I've been trying to tackle vocal melodies for years, 100's of tracks shelved because I cant come up with the melody. 20 minutes in to this video and I've used the tips and written a melody for a song within an hour! Thank you so much!
I am a totally self-taught musician who plays by ear, always been scared to dive into music theory. I've been watching your videos for a couple days now, and they have really changed the way I think about writing. Not only are your videos informative, this one in particular is actually very insightful on a much deeper level. A lot of the concepts you are talking about concerning the melody's purpose in a song really show just how deeply connected they really are to the lyrics. Truly the best tutorial on songwriting I have ever stumbled upon. Cheers!
Your skills will blow up if you learn music theory. It doesn't take away from your creativity it does the opposite and expands it. I thought the same thing. I'm pissed I wasted so much time
it's literally the best lesson I've ever watched on youtube, I understood every word of what you said, the division between technique and subjectivity became transparent and music suddenly made every sense of the world, thank you for this content and forgiveness for the English, I'm from Brazil
Haha, thanks Bryan, and a warm welcome to our Hack Music Theory community! We publish new vids every Thursday, so we hope to see you again soon for more theory hacks! Until then, have a wonderful week/weekend :)
Aw thanks for watching and connecting, Jake, it always makes us happy to know that our hacks are helping musicians! Until next time, take care and happy songwriting!
i took an online songwriting course where he gave the same advice about matching lyrics with the vibe of the melody, except he approached it from the lyrics first, choosing chords later to match the feel of what he was saying. I think i prefer your approach, but the other way would be good if you were primarily a writer
Exactly! Well said, and I totally agree. If you're a lyricist first and foremost, then it makes sense to start with the lyrics. But, if you're a songwriter first and foremost, then the only workflow that does justice to your priority, is melody first and lyrics afterwards :)
Very old post here but this strikes me as funny. As an amateur screenwriter and novelist who dabbles in music, I of course start with an idea for what I want the lyrics to say. They are often themed from a scene in my screenplay often taking lines right out of a character’s dialogue or at the very least a paraphrase of the moment or sentiment. Then I choose a chord progression that matches the scene. Finally the melody, bridge, chorus. Probably a horrible method. Perhaps I’ll rethink it.
Haha, thanks TheXpertGuy! It always makes us happy to know that our hacks are helping musicians! What kind of music do you make? We hope to see you around soon for more theory hacks, until then, take care :)
This video has me on a different wavelength. Everything you said reminded me about ABBA. They made a tremendous comeback in 2021. I would love to share my lyrics with you!
this breakdown series is immensely instructive. i've been programming midi music for like 15 years but never had this clear of a breakdown on how to approach things. really interested to look up your video on counterpoint. this vocal melody is very nice, how it works with the rest of the song
Wow, thank you sincerely for your incredibly kind words and support, it means the absolute world to us! We're so happy you're finding our videos helpful, that's awesome! Regarding the counterpoint videos, as that's a more advanced method, we're doing those over on Patreon for our official Revolutionary Songwriters & Producers (we use the Patreon platform to teach our more advanced hacks). In fact, this week Friday is our first video on vocal counterpoint. If you're interested, you can find out more, here: www.patreon.com/revolutionharmony Otherwise, I'd recommend starting with my Hack Music Theory for Songwriting & Producing PDF, which contains my counterpoint hack and a MIDI example. You can download it here: revolutionharmony.com/books Thank you ultra mega much once again for taking the time to watch and connect, we are truly grateful :) By the way, what genre(s) do you work in?
Salut et merci EOTY! We really appreciate your support and enthusiasm, thanks so much watching and connecting. I had a listen to Little Things and Woman Army, you've got a really cool vibe! If you guys use our hacks in future tracks, please be sure to share them with us, as we love hearing our theory hacks come to life :D Kate
I give you major props for how professional and informative you were throughout this whole video. There was never a time I wasn’t interested in the stuff you were teaching. Thanks for taking the time to make this!
Well I don't really have a certain style. I've been playing the guitar for a while, but lately I've become more interested in electronic music. And your channel has helped me a lot so far:)
I write rock/metal songs and since I'm a beginning singer, I've struggled with melodies and this really helped more than any other youtube video. You know, explaining usage of intervals, using piano as a tool to write vocals etc.
Hi x Varzka, thank you for sharing a little bit about yourself and your struggles with melodies. I really appreciate your thirst to learn and get better as a musician, it's wonderful! We are beyond happy that our video has given you useful tools you can use to write your vocals, that's why we do this! If I may make a suggestion, I think you would find our "Hack Music Theory for Songwriting and Producing" PDF very helpful. It includes Ray's Melody Checklist for writing vocals and it also has a wealth of other hacks which include how to write chord progressions, bass lines, guitar riffs, etc. You can download it from our website here: revolutionharmony.com/books. We're super pumped to welcome you to the Hack Music Theory revolution! Also, I'm always curious to know, where are you based? Take care and happy songwriting! Kate :)
I’ve enjoyed watching your clips for quite a while. Not that I’m an amazing writer. I’ve adopted some of your concepts into my creative process. Then you mentioned Counterpoint Harmony. Knowing what Counterpoint Harmony is, I now have an even greater appreciation for your content and your wealth of knowledge. Thank you for the hacks.
I wrote a vocal melody before I watched this and realized afterward that I had a note going into another note that had a perfect 5th and needed to "break it up"... Thank you guys so much!!
I'm in the U.S.A., originally from New York City, but living in Central Florida. I love making rock, metal, hip hop, electronic, and ambient music. I see it as a lifelong journey!
Hey Philly, thanks so much for sharing a bit about yourself! That's awesome that you're into a diversity of genres, it really helps us songwriters stay fresh and inspired. I also really appreciate your view of music. It has been said that it takes 7 lifetimes to master music... a lifelong journey indeed! Hope you're having a great week! Kate :)
Great Video! What i like to do is listen to a simple classical piano piece for example by Yiruma and think of the story the notes alone tell me and its beautiful
@@HackMusicTheory I am a professional musician, basically.I play the bassoon in a symphonic orchestra.Rock,alternative,dance music I prefer to hear and I try to do that kind of music .I am not that experienced in music production.Only 1year and 2 months with Ableton ...but it is my dream .I have attended a 30 hours seminar in music production lately.Thanks again
@ νικος ρωξανας Thanks so much for sharing, that's so cool that you play in an orchestra!! We also love that you're going deep into learning music production, and we're cheering you on with your music making journey! All the best νικος, and we hope to see you again soon for more theory hacks :)
Thank you so much for this insight, iam struggeling so much right now with the chord progression and intro and lyrics, but i get the drop really good every single time.
