August 7, 2023
"Shake It Off" is a smash-hit song by Taylor Swift, released in 2014 as the lead single from her fifth studio album, "1989." The upbeat and infectious track marked a significant shift in Taylor...
Read moreAugust 6, 2023
"Blue" is a mesmerizing song released by the iconic South Korean boy group, BIGBANG, in 2012. Falling gracefully into the pop and electronic dance music genres, the track opens with...
Read moreAugust 6, 2023
One particular song from the series "Celebrity" that might have undoubtedly caught your attention is SOLE's soul-stirring track, "Blindness." However, what you may not know is that SOLE...
Read moreAugust 4, 2023
Within a year, the 4th generation K-pop hit 'Le Sserafim' topped charts, won several awards, sold millions of albums, and much more! From the moment they were created, this girl group was born...
Read moreAugust 1, 2023
Toronto Rapper Drake is slapped with a $10 million copyright lawsuit. The lawsuit began with artist Obrafor...
Read moreJuly 31, 2023
In a dazzling display of creativity and musical prowess, the "Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse" album has taken the world by storm ever since it came out in June 2023. This remarkable soundtrack...
Read moreJuly 31, 2023
Selena Gomez, the multi-talented American singer, songwriter, and actress, has undoubtedly shown her role in the music industry. With her captivating voice, relatable lyrics, and...
Read moreJuly 31, 2023
In a sea of modern-day artists, Lana Del Rey stands out like a rare gem. With her hauntingly soulful voice and captivating lyrics, she has carved out a niche for herself in the music industry...
Read moreJuly 31, 2023
Music has the remarkable power to connect with our emotions, taking us on a rollercoaster ride of feelings and sensations. Whether it's a heartwarming melody that brings tears...
Read moreJuly 31, 2023
The long-awaited album is officially out! Treasure has released their second full-length album, 'Reboot,' in which they show-off improved versions of themselves. The album's vibrant title track...
Read moreJuly 28, 2023
In the ever-evolving landscape of modern music, Kendrick Lamar stands out as a true musical genius. With a unique blend of deep and meaningful lyrics, masterful storytelling...
Read moreJuly 28, 2023
The Canadian pop star sells his share of rights to his music to Hipnosis Songs Capital for just over $200 million. He has sold some of his biggest hit songs, such as Baby and Sorry...
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!