how your songs are categorized by music industry execs

you may not be writing music for money, fame, or glory, but….

have you ever wondered how a&r execs categorize and define the music you create?

CLASSIC SONG: a “classic song” is memorable, and can last for decades. there’s a good chance a “classic song” is playing on the radio right now in your area. examples include: “i can’t get no satisfaction” by the rolling stones; “my girl” by the temptations; “how sweet it is” by marvin gaye.

HIT SONG: musicians don’t make hit songs; radio stations do. most “hit songs” have catchy hooks, high production value, and mass market appeal making it radio-friendly. songs don’t have to be good or great to be a hit. you’ve probably written some great songs that don’t qualify as a hit.

GREAT SONG: “great songs” are embraced by the masses. these songs have the same qualities that “good songs” have, but are especially strong because they are good where “good songs” are weak.

GOOD SONG: “good songs” have memorable parts, like good production, good melody, strong lyrics, or good structure. but something lacks, and they have weaknesses –which prevents these songs from being “great songs.”

FILLER: these songs are not not strong enough to be released as a single and they lack commercial value. if you write music for fame, cash, or glory, you may want to rethink how you approach your music if your songs are thought of this way.

~ by cafenotes on January 23, 2009.