Hey man, you’re a fucking genius. I appreciate you for sharing the wealth of wisdom and knowledge. So nice seeing someone slowwww everything down and thoroughly explain how they understand. Wherever you may be today, I hope you are doing well and continuing this level of energy 🤟🏻 Edit: Within the same couple hours I read your free book. I am buying two more as we speak. Absolutely incredible man.
Aww thanks so much Marco, we're happy to have you here in the Hack Music Theory community! What kind of music do you make? Take care, and we hope to see you again soon for more theory hacks :)
Wow, that's awesome, Marc! We're pumped you found this tutorial helpful. Thanks big time for taking the time to watch and connect, and we hope to see you again soon for more theory hacks, take care :)
You are a very good teacher! I very much appreciate the explanation of the fine details going into note and chord choices. The best thing you've brought clarity for me is the numbering systems used and the difference between chord numbers and interval numbers; Chord numbers start at 1 and include flats for half steps and Intervals start at 0 and are counted in semi-tones? I am late starting music creation and all the numbers my friends keep talking about used to just leave me glazed over but now I see a bit more clearly... Music is profoundly complicated but all I thought it would take is to string a few notes together and a thing of beauty would appear, but it's just not that simple, haha. Easy things never make for the greatest satisfaction. Cheers very much, Peter.
Like usual, a lot of information to improve immediately our music... Also, i appreciate that you explain your view on how and why the music industry transform songs into fast food and the negative impact of this marketing strategy on popular culture...
Hey Mega Gygon! Thanks so much for watching and connecting. We're happy to hear that you're enjoying our videos and we're pumped to welcome you to the Hack Music Theory revolution! Take care and until next time, happy songwriting! Kate :)
I try to draw mostly from EBM/EDM, some of my material sounds kind alt rock with chimes. Tbh, I'm still figuring out the direction I wanna take, but thanks to you, I've got two of my most cherished projects lined up for vox. I'm just gonna have to wait awhile to get a good microphone to implement them. I have some, but tarnished music theory experience, but the rule of 4ths and 5ths in your chord prog video have really helped me feel out appropriate intervals. Writing vocal melodies I feel is the hardest part of composing, and I've applied a fair bit from this video. :)
Hey Llednar Told Me, thanks for sharing a bit about your music! We love hearing that you'll be singing your vocals melodies yourself :) We're super happy we could help you out with composing melodies, and as with most things in life, knowledge and practice take you a long way, so you're on the right track with your vocal melodies!! We're cheering you on 100%! Take care and have a great weekend :)
Your exposition of the shortcomings on the lack of substance of so much pop music and using the refined food and additive metaphor was excellent. I couldn't agree more. This isn't a new phenomenon of course. It has always been so, but I think it is perhaps more extreme now.
Philly Watts! We really appreciate your support! Thanks for watching and connecting, it means a lot to us. We're glad to have you along for the ride and look forward to hearing from you again. Until then, take care and happy songwriting! Kate :)
I am taking your apprenticeship course. It is a very helpful course. I really enjoy the " how to write great songs" series. Do you have the a drum lesson of the series? Thank you!
Aw thanks for watching and connecting, Fritz, it always makes us happy to know that our hacks are helping musicians! On that note, what kinda music do you make, and where are you based?
I am based in the United States, on the east coast. I make rock music, jazz and blues but I recently got into electronic music about a year ago. I would say my electronic music is heavily inspired by Jeff Lynne's Electric Light Orchestra. On my CZcams channel, I also make "rap" music cheaply (It's really just a joke thing). Your videos have really helped recently. I've been working on a new song that I started after I found your video about making pop chord progressions in my recommended.
Ah wow, thank you ultra mega much Michael, that means the absolute world to us! We're never really sure if our passion (i.e. obsession!) for music theory travels safely through the internet, so it's amazing to hear that it is indeed coming out your end. Yay!!! Thanks a bunch for connecting and subscribing too, much appreciated. What kinda music do you make, and where are you based? (if you don't mind sharing)
I'm from Denmark, 28, a long time guitarist and home studio producer on my 3rd year. I make electronic pop music in the style of, Chvrches, Calvin Harris and see Max Martin as my biggest influence on both production of music and vocals, and on vocal melodies as well. I prefer the simplicity in a well written vocal line contra the more technical (Beyonce, Adele etc.). But I'm very much a sucker for some of the bigger newer pop songs. Sia for instance, is one of my favorite artists because the expression and the play between big music and even bigger vocals. Thanks for replying, hope you all have a blessed evening.
Hey Nala, that's a really great point, you definitely want lots of variation in your music when it's played over and over and over again! Do you make music for video games? Kate :)
Aww thanks so much Kyrelle Thomas, and a warm welcome to the Hack Music Theory community! What kind of music do you make? Take care, and we hope to see you again soon for more theory hacks :)
I never start writing a song without lyrics. I usually get the chorus in my head first, out of nowhere. I'll write the verses from scratch, but the chorus just seems to come from nowhere. :)
Hey hey Bill, thanks for sharing a little bit about your music making process, and a very warm welcome to the Hack Music Theory community! What kind of music do you make? Have a great week and thanks again for being here, we really appreciate you :)
@@HackMusicTheory I write mostly sad ballads, but I've recorded some rock, a country song, and I'm currently working on a dance song. Thanks for the kind words, and I appreciate you as well. 🙂
@@HackMusicTheory Oh yeah, I grew up on Casey Kasem's top 40 countdown. I remember every song when it was popular from the time I was 4 years old (1976). I love all hit music, all styles. I don't even differentiate between them. Pop, disco, dance, country, easy listening, boy bands, girl bands, rap, rock....." I can go from Barbra Streisand to Skid Row without thinking twice. It's all "top 40" to me. LOL!
