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Write a Vocal Melody That Stands Out: Tips for Phrasing and Dynamics

August 25, 2024

If you’ve been writing music for a decade but are just starting to dive into vocal melodies, you’re not alone in facing challenges with phrasing and creating vocal dynamics that don’t feel repetitive.

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Add FX and Ear Candy to Your Tracks: Tips for Taking Your Sketch to the Next Level

August 23, 2024

Adding FX and ear candy can feel like a daunting task, especially when you start to overthink the process. However, these little details are often what bring a track to life, adding depth, excitement.

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Recreate a Vocal Stutter Effect Like Skrillex: A Step-by-Step Guide

August 21, 2024

If you’ve just stepped into the world of music production, vocal stutters can be a fun and impactful technique to add excitement and energy to your tracks. You’ve heard that fast vocal stutter at...

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Get a Great Sounding Synth: The Deadmau5 Approach

August 21, 2024

If you’ve been experimenting with synthesizers, you know the quest for a perfect synth sound can be a challenging but rewarding process. Whether you’re looking for something clean yet huge, or...

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Make Music Again: Overcoming Creative Burnout Like Pharrell Williams

August 21, 2024

Hey there, fellow music creators! Whether you’re balancing a day job, DJ gigs, and music production, or just feeling creatively stuck, you’re not alone. Many of us hit a wall at some point, where...

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Master Your Craft as a Beatmaker: The J Dilla Way

August 21, 2024

In this article, we’ll explore the most efficient ways to master your creative process as a beatmaker, and how you can learn from one of the most respected producers in the game: J Dilla.

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Bumbershoot Festival 2024: A Creative Celebration in Seattle

August 8, 2024

This Labor Day weekend, Bumbershoot Arts and Music Festival returns to Seattle Center from August 31 to September 1, 2024. With a rich history spanning over 50 years, Bumbershoot continues to be a...

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Ohana Festival 2024: A Must-Attend Event for Music Creators

August 8, 2024

As the summer winds down and the crisp autumn air begins to roll in, music enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating one of California’s premier music festivals. The Ohana Festival, set to take place...

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Desert Daze 2024: A Creative Oasis for Music Enthusiasts

August 8, 2024

As the vibrant hues of summer give way to the golden tones of fall, the anticipation for one of California’s most eclectic music festivals begins to build. This October, the 2024 Desert Daze music...

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How to Create a Joyful Song Like "Happy" by Pharrell Williams

July 24, 2024

Creating a song that radiates joy and energy, much like Pharrell Williams' hit "Happy," is an exciting challenge for any music creator. Whether you're a seasoned producer or just starting out...

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Why Nas' Illmatic Deserves the Top Spot: Rap Lyricism at its Finest

July 17, 2024

Nas’ debut album, Illmatic, has been crowned the greatest rap album of all time by Billboard, and for good reason. Celebrated for its lyrical brilliance and profound storytelling, Illmatic set...

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How to Create a Viral Chart-Topping Song Like Tommy Richman's "Million Dollar Baby"

July 8, 2024

Creating a viral, chart-topping song is the pinnacle of success for many music creators. Tommy Richman’s "Million Dollar Baby" exemplifies how to craft a hit that resonates with a wide audience...

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Hit Songs You Didn’t Know Were Handed Over By Your Favorite Artists

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When Songs Find Their Perfect Match

In the music industry, some of the most famous songs weren’t performed by the artists who wrote them. Think of classics like Dolly Parton’s "I Will Always Love You" or Sia’s "Diamonds." These hits gained fame when their original songwriters handed them over to other performers, allowing those artists to bring the songs to life in unforgettable ways.

Dolly Parton and Whitney Houston: A Song Transformed

Dolly Parton wrote "I Will Always Love You" as a heartfelt ballad, performing it herself with signature charm. But when Whitney Houston sang it for The Bodyguard soundtrack, it transformed into a global sensation. Parton’s willingness to let Houston record the song didn’t take away from her artistry—instead, it allowed both her and Houston to shine, creating a powerful anthem that still resonates today.

Sia and Rihanna: Finding the Perfect Voice

Sia, known for her unique style and powerful lyrics, originally wrote "Diamonds" for herself. When she passed the song to Rihanna, it became a chart-topping hit, defining a new moment in Rihanna’s career. Rihanna’s voice gave the song fresh energy, showcasing how handing over a song to the right artist can elevate it in ways the writer might not have expected.

The Power of Letting Go: Why Sharing Songs Works

For songwriters, sharing a creation can feel risky. But sometimes, giving another artist the chance to interpret your song can make it even stronger. Letting someone else bring your work to life doesn’t lessen your impact; it amplifies it. Your voice and creativity are still part of the song’s journey, and by sharing, you allow your work to reach a larger audience.

Passing the Mic: A Tip for Music Creators

For music creators, understanding the power of collaboration can open doors to incredible possibilities. Handing a song to someone else doesn’t mean losing control—it’s about creating something greater than you might have achieved alone. When you share your work, you stay part of its legacy, and sometimes that’s the key to making it truly unforgettable. Remember, the goal isn’t always to be in the spotlight; sometimes, letting go leads to the greatest success.