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Friday, 19 September 2014 12:25

International Music Conference 2014: How To Write A Hit Song 101

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The International Music Conference hit the Sheraton Hotel in Atlanta Georgia beginning on September 10-14th. The IMC combines all facets of today’s music scene and places artists, songwriters, executives, and other music professionals in the same room to network and construct real opportunities domestically and aboard.

I attended a full day of panels discussing everything from how up and coming entertainers can get their foot in the door, to how you can create a cost effective tour. In today’s music we see that a “star” can be made simply by uploading a few singles on to YouTube and gaining major label interest, alla Justin Bieber and Iggy Azalea to name a few. But that route may or may not hold the same level of success, in starting or sustaining your music career nowadays.

As I listen to panelists Nick Chahwala, a Grammy nominated Producer, and owner of Bravo Ocean Studios, Grammy award winning songwriter Crystal Nicole, one half of songwriting/producing duo Rock City's Timothy, and VP of A&R at Epic Records executive Ray Daniels explain the Anatomy of a Hit song.

 

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What is the anatomy of a hit? Well, it’s the structure, it’s “what you want your hit to sound like” according to Daniels. It’s your vision. While listening to the discussion the panelists touch on numerous elements that artists should consider when creating a hit, such as keeping it simple. “Simplicity is key” Timothy states, when writing a song you should make it as “hooky” as possible. “Write hooks not verses”. When following this blueprint, you should want to Be Original, be as original as possible. Always take your audience somewhere they have never been. Find or Create your own language. Finding or creating your own language is a key way to being original, claims Daniels. T.I’s “If It Ain’t About The Money” holds this assertion to be true. Young Thug’s flow is all his own, crafting new and unique timbres throughout his verse. He has created his own vocab. Take a look.

Bustin' out the bando
A nigga jewelry real metal like a can opener
I went from rags to riches to a feature with Tip
I went from Smart Car to a bitch with some smart lips
And the F&N make my hip limp
I'm goin' fishin' with these little bitty shrimp dimps
And my bank roll got a big dip

 

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Another tip from the panelists is to Be honest. Honesty in your music will always take you further, and will gain you more fans than being dishonest. Your audience can spot a fraud a mile away and will be very vocal in letting you know that you are indeed a fake. Lastly, Study The Charts. Like with anything you have to be prepared for the field your in and the job you do. In order to be successful you need to study the music charts, see where music is going, melody, lyrics, and the beat are all important components but the most important thing to remember is to"write songs people want to hear". Adele sung from her heart and let her voice, emotions,  and plain simple honesty propelled her into Grammy history. So, there you have it, the anatomy of a hit from industry insiders. Five simple yet effective ways to perfect your craft, build your fan base and ultimately rule the airways.

 

 

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For more tips and happenings from the International Music Conference, visit IdOMusic.

Read 17746 times Last modified on Saturday, 27 September 2014 14:16