Just ran across this video. I am trying to start to be a professional singer / songwriter. Have the voice, do write music, but have zero training in any of it. Play guitar, but needing and doing upgrading of my guitar abilities, too. I find that I usually revert to very simple songs, and write ballads and such, moody pieces, etc. I am a good lyrics writer, I think. I am looking forward to studying your instructions. Will see what happens. I will stay in touch on these message boards as to my progress. Thanks for these interesting videos. Dan
Also, I have songs I wrote 40 years ago, in my twenties. I do believe that I naturally write from melody first, and lyrics later...but, maybe a bit of lyrics and melody at the same time. I have noticed that my best songs come out all at once in one take, where the lyrics just flowed naturally, and I didn't have to do very much to adjust the lyrics. Also, I am doing this so late in life because I have a very beautiful voice, that people get very excited about when they here me. And, I just want to get my voice heard and shared with the world. I never thought of doing this professionally because, what the hey, what are the chances of being a professional, I always thought...out of the question. Well, the internet changed everything for me. Now, I was able to look up songs on You tube, and see how professionals sang these various songs. I quickly realized, I had a better voice than most of the professionals. And, now I see how much learning is available on the internet. I am going to try to get music produced using Garage Band, and get it uploaded on You Tube or some such. So, when I do, I will post here. I also have to work trucking jobs, mainly in the winter. So, lots of challenges. I am looking to buy a new acoustic electric guitar, and am taking advantage of the wonderful guitar/instrument store in downtown Chicago, called the Chicago Music Exchange. So many guitars on display, and I am getting an education just trying them out and tuning them up and listening to how they sound. As I say, when people hear me, they get very excited, and I am constantly getting offers to help me in my endeavors, from people who are interested in music, who have knowledge of how to help......some may want me to sing their songs...will find out. I also get musicians in the music stores to jam with me, when they hear me play and sing my songs. So, looking for collaborators. This is a big adventure, and my new passion. My voice is like Fred Neil, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash....I can sing like Sinatra, and Arias, too. Gospel, like Amazing Grace... A Capella...have perfect pitch.
I want to thank you so much for these video's on songwriting! I've been working on my songwriting routine and knowledge and i've picked up so much useable ideas and techniques for my songs. The way you explain feels like hanging out, but at the same time is very clear and balanced. I'll get the pdf on your website to support you guys. Thanks!
Aw thanks big time for watching, connecting and supporting us Haiddsalami!! It always makes us happy to know that our hacks are helping musicians. On that note, what kinda music do you make, and where are you based?
Hey, of course! I guess you could call it alternative/rock/pop, bit of iggy pop/qotsa/placebo and indie influences. I'm based in Amsterdam, and working hard getting this new project going. Have a listen if you like: soundcloud.com/paul-schouten-184572189/the-ashtray-everything-good-boy-concept-song Cheers!
Hey, can I call you Paul? Cool vibe on your song, thanks for sharing! I wish you all the best with your project, we're behind you 100%! I find the autumn/winter is the best time to focus on creative efforts. I wish you a wonderfully creative/productive weekend! Until next time, happy songwriting. Kate :)
Haha yes of course you may, and thanks! Really cool to hear you guys like it. The autumn and winter are definitely my most productive times as well. So I'm going to buckle down for a couple of months on my songs, and then it's rehearsal time. Until next time:) Paul
Excellent, it's always great to have deadlines for ourselves, it keeps music as the priority, otherwise the 'busyness' of life can take over! ha. Let us know how you get along with your project and I hope we can keep helping you and your music with our hacks. All the best to you Paul! Kate :)
Great explanation Ray, you are an awesome teacher. Can't say enough about your channel. Thank you. I especially love your sugar reference, so dead on. I avoid refined sugars at all costs by following an NSNG (No Sugars No Grains) lifestyle. I lost 35 lbs without trying. Really opened up my eyes to nutrition, like the way you do with regards to music theory.
Aww thanks so much Tim E, and a warm welcome to our Hack Music Theory community! Good to hear you're exploring and learning about health and nutrition, thanks for sharing! We're huge fans of nutritionfacts.org which covers all the latest science in nutrition (they also have a CZcams channel). We'd love to hear what kind of music you're making? In the meantime, take care, and we hope to see you again soon for more theory hacks!
Hey Deviliumrei, we're happy to hear you enjoyed this one! What kind of music are you making? If you try some of these hacks, let us know how it goes! Take care and stay safe :)
Mike Patton uses the sounds and syllables way of vocalizing his melodies before they're written. Lol! I love this channel and am resubbing to patreon as soon as I have the cash again. Loving this channel! 💙
Wow!! Thank you sincerely for your incredibly kind words, Bryan, that's about the best compliment a music teacher can ever get, so you've totally made my day :) What kinda music do you make?
Aaah good stuff! By the way, if you wanna go deeper into more advanced songwriting & producing hacks, you can consider becoming one of our official Revolutionary Producers over on Patreon, which will give you access to exclusive video lessons, like the one I just did on counterpoint vocal harmonies: www.patreon.com/revolutionharmony Either way, be sure to stay in touch and share the music you make using our hacks, as we're trying to start a music theory revolution and it's great to have you on board :)
Ray you poisoned me, I can never write BV's using normal harmony.. It has to be counter point, otherwise It's sooo Boring I feel poisoned by green tea 😂
Aw thanks for watching and connecting, Half Exp , it always makes us happy to know that our hacks are helping musicians! On that note, what kinda music do you make?
That's awesome Half Exp! If you haven't already, may I suggest that you check out our free music theory book, '12 Music Theory Hacks to Learn Scales and Chords'? You'll gain a super solid music theory foundation with which to make music and it's a super fast and fun read. You can download from our website: RevolutionHarmony.com/Books. By the way, where are you based? Kate :)
Hack Music Theory I'm from the middle east, though I'll be moving to Minneapolis on the 31st of this month. I'll surely download the pdf. Thank you very much!
Great question, Chris! I especially love using the piano for vocals when I'm writing metal, as it really cuts through all the distortion. I even use the piano to write non-melodic vocals (i.e. shouting/screaming/growling), as it's the best way to write vocal rhythms, and then it also makes it easier to fit the lyrics to those rhythms afterwards. Anyhoo, I really hope that helps, and thanks for being here in the Hack Music Theory community, Chris, you're truly valued! Ray :)
@@HackMusicTheory thanks for the reply!! I love your channel I’m a bassist/song writer and working on first solo album and never sang before and this is helping
Hi Ray, I really enjoy your videos but don't have basic knowledge of using the midi keyboard to write in Reaper - can you recommend a tutorial, or is it in one of your books?
i noticed you mentioning perfect intervals now my questions is how do they contribute say if i just want to make a melody from just top of my head what tricks or formula can i use
Hey Bruce, thanks so much for watching our video and taking the time to connect, we're truly grateful. And that's an awesome question, too. It's always best to make your melodies using this method, even when you're coming up with them off the top of your head. It's obviously much more difficult to do it that way (i.e. without an instrument or computer), but this method will ensure your melodies are always great! Hope this helps, and happy songwriting :)
Haven't even finished the vid yet (planning to come back), but can already tell you are giving exactly what I'm looking for. Thank you. Liked and subscribed.
I saw there's a melody thats been dubbed "the millennial whoop" it goes 5th, 3rd, 5th, 3rd and has been used in literally hundreds of pop songs in the last few years, it's such a strong familiar pattern it'll only disappear from pop music if the repetition loving plebs get bored of it...!
Is your last name actually 'Harmony', or did you make that up to fit what you do?...just curious, quite the serendipity if you didn't make it up...and perfectly OK if you did.
