June 19, 2024
Ten years ago, Meghan Trainor burst onto the music scene with her smash hit "All About That Bass," a song that not only showcased her unique blend of doo-wop and contemporary pop but also became an...
Read moreJune 19, 2024
Eminem's iconic music video for "When I'm Gone" has officially reached one billion views on YouTube, marking a monumental achievement for the rapper and solidifying its status as one of his most...
Read moreJune 19, 2024
Allah Rakha Rahman, known globally as A.R. Rahman, is synonymous with musical genius and innovation. Born on January 6, 1967, in Chennai, India, Rahman's journey from a child prodigy to an...
Read moreJune 19, 2024
A recent study by Eventbrite has uncovered a notable shift in the behaviour of music fans, who are now purchasing concert tickets later than ever before. This trend was a key topic of discussion at...
Read moreJune 19, 2024
A new University of Ottawa study has revealed a stark disparity in the airplay of music by women, particularly racialized and trans artists, on commercial Canadian radio over the past decade...
Read moreJune 19, 2024
Taylor Swift’s billion-dollar Eras Tour recently graced Edinburgh, bringing a flood of enthusiastic Swifties to the city and creating an exceptional boom for local businesses. Tens of thousands of...
Read moreJune 19, 2024
Amazon Music is set to enhance its live streaming offerings with an exciting event: "The Pop Out — Ken & Friends," featuring the acclaimed rapper Kendrick Lamar. Scheduled for Juneteenth in...
Read moreJune 18, 2024
The Black Keys, the renowned rock duo, have recently made headlines with their decision to part ways with their long-time managers, Irving Azoff and Steve Moir. This significant change comes in the...
Read moreJune 18, 2024
Jhené Aiko Efuru Chilombo, known professionally as Jhené Aiko, has become a defining voice in contemporary R&B with her ethereal vocals, deeply personal lyrics, and genre-blending sound. Born on...
Read moreJune 18, 2024
Billie Eilish has opened up about the emotional experience of performing her new song “The Greatest” for the first time. Her latest album, Hit Me Hard And Soft, was released on May 17, and Eilish...
Read moreJune 18, 2024
Billie Eilish has responded to Lana Del Rey’s recent declaration that she is the “voice of our generation.” Eilish made a special surprise appearance during Del Rey’s headlining set at Coachella’s...
Read moreJune 18, 2024
Lana Del Rey has spoken out following her “fight” with “stalkers” in Paris. The singer was recently spotted having a heated exchange in the French capital, where she claimed someone was “following”...
Read moreHave you ever wondered what makes a pop song stick in your head, or how some artists consistently produce hit after hit? John Seabrook's "Song Machine: Inside the Hit Factory" pulls back the curtain on the modern music industry, revealing the secrets behind today's chart-topping tracks. Whether you're an aspiring musician, songwriter, or producer, understanding these processes can inspire and guide your own creative journey.
One of the core revelations in Seabrook's book is the "track-and-hook" method. Unlike the traditional approach where a songwriter would pen lyrics and music, today's hits are often born in high-tech studios where producers craft instrumental tracks. These tracks are then handed over to top-line writers who add catchy melodies and lyrics. This collaborative process is akin to an assembly line, each expert contributing their best to create a potential hit.
Seabrook introduces readers to some of the industry's most influential figures. Producers like Max Martin, who has an uncanny ability to churn out hits, and the late Dennis Pop, who co-founded the iconic Cheiron Studio in Sweden, are pivotal in shaping the sound of modern pop. Their work with artists such as Britney Spears, Backstreet Boys, and Katy Perry demonstrates how crucial the producer's role is in crafting a song that resonates with a wide audience.
"Song Machine" also delves into the balance between science and art in pop music. Data analytics and market research now play a significant role in determining what works in a song. However, the book emphasizes that the emotional and creative aspects are equally important. The best hits often blend tried-and-true formulas with unique, unexpected elements that capture listeners' attention.
The book is filled with fascinating anecdotes about the creation of some of the biggest hits. For example, it details the making of Rihanna's "Umbrella," explaining how the track evolved and what elements made it so compelling. These stories provide valuable insights into the hit-making process, illustrating the combination of talent, technology, and timing required to produce a successful song.
For music creators, "Song Machine" offers several key takeaways:
"Song Machine: Inside the Hit Factory" is not just a behind-the-scenes look at the music industry; it's a treasure trove of insights for anyone passionate about creating music. By understanding the methods and stories behind today's biggest hits, you can find inspiration and practical advice to elevate your own music.
For more insights and discussions with top music creators, tune into the Sonical.ly Podcast, where we explore the art and science of making music with industry experts. Happy creating!