Category: Songwriting

In this article, we delve into one of the most intriguing questions that both budding musicians and seasoned composers often ponder: “What chord do progressions usually start on?” Understanding the starting point of a chord progression isn’t just a matter of technical know-how—it’s about unlocking the emotional and structural foundation of a piece of music.

The starting chord sets the tone, establishes the mood, and guides the listener on a harmonic journey. Whether you’re a guitar enthusiast strumming in your bedroom, a pianist composing melodies, or simply a music lover curious about the mechanics of your favorite songs, this article promises to shed light on the common and not-so-common starting chords. From the classical masterpieces to the chart-topping hits, the choice of the initial chord can be a powerful tool in the hands of a musician.

So, let’s tune our instruments and our ears as we embark on this musical exploration to understand the significance and the magic behind the first chord of a progression. Get ready to discover how a single chord can set the stage for an entire musical experience!

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In this guide, we delve into the art of how to program realistic drums, transforming your digital beats into lifelike rhythms. But we’re not just talking about any drum beats; we’re focusing on how to make them sound as real and lifelike as possible. You know, the kind that makes listeners tap their feet and think, “Is that a live drummer?”

Drum programming is a big deal in today’s music world. It’s everywhere – in pop songs, hip-hop tracks, electronic music, you name it. But there’s a trick to it. The goal is to make these programmed drums feel as natural and authentic as a real person playing them. And the truth is that it’s totally doable, and I’m here to guide you through it.

We’ll start by understanding what drum programming is all about. We’ll look at the tools you need and get familiar with the different parts of a drum kit. Then, we’ll jump into the exciting part: creating those beats! I’ll share some neat tips and tricks to add life to your drum tracks, making them sound like a pro drummer is right there in the studio with you.

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Reggae music, a genre rich in history and culture, has transcended its Jamaican roots to become a global phenomenon. Emerging in the late 1960s, reggae is much more than just a musical style; it’s a cultural expression that reflects the struggles, hopes, and philosophies of its people.

The origins of reggae are deeply rooted in the earlier Jamaican genres of ska and rocksteady. Ska, characterized by a fast-paced rhythm and jazz influences, gradually mellowed into the slower, more soulful rocksteady. It was from this transformation that reggae was born, slowing the tempo further and emphasizing the bass and drum rhythms that have become synonymous with the genre. Reggae’s development coincided with significant cultural and social changes in Jamaica, making it a voice for the marginalized and a medium for social commentary.

What truly set reggae apart was its ability to resonate beyond its Caribbean origin. Its themes of resistance, spiritualism, and the everyday struggles of life found a universal audience. This global reach was significantly amplified by legendary artists like Bob Marley, whose poetic lyrics and charismatic performances introduced reggae to an international audience. Marley’s music, particularly, became a vehicle for spreading messages about peace, unity, and resistance against oppression.

Another notable artist, Wyclef Jean, expanded the influence of reggae by blending it with elements of hip-hop and R&B, showcasing the genre’s versatility and adaptability. Meanwhile, Jimmy Cliff, with his unique voice and compelling storytelling, helped bring reggae to the mainstream, especially through his starring role in the film “The Harder They Come,” which introduced many around the world to Jamaican music and culture.

Today, reggae’s influence can be seen across various music styles and cultures, illustrating its timeless appeal and the universality of its message. From influencing major artists and genres around the world to being recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity, reggae continues to be a powerful force in global music culture.

The instruments used in reggae music play a pivotal role in creating its distinctive sound—a topic we will delve into with great detail as we explore the essence of this mesmerizing genre. Stay tuned as we uncover the sounds that define reggae and the musicians who have mastered them.

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In the vibrant world of music creation, the quest for a perfect melody often leads to the question: “What does it cost to hire the songwriter of your dreams?” If you’re on the lookout for a wordsmith to bring your musical vision to life, you’re in the right place.

This blog post is your guide to navigating the financial landscape of hiring a songwriter, tailored for those eager to collaborate with a skilled musical architect. As we embark on this journey, we’ll unravel the intricacies of songwriter costs, explore the factors influencing pricing, and equip you with the knowledge needed to strike the perfect chord between artistic brilliance and budget considerations.

Whether you’re an emerging artist seeking a lyrical partner or an industry veteran scouting fresh talent, join us on this exploration of the costs associated with hiring a songwriter. Let’s decode the musical investment, ensuring that your collaboration not only resonates harmoniously but also aligns seamlessly with your financial objectives.

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Every great song has a secret weapon, a melodic nugget that embeds itself in your mind and refuses to let go. It’s that irresistible phrase or catchy line that has you humming along, even when the music has stopped. This magical element is what we call a “lyrical hook,” and it’s the heartbeat of any unforgettable song.

In the world of songwriting, lyrical hooks are the holy grail. They are the difference between a song that’s quickly forgotten and one that resonates with audiences for generations. From “I Want to Hold Your Hand” by The Beatles to “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran, lyrical hooks have been the cornerstone of countless chart-toppers, weaving their way into the fabric of our lives.

But what exactly are lyrical hooks, and how can you harness their power to elevate your songwriting? This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the art of crafting lyrical hooks and provide you with the tools to make your songs stand out. Continue Reading

In the ever-evolving landscape of music production, the journey from a raw musical idea to a polished, professional track has undergone significant transformations. Technological advancements and the democratization of music-making tools have empowered musicians like never before, blurring the lines between amateurs and professionals. In this dynamic environment, the role of a music producer has become a subject of both curiosity and contention.

The Evolving Landscape of Music Production

Music production is no longer confined to elite recording studios with high-end equipment and seasoned producers. Today, anyone with a laptop and some creativity can create music from the comfort of their own space. Digital audio workstations (DAWs), virtual instruments, and online collaboration tools have opened new avenues for artists to craft and share their work.

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In this blog post, I’m going to write about what chord progressions work today. And if you have read any articles or seen any videos on this topic, you will be surprised to see that what most people teach is completely wrong.

What everyone is teaching about pop music, is completely false. I see it all the time, people saying that the “Axis chord progression” is the most typical chord progression in pop music and that’s a chord progression you can use to write a hit song.

But they are wrong. Continue Reading

About three weeks ago, Miley Cyrus published a new song called “Flowers,” which you probably already heard. If you haven’t, here’s the music video:

When I first heard it, I didn’t like it, particularly the chorus. At first, I didn’t care much about it and thought it was just another song I didn’t like.

With the promotion of the song, which probably included paying big influencers to promote it on TikTok, I heard the chorus in more and more videos, particularly on TikTok.

At one point, when I heard the song again, I switched on my conscious mind to figure out the melody notes and the chords and I realized why I didn’t like the chorus. Continue Reading

You might think you know how to use a metronome, but chances are, you don’t. After working with hundreds of professional musicians for the past 20 years, I have found that almost all musicians don’t know how to use a metronome – even though they think they do.

If you have read my book, you already know what I’m talking about… but I still feel like I can share more thoughts on this topic. Continue Reading

In the past few weeks, many AI (Artificial Intelligence) tools have been published, and they have become extremely popular. One of the first tools was DALL-E, an AI image generator, which flooded social media sites within the first 24 hours after it was published. Chat GPT, an AI language model, became even more popular – more than 1 million people registered on the site in only 5 days.

It’s not a question that AI is the future, and we just have to learn to use these tools – the sooner the better. The question is, how can musicians use AI tools to make their lives easier? I have spent some time experimenting with these tools, so here are some ideas.

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