Hey hey Jiggliepoof, thanks a bunch for watching and connecting, it's lovely to meet you! There's a rather complicated answer to your question haha! Yes, I was born and raised in Cape Town, but I lost my South African citizenship after immigrating to England, cos South Africa doesn't allow duel citizenship. And then, to confuse things even further, I immigrated to Canada! By the way, I checked out your channel, you're vegan too? That's awesome!!! What is South Africa like for vegans these days? Here in Vancouver it's like vegan heaven on earth :)
Hack Music Theory Nice! It’s awesome to find a fellow South African on CZcams! 😁 Thanks for checking out my channel 😊 it’s epic to hear that you’re vegan too! It is getting a lot easier this side - we even have some vegan restaurants now, but I’m sure Canada is a lot better! Keep up the awesome work and thanks again for the help 😊
Hey Rico, hope this finds you well in these challenging times. Thanks for stopping by and connecting, and thank you for being here in the Hack Music Theory community, we appreciate you! The software we use is Reaper, you can check it out here: www.reaper.fm Hope that helps :)
Everyone who thinks they are a song writer or lyricist should be made to watch the first 3 minutes of this video. The mismatch between the lyrics and the feel of the song will drive the most tolerant listener bonkers after 5 minutes. And if you don't know about word economy, you really need to understand this.
Hi Revolution Harmony! You guys are awesome! I have a couple questions. I don't think someone asked this but i don't have a vocalist so i just have to rely on acapellas I can find online. How do you go about writing the melody for the acapella? I am in the works of making a song with vocals (super difficult for me). The acapella is in G minor The vocals are processed well and are pretty good, with some parts I like a lot better than other parts. How do I go about writing the melody if I don't know what the vocal notes are in the acapella? Thanks a lot! You and your wife are awesome together and teaching theory in how it applies in the WHOLE song and not just one area such as chord prog and using theory to make a melody over it. Now time to keep producing. But first, TEA!!
Hey hey Joseph, thanks big time for your kind and supportive words, we are sincerely grateful to you! Just to clarify your question, are you wanting to write a chord progression to go with the vocal a cappella? Thanks :)
Thanks for the quick response! I want to write a chord progression that is in G Minor but I am still a little confused on what I am limited to use with regard to modes and notes. I became stuck when I wanted to write G natural minor chords in Phygian mode. Can you do this? Also do I need to use a plugin like melodyne to figure out the notes in the acapella? So I can write a chord progression that works? Sorry it is difficult to explain where I am stuck. Let me know if this helps understand where I might be stuck/confused.
Hey Joseph, thanks for the clarification, that helped a lot. So, if your a cappella is in G minor, then your chord progression also needs to be in G minor, which means your chord options are: Gm, Adim, B♭maj, Cm, Dm, E♭maj, Fmaj. And yes, you'll want to first work out the notes of the vocal melody, so you can write your chord progression around its implied harmony. Hope this helps, and if you want to learn more about scales, modes, chords, writing chord progressions, writing melodies, etc., then please check out my books/PDFs here: revolutionharmony.com/books All the best :)
Yes Thank you! This clears everything up. I am a proud supporting of you guys on Patreon and have read your books and they're have helped me in tremendous ways!
Amazingly amazing, I'm sooooo happy to hear that! And wow, you're a patron? Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, that means the absolute world to us!!! You must be under a different name on Patreon, as I didn't recognise your name here. Are you Joey Sunzak? Thanks big time once again! Ray :)
Hey John, thanks so much for watching, we really appreciate it! Yup, that's what we're trying to change with our Hack Music Theory revolution. We envision a world with awesome pop music! What kind of music do you make? Hope you're having a great week! Take care, Kate :)
Happy you found it helpful, mathoe5, and a warm welcome to the Hack Music Theory community! What kind of music do you make? Take care, and we hope to see you again soon for more theory hacks :)
►If you liked this video, you'll love our online course: HackMusicTheory.com/Courses
"If a note doesn't have a reason to being there, then why is it there" that really helps me look at music differently.
Yay! That's awesome Fritz!! Glad to be of service :)
Basically font just wing something just to add more right? Love that advice too.
I've been trying to tackle vocal melodies for years, 100's of tracks shelved because I cant come up with the melody. 20 minutes in to this video and I've used the tips and written a melody for a song within an hour! Thank you so much!
I am a totally self-taught musician who plays by ear, always been scared to dive into music theory. I've been watching your videos for a couple days now, and they have really changed the way I think about writing. Not only are your videos informative, this one in particular is actually very insightful on a much deeper level. A lot of the concepts you are talking about concerning the melody's purpose in a song really show just how deeply connected they really are to the lyrics. Truly the best tutorial on songwriting I have ever stumbled upon. Cheers!
and the most chilled tuttorials in YT... teaching with soul!
Aww, you're very kind, Nenad, thank you! We really appreciate you being in the Hack Music Theory community :) What kind of music do you make?
Your skills will blow up if you learn music theory. It doesn't take away from your creativity it does the opposite and expands it. I thought the same thing. I'm pissed I wasted so much time
it's literally the best lesson I've ever watched on youtube, I understood every word of what you said, the division between technique and subjectivity became transparent and music suddenly made every sense of the world, thank you for this content and forgiveness for the English, I'm from Brazil
Dude thanks for taking all this time! a whole ass hour !!
Haha, thanks Bryan, and a warm welcome to our Hack Music Theory community! We publish new vids every Thursday, so we hope to see you again soon for more theory hacks! Until then, have a wonderful week/weekend :)
What a fantastic teacher, you've really helped me along through the beginner stages of writing music. Thank you.
Aw thanks for watching and connecting, Jake, it always makes us happy to know that our hacks are helping musicians! Until next time, take care and happy songwriting!
i took an online songwriting course where he gave the same advice about matching lyrics with the vibe of the melody, except he approached it from the lyrics first, choosing chords later to match the feel of what he was saying. I think i prefer your approach, but the other way would be good if you were primarily a writer
Exactly! Well said, and I totally agree. If you're a lyricist first and foremost, then it makes sense to start with the lyrics. But, if you're a songwriter first and foremost, then the only workflow that does justice to your priority, is melody first and lyrics afterwards :)
Very old post here but this strikes me as funny. As an amateur screenwriter and novelist who dabbles in music, I of course start with an idea for what I want the lyrics to say. They are often themed from a scene in my screenplay often taking lines right out of a character’s dialogue or at the very least a paraphrase of the moment or sentiment. Then I choose a chord progression that matches the scene. Finally the melody, bridge, chorus. Probably a horrible method. Perhaps I’ll rethink it.
