pop Archives • INGO VOGELMANN https://ingovogelmann.net/tag/pop/ Composer • Producer • Audio Engineer Fri, 12 Jan 2024 15:19:41 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.2 https://ingovogelmann.net/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/cropped-iv_icon_2023.png pop Archives • INGO VOGELMANN https://ingovogelmann.net/tag/pop/ 32 32 120855996 Peter Gabriel’s “i/o” Album Review: He’s Back, Better Than Ever Before https://ingovogelmann.net/2024/01/12/peter-gabriels-i-o-album-review-hes-back-better-than-ever-before/ https://ingovogelmann.net/2024/01/12/peter-gabriels-i-o-album-review-hes-back-better-than-ever-before/#respond Fri, 12 Jan 2024 18:00:00 +0000 https://ingovogelmann.net/?p=29637 Peter Gabriel’s latest album “i/o” stands not only as a testament to his enduring creativity but also as a potential crowning achievement in a career already brimming with groundbreaking work. Gabriel, a legend in the music industry, has been known for his innovative approach to music, particularly through the 80s and 90s, and “i/o” might very well be considered his best work to date. The Legacy of Peter Gabriel Gabriel’s influence on the music world has been profound and multifaceted. Rising to fame with Genesis in the 1970s, he quickly established himself as a visionary artist. His departure from Genesis and subsequent solo career in the 1980s and 90s saw him breaking new ground, particularly with albums like “So” and “Us.” These works were not just commercially successful; they were also artistically daring, blending world music with electronic and art-rock elements, and they solidified his reputation as an innovative and fearless artist. Groundbreaking Work in the 80s and 90s During the 80s and 90s, Gabriel was at the forefront of the world music movement, integrating sounds and rhythms from various cultures into his music. His use of innovative recording techniques and embrace of new technologies set him apart. Albums like “So” (1986), with its hit “Sledgehammer,” showcased his ability to merge artistic depth with mainstream appeal, featuring groundbreaking music videos that revolutionized the medium. “i/o”: A Culmination of Artistic Evolution Now, with “i/o,” Gabriel seems to have distilled his decades of musical exploration into a singularly impressive work. The album encapsulates his signature sound while pushing into new territories. The dual “Bright-Side” and “Dark-Side” mixes are a clear indication of his continued innovation, offering listeners two distinct ways to experience…

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]]> https://ingovogelmann.net/2024/01/12/peter-gabriels-i-o-album-review-hes-back-better-than-ever-before/feed/ 0 29637 Aaron Spears: A Rhythm That Never Ends https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/11/01/aaron-spears-a-rhythm-that-never-ends/ https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/11/01/aaron-spears-a-rhythm-that-never-ends/#respond Wed, 01 Nov 2023 17:00:00 +0000 https://ingovogelmann.net/?p=29585 The music world has been left with a void that’s hard to fill with the sudden passing of Aaron Spears. Although I never had the chance to witness his artistry live, his music and influence have deeply resonated with me. Aaron was not just a drummer; he was a musical savant whose talents transcended what one might expect from a “typical” musician. He had an uncanny ability to craft complex rhythms and melodies that were not just technically demanding but emotionally profound. His drumming was a language of its own, speaking to the hearts of those who listened. Interestingly, while the artists he drummed for – names like Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, Usher, and Chris Brown – never quite aligned with my musical taste, Aaron’s drumming itself was a different story. His skill and artistry were so compelling that they transcended genre and personal preference, serving as an inspiration to me and countless others. Aaron was a pioneer, always pushing the boundaries of what music could be. He was a master at blending different musical styles, creating something entirely new and groundbreaking. His work in various genres, from pop to jazz to gospel, showcased his versatility and depth as an artist. But Aaron was more than just an extraordinary musician. He was a man filled with warmth and humor, inspiring those around him. He had the rare gift of creating an atmosphere of community and cohesion in a room full of strangers. His humility and genuine love for his craft made him not just respected, but deeply loved by his peers and fans alike. The news of his sudden death at the age of just 47 has shaken us all.…

