Music Moguls: Masters of Pop

Series 1 - Episode 2 Melody Makers

Review

by Mark Braxton

What exactly is a music producer? Creator, psychologist and “painter of the big picture” are just some of the opinions offered. The second part of a rip-roaring trilogy gets behind the art and alchemy of the knob-twiddlers: people such as Mark Ronson, Bowie collaborator Tony Visconti and propulsive guitarist Nile Rodgers, who narrates.

Lovers of great pop will hang on every word of Motown maestro Lamont Dozier, and the breakdown of Heroes on the mixing desk is muso nirvana. A vibrant, lovingly curated instalment.

Summary

A look at the producers who created the signature sounds that have defined key periods in rock and pop history. Contributors include Trevor Horn, who reflects on `inventing' the sound of the 1980s, Lamont Dozier, who recalls the impact of Motown, and Tony Visconti recollecting David Bowie's song Heroes. Narrated by musician, producer and guitarist Nile Rodgers.