Producers are an often overlooked but always integral part of the recording process. We highlight and celebrate the 50 most influential producers ever. Edited and compiled by Tim Chester.
Produced: The Traveling Wilburys, The Beatles, Regina Spektor
Beatles fandom has its own rewards. From drenching the Electric Light Orchestra in classic Fab pop in the 70s to masterminding George Harrison’s solo renaissance at the end of the 80s, Jeff Lynne has worn his Beatley heart on his sleeve. It led to some great MOR hits for ELO and a stint with supergroup The Traveling Wilburys as Lynne cornered the market in warm, plush production, effortlessly speaking to the CD-buying baby boomers. The apotheosis came when Lynne presided over the new Beatles recordings of the mid-90s, alienating purists but convincingly imagining how the band would have turned out. MH
