Roy Elkins Song Reviews
My goal is to chose songs that will help all understand the pros and cons of a good song and production. It doesn’t necessarily mean that I will pick the best song for a review. If I or anyone else knew exactly what determines a great hit song, we would be producing great hit songs everyday. I am no expert, just a guy with an opinion.
There are a few things that help move a song down that path. When I’m reviewing, I listen closely to the introduction, marriage between the verses and the chorus’, strength of the melodic hook, lyrics, instrument selection, part writing and the arrangement of the instrumentation, mix and the overall production. And finally, do I walk away from this song remembering it? If I can’t remember the song or the melody within 24 hours, I probably won’t ever remember it. That usually is what is the determining factor for me.
While there are certain techniques and structural requirements that appeal to most listeners, it really comes down to the taste and ears of the listener. If commercial success is the desired, then some of the basics have to be applied. If writing a good piece of thought provoking music is your goal, then who cares what the listener thinks. Write a song that is appealing to you.
Also, if a link is posted to a site other than Broadjam, it is likely not going to get reviewed. Although I do visit other sites periodically, I spend most of my time on Broadjam.
If I do review a song of yours, please share it with your social community. This will help provide more exposure for you.
To recap: If you provide a link to your song on Broadjam and you are an active member of Broadjam, your song will be put in the queue.
Thanks for your music!
Founder, Broadjam, Great People Along The Way, Thoughts On The Music Industry
Additional links & good organizations
Madison Area Music Association, Willywash, Dallas Songwriters Association – one of the best in the business, Merlin Mentors – Great org that helps young entrepreneurs, Les Paul Foundation, Wisconsin Foundation for School Music
Press & educational links
Hangout June 6, 2014, “Blanket” Music Licensing, Industry Projections, Celebrating Sonic Foundry, A Music Platform, Project Famous – Great Photographer, Models of Opportunity: How Entrepreneurs Design Firms