So what does it take to create a marketable song? Well, the answer to this question is of course subjective and can be debated all day (and night!) long. HOWEVER, I can tell you a few things based on my experience that have really helped me. I’ve had some success in the licensing and publishing department, and I think I know why I’ve been successful.

In short (very short), keep it original and catchy! I’ll take it a few steps further and break it down into a few categories, such as, length, structure, melody and lyrics.

First off is the length of the song. You do not want a song that is too long! People will grow VERY tired of it, and quickly! Anything over four minutes is too long. I know you are saying, “But what about Iron Butterfly or Led Zepplin’ yada, yada?” Yes, there are always exceptions, but stick to these rules and you are much more likely to have something worth listening to and is more likely to be licensed and/or published.:)

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Also, you want to be coming into the chorus at about 45 seconds. This keeps listeners interested at the beginning of the song. First verse, then very quickly comes the chorus. None of those minute long intros that keep the listener waiting on the singer to begin.

Now, the structure of the song should be quite simple. Matter of fact, it should be like most that you hear on the radio: a verse, then a chorus, then a verse, then a chorus, then a bridge (where the song changes) and then another chorus. Basically, that’s it!

Sometimes songs have a third verse then a chorus and even variations with an outro, but for the most part, just stick with the structure above and you’ll be fine. And remember, your choruses are different dynamically than your verses and should sound distinctively different. The verse should build into the chorus.

So with a little practice, creativity, time and following these simple little rules, you can be on your way to writing some great commercial songs. Good luck!