just wanted to chime in from a diff perspective... i'm an artist whose looked and looked for "right" person to produce my stuff. i'm on sites like this to learn more about the recording process, not to be a producer, but so that i can do better demos on my own, till i'm ready to get them finished. plus, this knowledge of knowing what's possible and what the "best practices" are better prepares me as an artist. at least i think so...
anyways, here's what i look for when i'm searching:
1. smaller bands (not major label) whose production jumps out at me. i then try and look up who did their tracks and see if i can find them from there
2. craigslist and myspace: yes, its a hassle getting spam from some guys, but its also a great resource. I've actually found established "pro" producers once in a while on craigslist looking to fill up their downtime. i still couldnt afford them, even at their "discount" prices which averaged around $2K per track. and myspace is a no brainer, but unfortunately everyone and their mother is a "producer" these days.
3. and to me this was most impt... samples of your work! you wouldnt believe how many producer ads or studio sites i've come across without any song samples. i dont even waste my time responding or contacting those.
4. this is my subjective take: i wanna see diversity in work. i wont go with someone who's done only metal, or only "insert random"-core tracks. i think a broader portfolio brings a broader perspective to the project. but then again, i'm not a metal project, i just have elements in it. but i think the more skills they have with diff genres means theyre gonna bring alot more insight/experience to the table.
so... for those who are looking for ways to get their names out there, and who arent being "found", i would suggest this:
1. try negotiating with clients whose projects youre really proud of, to do mutually beneficial advertising for each other. ie - put each others banners on your pages/signatures for XX number of months or whatever.
2. give them a "discount" on your mixing/mastering or whatever fees if they put your contact info on their cd insert. even just your name/studio name and website is all. this is only if thats not already a part of your contract/verbal agreements, etc. and the discount is in quotes because only you will know if you actually gave them one
3. a little sleazier, or more used car salesman-y. but whatever, we are talking marketing/business here! once you recognize the "talent(s)" in the group your recording, stroke their ego and ask them about their other/side projects. encourage them to "pursue" these other projects and make an appt outside of the booked studio time to check it out
anways... not sure if this is blatantly obvious or not, but i've not come across these very much (if at all).
