As we all know, hip-hop fans are a territorial group, especially when it comes to their favorite producers. With so many different legends, it's hard to decide on who deserves the coveted GOAT status. Certainly, a case can be made for each of the following contenders, as every single one has hits for days. The question is a simple one, but the answer might prove more difficult than you expect.
So, let's get right to it. Who is the greatest producer of all time? We've compiled a list of some of the biggest contenders, but if your favorite was missed, be sure to sound off below. After your vote, hit us with some of your favorite beats from your selection; maybe it might convince someone to see the light. At the very least, we can all stand to use some more dope beats in our lives.
Dr. Dre
The good Doctor has solidified himself as one of the game's most legendary and influential producers - he started this gangsta shit. From NWA, to The Chronic, to 2001, to signing Eminem & 50 Cent, Dr. Dre's repertoire speaks for itself. Plus, he basically pioneered the minor key piano banger.
While Timbo tends to operate in pop waters these days, the man's contributions to hip-hop are legendary. He's given heat to Missy Elliot, Jay-Z, The Game, Busta Rhymes, Jadakiss, and many more. A look at his vast and versatile repertoire proves that Timbaland's signature bounce is timeless.
RZA
The RZA changed the game when he laced the entirety of Wu-Tang Clan's Enter The Wu-Tang: 36 Chambers. Not only did he pioneer the gritty, menacing Wu sound, but his masterful use of film samples added an enjoyable layer of depth to the experience. Plus, he's basically the leader of one of hip-hop's GOAT crews.
DJ Premier
When it comes to the sound of "real hip-hop," DJ Premier is the epitome. As the God of the golden era, Primo has mastered the art of the sample, providing timeless boom-bap to artists across the board, from Nas to Royce Da 5'9".
While perhaps more divisive than some of the other contenders, Swizz' contributions to hip-hop should never be taken lightly. The recent Harvard grad played a pivotal role in sound-tracking the Ruff Ryders' movement, lacing beats for Jay-Z, DMX, and The Lox.
The Neptunes
At one point, the duo of Pharrell Williams and Chad Hugo were basically running the game. From their softer love songs to their cold-blooded bangers (Hell Hath No Fury comes to mind) that Neptunes sound is among the games' most recognizable.
Kanye West
One of the most enigmatic and erratic producers in the game also happens to be the most brilliant. From the minute he first linked up with Jay-Z and the Roc-A-Fella team, Kanye West has consistently proven himself as one of music's most innovative and daring minds.
J Dilla
The Detroit legend may have died in 2006, but his music and influence continue to live on. Not only is Donuts an excellent musical experience from start to finish, but it's also the journey of a man coming to terms with with his own waning mortality.
Just Blaze
Another veteran of the Roc movement, Just Blaze has earned himself a respected reputation as one of the game's most consistent. Think of it this way - when Eminem was struggling to find himself before Recovery, his camp called up Just Blaze to save the day. Slept on, but not forgotten.
Metro Boomin
While he's still young, Metro Boomin's contributions to the game continue to grow. His prolific run in 2017 established the Atlanta producer as one of the game's current elites, and you'd be hard pressed to find an up-and-coming producer that hasn't borrowed from Metro's playbook.