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This week, Less is more, Let’s go -
Ever heard the expression “less is more?” The term itself means to take a minimalist approach to artistic or aesthetic matters which becomes more effective; and we all want to be effective don’t we? In the arts of all sorts this term continues to bubble up, in visual art the desirability of simplicity over visual clutter. In theater, one of my old directors would say “less less less, you ackin now, I need you to act, and simply BE the part.” And I’m sure like me it grinds your gears when a singer decides to riff and run all over the place and out of key instead of keeping with the melody. Even words can be too much. Sometimes in the effort to tell the story writers (self included) get a bit wordy, trying to fit as many words in a bar or a page or blog as possible. In music you have to remember that the track is also important and needs to breathe. Moreover the music should have a hook of it’s own that compliments the hook of the lyrics.
Understand that a good melody is a group of words organized into what is called a motif. That motif is basically a short group of notes (or words) that can be 2, 3, 4 notes that are played in a repetitive way so that the tune is easily identifiable. In storytelling the motif is a word or group of words that repeat that have significance, which is the same in songwriting. Repetition is key, and is remembered by the listener. Hip Hop has mastered the art of appealing to their listeners, and banging them over the head with repetition.
Ever heard a speaker use so many big words that the message is missed? Don’t let your message get missed by using too many words, trying to be too intellectual, or so street that your audience doesn't know what you’re talking about. Remember who needs to hear your story, who your audience is, who needs to feel you, and how to be effective. Your listeners need to remember the song after it’s off, and need to be able to repeat the hook or motif after only one listening.
This week's #IAOTW - Independent Artists Of The Week is Ruby Camille unsigned independent singer/songwriter from Nashville. New single coming in July.
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