How do I become a successful music producer in such a competitive industry

Networking can take you very far in any industry. Be sure to reach out to your professors and other college administrators for opportunities in the industry if you choose to attend university. Try reaching out to people in the music industry via LinkedIn. Dig deep for internships that will give you experience in related industries, such as radio, a television studio, etc. Be sure to keep working on producing music in your free time, and upload it to platforms where people can find you, such as Youtube and Soundcloud. Remember, you miss 100% of the shots you don't take!

Hi Kevin! Danielle's advice/response is excellent, I fully support everything she mentioned. I also don't think there is one perfect/ideal mold for becoming successful in music. Although there are some avenues that are more likely to lead to that than others. For instance, studying music, sound production, and lots of collaboration with others can help give you a big leg up on the competition. But, the reality in music, like most work, is that you have to put yourself out there as much as possible. Seek out groups of like-minded folks. You could do this by looking for formal groups, like producer associations, and/or informally by simply trying to surround yourself with others who love music and are passionate about the same industry (going to shows, working at music venues, etc.). Throw yourself into it while you can financially and physically afford it. If you can't financially afford it, find a job that will give you flexibility and/or access to other like minded folks (service industry is chock-full of musicians). I would also recommend becoming a regular at a music venue you enjoy, get to know the folks who work there, and ask about their stories.