A beat maker creates the instrumental foundation of a song — drums, bass, melodies, and arrangements — typically using a DAW and virtual instruments.
While the terms 'beat maker' and 'producer' overlap, beat makers often focus specifically on creating instrumentals that are sold or licensed to artists, rather than overseeing the full recording process.
Beat makers monetize their work through beat leases (non-exclusive licenses), exclusive sales, and royalty splits. Online marketplaces and social media have made it possible for beat makers anywhere in the world to reach artists globally.