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As music lovers, we have a tendency to give credit for hit records exclusively to the artist. But what often gets lost is the fact that the producers of those hit records have just as much of an impact on how good the song is. Let’s take a look at four producers who impacted hip-hop without ever grabbing a mic.
DJ Khaled
DJ Khaled is one of the most impactful producers in the history of hip-hop. The Miami Native has gained a reputation for assembling some of the top musical acts in hip-hop to produce hit records. And Khaled’s records have withstood the test of time. Songs such as “I’m on One,” “Out Here Grinding,” and “All I Do Is Win” have still maintained their relevancy, despite being more than 10 years old. In addition, Khaled’s records have put up legendary numbers. Globally, the super producer has sold more than 75 million records. He has also received several RIAA certifications. Including a diamond certification for his hit record “I’m The One.”
Scott Storch
Scott Storch is not as active in the music game as he once was. But make no doubt about it he is one of the best producers of all time. Storch peaked in the early 2000s. And he has produced some of the biggest hits for some of the top hit makers. Hits such as “Still D.R.E.”, “Lean Back”, “Naughty Girl”, “Candy Shop”, and “Run It!” have helped him sell more than 150 million records worldwide.
Pharrell
Many people know Pharrell as a fashion icon, especially after recently taking the position as the creative director at Louis Vuitton. But for most of us, Pharrell is the legendary super producer who gives us some of hip-hop’s most legendary acts. Pharell is most famous for producing Clipse’s smash hit “Grindin’,” but he has so many more classics under his belt. Nelly’s Hot in Here, Justin Timberlake’s Rock Ya Body, and Mystikal’s Shake Ya A** are just a few of the other classics that he has produced.
DJ Mustard
DJ Mustard is still relatively new when it comes to the hip-hop scene. Especially when you consider the other producers who have been mentioned on this list. But that makes the impact that he has had on hip-hop that much more impressive, as he has made quite the name for himself in such a short time. With DJ Mustard’s West Coast roots, he brought a sound to the genre that people had not seen since Dr. Dre was producing for N.W.A. Mustard first went mainstream in 2011 when he gained notoriety for producing Tyga’s hit record “Rack City.” And from there he took off. Other records in his catalog, such as “Pure Water,” “Who Do You Love,” and most recently, “Not Like Us,” have helped him rise to superstardom.
