When it comes to creating cover songs, the very first and perhaps most important decision you’ll make is choosing the right song to cover. A well-selected song can highlight your unique talents, attract new fans, and showcase your artistic vision. Conversely, a poor song choice can go unnoticed or fail to resonate with your audience. In this article, we’ll dive deep into how to master the art of song selection for covers, exploring factors like genre, audience, and your unique style.
Why Song Selection Matters
Song selection is critical because it lays the foundation for the entire creative process of making a cover. It’s not just about picking a song you like; it’s about choosing a song that will highlight your strengths as an artist. Whether you’re aiming to build a following on YouTube, release music on Spotify, or share covers on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok, the right song choice is your gateway to connecting with your audience.
Some musicians choose songs that reflect their personal taste, while others strategically pick songs that are popular at the moment. Both approaches have their merits, but the key is balance — select a song that you connect with, while also considering how it will resonate with your audience. A great cover starts with a great song choice.
Know Your Audience
When selecting a song to cover, it’s essential to keep your audience in mind. Understanding who your listeners are can help you make decisions that resonate with them emotionally. For instance, if your fanbase enjoys indie music, covering a mainstream pop hit might not be the best choice. Similarly, if you’re trying to appeal to a younger audience, older, more obscure songs may not be as impactful.
Start by assessing your current audience demographics — age, location, music preferences, and even cultural background. Platforms like Instagram and YouTube provide insights into who is engaging with your content. Once you understand who your listeners are, it becomes easier to pick a song that fits their tastes while allowing you to showcase your own style.
Additionally, if you’re looking to attract a new audience, selecting a trending or viral song is a good strategy. Popular songs often have a built-in audience that actively seeks out different versions, especially on platforms like TikTok, where trends can dominate. However, balance is key; make sure that even popular songs are aligned with your artistic identity.
Pick a Song that Suits Your Strengths
Your unique strengths as an artist should play a significant role in your song selection. A cover song is your opportunity to show what you do best — whether it’s your vocal range, guitar skills, or ability to arrange music in a new, interesting way.
For example, if you have a powerful voice that shines in emotional ballads, a heartfelt, slow-tempo song might be the best option. On the other hand, if you’re a skilled guitarist or instrumentalist, you might want to select a song with complex instrumental sections where you can showcase your talent.
Choose songs that not only reflect your abilities but also give you room to experiment. Cover songs should provide a creative outlet for you to push boundaries and offer something fresh to your audience. Remember, your version of the song should stand out, and your strengths as a musician will help you achieve that.
Consider Genre and Style
Genre plays a significant role in how your cover song will be received. Think about whether you want to stick within your typical genre or branch out into new territory. For example, if you’re an acoustic singer-songwriter, you might typically lean towards folk or indie tracks. However, covering a song from a completely different genre — like a pop or hip-hop song — can give it a new twist and attract attention.
Genre-bending covers are often highly successful. When an artist takes a song from one genre and reinterprets it in a completely different style, it highlights both the versatility of the original track and the creativity of the artist. For instance, taking an upbeat pop song and slowing it down into an acoustic ballad can bring out the emotional depth of the lyrics in a way the original didn’t.
Additionally, some songs lend themselves well to genre transitions, while others may not. It’s important to carefully listen to the original song and imagine how it would sound in your chosen style. If you feel that the song’s core elements — its melody, lyrics, or rhythm — can translate well into a different genre, then it might be worth pursuing.
Key and Vocal Range Considerations
Choosing a song in the right key is another important factor in your selection process. A song that’s too high or too low for your vocal range can be difficult to sing and may sound forced or unnatural. Even if a song is popular or trendy, if it doesn’t suit your vocal abilities, it won’t make for an engaging performance.
Before committing to a song, make sure to experiment with different keys and tempos. Many artists transpose songs into keys that better fit their vocal range, and this is especially important when covering songs originally sung by artists with different vocal capabilities. You can also consider rearranging the song entirely to fit your style. Slowing down a fast-paced song or speeding up a slow one can breathe new life into it, allowing you to showcase your artistry.
Consider Song Popularity
A common strategy when covering songs is to choose something popular or trending. While this can help you get noticed, it’s important not to rely solely on popularity. Some covers become viral because they stand out from the crowd, either through the artist’s unique interpretation or a creative reimagining of the song.
However, if you do choose a popular song, make sure to bring something new to the table. Whether it’s through a different arrangement, vocal delivery, or instrumental twist, aim to make the song feel like yours rather than a carbon copy of the original.
Conclusion
The art of song selection is crucial to creating a successful cover. By understanding your audience, playing to your strengths, and considering genre and key, you can choose a song that not only showcases your talent but also resonates with listeners. Remember, your cover song should reflect your artistic identity while offering a fresh take on the original. So, take your time, experiment, and most importantly, have fun with it!