California's music production industry thrives on creativity and innovation, attracting a variety of companies. These firms, from established record labels to specialized studios, offer services like recording, mixing, mastering, and scoring for films and advertisements. Notably, technology's influence has shifted many independently-operated entities into significant players, driven by enhanced accessibility to high-quality production tools. As streaming continues to dominate, the demand for unique soundtracks and fresh talent grows. This industry stands poised for evolution, with collaborations across various media and traditional styles merging to produce captivating audio experiences.

The music production companies listed span various sizes and specialties, primarily concentrated in Los Angeles and Beverly Hills. Founded between 1958 and 2022, these firms include both small teams and large corporate entities. They focus on areas such as custom music, licensing, and artist management. Companies like Warner Records and SoundBetter highlight the blend of legacy and innovation within this sector, catering to an extensive range of clients from indie artists to major studios, each contributing to California’s rich musical tapestry.

Read on to explore the top music production companies in California.

Top 25 Music Production Companies in California

1. The Village

• Website: villagestudios.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Qatar 50%, United States (USA) 50%
• Founded year: 1968
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: the-village

The Village Studios, located in Los Angeles, California, is a prominent recording studio that has been operational since 1968. Known for its high-quality audio recording and production services, The Village caters to a broad spectrum of clients, including musicians, filmmakers, and content creators. The studio boasts a unique blend of state-of-the-art technology and vintage equipment, allowing artists to achieve their artistic vision effectively. Over the decades, The Village has recorded a wide array of projects, from orchestras and film scores to rock bands and hip-hop artists. Its award-winning staff is dedicated to helping clients realize their creative goals. The studio has also been involved in various notable projects, further solidifying its reputation in the industry. The Village is recognized as an approved audio house for SAG-AFTRA, indicating its compliance with industry standards and practices.

2. SoundBetter

• Website: soundbetter.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 46%, United Kingdom (UK) 10%, Argentina 9%, Other 35%
• Latest funding: Seed, October 2015
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: soundbetter

SoundBetter is a music production platform based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2012. It serves as a marketplace that connects musicians and producers with top industry professionals for various services, including mixing, mastering, and songwriting. The platform allows users to post projects and receive proposals from vetted music professionals, streamlining the process of finding the right talent for music production needs. SoundBetter has established itself as a trusted resource in the industry, with a user base exceeding 400,000 musicians. The platform features a wide array of professionals, including Grammy, Oscar, and Emmy winners, ensuring high-quality output for its users. By facilitating direct collaboration between artists and professionals, SoundBetter plays a significant role in modern music production, making it easier for independent artists to access top-tier services.

3. APM Music

• Website: apmmusic.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 94%, United Kingdom (UK) 4%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: September 2017
• Founded year: 1983
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: apm-music

APM Music, established in 1983 and headquartered in Los Angeles, California, is a prominent music production company that specializes in composing and producing original music for various media applications. The company serves a wide array of clients in the entertainment industry, providing tailored music solutions that enhance projects such as films, television shows, and advertisements. APM Music's services include original scores, themes, and audio branding, ensuring that they meet the specific needs of their clients. With a team of passionate artists and musicians, APM Music has built a reputation for consistently exceeding client expectations. Their involvement in high-profile projects and collaborations with notable directors and producers further solidifies their standing in the industry. APM Music has also received recognition for its work, including multiple awards at the Production Music Association's Mark Awards, showcasing their commitment to excellence in production music.

4. the Hit House

• Website: thehithouse.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 1-10
• LinkedIn: the-hit-house

The Hit House, established in 2005 and based in Los Angeles, California, is a private music production company that specializes in custom music, sound design, and music supervision. With a small team of around 19 employees, the company has carved out a niche in the entertainment industry, providing tailored music solutions for films, television, and independent artists. They operate a record label, THH Records, which supports independent creators and emphasizes authenticity in music. The Hit House has collaborated with various high-profile projects, including original scores for 'Cobra Kai' on Netflix and 'Moana 2' for Disney, as well as remixes for artists like Gwen Stefani. Their commitment to quality and personalized service positions them as a relevant player in the music production industry.

