Hi RAP'ers -

I'm developing the syllabus and curriculum for a course I'll be
teaching in the Spring called "Survey of Modern Production
Techniques", which will look at the evolution of modern record
production from the late 50's/early 60's up to the present day. With
two classes per week over a ten week term, I think there will be some
opportunity to look at many of the important producers and their work,
to listen and analyze what made each one important to the advancement
of the art. I'm compiling a list of important producers and records,
and I'd love to get some input from you guys. I'm trying to keep my
personal taste out of it, which is why I've included David Foster, for
example. While I'm not fond of most of his productions, I do believe
that he helped shape the sound of pop music in the late 70's and 80's
(acoustic piano doubled with Rhodes, anyone?). Anyway, I'd appreciate
any input from you guys. Eventually, I would like to weed the list
down to 20 -25 producers with 1-3 songs each, and really try to
quantify each one's contribution. Here's my list so far:

Les Paul
Jerry Wexler
George Martin
Berry Gordy
Joe Meek
Phil Spector
Brian Wilson
George Massenberg
Waronker/Titleman
George Clinton
Brian Eno
Daniel Lanois
Prince
Teddy Riley
Rick Rubin
Arif Mardin
David Foster
Mutt Lange
Bill Laswell
Trevor Horn


I have no agenda here, other than to get this right and give the kids
the best class for their money, so feel free to disagree with my
choices and offer better ones. Thanks a bunch for the help


Jim Klein
Assistant Professor, Music Industry
Drexel University