This was so good it almost felt illegal to watch this for free. I learnt so much. Thanks :)
Haha, thanks TheXpertGuy! It always makes us happy to know that our hacks are helping musicians! What kind of music do you make? We hope to see you around soon for more theory hacks, until then, take care :)
This video has me on a different wavelength. Everything you said reminded me about ABBA. They made a tremendous comeback in 2021. I would love to share my lyrics with you!
Awesome, happy to hear it, kotic007! Thanks so much for connecting :)
this breakdown series is immensely instructive. i've been programming midi music for like 15 years but never had this clear of a breakdown on how to approach things. really interested to look up your video on counterpoint. this vocal melody is very nice, how it works with the rest of the song
Wow, thank you sincerely for your incredibly kind words and support, it means the absolute world to us! We're so happy you're finding our videos helpful, that's awesome! Regarding the counterpoint videos, as that's a more advanced method, we're doing those over on Patreon for our official Revolutionary Songwriters & Producers (we use the Patreon platform to teach our more advanced hacks). In fact, this week Friday is our first video on vocal counterpoint. If you're interested, you can find out more, here: www.patreon.com/revolutionharmony Otherwise, I'd recommend starting with my Hack Music Theory for Songwriting & Producing PDF, which contains my counterpoint hack and a MIDI example. You can download it here: revolutionharmony.com/books Thank you ultra mega much once again for taking the time to watch and connect, we are truly grateful :) By the way, what genre(s) do you work in?
JubileeGiggles my mind exactly. Wow you guys are mind blowing !
Salut et merci EOTY! We really appreciate your support and enthusiasm, thanks so much watching and connecting. I had a listen to Little Things and Woman Army, you've got a really cool vibe! If you guys use our hacks in future tracks, please be sure to share them with us, as we love hearing our theory hacks come to life :D Kate
I give you major props for how professional and informative you were throughout this whole video. There was never a time I wasn’t interested in the stuff you were teaching. Thanks for taking the time to make this!
I'm made up. This guy has finally cracked something for me with regards to singing notes outside of the chord. Long story but thanks my man!
Your channel is exactly what the modern music world needs.
Thanks Rinat, that's very kind of you! What kind of music do you make?
Well I don't really have a certain style. I've been playing the guitar for a while, but lately I've become more interested in electronic music. And your channel has helped me a lot so far:)
Best explanation of melody structure I've seen.
Wow x Varzka! That is a bold statement, thank you! What kinda music do you make? Kate :)
I write rock/metal songs and since I'm a beginning singer, I've struggled with melodies and this really helped more than any other youtube video. You know, explaining usage of intervals, using piano as a tool to write vocals etc.
Hi x Varzka, thank you for sharing a little bit about yourself and your struggles with melodies. I really appreciate your thirst to learn and get better as a musician, it's wonderful! We are beyond happy that our video has given you useful tools you can use to write your vocals, that's why we do this! If I may make a suggestion, I think you would find our "Hack Music Theory for Songwriting and Producing" PDF very helpful. It includes Ray's Melody Checklist for writing vocals and it also has a wealth of other hacks which include how to write chord progressions, bass lines, guitar riffs, etc. You can download it from our website here: revolutionharmony.com/books. We're super pumped to welcome you to the Hack Music Theory revolution! Also, I'm always curious to know, where are you based? Take care and happy songwriting! Kate :)
Thanks, I'll check it out. I'm from Poland.
Well hello to you in Poland! Have a wonderful weekend x Varzka! Kate :)
I’ve enjoyed watching your clips for quite a while. Not that I’m an amazing writer. I’ve adopted some of your concepts into my creative process. Then you mentioned Counterpoint Harmony. Knowing what Counterpoint Harmony is, I now have an even greater appreciation for your content and your wealth of knowledge. Thank you for the hacks.
I wrote a vocal melody before I watched this and realized afterward that I had a note going into another note that had a perfect 5th and needed to "break it up"... Thank you guys so much!!
Yay, great to hear you're learning so much! By the way, where are you based and what kind of music do you make?
I'm in the U.S.A., originally from New York City, but living in Central Florida.
I love making rock, metal, hip hop, electronic, and ambient music. I see it as a lifelong journey!
Hey Philly, thanks so much for sharing a bit about yourself! That's awesome that you're into a diversity of genres, it really helps us songwriters stay fresh and inspired. I also really appreciate your view of music. It has been said that it takes 7 lifetimes to master music... a lifelong journey indeed! Hope you're having a great week! Kate :)
9:45 a great analogy
Great Video! What i like to do is listen to a simple classical piano piece for example by Yiruma and think of the story the notes alone tell me and its beautiful
another enlighting lecture,Ray....thanks again
Thanks for your kind words, νικος :) What kind of music do you make?
@@HackMusicTheory I am a professional musician, basically.I play the bassoon in a symphonic orchestra.Rock,alternative,dance music I prefer to hear and I try to do that kind of music .I am not that experienced in music production.Only 1year and 2 months with Ableton ...but it is my dream .I have attended a 30 hours seminar in music production lately.Thanks again
@ νικος ρωξανας Thanks so much for sharing, that's so cool that you play in an orchestra!! We also love that you're going deep into learning music production, and we're cheering you on with your music making journey! All the best νικος, and we hope to see you again soon for more theory hacks :)
Thanks for uploading this 🙏 creating melodies have been a struggle for me and watching videos like yours has definitely moved me forward ⏩
Thank you so much for this insight, iam struggeling so much right now with the chord progression and intro and lyrics, but i get the drop really good every single time.
totally reminds me of a pinback song. amazing advice, very well explained!!
Hey man, you’re a fucking genius. I appreciate you for sharing the wealth of wisdom and knowledge. So nice seeing someone slowwww everything down and thoroughly explain how they understand. Wherever you may be today, I hope you are doing well and continuing this level of energy 🤟🏻
Edit: Within the same couple hours I read your free book. I am buying two more as we speak. Absolutely incredible man.
4:05 I'm drinking tea and nodding my head
The passion and stoke is contagious! Boundless enlightenment!
beautiful music.
Totally awesome! Many thanks.
Aww thanks so much Marco, we're happy to have you here in the Hack Music Theory community! What kind of music do you make? Take care, and we hope to see you again soon for more theory hacks :)
Hooks and sonic sugar pandemy, well said Ray!!!
My attention span is normally 10 minutes with tutorial videos...ended up staying for the hour. Thanks for the info
Wow, that's awesome, Marc! We're pumped you found this tutorial helpful. Thanks big time for taking the time to watch and connect, and we hope to see you again soon for more theory hacks, take care :)
amazing ! thank you
You are a very good teacher! I very much appreciate the explanation of the fine details going into note and chord choices. The best thing you've brought clarity for me is the numbering systems used and the difference between chord numbers and interval numbers; Chord numbers start at 1 and include flats for half steps and Intervals start at 0 and are counted in semi-tones?
