Variety is the spice of life, they say. But it’s true, isn’t it? It’s easy to get stuck in a rut when you’re a creator and have been at something for a long time and get to a point where you feel almost as though you’re on an assembly line, meaning, just doing the same thing over and over again.
This even extends to writing a weekly blog and so this week I’m doing a song review instead of the content you’re typically used to seeing here.
While it’s true that I have done song reviews before, it’s important to note that I only do so when it’s a track that I’m going to write something favorable about. Thus, you can deduce from that that I do get tracks sent to me for consideration that I end up deciding to pass on.
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And mixing it up for me on the blog is something that you can and should consider doing for yourself too in order to keep things fresh and hold your own interest, not to mention that of your audience.
After all, that’s exactly what happened as I pressed Play on “Slow Down” by Heat Above.
I can read a song’s description, but no matter how well written that might be, it means nothing if the song itself doesn’t have what it takes to attract and then hold the listener.
And this song? Well, as evidenced by my using this space this week to do this writeup, I did, in fact, like it.
There are some interesting things going on here in terms of the melody, the arrangement, and some of the changes. Plus, in a bit of a curve ball that I’m going to throw you, it's a mature sound for – I’ll bet you didn’t see this coming – a group consisting of members in their teens!
But again, the uniqueness of an artist himself or herself or themselves will still only go so far until it has to be, “Great story, but is the music there?!”
In the case of “Slow Down,” I like that there's a retro feel and that it's not just one clear (obvious) genre. There’s also a surprisingly nice little guitar solo that stands out, beginning at approximately the 2:15 mark.
I don’t know the band so I’m not familiar with their sound or their catalog, but, like me choosing to write a song review this week, perhaps this is a slight departure, a change for them in terms of mixing things up for themselves or their fans. Even if it’s not, don’t miss the song and don’t miss the teaching moment woven throughout all this that you do have permission to change things up and create something a little different to keep your followers interested.
Bravo to Heat Above on the new song (released ten days ago) and on what looks on Spotify to be a growing following. This track should only position them to attract even more fans and open doors for more opportunities ahead.
Are you stuck in a rut with your creator career? Do you need input from a veteran of the entertainment industry? I’ve been helping independent music creators from around the U.S. for close to 20 years now and would be happy to speak with you for some thoughts, advice, and encouragement. Take advantage of all my years in the business and call me to discuss the challenges you’re facing. I welcome the opportunity to help you with some insights.