5. Henson Recording Studios

• Website: hensonrecording.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: about

Henson Recording Studios, located in the heart of Hollywood, California, is a professional recording studio that has been providing music production services since its establishment in 2000. The studio is situated at the former A&M Studios, a site renowned for its contributions to the music industry since the 1960s. Henson Recording Studios features five studios equipped with both state-of-the-art technology and vintage gear, allowing it to meet the needs of a wide array of artists and producers. The studio prides itself on its technical expertise and excellent service, supported by a dedicated team of seasoned engineers. Over the years, Henson has worked with a multitude of high-profile artists, contributing to a rich history of music production that includes legendary albums and tracks. The studio continues to uphold the legacy of its predecessors while adapting to the evolving demands of the music industry.

6. Warner Records

• Website: warnerrecords.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 87%, United Kingdom (UK) 12%, Other 1%
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: warnerrecords

Warner Records, based in Los Angeles, California, is a prominent record label that specializes in music production and distribution. Founded in 1958, the company has built a reputation for promoting a wide array of artists across multiple genres. Warner Records not only produces music but also distributes it in various formats, including vinyl, CDs, and digital platforms, catering to a broad audience of music fans. The label is home to a mix of iconic artists and rising stars, ensuring a continuous flow of new music and cultural contributions. Their recent activities, such as signing new artists and engaging in partnerships, reflect their proactive stance in the industry. Warner Records operates with a team of music enthusiasts dedicated to fostering creativity and innovation in music production.

7. EP Entertainment, LLC / Capitol Music Group / Universal Music Group

• Website: epentllc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: ep-entertainment-llc

EP Entertainment, LLC, founded in 2011 by industry veterans Tony Perez and Robert “Robeo” Eleazer, is a music production and artist management company based in Los Angeles, California. The firm specializes in developing and promoting artists across various genres, offering a comprehensive suite of services that includes music production, songwriting, and touring management. EP Entertainment collaborates closely with its artists, fostering a creative environment that encourages artistic growth and innovation. The company has built a notable roster of talent, including Grammy Award-winning artist Alessia Cara and emerging artists like Oisín and Sebastian Kole. Their partnership with Capitol Music Group and Universal Music Group further strengthens their position in the industry, allowing them to leverage extensive resources and networks. EP Entertainment also has divisions in music publishing, touring, merchandising, and film and television, showcasing their multifaceted approach to entertainment. The company is committed to delivering quality music and entertainment worldwide, reflecting a strong presence in the music production landscape.

8. Interscope Records

• Website: interscope.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, Other 7%
• Latest funding: November 2010
• Founded year: 1990
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: interscope-records

Interscope Records, established in 1990 and based in Santa Monica, California, is a prominent record label specializing in music production and distribution. The company is known for its extensive catalog that includes vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, and merchandise, catering to a wide audience of music fans and collectors. Interscope has successfully promoted and managed a variety of artists, providing them with platforms to reach their audiences. The label has been involved in producing music across multiple genres, contributing to the careers of high-profile artists such as Eminem, Billie Eilish, and Kendrick Lamar. Their website features a vinyl shop, exclusive merchandise, and limited edition releases, reflecting their commitment to engaging with music enthusiasts. Interscope's operations are primarily based in the United States, with a workforce of over 1,100 employees, indicating a substantial presence in the industry.

9. Red Bull Records

• Website: redbullrecords.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: West Hollywood, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 81%, United Kingdom (UK) 7%, Zimbabwe 3%, Other 9%
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: red-bull-records

Red Bull Records, based in West Hollywood, California, is a private record label that specializes in music production and artist management. Established in 2007, the company has carved out a niche in the music industry by promoting and distributing music for its signed artists. Red Bull Records not only releases music but also offers merchandise, enhancing the connection between artists and their fans. The label's artist roster features a variety of genres, including pop, rock, and R&B/Hip Hop, showcasing its commitment to supporting emerging and established talent. The company actively engages with its audience through music releases, events, and a robust online presence, ensuring that its artists have the tools they need to succeed in a competitive market. Red Bull Records continues to be a relevant player in the music production sector, with a focus on innovation and artist development.

