They create the hits, but get none of the glory-Why are music producers overlooked?

Every chart-topping hit, every viral anthem, every song that defines a generation ─ none of it would exist without the magic of music producers. Yet while artists bask in fame, the creative geniuses behind the beats, melodies, and sonic perfection remain in the shadows.

Why?

Multi-award-winning producer Shingirayi Zimanyi, also known as ‘Shayzar’, has a career spanning for over a decade and has worked with some of the biggest names in music, both locally and internationally including Sizla, Sean Kingston, Nyanda of Brick n lace, Sean Paul, Lady Zamar, Khuli Chana, Kelly Khumalo, Gigi Lamayne, Metaphysics, Sandra Mtukudzi, Carlprit, and Brian Soko (award winning for drunk in love by Beyoncé ), to name a few.

He has seen firsthand how producers shape the sound of the industry, only to be forgotten when the spotlight shines. In this exclusive interview, he opens up about why producers are continuously overlooked, how the industry fails to acknowledge their impact, and what needs to change.

Why the industry continues to overlook music producers

In an exclusive interview with Africa Jamz FM News, Shayzar shared his thoughts on why he believes producers are consistently overlooked in the music industry.

“I think it’s because in most cases producers are by design meant to be in the back end of the entertainment business. While it makes sense in huge industries like in the USA, in countries like South Africa, where social media influence is a currency, it becomes difficult for a producer to completely benefit from the work. It is extremely difficult for a producer to get a fan base solely from producing music and also, there is lack of nuance and technical understanding when it comes to the music industry,” said Shayzar.

The influence producers have on the final product

Shayzar also expressed his views on whether the public truly recognises the impact that music producers have on the final product.

“Unfortunately, I do not think the public cares beyond following the brand of a famous artist. As producers, we are relegated to the back ground at most times, and it is quite unfortunate that sometimes, it is also affects the negotiating strength of a producer when getting shares for any type of royalty income. 

“Young producers are so desperate to work with mainstream artist in order to quickly garner fame, and get little income at the end of the day, despite contributing vast amounts of intellectual property to the artists and the labels,” said Shayzar.

A system in place that keeps producers from getting the credit they deserve

While many artists become household names, producers often stay in the shadows. Shayzar shares his perspective on whether this is intentional and if there is a system in place that prevents producers from receiving the recognition they deserve.

“In a way yes. The system is designed to honour and celebrate the artist and relegate the team that put the artist on the stage in the first place. We, in South Africa, are still new to crediting works from the creators appropriately. 

“Hours upon hours of gruelling work is invested in the creation of a song, from composition, recording the artist up to mixing and mastering, which is the final phase of a song.

“Basically, Mixing is when an engineer carves and balances the separate tracks in a session to sound good when played together. 

“While mastering a song means putting the finishing touches on a track by enhancing the overall sound, creating consistency across the album, and preparing it for distribution. In modern times, an engineer and a music producer do all of the above and then some, because record labels tend to want to cut costs by minimising labour,” said Shayzar.

Shifts in how producers are being acknowledged

With streaming platforms and social media reshaping the music industry, Shayzar explores whether producers are gaining more recognition or if the system still prioritises artists in the spotlight.

“Yes, there is a huge shift when streaming platforms arrived and became fully useful and  functional in 2014. Producers can now simply upload their own works directly to a distributor and get nearly 100% royalty income without having to deal with a major record label. Clients who wish to work with a composer/producer can now get them easily via social media sites. 

“Producers can now be endorsed by marketing brands for companies related to selling music products that entail device recording gadgets and music based software’s, also known as Digital Audio Work Stations.,” said Shayzar.

What needs to change for music producers to get the respect and recognition they deserve?

Shayzar highlights what needs to change for music producers to receive the respect and recognition they deserve. He also shares valuable advice for aspiring producers who feel unseen in the industry.

“As much as we can blame the music industry, us as producers, we need to take initiative in the promotion of our own works.  We simply cannot completely rely on the old system of the SAMRO’s, Cappasso, SAMPRA, RISA ,etc, especially in South Africa, where the Amapiano culture has evolved faster than the government can create protective, legislative measures for the young adults venturing into the space. 

“A space for young creatives to be unionised is definitely needed. More workshops and creation of healthy working environments is needed too. We need businesses and possibly government to invest in music producers, and not just into the front line artists, as I believe we can generate more revenue and create a bigger employment base for the youth to get out of the streets and focus on talent.

“Creating a safe working environment for mental health should be a priority for producers, as this is a cut throat game. We have lost so much talent due to frustrations of lack of recognition, to mental health situations leading to drug and sexual abuse. And also, we need to teach and guide parents in nurturing talent. 

“Amapiano and Afro Beats are relatively new genres that are making waves globally, and it needs to benefit the origin, which are the youth and culture of South Africa and Africa at large. If we lose music producers, we lose the entire industry. They are what breathes life to the entertainment industry, and carries the weight of the artist before they get to the fame and to the stage,” said Shayzar.

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