Finding Your Sound

At its best and most relevant, art is very personal, yet it also conveys something universal. This is particularly true when it comes to making music. If we're referring to music as commerce, a successful recording doesn't necessarily need to be great art; it just needs to strike a chord, be catchy, or be on top of a trend. But music that stands out in a very crowded industry and endures -- whether a hit single, a complete album, or an entire body of work -- tends to do so because it's made with passion, attention to craft, and a certain singular quality.

With that in mind, it makes sense for musical artists to create in a comfort zone, working with a style or approach that reflects their interests and skills. In other words, the composer, singer and instrumentalist are best served by finding the ideal way (or ways) to communicate what they believe is important or significant. Renowned songwriters generally write lyrics about things that are meaningful to them and melodies that spotlight or meld their favored genres -- novelty songs aside. The same organic connection to a specific sound is second-nature to the best vocalists and players. They know what they like, they know what fits, and they tap into that to make memorable music.

Art is self-expression, each human being is unique in some manner, and music is a means to move people by sharing what makes you special as well as what could be common experience. So key on what inspires you, what makes your pulse quicken, and what's real and honest in your life, and you may very well find your sound, your audience, and yourself.