What makes a song a hit?

There are a whole host of factors to consider, however there is no definitive method. You can talk about production techniques, larger than life artists, endless marketing budgets etc., but at the end of the day if the song doesn't sound good musically then it's never going to get off the ground. The Track Deconstruction series by Sound Training Online is stripping back popular tracks by well known artists and having a look at how they are put together. The series will focus on Music Theory, as opposed to Production Techniques in order to break down each song to its most basic musical form.

First up is 'Hey Brother' by Avicii. On paper, this blend of Country Music and Electronic Dance Music never should have worked. However, it very cleverly tapped into (arguably) the two biggest genres in America at the time, and made it work. The result : a smash hit played on the radio as much as it was in clubs (let's not forget the countless ads too). In the following video we'll be analysing the theory behind the track and having a look at how this smash hit was put together.

I hope you enjoyed this article and that it will provide you with some new song writing inspiration. Please feel free to leave any comments, or request the next Sound Training Online Track Deconstruction, below. Make sure to follow Sound Training Online through any of our social media channels. Check out our YouTube for more video tutorials and course samples.