I am late starting music creation and all the numbers my friends keep talking about used to just leave me glazed over but now I see a bit more clearly... Music is profoundly complicated but all I thought it would take is to string a few notes together and a thing of beauty would appear, but it's just not that simple, haha. Easy things never make for the greatest satisfaction.
Cheers very much, Peter.
Like usual, a lot of information to improve immediately our music... Also, i appreciate that you explain your view on how and why the music industry transform songs into fast food and the negative impact of this marketing strategy on popular culture...
Hey Mega Gygon! Thanks so much for watching and connecting. We're happy to hear that you're enjoying our videos and we're pumped to welcome you to the Hack Music Theory revolution! Take care and until next time, happy songwriting! Kate :)
Thank you for the uploads, you've really been helping me out with my newfound composing habit.
Wow, awesome, Llednar Told Me, we love hearing that! What kind of music do you make? Thanks so much for stopping by and connecting :)
I try to draw mostly from EBM/EDM, some of my material sounds kind alt rock with chimes. Tbh, I'm still figuring out the direction I wanna take, but thanks to you, I've got two of my most cherished projects lined up for vox. I'm just gonna have to wait awhile to get a good microphone to implement them. I have some, but tarnished music theory experience, but the rule of 4ths and 5ths in your chord prog video have really helped me feel out appropriate intervals. Writing vocal melodies I feel is the hardest part of composing, and I've applied a fair bit from this video. :)
Hey Llednar Told Me, thanks for sharing a bit about your music! We love hearing that you'll be singing your vocals melodies yourself :) We're super happy we could help you out with composing melodies, and as with most things in life, knowledge and practice take you a long way, so you're on the right track with your vocal melodies!! We're cheering you on 100%! Take care and have a great weekend :)
@@HackMusicTheory I really appreciate the morale boost, and I wish the best for you in your endeavours as well!
Your exposition of the shortcomings on the lack of substance of so much pop music and using the refined food and additive metaphor was excellent. I couldn't agree more. This isn't a new phenomenon of course. It has always been so, but I think it is perhaps more extreme now.
Thank you for sharing all your excellent knowledge and passion with the world!
Philly Watts! We really appreciate your support! Thanks for watching and connecting, it means a lot to us. We're glad to have you along for the ride and look forward to hearing from you again. Until then, take care and happy songwriting! Kate :)
I am taking your apprenticeship course. It is a very helpful course. I really enjoy the " how to write great songs" series. Do you have the a drum lesson of the series? Thank you!
these videos are SO HELPFUL!
Aw thanks for watching and connecting, Fritz, it always makes us happy to know that our hacks are helping musicians! On that note, what kinda music do you make, and where are you based?
I am based in the United States, on the east coast. I make rock music, jazz and blues but I recently got into electronic music about a year ago. I would say my electronic music is heavily inspired by Jeff Lynne's Electric Light Orchestra. On my CZcams channel, I also make "rap" music cheaply (It's really just a joke thing). Your videos have really helped recently. I've been working on a new song that I started after I found your video about making pop chord progressions in my recommended.
I can just tell how passionated you are! Subscribed immidietly!
Ah wow, thank you ultra mega much Michael, that means the absolute world to us! We're never really sure if our passion (i.e. obsession!) for music theory travels safely through the internet, so it's amazing to hear that it is indeed coming out your end. Yay!!! Thanks a bunch for connecting and subscribing too, much appreciated. What kinda music do you make, and where are you based? (if you don't mind sharing)
I'm from Denmark, 28, a long time guitarist and home studio producer on my 3rd year. I make electronic pop music in the style of, Chvrches, Calvin Harris and see Max Martin as my biggest influence on both production of music and vocals, and on vocal melodies as well. I prefer the simplicity in a well written vocal line contra the more technical (Beyonce, Adele etc.). But I'm very much a sucker for some of the bigger newer pop songs. Sia for instance, is one of my favorite artists because the expression and the play between big music and even bigger vocals. Thanks for replying, hope you all have a blessed evening.
Thanks for the video! This seems especially important for video game music. Melodies can be looped for hours so it best have some lasting interest!
Hey Nala, that's a really great point, you definitely want lots of variation in your music when it's played over and over and over again! Do you make music for video games? Kate :)
Reaper! instant 👍
Awesome! Thanks so much for stopping by Michal, and a warm welcome to the Hack Music Theory community :) What kind of music do you make?
@@HackMusicTheory I'm in vonsechsundachtzig we make "post-industrial".
Amazing work❤️💕🎶so much thanks and love
Aww thanks so much Kyrelle Thomas, and a warm welcome to the Hack Music Theory community! What kind of music do you make? Take care, and we hope to see you again soon for more theory hacks :)
I never start writing a song without lyrics. I usually get the chorus in my head first, out of nowhere. I'll write the verses from scratch, but the chorus just seems to come from nowhere. :)
Hey hey Bill, thanks for sharing a little bit about your music making process, and a very warm welcome to the Hack Music Theory community! What kind of music do you make? Have a great week and thanks again for being here, we really appreciate you :)
@@HackMusicTheory I write mostly sad ballads, but I've recorded some rock, a country song, and I'm currently working on a dance song. Thanks for the kind words, and I appreciate you as well. 🙂
Thanks for sharing, Bill! We love that you explore different genres :)
@@HackMusicTheory Oh yeah, I grew up on Casey Kasem's top 40 countdown. I remember every song when it was popular from the time I was 4 years old (1976). I love all hit music, all styles. I don't even differentiate between them. Pop, disco, dance, country, easy listening, boy bands, girl bands, rap, rock....." I can go from Barbra Streisand to Skid Row without thinking twice. It's all "top 40" to me. LOL!
So wright and right. The world has become so much dummer in so many ways. Great work. Thank you on your great educational effort. !!!!!!
Great video, really grateful for this useful and helpful content.
good advice is always good advice
Just ran across this video. I am trying to start to be a professional singer / songwriter. Have the voice, do write music, but have zero training in any of it. Play guitar, but needing and doing upgrading of my guitar abilities, too.
I find that I usually revert to very simple songs, and write ballads and such, moody pieces, etc.
I am a good lyrics writer, I think.
I am looking forward to studying your instructions.
Will see what happens.
I will stay in touch on these message boards as to my progress. Thanks for these interesting videos.
