrangement are critical aspects of ghost production, so you’ll need to learn all about the basic structure of the track, including: 

• The intro
• Verses
• Build-ups
• Drops
• Outros

For example, in progressive house, you might begin with a melodic intro that gradually builds up to an energetic drop. 

If your client wants that specific genre/style, of course.

Use your knowledge of music theory or experience to create harmonious chord progressions and super catchy melodies that really make an impact.

Layering different sounds and instruments can add depth and complexity to the track 一 which is always great because it’ll help you stand out.

Pay attention to the arrangement so each section transitions smoothly into the next. 

This is where your creativity as a professional producer shines, as you create a unique and engaging musical journey for the client and their listeners.

• Pro Tip

Mixing and mastering, as I’m sure you know, is always about ensuring the final track sounds professional, polished, and on point. If you don’t know how to mix and master, then forget about a career in ghost production, because your beats will have to meet industry standards and be of the highest quality all day.

• Revisions and Final Approval

Revisions are a standard part of the ghost production process so, after completing the initial version of the track, you’ll have to share it with the client for feedback. 

Be open to their suggestions and willing to make adjustments to meet their vision. 

This might involve things like: 

• Tweaking the arrangement
• Adjusting the mix
• Adding new elements

Which, as a ghost producer dealing with ghost produced tracks, is a must, regardless of how frustrating it might be (which we all know can be infuriating).

Clear communication is key during this stage to ensure that you understand the client’s feedback and implement it like a pro. 

Once the client is satisfied with the revisions, the final approval marks the completion of the project 一 cha-ching.

This step ensures that the client is happy with the ghost produced track and ready to release it under their name.

Marketing Yourself as a Ghost Producer

Marketing yourself as a ghost producer isn’t the most fun step, but it’s a must, so you need to always be building a strong personal brand and showcasing your skills. 

Create a professional website where potential clients can listen to your portfolio and learn about your services. 

If you don’t have one, it makes you seem like an amateur and you don’t want that.

Use social media platforms of course, like Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn to connect with artists and industry professionals. 

Always, always, always share your work regularly 一 including snippets of your latest projects and behind-the-scenes content.

And like I said, networking at industry events and online forums can also lead to valuable connections and opportunities. 

Building a reputation for delivering top-quality music consistently will help attract more clients and grow your ghost production business, period.

• Pricing Your Ghost Production Services

Pricing your ghost production services varies, but it all comes down to understanding the market and setting rates that reflect your skills/experience. 

Research the going rates for ghost production in your genre and region and consider different key factors like:

• The complexity of the track
• The time required
• Any additional services like mixing and mastering

Offering ‘tiered pricing’ packages can cater to different client budgets…

This can include a basic package for a simple track and a premium package for a fully produced, mixed, and mastered track. 

Transparency in pricing and clear communication about what each package includes will help manage client expectations and avoid any misunderstandings.

• Pro Tip: Intellectual Property Rights

Intellectual property rights determine who owns the music created in a ghost production arrangement (any arrangement in the industry, really).

Typically, the artist purchasing the royalty-free track will own the rights, but this should be explicitly stated in the contract no matter what.

Producers should always understand their rights regarding the reuse of elements from the produced track. 

Side note, ensuring that all samples and sounds used in the track are properly licensed is very important, which shouldn’t be hard these days.

Intellectual property rights also cover the exclusivity of the track 一 preventing the music producer from selling it to multiple clients. 

Clear agreements on these rights prevent future legal issues and ensure fair compensation for the producer, so don’t overlook it.

Challenges in Ghost Production

Ghost production is not all fun times, it comes with its own set of challenges in addition to regular music production. Understanding and swerving these challenges is key for success, so let’s get into it.

• Client Expectations

Managing client expectations is one of the biggest challenges in ghost production, and I’m sure you understand why. 

Clients often have a clear vision of what they want but may struggle to articulate it or keep changing things up constantly, making your head spin.

As a ghost producer, it’s your job to break down their ideas and translate them into a cohesive musical track that makes them happy (while staying true to yourself).

This requires excellent communication skills and the ability to ask the right questions. 

Sometimes, clients may have unrealistic expectations regarding the music production timeline or the final sound. 

Therefore, setting clear boundaries and being transparent about what is achievable within the given timeframe and budget can help manage these expectations.

It’s all about getting the overall vibe right so the client can be happy, no matter how frustrating working with that person can sometimes get.

• Creative Limitations

Creative limitations can always arise when working on ghost production projects, especially when adhering to the client’s (sometimes ridiculous) requests. 

While it’s important to fulfill the client’s vision, finding ways to incorporate your creative input can make the process more enjoyable and the final product more unique. 

Balancing the client’s preferences with your own instincts requires a delicate approach. 

For example, if a client requests a track similar to a popular deep house hit, you can use it as a reference while adding your own creative flair to ensure the track stands out.

Yes I know I already mentioned that, but it’s one of my favorite techniques, so don’t hate.

• Maintaining Anonymity

Maintaining anonymity is the name of the game if you’re going to become a successful ghost producer.

You couldn’t even imagine how many of your favorite songs weren’t produced by the producer you think or by the artist who is singing over it.