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]]> https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/11/01/aaron-spears-a-rhythm-that-never-ends/feed/ 0 29585 The Complexity of Engaging With My Russian Fans https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/09/26/the-complexity-of-engaging-with-my-russian-fans/ https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/09/26/the-complexity-of-engaging-with-my-russian-fans/#respond Tue, 26 Sep 2023 17:00:00 +0000 https://ingovogelmann.net/?p=29525 Disclaimer for Russian Readers Before we proceed, I want to make it abundantly clear that I fully support Ukraine in the ongoing conflict. This post may contain viewpoints that are upsetting to some, particularly my Russian fans. While I appreciate your support for my music, it’s crucial to be transparent about where I stand on this issue. As you might know, I have a diverse fan base that spans across the globe. I’m grateful for the love and support I receive from all corners of the world. Especially strong are the Latin American countries, the Baltic region, but also Turkey, Northern Africa, Southeast Asia, Japan and – of course – Russia. However, the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine has put me in a difficult position, particularly when it comes to engaging with my Russian fans. I feel compelled to address this issue openly, as it’s something that has been weighing heavily on my mind. Music has an unparalleled ability to bring people together, regardless of their geographical location, cultural background, or political affiliations. However, in a world increasingly divided by geopolitical conflicts – most notably the ongoing crisis between Russia and Ukraine – I find myself grappling with a complex moral dilemma. Specifically, how do I navigate interactions with my fans from countries embroiled in such conflicts? To delve deeper into this issue, I’ve compiled a comprehensive Top 50 ranking of countries where my music is most popular, based on data from SoundCloud, Spotify, and Apple Music. The Global Footprint of My Music: A Comprehensive Top 50 Ranking First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to all my fans around the globe. Your unwavering support has been…

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]]> https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/09/26/the-complexity-of-engaging-with-my-russian-fans/feed/ 0 29525 A Psychological Guide to Harmonic Mixing and Composing https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/08/26/a-psychological-guide-to-harmonic-mixing-and-composing/ https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/08/26/a-psychological-guide-to-harmonic-mixing-and-composing/#respond Sat, 26 Aug 2023 09:21:18 +0000 https://ingovogelmann.net/?p=29467 Harmonic mixing is an advanced technique used by top DJs and producers worldwide. It involves mixing tracks that are in the same or related keys, enabling long blends and mashups. The Simple Harmonic Mixing Tool on my website is designed to make this process even more straightforward. It’s an evolution of the Camelot Wheel, providing you with a unique code for each of the 24 possible musical keys (12 major and 12 minor keys). This tool is not just for DJs but also for music theory students and musicians who want to better understand the relationships between different musical keys. The Emotional Landscape of Musical Keys Understanding the emotional nuances of each key can add another layer of depth to your mixes or compositions. Let’s delve into the psychological characteristics of each key, along with examples from the electronic music world to illustrate these points. Major Keys Minor Keys Practical Uses and Personal Recommendations The Camelot Wheel and the Simple Harmonic Mixing Tool are primarily used by DJs and music producers to group keys based on their harmonic relationships. Keys adjacent to each other on the wheel are considered compatible and can be mixed or transitioned between more easily than keys that are further apart. This avoids dissonance or clashes between different musical keys, making your mixes smoother and more emotionally resonant. It’s worth noting that my recommendations for chord progressions are based on my personal experience and expertise as a musician and composer. There are 7 possible following keys that I find harmonious or serve a meaningful corresponding purpose. However, these are my personal recommendations and should always be taken with a grain of salt. Conclusion Understanding the emotional…