Dan
Also, I have songs I wrote 40 years ago, in my twenties. I do believe that I naturally write from melody first, and lyrics later...but, maybe a bit of lyrics and melody at the same time.
I have noticed that my best songs come out all at once in one take, where the lyrics just flowed naturally, and I didn't have to do very much to adjust the lyrics.
Also, I am doing this so late in life because I have a very beautiful voice, that people get very excited about when they here me. And, I just want to get my voice heard and shared with the world. I never thought of doing this professionally because, what the hey, what are the chances of being a professional, I always thought...out of the question.
Well, the internet changed everything for me. Now, I was able to look up songs on You tube, and see how professionals sang these various songs. I quickly realized, I had a better voice than most of the professionals.
And, now I see how much learning is available on the internet.
I am going to try to get music produced using Garage Band, and get it uploaded on You Tube or some such. So, when I do, I will post here.
I also have to work trucking jobs, mainly in the winter. So, lots of challenges.
I am looking to buy a new acoustic electric guitar, and am taking advantage of the wonderful guitar/instrument store in downtown Chicago, called the Chicago Music Exchange. So many guitars on display, and I am getting an education just trying them out and tuning them up and listening to how they sound.
As I say, when people hear me, they get very excited, and I am constantly getting offers to help me in my endeavors, from people who are interested in music, who have knowledge of how to help......some may want me to sing their songs...will find out. I also get musicians in the music stores to jam with me, when they hear me play and sing my songs. So, looking for collaborators.
This is a big adventure, and my new passion.
My voice is like Fred Neil, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash....I can sing like Sinatra, and Arias, too. Gospel, like Amazing Grace... A Capella...have perfect pitch.
Wow, awesome bro
I really appreciate you thanx!!
I want to thank you so much for these video's on songwriting! I've been working on my songwriting routine and knowledge and i've picked up so much useable ideas and techniques for my songs. The way you explain feels like hanging out, but at the same time is very clear and balanced. I'll get the pdf on your website to support you guys. Thanks!
Aw thanks big time for watching, connecting and supporting us Haiddsalami!! It always makes us happy to know that our hacks are helping musicians. On that note, what kinda music do you make, and where are you based?
Hey, of course! I guess you could call it alternative/rock/pop, bit of iggy pop/qotsa/placebo and indie influences. I'm based in Amsterdam, and working hard getting this new project going. Have a listen if you like: soundcloud.com/paul-schouten-184572189/the-ashtray-everything-good-boy-concept-song
Cheers!
Hey, can I call you Paul? Cool vibe on your song, thanks for sharing! I wish you all the best with your project, we're behind you 100%! I find the autumn/winter is the best time to focus on creative efforts. I wish you a wonderfully creative/productive weekend! Until next time, happy songwriting. Kate :)
Haha yes of course you may, and thanks! Really cool to hear you guys like it. The autumn and winter are definitely my most productive times as well. So I'm going to buckle down for a couple of months on my songs, and then it's rehearsal time. Until next time:) Paul
Excellent, it's always great to have deadlines for ourselves, it keeps music as the priority, otherwise the 'busyness' of life can take over! ha. Let us know how you get along with your project and I hope we can keep helping you and your music with our hacks. All the best to you Paul! Kate :)
Great explanation Ray, you are an awesome teacher. Can't say enough about your channel. Thank you. I especially love your sugar reference, so dead on. I avoid refined sugars at all costs by following an NSNG (No Sugars No Grains) lifestyle. I lost 35 lbs without trying. Really opened up my eyes to nutrition, like the way you do with regards to music theory.
Aww thanks so much Tim E, and a warm welcome to our Hack Music Theory community! Good to hear you're exploring and learning about health and nutrition, thanks for sharing! We're huge fans of nutritionfacts.org which covers all the latest science in nutrition (they also have a CZcams channel). We'd love to hear what kind of music you're making? In the meantime, take care, and we hope to see you again soon for more theory hacks!
This was very interesting, I'm gonna try to use these!
Hey Deviliumrei, we're happy to hear you enjoyed this one! What kind of music are you making? If you try some of these hacks, let us know how it goes! Take care and stay safe :)
Mike Patton uses the sounds and syllables way of vocalizing his melodies before they're written. Lol! I love this channel and am resubbing to patreon as soon as I have the cash again. Loving this channel! 💙
Ps. Are you talking about shake it off by Taylor Swift? 🤣🤣🤣 I still listen to Faith No More to this day!
Hey Killer Queen thanks for your love and support, we are super grateful to you!! By the way, what kind of music do you make? Kate :)
Phenomenal video!
beautiful
thank you so much! u make my life easier :)
keep going...
Wow!! Thank you sincerely for your incredibly kind words, Bryan, that's about the best compliment a music teacher can ever get, so you've totally made my day :) What kinda music do you make?
tropical house
Aaah good stuff! By the way, if you wanna go deeper into more advanced songwriting & producing hacks, you can consider becoming one of our official Revolutionary Producers over on Patreon, which will give you access to exclusive video lessons, like the one I just did on counterpoint vocal harmonies: www.patreon.com/revolutionharmony Either way, be sure to stay in touch and share the music you make using our hacks, as we're trying to start a music theory revolution and it's great to have you on board :)
BRO THAT BEAT IS SO FUCKING RAW ....WHERE IS IT?
dude thank u so much !!!!
We're really happy you enjoyed our video, Rick! Thanks so much for taking the time to watch and comment. Until next time, happy songwriting! Kate :)
the term i use for the nonsense words i sing when im writing is creative jibberish.
Great lesson. The only thing that bothered me is the drum track is clipppinngggggggg ahhhh
Have you publish the song? Cuz it sounds great
Pop artists take note.
Ray you poisoned me, I can never write BV's using normal harmony.. It has to be counter point, otherwise It's sooo Boring
I feel poisoned by green tea 😂
Hahaha you're very welcome, my friend ;)
thank you so much. this is really helpful!
Aw thanks for watching and connecting, Half Exp , it always makes us happy to know that our hacks are helping musicians! On that note, what kinda music do you make?
Hack Music Theory I've just started learning! I really love Eden's music so I'm hoping I could one day creat something similar to his songs :')
That's awesome Half Exp! If you haven't already, may I suggest that you check out our free music theory book, '12 Music Theory Hacks to Learn Scales and Chords'? You'll gain a super solid music theory foundation with which to make music and it's a super fast and fun read. You can download from our website: RevolutionHarmony.com/Books. By the way, where are you based? Kate :)
Hack Music Theory I'm from the middle east, though I'll be moving to Minneapolis on the 31st of this month. I'll surely download the pdf. Thank you very much!
What if you’re writing aggressive vocals would you still use a piano to write or some synth with distortion to have a better idea?
