Category: Music

Writing a song is often therapeutic. Quietly strumming a melody or writing about a difficult time in your life is a great way to slow down and reflect on your experiences. However, turning that song into a hit takes determination and hard work. It can be difficult for artists to make the transition from creating to hustling. Luckily there are lots of resources out there to help you do it. Here are three tips to get you started on your journey.

Clarify Your Message

There are plenty of useful strategies for achieving a memorable song, but the guiding principle comes down to expressing a message that people can relate to. After you have the initial draft of your song, think about what you are really trying to say. Beginner writers often fall into the trap of trying to cram too much into one song. Keep your message short and uncomplicated. Review the lyrics and remove the ones that do not pertain to that message. Think of boiling down the song to get to the best part.

Take a Step Back

Songwriting is a very personal experience. It can be difficult to step away and see the larger picture when you are emotionally invested in something. Time is the key here. Pour your heart into your work, then take some time away from it. At some point, you’ll need to switch gears and work with an album producer Los Angeles CA on mixing and mastering your song. It will be easier to receive feedback if some time has passed since you were in the emotional place necessary to write a great song.

Create a Buzz

The best song ever written won’t be a hit unless people hear it. You may believe that your job is done when the song is, but this is just beginning. Use social media to create excitement about your song. Maybe plan an event, like a release party, even if it is just with your friends. Play your song for whoever you can whenever you can.

Your musical instruments are special. They are your way of expressing your creativity, connecting with others, and, of course, making music. It is important that you maintain and protect them. Not sure how? Follow this quick and easy guide to get you started on proper instrument care.

Make Timely Repairs

Always make repairs as soon as you notice any damage to your instruments. If an instrument is acting up, do not wait until you finish your next set to attend to it; do it right away. The repair of vintage instruments is especially tricky, so unless you are absolutely sure you know what you are doing, consult a professional.

If you buy a used instrument, ask an expert for an evaluation and a tune-up. Spending a little money on preventative maintenance up front will save you big money in the long run.

Regulate Temperature and Humidity

All instruments–whether they be classical, vintage, or modern–should be stored in a controlled environment. Experts say that both acoustic instruments and electric instruments should be kept at around 70 degrees Fahrenheit and between 40-60% humidity. A thermostat will help you maintain the temperature of your music room, whereas a hygrometer will let you keep an eye on the water vapor levels in the room. If you live in an extremely dry or wet climate, consider investing in a humidifier or dehumidifier.

Keep Instruments Secure

Instruments are valuable, costly, and sentimental items. It is important that you protect them. If you have small children who might not understand the importance of your instruments, keep the instruments behind lock and key. Similarly, if you have pets, keep your instruments out of reach of their curious claws.

Purchase Insurance

Insurance can be spendy, but it is better than paying for costly repairs or complete replacement if your precious instruments get damaged or stolen. Consider purchasing insurance to give your instruments another level of protection.

Keep this guide in mind as you care for your instruments. A little maintenance every now and again goes a long way.

Perhaps you are in charge of the annual family reunion, the local art festival, your parent’s 50th wedding anniversary, a music concert or the perfect wedding reception. Each special occasion will need the same basic steps, and here they are.

Set the Date

At least six to twelve months in advance, get the date set on your calendar. Determine which time of year will have the best weather for your event. This first step is the essential base to start building the rest of your plan. 

Select Your Committee

One is a lonely number, especially when you have a huge event to organize. Surround yourself with a committee that is diverse in their talents and opinions. For the reunion, it may be a group of cousins. For a music concert, you may involve the local university students who are studying music. 

Choose a Theme

Will the concert be bluegrass or classical music? Decide who the performers are and what the program will be. If planning your parent’s 50th anniversary, you may consider food and decor that will reflect their wedding date. The family reunion could be based on the country of your ancestors or your ancestors background. You can search and understand more about your ancestors at 1910 census.  

Hire Professionals

Don’t hesitate to seek the help of a wedding planner or an event coordinator. For the concert, you may need a stage and sound system with audio equipment Nashville. Paying for specialists will save money and stress.

Publicize

Now it is time to get the word out. Hopefully, one of your committee members is a marketing specialist. Of course, you will send personal invitations for the family events. For the concert or festival, ads and flyers will be an option. And don’t forget about the social media platforms to inform everyone who you want to include. 

As the time gets closer, refer to your plan and make any changes that are needed. Have a splendid event! 

Even if you plan on becoming a solo musician, you will need the help of others to release professional songs to your audience. Some of your most valuable resources are music production services Chicago IL provided by a representative and studio. Not every producer will be the right fit for your music and work. Look for these qualities to find the best person for the task. 

Strong Interest

The producer you work with should be genuinely invested in both you and your music. While you should not expect them to support every decision, they should value your time and show willingness to engage with your work. If the producer struggles to schedule time with you on a constant basis or barely has any feedback or input to offer, then they might compromise the music’s quality. An interested producer is more pleasant to work with and can help you grow as an artist. 

Trust and Respect

At the same time, you also want to avoid anyone who is overly controlling of your music. A great producer collaborates with artists to create the best sound without taking over the production or changing it too much. If you feel like the producer respects your vision and trusts you, then you are on the right path. Consider working with someone else if the individual pushes ideas too much or the relationship does not feel equal. 

Established Expertise

You usually seek music production when you want to professionally release your pieces. Therefore, you should expect a producer with plenty of experience, knowledge and reputation. Look for companies that have a strong track record of successfully working with other artists. Make sure they also have high-quality equipment and people who can operate it correctly. You can work with a less experienced producer but prepare for potential drawbacks. 

The best music producer for you or your band can make a difference. Take a note of these qualities as you search for the best possible partner. 

If you grew up listening to Mos Def and Jurrasic Five, then you probably have trouble finding similar sounds on radio stations today. Songs that top the hip-hop charts tend to have fewer instruments and more expletives than the conscious rappers of the past. But, there are some artists who have been successful in blending old school and new school music Albany NY. For those searching for a message in today’s music, you don’t need to go far. You just need to dig a little deeper.

Logic

Logic was born in Maryland in 1990. He released many mixtapes before his first studio album was released in 2014. Since then he has released three No. 1 albums and won two Grammy’s for his song about suicide with Alessia Cara. He credits many old-school rappers for his love of rap music, including Outcast and Kanye West. His flow and musicality are reminiscent of hip hop from the ’80s. After the release of his last album in 2020, Logic announced he would be retiring. Some are skeptical about this and expect him to continue to be involved in music behind the scenes.

Childish Gambino

Donald Glover, known as Childish Gambino, started his career in television. He has been a writer and actor in many successful shows like 30 Rock and Atlanta. He released his first studio album in 2011. He is most known for his song about racism, “This Is America”, which earned him 4 Grammy awards. Childish Gambino blends an impressive amount of talent with current controversial topics, cementing his place as a voice for the generation.

J. Cole

J. Cole is a songwriter, producer and rapper. He quickly gained recognition after releasing his first studio album in 2011, which went to the top of the Billboard charts. J. Cole’s heart and soul shows in his music. His experience writing for artists in different genres enhances the musical quality of his raps. J. Cole uses his platform to help many new artists and also founded a non-profit called Dreamville Foundation.