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]]> https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/08/26/a-psychological-guide-to-harmonic-mixing-and-composing/feed/ 0 29467 The 10 Best Drummers of All Time (According to Me) https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/08/04/the-10-best-drummers-of-all-time-according-to-me/ https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/08/04/the-10-best-drummers-of-all-time-according-to-me/#respond Fri, 04 Aug 2023 18:18:55 +0000 https://ingovogelmann.net/?p=29420 In the world of music, there are legends who have the power to move souls with their rhythmic magic. Among them, the drummers stand tall as the untamed giants of the beat, the fiery guardians of the groove. Spanning across genres, from the smoky realms of jazz to the thunderous realms of rock, these sonic revolutionaries ignite fires within our hearts. Now, behold the divine pantheon of the ten awe-inspiring drummers who have transcended mere virtuosity to become symbols of passion, power, and pure musical wizardry! (In no particular order, although Gavin Harrison and Simon Phillips are my 2 absolute favorites) 🥁 Drum roll, please! 🥁 Gavin Harrison Simon Phillips Mike Mangini Gergo Borlai Nick D’Virgilio Sarah Thawer Buddy Rich Jeff Porcaro Marco Minnemann Chris Coleman So, there you have it, my personal top 10 drummers who’ve ever graced a drum throne. From legends of the past to modern maestros, these drummers have shaped the way I hear and feel music. 🥁💥 Tags: album, Albums, Autodidacticism, Avedis Zildjian Company, Beat (music), Big Big Train, Buddy Rich, Creativity, DJ, Dream Theater, Drum, Drum kit, Drum stick, Drum Workshop, Drummer, education, Evolution, Extreme, Facial expression, Finesse (song), Funk, Gavin Harrison, Genesis (band), Germany, Groove (music), guitar, Heavy metal music, History, how, jazz, Jazz drumming, Jazz fusion, Jeff Porcaro, Joe Satriani, King Crimson, Like, love, Ludwig Drums, Marco Minnemann, Meinl Percussion, Michael Jackson, music, musical, Musician, Musicians, Nick D'Virgilio, ost, Paiste, Pearl Drums, play, pop, Porcupine Tree, Pro-Mark, Progressive metal, Progressive rock, Pure Genius, Remo, Rhythm, Rhythm section, Rock music, Rosanna (song), Sabian Cymbals, Session musician, Simon Phillips (drummer), singer, Slingerland Drum Company, Solo (music), Sonor, sound, Spock's Beard, Star, Steve Vai, Steven…

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]]> https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/08/04/the-10-best-drummers-of-all-time-according-to-me/feed/ 0 29420 A Personal Take On Rammstein https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/06/07/a-personal-take-on-rammstein/ https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/06/07/a-personal-take-on-rammstein/#respond Wed, 07 Jun 2023 18:57:40 +0000 https://ingovogelmann.net/?p=29363 I’ve always been one to appreciate a wide range of music, but there’s one band that I’ve never been able to get on board with: Rammstein. The German metal band has long been a source of controversy, and for me, their actions and representations have always been a step too far. Let’s start with their performances. Rammstein is known for their grandiose shows, complete with pyrotechnics and dramatic theatrics. Generally, not really my thing. Plus, beneath the spectacle, there’s an element that’s deeply unsettling. The band’s use of Nazi propaganda aesthetics and right-wing iconography is, in my opinion, a blatant disregard for the historical trauma associated with these symbols. As the taz article “Verharmlosung von Rammstein: Eiertanz ums Eiserne Kreuz” aptly points out, their shows “[deliver] a celebration of flame-encircled masses as updated staging strategies of the NS propagandists Leni Riefenstahl and Albert Speer and imitate these models under the insignia of the musical shock troop, an Iron Cross.” Some might argue that this is all part of their artistic expression. But let’s cut the crap here. This isn’t just about pushing boundaries or being edgy. This is about using loaded symbols for shock value and, as some suggest, as a marketing strategy. And that, my friends, is where I draw the line. But the controversy doesn’t end there. The band’s lead singer, Till Lindemann, is currently embroiled in a MeToo scandal, facing allegations of sexual assaults against young female fans. This, coupled with Lindemann’s past lyrics that fantasize about the rape of a drugged woman, paints a troubling picture. The taz article states, “If the just exploding scandal gains further substance in the face of the alleged pattern of…

