Top 10 Books On How To Learn Music Production
- Matt
- May 9, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: May 25
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The whole world of music production is large and complex but also ironically subtle. I know when I started to move past the simple act of recording with a single microphone or the iPhone recorder app, I was really confused and had no idea where to start.
The popular and quickest approach these days is to search YouTube for tutorials that you can follow along with. I've also done this with great success but I also will acknowledge some challenges.
Sometimes it can take a long time to find a channel that is at the right level for your current knowledge.
There is so much content that there is no structure to your learning.
Unless you are writing notes or using the lesson everyday, it is hard to go back and revise when you need to refresh your brain.
I think this is why I find it useful to still buy a book to supplement your learning - or at least use the book as the main source and then use YouTube to demonstrate what you have just read.
For me using music production books greatly increased my knowledge and I still pick them up today when I can't work something out or need a refresher. I love having a book next to me at my mixing desk because:
I can easily pick them up and refer to the information I need.
They go deeper into the concept rather then scratch the surface like a video might - or those videos that only give you half the info you need and then you hit a pay wall.
They cover all topics required and if you read the whole thing, you will be able to produce your music as a whole rather then just one part.
I have put together a list of the top 10 books about music productions
I have put together a list of the top 10 books about music productions - recording, mixing, mastering - that I believe will give you a step up in your skills as a music producer. Although numbered, these are in no particular order, they all have positives that I have highlighted.
If I could recommend just one of these books, it would be number 1 in the list which was recommended to me by a teacher I had while studying music production at the conservatory of music. It is actually on my desk as I write this post!
Contents
Book 1 - Mixing Audio: Concepts, Practices and Tools, 4th Edition
by Roey Izhaki
My top pick for a book to learn music production!
Pages:Â 592
PublisherÂ
Focal Press; 4th edition (July 26, 2023)
Summary
This book is a thorough look at the art and science of mixing audio. Roey Izhaki teaches the reader about the fundamentals of sound and mixing techniques, covering everything from basic audio principles to complex mixing strategies. The latest edition includes a lot of updates on mastering, the "loudness war" and a new section on console emulation - making it a must-read for both beginners and seasoned engineers.
Why I like this book:
Offers a deep dive into both basic and advanced mixing techniques.
Provides practical examples and an online resource.
Updated content reflects the latest in mixing technology and theory.
Book 2 - The Art of Mixing: A Visual Guide to Recording, Engineering and Production
by David Gibson
Pages:Â 286
Publisher
Routledge; 1st edition (December 20, 2018)
Summary
David Gibson does something clever here - he uses pictures to show you what sound actually looks like - making complex technical concepts easy to understand and engaging.
The book details how different sounds interact within a mix and how engineers can manipulate them to create a cohesive final product. It's an invaluable resource for understanding sound from a visual point of view.
Why I like this book:
Unique visual approach simplifies the understanding of mixing layers and dynamics.
Effective for both novices and experienced engineers.
Insightful anecdotes from a seasoned expert in the field.
Book 3 - Recording Unhinged: Creative and Unconventional Music Recording Techniques
by Sylvia Massy
Pages:Â 258
Publisher
Hal Leonard; Har/Psc edition (May 1, 2016)
Summary
Sylvia Massy’s guide pushes the boundaries of traditional recording, incorporating unconventional techniques and creativity.
Through entertaining stories and interviews, she explores how thinking outside the box can lead to extraordinary results in music recording.
This isn't about breaking rules for the sake of it. It's about understanding when and why to try something different.
Why I like this book:
Encourages creative and experimental recording methods.
Includes engaging stories and tips from well-known music producers.
Beautifully illustrated and creatively presented.
Book 4 - Home Recording For Dummies, 6th Edition
by Jeff Strong
Pages:Â 448
Publisher
For Dummies; 6th edition (October 16, 2020)
Summary
Don't let the "Dummies" title put you off.
Jeff Strong provides a comprehensive guide to setting up and working in a home studio. From selecting the right gear and optimizing your space, to recording and mixing your own music.
It's the book I wish I'd had when I was starting out with a cheap interface and too many questions.
Why I like this book:
Comprehensive, yet accessible for beginners.
Practical tips on choosing equipment and software.
Steps for recording, editing and mixing detailed effectively.
