How to Make Good Music: A Symphony of Chaos and Coffee Stains

Creating good music is an art form that transcends mere technical skill; it’s a chaotic dance between inspiration, discipline, and the occasional existential crisis. Whether you’re a seasoned composer or a bedroom producer with a laptop and a dream, the journey to crafting memorable melodies is as unpredictable as a cat on a caffeine high. Here’s a deep dive into the multifaceted world of music creation, where we’ll explore everything from the importance of ear training to the undeniable power of procrastination.
1. Start with a Vision (or a Vague Feeling)
Every great piece of music begins with an idea. This idea doesn’t have to be fully formed—it could be a melody that pops into your head while you’re brushing your teeth, a rhythm you tap out on your steering wheel, or even a mood you want to capture. The key is to let your imagination run wild. Don’t censor yourself in the early stages; let the chaos flow. Some of the best songs were born from random thoughts like, “What if a tuba and a synthesizer had a baby?”
2. Embrace the Power of Limitations
Paradoxically, limitations can be your greatest ally. Whether it’s working with a limited set of instruments, a tight deadline, or a shoestring budget, constraints force you to think creatively. For example, the iconic sound of early hip-hop was born out of necessity—producers used whatever equipment they could find, from turntables to drum machines, and turned those limitations into a revolutionary genre. So, if all you have is a kazoo and a tambourine, make it work. The world needs more kazoo solos.
3. Learn the Rules, Then Break Them
Music theory is like a map—it can guide you, but it shouldn’t dictate your journey. Understanding scales, chords, and rhythm is essential, but don’t be afraid to experiment. Some of the most groundbreaking music comes from bending or outright ignoring the rules. Jazz, for instance, thrives on improvisation and unexpected harmonies. So, while it’s important to know why a C major chord sounds happy, it’s equally important to ask, “What if I played it backward while standing on my head?”
4. Collaborate (or Argue) with Others
Music is often a collaborative effort, and working with others can bring fresh perspectives to your work. Whether it’s a bandmate, a producer, or a random stranger you met at a coffee shop, collaboration can push you out of your comfort zone and into new creative territory. Of course, collaboration also comes with its challenges—creative differences, conflicting schedules, and the occasional heated debate about whether the tambourine is necessary (it is). But these challenges are part of the process. Embrace them.
5. Practice, Practice, Practice (and Then Procrastinate)
There’s no substitute for practice. Whether you’re mastering an instrument, refining your production skills, or training your ear, consistent effort is key. But let’s be real—sometimes, you just need to step away. Procrastination can be a powerful tool. Some of the best ideas come when you’re supposed to be doing something else, like folding laundry or staring at the ceiling. So, practice diligently, but don’t be afraid to take breaks. Your brain needs time to marinate in its own creative juices.
6. Experiment with Sound Design
Sound design is the secret sauce of modern music production. From lush pads to gritty basslines, the textures you create can elevate your music to new heights. Don’t be afraid to get weird with it—layer unexpected sounds, manipulate samples, or create your own instruments using software like Ableton or Logic. The goal is to create a sonic landscape that’s uniquely yours. Remember, there’s no such thing as “too much reverb” if it sounds good.
7. Tell a Story (Even If It’s Nonsense)
Music is a powerful storytelling medium. Whether you’re writing lyrics or crafting an instrumental piece, think about the narrative you want to convey. It doesn’t have to be a linear story—it could be an emotion, a memory, or even a dream you had about a sentient toaster. The key is to connect with your audience on a deeper level. If your music can make someone feel something—joy, sadness, confusion—you’ve done your job.
8. Listen to Everything (Yes, Even Polka)
Broaden your musical horizons by listening to a wide range of genres and styles. You never know where inspiration will strike. Maybe a classical piece will inspire a killer bassline, or a folk song will give you an idea for a haunting melody. Even genres you don’t typically enjoy can offer valuable insights. So, give polka a chance. You might just discover your new favorite rhythm.
9. Trust Your Instincts (But Also Get Feedback)
At the end of the day, you’re the artist, and your instincts matter. If something feels right, go with it. But don’t work in a vacuum—seek feedback from trusted friends, mentors, or online communities. Constructive criticism can help you see your work from a new perspective and identify areas for improvement. Just remember, not all feedback is created equal. If someone tells you to add more cowbell, consider the source.
10. Finish What You Start (Even If It’s Terrible)
One of the biggest challenges in music creation is actually finishing a project. It’s easy to get stuck in an endless loop of tweaking and perfecting, but at some point, you have to call it done. Not every song will be a masterpiece, and that’s okay. The important thing is to complete the process and learn from it. Every finished track, no matter how flawed, is a step forward in your journey as an artist.
11. Celebrate the Weirdness
Music is a reflection of the human experience, and humans are weird. Don’t shy away from the strange, the unconventional, or the downright bizarre. Some of the most memorable music is the kind that defies expectations and challenges norms. So, if your song features a chorus of kazoos, a theremin solo, and a spoken-word interlude about existential dread, own it. The world needs more weirdness.
12. Keep Going (Even When It Sucks)
Creating good music is hard. There will be days when everything sounds terrible, when you feel like giving up, and when you question why you even started in the first place. But those moments are part of the process. Keep going. Keep experimenting. Keep creating. The more you push through the tough times, the closer you’ll get to making something truly special.
FAQs
Q: Do I need expensive equipment to make good music?
A: Not at all! While high-quality gear can enhance your sound, some of the best music has been made with minimal equipment. Focus on creativity and skill rather than the price tag of your tools.
Q: How do I overcome writer’s block?
A: Try changing your environment, listening to new music, or experimenting with a different genre. Sometimes, stepping away from your project for a while can also help clear your mind.
Q: Is it okay to copy other artists’ styles?
A: While it’s fine to draw inspiration from others, aim to develop your own unique voice. Imitation is a great way to learn, but true artistry comes from originality.
Q: How do I know when a song is finished?
A: It’s never easy to declare a song “finished,” but a good rule of thumb is to stop when further changes don’t significantly improve the track. Trust your instincts and don’t overthink it.
Q: Can I make music without knowing music theory?
A: Absolutely! Many successful musicians are self-taught and rely on their ears rather than formal training. However, learning some basic theory can help you communicate your ideas more effectively and expand your creative options.