There are countless musicians and producers throughout history who have had a tremendous impact on the music industry, yet their contributions often go unrecognised or unnoticed by the general public. Here are ten of the most influential musicians and producers who most people have never heard of.
1. Wendy Carlos
Wendy Carlos is a pioneer in electronic music and one of the first musicians to use synthesizers in her compositions. She is best known for her album “Switched-On Bach,” which was released in 1968 and became a huge commercial success. Carlos went on to create many more albums and soundtracks, including the score for Stanley Kubrick’s “A Clockwork Orange.”
2. Joe Meek
Joe Meek was a British producer who was active in the 1950s and 1960s. He was known for his innovative production techniques and his use of homemade equipment. Meek produced many hits for artists such as The Tornados and Heinz, but his most famous work is probably the song “Telstar,” which was a huge international hit in 1962.
3. Conny Plank
Conny Plank was a German producer who worked with many influential artists in the 1970s and 1980s, including Kraftwerk, Neu!, and Brian Eno. He was known for his innovative use of studio equipment and his willingness to experiment with different sounds and techniques.
4. Harry Partch
Harry Partch was an American composer who created his own musical instruments and tuning system. He was known for his highly original compositions, which combined elements of Western classical music with traditional African and Asian music. Partch’s music has had a lasting influence on avant-garde composers and experimental musicians.
5. Sun Ra
Sun Ra was an American jazz musician and bandleader who was active from the 1950s until his death in 1993. He was known for his highly theatrical performances, his use of science fiction themes, and his innovative approach to jazz improvisation. Sun Ra’s music has influenced many musicians in a variety of genres, including hip hop and electronic music.
6. Daniel Lanois
Daniel Lanois is a Canadian producer and musician who has worked with many influential artists, including U2, Bob Dylan, and Neil Young. He is known for his atmospheric production style, which often incorporates elements of ambient music and experimental soundscapes.
7. Robert Moog
Robert Moog was an American engineer and inventor who is best known for creating the Moog synthesizer. His invention revolutionized the music industry and had a huge impact on the development of electronic music. The Moog synthesizer has been used by countless musicians in a variety of genres, including rock, pop, and electronic music.
8. Giorgio Moroder
Giorgio Moroder is an Italian producer and songwriter who is often credited with pioneering the sound of disco in the 1970s. He produced many hits for artists such as Donna Summer and worked on film soundtracks, including the score for “Midnight Express,” which won an Academy Award. Moroder’s innovative use of synthesizers and electronic instruments has had a lasting influence on popular music.
9. Steve Albini
Steve Albini is an American musician and producer who has worked with many influential artists, including Nirvana, Pixies, and PJ Harvey. He is known for his raw, unpolished production style and his commitment to analog recording techniques. Albini has been a major influence on the development of alternative rock and indie music.
10. Brian Eno
Brian Eno is an English musician and producer who has had a tremendous influence on the development of electronic music and ambient music. He was a founding member of the band Roxy Music and has worked on many influential albums