10. Loma Vista Recordings

• Website: lomavistarecordings.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: loma-vista-recordings

Loma Vista Recordings, based in Beverly Hills, California, is a family-owned recording company that specializes in music production and artist management. Since its inception in 2012, the company has built a reputation for nurturing talent and producing quality music. Loma Vista represents a range of artists, including notable names like Denzel Curry, Soccer Mommy, and Chelsea Wolfe, showcasing their involvement in various music genres. The company also engages in direct merchandise sales, enhancing its connection with fans and listeners. With a dedicated team of 20 employees, Loma Vista continues to play an active role in the music industry, focusing on both the creative and commercial aspects of music production.

11. Squeak E. Clean Studios

• Website: squeakeclean.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 58%, Australia 42%
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: squeak-e-clean-productions-inc.

Squeak E. Clean Studios is a music production company based in Los Angeles, California, with additional locations in New York, Chicago, Austin, Sydney, and Melbourne. Founded in 2019, the company specializes in original music, sound post production, and music supervision, catering primarily to clients in the advertising and entertainment sectors. With a team of skilled professionals, Squeak E. Clean Studios has worked on a variety of projects, including commercials and branded content for well-known companies such as Verizon, Lexus, and Slack. Their services also extend to sonic branding and immersive audio experiences, reflecting their commitment to high-quality audio solutions. The studio has built a reputation for collaborating with top-tier talent and delivering exceptional results, positioning itself as a significant player in the music production industry.

12. Dim Mak

• Website: dimmak.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: dim-mak-records

Dim Mak is a private music label based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 1996. The company specializes in music production and licensing, offering a platform for artists to submit their music for potential licensing opportunities. With a team of approximately 45 employees, Dim Mak actively engages with musicians, helping them navigate the complexities of the music industry. The label has built a reputation for its innovative approach to music and has been involved in various projects that highlight emerging talent. Dim Mak's focus on connecting artists with the market underscores its relevance in the music production sector.

13. Epitaph Records

• Website: epitaph.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, United Kingdom (UK) 3%
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: epitaph-records

Epitaph Records, founded in 1991 and based in Los Angeles, California, is a private record label known for its focus on music production and artist management. The company has carved out a niche in the punk and alternative rock genres, representing a wide array of artists, including iconic bands like Bad Religion and The Offspring. Epitaph is involved in various aspects of the music industry, from producing albums to managing concert tours and selling merchandise through its online store. The label has built a reputation for supporting its artists and fostering their careers, which has contributed to its sustained relevance in the music market. With a workforce of around 50 employees, Epitaph continues to operate actively, promoting new releases and organizing events for its artists.

14. Hopeless Records

• Website: hopelessrecords.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, United Kingdom (UK) 8%
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: hopelesssub-city-records

Hopeless Records, established in 1993 and based in Los Angeles, California, is a record label and music merchandise retailer that specializes in supporting independent artists within the alternative music genre. The company has a rich history, having initially gained traction by releasing music from pop punk and ska bands. Over the years, it has expanded its roster to include a variety of artists, from legacy acts like Taking Back Sunday and Yellowcard to newer voices such as Waterparks and Scene Queen. Hopeless Records is also known for its charity work through Sub City, which has raised over $3 million for various causes since its inception. This commitment to social responsibility is reflected in initiatives like 'Songs That Saved My Life,' which focuses on mental health and suicide prevention. The label has released over 300 albums, with several achieving Billboard Top 10 status, showcasing its impact in the music industry. Hopeless Records continues to thrive by connecting artists with fans and adapting to the evolving music scene.

15. Motown Records

• Website: motownrecords.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1959
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: motownrecords

Motown Records, established in 1959, is a private music label based in Los Angeles, California. Originally founded in Detroit, it has a storied legacy in the music industry, known for its iconic sound and artists. The label specializes in producing and distributing music across various genres, with a catalog that includes legendary acts like Marvin Gaye, Diana Ross, and Stevie Wonder, alongside contemporary artists such as Lil Baby and City Girls. Motown Records offers a range of products, including vinyl and CDs, and actively engages with music enthusiasts through its online store, which features merchandise and music releases. The company has a dedicated workforce of 11-50 employees, all based in the United States, and continues to play a vital role in the music industry by promoting both classic and new talent.