As a ghost producer, you agree to remain behind the scenes 一 allowing the artist to take full credit for the track (even if it goes crazy viral).

This can be challenging, especially if the track becomes a hit and gains significant recognition, but you’ve got to pull it together. 

Don’t worry, word gets around in the industry, and you can always drop the name of that song when talking to potential employers (unless stated otherwise in the contract).

To protect your identity, ensure that all agreements include confidentiality clauses and avoid sharing details about your projects on public platforms. 

Maintaining anonymity can be rewarding though…

It allows you to focus on creating music without the pressures of fame, but it requires a commitment to staying out of the spotlight, so think about who you are as a person.

Tips for Aspiring Ghost Producers

For those looking to break into the field of ghost production and be a professional producer on the low, here are some bonus tips to help you succeed. They’re scattered throughout the article, but if you’re just looking at titles, this ones for you.

• Staying Updated with Industry Trends

Staying updated with industry trends is really the most important thing you can do as a ghost producer (or regular producer).

Make sure to visit popular music blogs, join industry forums, and subscribe to newsletters from major record labels. 

This keeps you informed about the: 

• Latest styles
• Music production techniques
• Equipment
• Trending genres
• Etc.

It will help you tweak your ghost production approach to match market demands.

Staying updated with software updates and new plugins can also enhance your music production capabilities and make people see you as a true professional.

Attend music conferences and workshops (heck, even visit a music store) to learn from industry experts and network with other professionals. 

Keeping your finger on the pulse of the industry will make sure that your skills and productions remain relevant and competitive, which is key.

• Enhancing Your Technical Skills

Enhancing your technical skills is essential for producing top-quality music, so make sure to spend time mastering your DAW of choice, like:

• Pro Tools
• FL Studio
• Ableton Live
• Logic
• Cubase
• Etc.

Also, make sure to learn advanced mixing and mastering techniques to ensure your ghost tracks meet professional standards. 

Make sure to play around with sound design to create unique and innovative sounds. 

Taking online courses and tutorials can help you stay updated with the latest music production techniques. 

Investing in high-quality plugins and sample packs can also enhance your production capabilities. 

Continuously improving your technical skills ensures that you can deliver high-quality productions that stand out in a competitive market.

• Building Strong Client Relationships

Building strong client relationships is key to a successful ghost production career. 

Communicate clearly and regularly with your clients to understand their needs and expectations. 

Delivering projects on time and being open to feedback can build trust and encourage repeat business. 

For example, if a client is happy with the first track you produce and like how you create music, they are more likely to return for future projects.

 Offering exceptional customer service, such as providing detailed progress updates and being responsive to inquiries, can set you apart from other producers. 

Strong client relationships often lead to positive word-of-mouth referrals, helping you grow your business (which is what it’s all about).

Bonus: EDM Ghost Producer (Ghost Producing Platform)

EDM Ghost Producer is a premier EDM ghost producer platform that connects artists with professional EDM ghost producers. 

This EDM ghost productions site offers a wide range of services 一 including custom track production, mixing, and mastering. 

Clients can browse through a catalog of pre-made ghost tracks or commission exclusive tracks tweaked to their specific needs. 

The platform guarantees top-quality music by working with experienced music production professionals who specialize in various genres of electronic dance music. 

If that sounds like you, I highly recommend you check it out asap. 

For example, if an artist needs to buy ghost produced tracks, let’s say a deep house track with exclusive vocals, EDM Ghost Producers can match them with an EDM ghost producer who excels in that style. 

The platform also handles all legal aspects, including contracts and confidentiality clauses, which is awesome (it makes sure either party doesn’t get screwed over). 

By offering a reliable and professional service, EDM Ghost Producers has become a trusted resource for artists looking to release new tracks.

This way, they don’t have to worry about the time-consuming process of creating them from scratch. 

This ghost producing platform provides a valuable service for both talented artists and producers when it comes to creating tracks (royalty-free tracks), releasing music, and buying ghost produced tracks. 

It’s all about connecting musical talent and creating high-quality music that can dominate the charts.

Ghost Production: Final Thoughts

Ghost production is an exciting and dynamic field that can offer some killer opportunities for making money.

As a producer trying to get into this interesting field, it’s all about honing your skills and making the right connections. 

If you do break in, with the help from this article, it will help you seriously elevate your career and secure a steady stream of income.

As an added bonus, since we talked about EDM production so much (because it’s the most popular genre for ghost producers), you’ve got to check out this epic Free EDM Kit. 

It includes 45 individual drum samples, loops, and MIDIs specifically designed to make your EDM tracks sound clean, crisp, and polished. 

If you want to create tracks that are punchy, infectious, and dominate the dancefloor… this is perfect for you. 

The sounds inside the Unison Free EDM Drum Kit are perfect for most EDM genres, whether that’s house, techno, melodic techno, DnB, or anything in-between. 

I guarantee you’re absolutely going to love these professional drum samples, hands down.

Remember, mastering the art of ghost production requires dedication, hustle, and continuous learning.

So, use what we talked about today, network with industry professionals, and always keep pushing the boundaries of your creativity. 

With the right approach, you can become a successful ghost producer and make a significant impact in the music industry (but on the low).

Until next time…