In Your Opinion, Who's the Greatest Producer of All Time?

In Hip Hop, producers are just as essential as rappers. If not, more essential. I think it’s safe to say that you wouldn’t have a favorite rapper if it were not for the producer. We can use RZA for an example: in terms of production, he was the driving force behind Wu-Tang Clan. Whether it was Wu’s Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) and Wu-Tang Forever, or the solo material like Method Man’s Tical, Raekwon’s Only Built 4 Cuban Linx, & GZA’s Liquid Swords, RZA had a hand in a bulk of the production.

Then you have the producers that have the Midas touch, whether it’s inside their camp or out, such as Dr. Dre. “Been in the game for 10 years making rap tunes,” he raps on 2Pac’s 1995 hit, “California Love.” “Every since honies was wearing Sasoon.”

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That was 20 years ago when he said that. Now, it makes 30! Despite his age, he’s still considered one of the best in the game.

When its all said and done, Pharrell Williams and The Neptune’s will go down as one of the best. Pharrell has the candid ability to produce crossover beats. He has a lengthy resume to support the statement.

Then you have producers that may not have the repertoire of a Dre or Pharrell, but their contribution have garnered just as much respect. J Dilla is a good example.

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The late-Detroit native made a name for himself before his untimely death, producing for some of the biggest names in R&B and Hip Hop. One can only imagine what his body of work would’ve been had he still been with us today.

And then, how can you go wrong with Timbaland? Not only did he play a significant role in taking Aaliyah’s career to the next level, but he’s also the beat maker behind some of Jay-Z’s biggest hits.

You have so many dope producers — old and young — that have made significant contribution…