Ghost Writing:
Ghost writing is where someone writes the lyrics and melody for an artist, they do not get credited for it and the artist is also named as the performer.
Succesfull Ghost Writers:
Tobias Jesso Jr – Adele showed an interest in Tobias after hearing his successful original song “how could you babe”. He then co wrote “when we were young” with Adele for her 25 album. This eventually led to writing for many other successful artists such as; Sia, Niall Horan, and Shawn Mendes. This led to him winning many awards including the 2023 grammy for songwriter of the year.
Tobias said, he prefers ghost writing than preforming his own songs as it gives him a platform for his creativity without needing to be in the spotlight. However, there are still still signs that he wrote the songs because he typically goes for a piano based pop with a soulful and sad timbre paired with sad lyrics about heartbreak and emotional venerability. He takes influence from artists like Elton John and Carole King. When doing a song of my own I will try to take inspiration from his well structured and meaningful lyrics, because ive always enjoyed his songs he co-wrote with Adele. What makes a song memorable to me in impactful lyrics that mirror the issues of today, pared with a track that matches the tone of the lyrics and is interesting to listen to. This is what makes Tobias a great songwriter in my eyes.
Jack Antonoff – Jack started of as a performer in the band ‘Fun’ where he was writing hits like ‘We Are Young’. In 2014 ‘the Bleachers’ formed and became known for there experimental mix of indie rock and synth pop. Like Tobias, Jack has shaped modern pop music in a distinct way.
Later on in his career he begun collaborating with stars like Taylor Swift, Lana Del Rey and more. He wrote ‘Out of the woods’ for Taylor Swift witch at the time of writing sits at 174,134,796 plays on Spotify. on ‘Out of the woods’ I like his use of reverb on drums on the 3rd beat to make them sound more soft while also standing out in the song. He also adds syncopated vocal melody’s, witch i love as it sands out from the pulse of the track. He adds repeated vocals on the build up to the chorus. I will take inspiration from his production techniques but many of his songs aren’t to my personal taste.
Summary:
Song writing is a necessity because of the cultural impact of songs, they can start movements, shape culture and become anthems for decades if there done well. Its important to respect older songs as well as releasing new music so it can stay relevant to todays culture, similar to the protest song ‘If I can dream’ witch captured the spirit of its time.
It is also of course very important for commercial success. Good song writing can make the song more memorable, increasing the chance of commercial success and longevity.
As someone who has always loved music but not always enjoyed the pressure of preforming live i understand why Tobias prefers to stay behind the scenes, collaborating with artists but without having to preform with them and still being able to connect with millions around the world.
Music Production:
Max Martin – producer/ songwriter:
Born in Sweden max started as a guitarist in the band ‘It’s Alive’. he was later discovered by producer Denniz Pop and soon after he started producing and writing for major pop acts. He truly rose to fame in the late 90’s and early 2000’s by playing a part in massive hits for Backstreet Boys, Britney spears and many more. As im researching Max Martin im continually surprised by his incredible portfolio holding 22 billboard top 100 No. 1 hits. His influence lives on today in artists like Ariana Grande and the Weeknd.
Production wise he is an expert at creating basic yet insanely memorable songs. In ‘…Baby one more time’, he starts with basic syncopated chords on the piano witch are now iconic to this song and acts as a musical trigger for many. Though what he produces is often simple, he brings a certain uniqueness that keeps every song he works on fresh and pleasant to listen to. After my research on him i do take massive inspiration from him because i love his values of less is more, witch especially resonates in today’s era of over produced tracks. Since finding out his work i think of him as the best current producer.
Studio vs. Home Recording:
Studios offer professional expertise and equipment for a polished sounds and good acoustics ensuring top tear production, its also a good aria to focus in and to develop ideas with the help of other creative minds. However homes do have pros too, one being flexibility to work at you own pace when you’re inspired to do so. It also doesn’t require fees like a professional studio would, but home recording equipment can still be expensive. Home recording studios also often lack the depth of certain tools a professional may have such as high end mics, mixing controls and good acoustics.
Production Quality:
High quality production reflects the artists work in the best light and helps there songs sound professional witch is important in a very competitive market. There are artists who see success with a more raw and authentic sound though, an example of this is Jake Bugg. This shows that it does depend on the type of song because i enjoy the singer songwriter style that his songs have. Well produced songs will sound fresher for longer as speakers and recording gear improves, this is proved by some good, well produced songs of the 50s and 60s such as the Beatles songs witch still see massive success in the modern day. The main advantage of clear and well produced songs is they are more likely to receive radio and television broadcasts witch really spreads the music to new audiences, helping it find success. When i start work on my song its crucial that i keep these points in mind to insure i have the clearest sound quality that i’m able to achieve. I will continue research into how to do this throughout the project.