When it comes to writing songs, many of us are accustomed to creating pieces that are 3-4 minutes long with multiple verses and choruses. However, there is a lot of value in experimenting with shorter songs that pack a punch in a shorter time frame. A compact track can be just as impactful as a longer one, and it provides a unique opportunity to explore new melodic and harmonic ideas. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the power of short songs, and how you can use them to enhance your music.
The Purpose of Shorter Songs
One of the main benefits of shorter songs is their ability to make an impact in a short amount of time. By keeping the track short, you are forced to distill your message down to its essential elements, creating a powerful and memorable moment in just a few seconds. Short songs can serve as an intro, an outro, or a transition to connect different themes within an album. They can also provide a moment of pause before diving into the next track.
“Droppin’ Seeds” is a brief but powerful track off of Tyler, The Creator’s 2017 album “Flower Boy”. The song features Lil Wayne and clocks in at just one minute, but it still manages to leave a lasting impression on the listener. Despite its short length, “Droppin’ Seeds” delivers a punch with its hard-hitting beat and lyrics that touch on themes of success and personal growth.
Tips for Writing Short Songs
If you’re interested in experimenting with shorter songs, here are some tips to help you get started.
1. Consider the Purpose
Before you start writing, consider the purpose of the song. Are you writing an intro, an outro, or a transitional piece? Understanding the purpose of the track will help you create something that effectively achieves its intended effect.
2. Use Simple and Few Chords
Shorter songs don’t need complex chord progressions. In fact, using just a few simple chords can be more effective. Experiment with different chord progressions to find the right one for your song.
3. Simplify the Melody
With a shorter song, it’s important to keep the melody simple and memorable. This will help your listeners remember the song even after it’s over.
4. Experiment With Different Melodies and Harmonies
Shorter songs offer a unique opportunity to experiment with different melodies and harmonies. You can try strange or unexpected harmonies or even eliminate the melody entirely and focus on creating a memorable chord progression.
6. Consider No Melody
Just as with shorter songs without lyrics, you can also experiment with a short instrumental piece that doesn’t have a melody. Instead, focus on creating a memorable chord progression or interesting harmonies.
Short songs offer a unique and powerful way to express your musical ideas. By focusing on concise melodies and harmonies, you can create memorable tracks that make an impact in a short amount of time. So next time you’re in the studio, consider experimenting with a shorter song and see where it takes you.
