Do you think that DJing and Producing are the same disciplines?
You can be a DJ, a Producer, or a hybrid, and there are no rules, so let's define what the two are because they are not the same thing.
Disclaimer: I am a DJ, and the opinions expressed are that of a DJ who has dabbled in producing.
Why does it get Mixed Up?
A DJ Mixes pre-recorded music, and a Producer, Mixes individual sounds and Instruments to create new music.
By definition, a DJ is a performer who plays pre-recorded music to a crowd. The DJ can play two audio tracks at one time, allowing them to fade between the two.
Similar to when you are watching YouTube videos with your friends. It is better to have two tabs open so that you can cue the next video and not have to pause and play abruptly.
A Producer is involved in the creation of new music. The Producer creates music in a studio (professional or bedroom) and usually works with a record label to help to distribute and market their songs or albums.
The Producer takes musical sounds and instruments and mixes them to form a song, and then those songs can later be listened to and played by DJs.
Music Producing
Thanks to modern technology, the barrier to entry has made it cheaper and easier to have a "Music Studio" at home has become a reality.
The Modern Producer uses computer software to record, sample, and arrange music.
A Digital Audio Workstation (DAW), a Soundcard, and a Midi Keyboard allows you to have the same power of a live band in a recording studio with a large mixing console.
Does a DJ need to be a Producer?
It depends on your goals.
You will need to have a collection of original music and remixes if you want to play large headlining sets.
If you want to make a career as a Radio DJ or a Mobile DJ, it is unnecessary to create original music.
Does a Producer need to be a DJ?
If you want to play live in front of a crowd and don't have a band to support you, it is worth learning how to DJ.
Remember, there are no hard and fast rules; the above is just the trends that we currently see in the music industry.
Is Remixing Producing?
The DJ who creates their remixes will usually use a DAW to create the mashup, which is a form of producing.
Remixing is an excellent gateway into the world of production if you want to familiarise yourself with the tools of producers, including sampling and sequencing.
For The Love Of Music
Love for music, and creativity combines the two arts.
The DJ needs the Producer to make new music, while the Producer needs the DJ to share their music.
You can do both if you choose, but you don't have to. All you have to do is create value.