Choosing the right title for a song or album is an art form in itself—a crucial aspect that can significantly influence its reception and success. The title serves as the first impression and, often, the initial point of connection between the artist and the audience.
Release titles harness the power to intrigue and entice listeners or, conversely, to leave them uninterested. Therefore, it’s paramount for artists, especially independent artists who are still trying to find their niche and audience, to approach naming their releases with the same creativity and ingenuity they poured into writing their tracks, ensuring the title reflects the music’s soul and captures the imagination of potential listeners.
While there are no official rules in art or expression, your creativity will be in vain if your track isn’t memorable, marketable and searchable. With that in mind, this article has outlined five foolproof tips to ensuring your track names do your new releases justice.
Tips for Writing a Good Song Title
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Reflect the Essence of Your Music
A title should be a distilled representation of the album or song’s essence. It needs to convey the mood, theme, and the narrative arc in just a few words. For an album, the title can set the stage for the story you’re about to unfold, acting as a cohesive element that ties individual tracks together.
For a song, the title can highlight a central lyric, a powerful emotion, or the main narrative. The key is to ensure that the title remains evocative and authentic to the music’s core. Misleading or vague titles can disorient listeners and detract from the overall impact of the music.
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Avoid Common Naming Faux Pas
One of the most common mistakes in naming a song or album is using titles that are already associated with popular hits. This not only causes confusion but can also lead to legal issues or unintentional comparisons that might diminish the unique qualities of your work.
It’s advisable to research potential titles thoroughly to avoid duplicating names that carry a significant legacy or are trademarked. Another pitfall is overly complex or obscure titles that are difficult to remember or pronounce, which can hinder word-of-mouth promotion and searchability online. Courtney Barnett may be able to get away with excessively long release titles, Sometimes I Sit and Think, Sometimes I Just Sit, being the perfect example, but if you are still trying to make your mark in the industry, keep your track titles as short and sweet as possible.
While it might be tempting to use complex characters in your titles to make them more visually striking, stick to simple lettering to ensure your single is searchable on streaming platforms. Trap and electronica artists seem more inclined to create excessively obscure track titles, and while tracks such as ‘h+3+яд7lucjlot6’ by the artist vyrval have garnered over 6.5 million streams on YouTube alone, it is likely that many people have happened across the track and not been able to recall the name to revisit the track, unless they have an eidetic memory!
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Suitability for Your Genre
Each music genre carries its own conventions and expectations that can influence how titles are perceived. A title that works well for a pop song might not resonate in the same way if used for a folk or jazz track.
Understanding the nuances of your genre can help in crafting a title that aligns with the expectations and interests of your target audience. For instance, heavier, more aggressive titles may suit metal or hard rock, whereas poetic and introspective titles might be more appropriate for indie or folk music.
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Creativity and Uniqueness
In a saturated music market, originality and creativity are your allies. A unique and memorable title can make your music stand out in a crowded playlist or store shelf. Think outside the box—play with words, use literary devices like alliteration or puns, and consider the emotive power of language.
Engaging titles that provoke curiosity or evoke strong imagery can create a lasting impression. However, it’s important to balance creativity with clarity to ensure that the title remains accessible and relevant to your audience.
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Skip the Song Name Generators
If you are really at a loss with what to christen your new release, the hundreds of song name generators online may start looking attractive. However, relying on a song name generator can often lead to titles that are generic and lack personal connection, which is vital for setting your music apart in a competitive industry.
These generators typically use common patterns and vocabulary, resulting in names that lack originality and fail to capture the unique essence or emotional depth of your music. A title should resonate with both the artist and the audience, fostering a deeper connection and reflecting the song’s individuality. By crafting your own titles, you ensure they carry the personal touch that can make your work memorable and distinctive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the art of naming your music should not be underestimated. It requires a deep understanding of not only your music and its themes but also the broader cultural and genre-specific landscapes.
By avoiding common pitfalls, aligning the title with genre expectations, and infusing creativity into the process, you can craft titles that not only resonate with your audience but also contribute to the music’s identity and success.
Remember, a well-chosen title serves as a gateway, inviting listeners into the world you’ve created. Choose wisely, and let your titles reflect the depth and breadth of your artistic vision.
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For more advice on how to make a lasting impression with your music, contact us today to enquire about our artist consultancy services.
Article by Amelia Vandergast