You do need to be mindful of the hook, how and when it happens. And I guess even more if you want to make a living out of your music (which is not the case for me). It's also quite satisfying as a songwriter to be aware you can 'design' your song to create this impact.
But you cannot, and shouldn't, write and produce every song this way. Otherwise we'll end up with every artist churning out songs at bpm x2 like this crazy trend on tiktok. The objective cannot be 'let's get it over with'.
So pick your burgers.
And enjoy the 5-course meal at your own pace too, every now and then.
I’m learning all the time, just read Simon’s book ‘Song Maps’ and looking through old songs thinking there might have been different (better) ways of getting the message across.
I agree. And disagree.
You do need to be mindful of the hook, how and when it happens. And I guess even more if you want to make a living out of your music (which is not the case for me). It's also quite satisfying as a songwriter to be aware you can 'design' your song to create this impact.
But you cannot, and shouldn't, write and produce every song this way. Otherwise we'll end up with every artist churning out songs at bpm x2 like this crazy trend on tiktok. The objective cannot be 'let's get it over with'.
So pick your burgers.
And enjoy the 5-course meal at your own pace too, every now and then.
Love this, thanks for this, I agree.
A fun trick is to kick off with the chorus - full on, as you recommended - and then dramatically slow down the song.
I recently tried this and it's quite fun (also brings an interesting contrast)
It's here: https://soundcloud.com/sylvainl-2/encore-une-chanson-triste
I’m learning all the time, just read Simon’s book ‘Song Maps’ and looking through old songs thinking there might have been different (better) ways of getting the message across.
Thanks
All good stuff !!
Brilliant, thanks for this Steve
Simon
I tried emailing you using the contact email address in the Song Map book- it came straight back so presume that address is out of use.
Good to have contact and opportunity to read current stuff through Substack!
Regards
Steve