Great question, Chris! I especially love using the piano for vocals when I'm writing metal, as it really cuts through all the distortion. I even use the piano to write non-melodic vocals (i.e. shouting/screaming/growling), as it's the best way to write vocal rhythms, and then it also makes it easier to fit the lyrics to those rhythms afterwards. Anyhoo, I really hope that helps, and thanks for being here in the Hack Music Theory community, Chris, you're truly valued! Ray :)
@@HackMusicTheory thanks for the reply!! I love your channel I’m a bassist/song writer and working on first solo album and never sang before and this is helping
Hi Ray, I really enjoy your videos but don't have basic knowledge of using the midi keyboard to write in Reaper - can you recommend a tutorial, or is it in one of your books?
Can't wait for Apprenticeship #2, so i'm checking those videos again ! This is one of my favorites : so useful and inspiring...
Haha love it! You should change your name to Mega Hardcore!!! Thank you for making all our hard work so worthwhile :)
@@HackMusicTheory Amen to that ! ;-)
I can't find this song in your spotify, how is it called? I really like it!
i noticed you mentioning perfect intervals now my questions is how do they contribute say if i just want to make a melody from just top of my head what tricks or formula can i use
Hey Bruce, thanks so much for watching our video and taking the time to connect, we're truly grateful. And that's an awesome question, too. It's always best to make your melodies using this method, even when you're coming up with them off the top of your head. It's obviously much more difficult to do it that way (i.e. without an instrument or computer), but this method will ensure your melodies are always great! Hope this helps, and happy songwriting :)
Haven't even finished the vid yet (planning to come back), but can already tell you are giving exactly what I'm looking for. Thank you. Liked and subscribed.
I saw there's a melody thats been dubbed "the millennial whoop" it goes 5th, 3rd, 5th, 3rd and has been used in literally hundreds of pop songs in the last few years, it's such a strong familiar pattern it'll only disappear from pop music if the repetition loving plebs get bored of it...!
🔥🔥🔥🔥💰
Is your last name actually 'Harmony', or did you make that up to fit what you do?...just curious, quite the serendipity if you didn't make it up...and perfectly OK if you did.
Thanks for the video dude! Really helps a lot 😊 Are you South African by the way?
Hey hey Jiggliepoof, thanks a bunch for watching and connecting, it's lovely to meet you! There's a rather complicated answer to your question haha! Yes, I was born and raised in Cape Town, but I lost my South African citizenship after immigrating to England, cos South Africa doesn't allow duel citizenship. And then, to confuse things even further, I immigrated to Canada! By the way, I checked out your channel, you're vegan too? That's awesome!!! What is South Africa like for vegans these days? Here in Vancouver it's like vegan heaven on earth :)
Hack Music Theory Nice! It’s awesome to find a fellow South African on CZcams! 😁 Thanks for checking out my channel 😊 it’s epic to hear that you’re vegan too! It is getting a lot easier this side - we even have some vegan restaurants now, but I’m sure Canada is a lot better! Keep up the awesome work and thanks again for the help 😊
What software is this? Does pro tools have these features?
Hey Rico, hope this finds you well in these challenging times. Thanks for stopping by and connecting, and thank you for being here in the Hack Music Theory community, we appreciate you! The software we use is Reaper, you can check it out here: www.reaper.fm Hope that helps :)
hi do you have link for this song ?
Very cool tattoo
Everyone who thinks they are a song writer or lyricist should be made to watch the first 3 minutes of this video. The mismatch between the lyrics and the feel of the song will drive the most tolerant listener bonkers after 5 minutes. And if you don't know about word economy, you really need to understand this.
Bonkers, eh?! I totally agree, haha. Thanks for watching Diego. Kate :)
how can you trust someone with tattoos in his neck?
Hi Revolution Harmony! You guys are awesome! I have a couple questions. I don't think someone asked this but i don't have a vocalist so i just have to rely on acapellas I can find online. How do you go about writing the melody for the acapella? I am in the works of making a song with vocals (super difficult for me). The acapella is in G minor The vocals are processed well and are pretty good, with some parts I like a lot better than other parts.
How do I go about writing the melody if I don't know what the vocal notes are in the acapella? Thanks a lot! You and your wife are awesome together and teaching theory in how it applies in the WHOLE song and not just one area such as chord prog and using theory to make a melody over it. Now time to keep producing. But first, TEA!!
Hey hey Joseph, thanks big time for your kind and supportive words, we are sincerely grateful to you! Just to clarify your question, are you wanting to write a chord progression to go with the vocal a cappella? Thanks :)
Thanks for the quick response! I want to write a chord progression that is in G Minor but I am still a little confused on what I am limited to use with regard to modes and notes. I became stuck when I wanted to write G natural minor chords in Phygian mode. Can you do this? Also do I need to use a plugin like melodyne to figure out the notes in the acapella? So I can write a chord progression that works? Sorry it is difficult to explain where I am stuck. Let me know if this helps understand where I might be stuck/confused.
Hey Joseph, thanks for the clarification, that helped a lot. So, if your a cappella is in G minor, then your chord progression also needs to be in G minor, which means your chord options are: Gm, Adim, B♭maj, Cm, Dm, E♭maj, Fmaj. And yes, you'll want to first work out the notes of the vocal melody, so you can write your chord progression around its implied harmony. Hope this helps, and if you want to learn more about scales, modes, chords, writing chord progressions, writing melodies, etc., then please check out my books/PDFs here: revolutionharmony.com/books All the best :)
Yes Thank you! This clears everything up. I am a proud supporting of you guys on Patreon and have read your books and they're have helped me in tremendous ways!
Amazingly amazing, I'm sooooo happy to hear that! And wow, you're a patron? Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, that means the absolute world to us!!! You must be under a different name on Patreon, as I didn't recognise your name here. Are you Joey Sunzak? Thanks big time once again! Ray :)
I'll never understand putting ink in one's skin.
Almost every pop singer in the world has tattoo
You look like adam22 from nojumper
You're right about pop music, theirs no substance...totally agree
Hey John, thanks so much for watching, we really appreciate it! Yup, that's what we're trying to change with our Hack Music Theory revolution. We envision a world with awesome pop music! What kind of music do you make? Hope you're having a great week! Take care, Kate :)
you both speak the truth
Which piano plugin is that?
Alright this guy is some sort of European he seems legit
Lol, Thenowhereman42! You're right, though, he's totally legit! Thanks so much for watching and connecting, it makes us happy :D Kate
shouldnt be free tbh
Happy you found it helpful, mathoe5, and a warm welcome to the Hack Music Theory community! What kind of music do you make? Take care, and we hope to see you again soon for more theory hacks :)