The Inner Song: Rediscovering the Soul in Music
A Journey Towards Rediscovering Authenticity, Depth, and Connection in Contemporary Songs
In today's fast-paced world, the essence of music is often lost amidst commercialization and marketing strategies. The soul or the inner intention, as I call it, has become the missing element in much of contemporary music. I would like to explore how artists can ensure their songs have that "inner song", capturing the depth and honesty that was once prevalent in the industry.
Honesty and Intention: In previous generations, artists wrote music with genuine emotions, pouring their hearts into their work. Labels sought this honesty, recognizing that it distinguished long-term artists from temporary successes. Artists today should focus on creating music for the sake of art and personal expression rather than solely aiming for commercial success.
Commitment and Patience: In the past, artists were given the opportunity to develop their craft over multiple albums. As a result, some of the most iconic albums were created several years into an artist's career. Often the first few albums of a new signing were commercial flops. They weren't bad, but they were getting better and better. Today musicians should be patient and committed to their art, allowing themselves time to grow and evolve.
Artistry and Skill: The music industry once required artists to possess a certain level of skill and craftsmanship. In today's digital age, these aspects are often overlooked, but they remain vital to creating music with depth and soul. Musicians should invest time in honing their skills and embracing their artistry to create truly meaningful work. Naturally, with the rise of AI, even less of the traditional musicianship will be important, and we have yet to see how AI impacts the inner song.
Authenticity and Personal Connection: Some of the most successful artists in history, like Carole King, were focused on something other than commercial success but rather on creating authentic music from their hearts. By prioritizing personal connection and authenticity, today's musicians can create songs that resonate with listeners on a deeper level.
Challenging the Status Quo: In the current music landscape, it is essential for artists to resist the temptation of creating generic, formulaic songs. Instead, they should strive to challenge the status quo, creating music that is unique and innovative.
Your song's "inner song" is a vital element that commercial interests and superficiality have overshadowed. By focusing on honesty, intention, commitment, skill, authenticity, and challenging the status quo, modern musicians can rediscover the soul of music and create meaningful, lasting art.