Book 5 - Mixing Secrets for the Small Studio
by Mike Senior
Pages:Â 444
Publisher
Routledge; 2nd edition (August 16, 2018)
Summary
Mike Senior offers a wealth of techniques for achieving professional-sounding mixes in a home studio.
The book guides readers through the entire mixing process, providing advice on how to handle challenges with limited resources.
It also includes tips from some of the industry's most respected professionals, making it a great tool for intermediate mixers.
Why I like this book:
Tailored advice for small studio environments.
Includes a wealth of professional mixing techniques.
Practical and actionable insights for immediate application.
Book 6 - Home Studio Recording: The Complete Guide
by Warren Huart
Pages:Â 453
Publisher
Independently published (February 10, 2023)
Summary
Warren Huart has been helping home recordists for years through his Produce Like A Pro channel, and this book brings all that knowledge together in one place.
It's comprehensive without being overwhelming. He covers the gear, the techniques and the mindset you need to get professional results at home.
Why I like this book:
Extensive coverage of home recording essentials.
Practical advice drawn from extensive professional experience.
Easy-to-follow, well-organized content with useful diagrams.
Book 7 - The Recording Mindset: A Step-By-Step Guide To Creating Pro Recordings From Your Home Studio
by Mike Indovina
Pages:Â 194
Publisher
ISBN Canada (February 3, 2024)
Summary
Mike Indovina emphasizes the importance of preparation and planning in the recording process. The book details techniques for achieving the best sound quality, from mic placement to understanding the acoustics of your environment. It's an essential guide for anyone looking to improve the quality of their home recordings.
Why I like this book:
Emphasizes preparation and planning in the recording process.
Detailed explanations of recording techniques.
Helpful for refining the recording process to achieve professional results.
Book 8 - 5-Minute Music Producer: 365 Music Making Activities for Better Songwriting and Music Production
By Brian Funk
Pages:Â 629
Publisher
Independently published (January 18, 2023)
Summary
This book offers a unique approach to music production and songwriting, providing daily activities to boost creativity and productivity. Each activity is designed to be completed in just five minutes, making it easy for musicians to practice and improve their skills every day. It's an excellent tool for anyone looking to make music a daily habit.
Why I like this book:
Daily exercises keep creativity flowing.
Offers a broad range of activities suitable for various musical styles.
Encourages consistent practice and skill development.
Book 9 - The Mixing Engineer's Handbook: Fourth Edition
by Bobby Owsinski
Pages:Â 312
Publisher
Bobby Owsinski Media Group (January 9, 2017)
Summary
Bobby Owsinski combines technical advice with practical experience, offering readers a comprehensive guide to the art of mixing. The fourth edition includes new interviews with some of the industry's top mix engineers and updated content on modern mixing techniques. This handbook is an essential resource for anyone looking to master the craft of mixing music.
Why I like this book:
Combines theoretical knowledge with practical advice.
Insights from industry professionals enhance the learning experience.
Covers a broad spectrum of mixing scenarios and solutions.
Book 10 - Step By Step Mixing: How to Create Great Mixes Using Only 5 Plug-ins
by Bjorgvin Benediktsson
Pages:Â 156
Publisher
N/A
Summary
Bjorgvin Benediktsson simplifies the mixing process by focusing on five essential plugins. This approach teaches readers to achieve professional-quality mixes without relying on an extensive array of tools. The book is a practical guide for home studio owners looking to enhance their mixing skills with minimal equipment.
Why I like this book:
Focuses on core mixing tools, making complex processes accessible.
Ideal for those working with limited software resources.
Straightforward, step-by-step guidance ideal for beginners and intermediates.
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Summary - Top 10 Books to Learn Music Production
So there you have it - My top 10 books that I feel that any of them will help you on your path to music production glory.
Please leave me a comment if any of these have been helpful on your journey or if you think I am missing any great books that you have used. I'll be sure to take a look and add them to the list.
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About The Author
Matt A, Founder and Head Writer @ Music Thought House
I have had a lifelong passion for music. I picked up my first guitar when I was 10 and it's been there, most of the time haha, ever since. I have played and studied music ever since that time, always trying to learn more and get better. There is not one aspect of music that I am still not in awe of.
I have gathered a lot of information over time and now, with Music Thought House, I have decided to release it on the world.
I know that music can be daunting and seemingly complex and I am not a complicated person. The blog posts I write am to keep things simple and straightforward so everyone can get a better understanding of music.
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