16. PULSE Music Group

• Website: pulsemusicgroup.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $100.0M, January 2020
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: pulse-music-group

PULSE Music Group, based in Los Angeles, California, was founded in 2008 by songwriters and producers Scott Cutler, Josh Abraham, and Anne Preven. The company operates as both a music publisher and a record label, specializing in connecting artists, songwriters, and producers with opportunities in visual media. PULSE offers a range of services, including music licensing, artist development, and A&R, catering to clients in the entertainment and advertising sectors. Over the years, PULSE has built a strong reputation, boasting a client roster that includes artists like Brent Faiyaz, James Blake, and Ty Dolla $ign. The company has achieved significant milestones, including over 200 million units of recorded music sales and more than 80 billion music streams. With 250 active clients and numerous Gold and Platinum certifications, PULSE Music Group has positioned itself as a prominent independent music publisher and record label. In 2020, the company secured $100 million in funding, further solidifying its financial standing and growth potential in the industry.

17. The Elements Music

• Website: theelementsmusic.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 73%, United Kingdom (UK) 27%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: the-elements-music

The Elements Music, based in Santa Monica, California, is a private music production company founded in 2002. With a team of approximately 33 employees, they specialize in providing custom music and sound services tailored for media projects. The company collaborates with major brands and advertising agencies to create original compositions, sound design, and music supervision. Their operations extend to both Los Angeles and London, allowing them to cater to a global clientele. The Elements Music has worked on high-profile projects, including campaigns for Apple, Nike, and Disney, showcasing their ability to deliver quality music solutions for various media needs. They also have a significant presence on platforms like TikTok, where they serve as an official Custom Music & Sound Partner, further solidifying their relevance in the modern music production landscape.

18. 10K Projects

• Website: 10kprojects.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, Ecuador 4%
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: tenthousand-projects-llc

10K Projects, founded in 2016 and based in Los Angeles, California, operates as a record label and artist management company. The firm is dedicated to supporting and promoting music artists, providing essential services such as artist management and music production. Their approach prioritizes the artistic integrity of the artists they work with, allowing them to maintain their unique visions while navigating the music industry. 10K Projects has built a reputation for fostering talent and creating a platform for innovative musical expressions. The company represents a range of artists, including well-known names like Trippie Redd and Ice Spice, showcasing their active involvement in the contemporary music scene. With a team of 11-50 employees, they are positioned to make a significant impact in the industry, despite not having reported any recent funding.

19. The Revels Group

• Website: therevelsgroup.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2012
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: the-revels-group

The Revels Group, established in 2012 and based in Beverly Hills, California, is a multifaceted creative company that specializes in artist management, record label services, publishing, and event management. Co-founded by Jamil Davis and Matt Bauerschmidt, the company has grown into a notable player in the entertainment sector. They manage a roster of artists, including multi-platinum hip-hop artist G-Eazy, and have collaborated with Grammy-winning producers like Rodney 'Darkchild' Jerkins. Their publishing division, coup d’etat, launched in 2022, has already contributed to multiple Billboard 200 albums and numerous chart-topping hits. The Revels Group also hosts significant events aimed at uplifting emerging talent and fostering community within the industry. Their comprehensive approach to artist development and production positions them as a relevant entity in the music production landscape.

20. Extreme Music

• Website: extrememusic.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 46%, United Kingdom (UK) 35%, Australia 5%, Other 14%
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: extreme-music

Extreme Music, founded in 1997 and based in Santa Monica, California, is a music production company that specializes in providing licensed production music for various media applications. The company serves a broad clientele, including filmmakers, advertisers, and content creators, offering a rich library of music tracks that enhance visual content. Their catalog features playlists and albums across multiple genres, ensuring that clients can find suitable music for their projects. With a workforce of approximately 169 employees, Extreme Music operates not only in the United States but also has a significant presence in the United Kingdom, Australia, Spain, and France. The company has established itself as a reliable source for production music, contributing to the soundtracks of numerous media projects over the years.

21. Hallwood Media

• Website: hallwoodmedia.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2019
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: crescent-drive-productions

Hallwood Media is a record label and artist management company located in Los Angeles, California. Established in 2019, Hallwood specializes in identifying and nurturing talented musicians. The company operates as a full-service entity, providing music production, artist management, and merchandise services. Hallwood Media boasts a roster of over 100 artists, producers, and songwriters, and has facilitated the creation of more than 1,000 music cuts. Their clients have achieved over 250 gold and platinum records, showcasing their effectiveness in the industry. Hallwood also emphasizes high-quality merchandise that aligns with current trends, further supporting their artists' brands. This multifaceted approach positions Hallwood Media as a significant player in the music production landscape.

22. Warner Chappell Production Music

• Website: warnerchappellpm.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Los Angeles, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 60%, Germany 17%, United Kingdom (UK) 9%, Other 14%
• Founded year: 1984
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: warner-chappell-production-music

Warner Chappell Production Music (WCPM) is a prominent music production company based in Los Angeles, California. Established in 1984, WCPM specializes in creating and providing high-quality production music and custom music services. The company caters primarily to businesses in the media and advertising sectors, offering tailored music solutions for a variety of projects. With a global footprint, WCPM operates studios in Los Angeles and Nashville, and has offices in major cities across Europe and Latin America. The company boasts a catalog of over 120 carefully curated collections, featuring compositions that have earned accolades such as EMMY, Telly, Addy, and Promax Awards. WCPM releases over 1,000 albums annually, covering a wide range of genres including classical, orchestral, jazz, and modern underscore. Their custom music division has collaborated with high-profile clients like HBO, ESPN, and Porsche, showcasing their ability to meet diverse client needs. WCPM's commitment to quality and innovation positions it as a significant entity in the music production industry.

23. Virgin Music Group

• Website: virginmusic.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 45%, United Kingdom (UK) 11%, Canada 5%, Other 39%
• Founded year: 2022
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: caroline-distribution

Virgin Music Group, established in 2022 and based in Beverly Hills, California, is a private record label and music services company. With a workforce of approximately 483 employees, the company specializes in providing comprehensive artist and label services, which include music publishing, production, and career management. Virgin Music Group collaborates with a variety of artists, assisting them in effectively reaching their audiences and navigating the complexities of the music industry. Their focus on artist support and label services positions them as a relevant player in the music production sector, catering to the needs of both emerging and established artists.

24. Songtradr

• Website: songtradr.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Santa Monica, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 50%, United Kingdom (UK) 23%, Germany 5%, Other 22%
• Latest funding: Series E-K, $70.0M, November 2023
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: songtradr-inc

Songtradr, founded in 2014 and based in Santa Monica, California, is a music licensing platform that specializes in providing solutions for music supervision, curation, and rights management. The company serves a wide range of clients, including brands, agencies, and independent artists, helping them navigate the complexities of music licensing. Songtradr empowers independent artists by connecting them with various projects and global audiences, while also offering services to businesses that require tailored music solutions. The company has strategically acquired multiple businesses to enhance its technology platform, making it a comprehensive resource for music-related needs. In November 2023, Songtradr raised $70 million in a Series E-K funding round, further solidifying its position in the industry and enabling continued innovation and expansion.

25. Mophonics

• Website: mophonics.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Culver City, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: mophonics

Mophonics, founded in 2002 and based in Culver City, California, is a private music production company that specializes in crafting original songs and scores for prominent brands. With a team of 11-50 employees, Mophonics has developed a reputation for its work with advertising agencies, providing services that include music composition, scoring, and supervision. The company operates studios in both Los Angeles and New York, allowing them to cater to a wide range of clients. Over the years, Mophonics has collaborated with a variety of well-known brands, enhancing their marketing campaigns with tailored music solutions. Their approach emphasizes artist development and creativity, having nurtured emerging talent who have gone on to achieve significant recognition in the industry. Mophonics also maintains a library of customizable tracks, showcasing their commitment to providing unique and adaptable music solutions for their clients.

Music Production Insights: Key Companies in California

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