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]]> https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/06/07/a-personal-take-on-rammstein/feed/ 0 29363 The Best-Selling Songs of the 80s in the UK and Germany https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/05/21/the-best-selling-songs-of-the-80s-in-the-uk-and-germany/ https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/05/21/the-best-selling-songs-of-the-80s-in-the-uk-and-germany/#respond Sun, 21 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000 https://ingovogelmann.net/?p=29325 I’m delighted to take you on a nostalgic journey again, back to the heart of my youth and a remarkable decade in music – the 1980s. Being born in 1973, my formative years were spent in the midst of an explosive era of music innovation and creativity. The unforgettable melodies, the iconic artists, and the cultural movements that framed this period have left a lasting imprint on me. Each song on this list sparks a unique memory, a moment of time encapsulated within the chords and lyrics of these classic tunes. Back then, we saw a massive shift in the music landscape, from the raw acoustic and earthy sounds of the 70s, transitioning into the vibrant, electronic, and synthesized beats of the 80s. This era was marked by its pioneering use of new technology, synthesizers, and production techniques, a stark contrast to today’s music that thrives on digital platforms, streaming services, and social media influence. And of course, let’s not forget the extraordinary fashion statements – the big hair, the neon colors, and the shoulder pads that were as bold as the music itself! Now, join me as we travel back in time, revisit the top-selling and most popular songs in the UK and Germany for each year of the 80s, and explore how these hits shaped the music and culture of the time. Right before we dive into this musical journey, a little surprise awaits you at the end of this post – a link to a carefully curated Spotify playlist featuring all the top-selling songs from the 80s in the UK and Germany that we’re about to explore. Keep reading and enjoy this nostalgic trip, knowing that a…

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]]> https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/05/21/the-best-selling-songs-of-the-80s-in-the-uk-and-germany/feed/ 0 29325 The Top 50 Most Successful Albums of All Time https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/05/18/the-top-50-most-successful-albums-of-all-time/ https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/05/18/the-top-50-most-successful-albums-of-all-time/#respond Thu, 18 May 2023 12:26:47 +0000 https://ingovogelmann.net/?p=29272 Music has the power to move us, to make us feel, and to bring us together. Each song carries its own story, but when songs are woven together into an album, they form a narrative that’s bigger than the sum of its parts. And while every album tells a story, there are those that resonate on such a profound level that they transcend time and place, becoming cultural phenomena in their own right. In this post, we’ll journey through the annals of music history, exploring the top 50 most successful albums of all time. These albums have left an indelible mark not just on the music industry, but on society at large. We’ll look at the incredible artists behind these masterpieces, the years they were released, and the net worth these musicians have amassed over their careers. From The Beatles to Michael Jackson, from Madonna to Pink Floyd, this list encompasses a diverse range of musical styles and eras. So, whether you’re a music aficionado seeking a nostalgic trip down memory lane, or a newcomer wanting to discover some of the greatest albums ever made, join me as I delve into the tales of triumph, creativity, and innovation that have made these albums the most successful in music history. Let’s tune in to their stories! The Playlist Here’s the playlist containing each album with every song (763 songs, 51 hours and 38 minutes) in it in the order of the list above: Artist’s Net Worth Ranking Based on the above, I’ve compiled a list of artists ordered by their estimated net worth. These figures are associated with the success of some of the world’s most iconic albums, with releases spanning…

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]]> https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/05/18/the-top-50-most-successful-albums-of-all-time/feed/ 0 29272 The Exasperating Trilogy of Modern Speech: Upspeak, Vocal Fry, and the ‘Like’ Epidemic https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/05/10/the-exasperating-trilogy-of-modern-speech-upspeak-vocal-fry-and-the-like-epidemic/ https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/05/10/the-exasperating-trilogy-of-modern-speech-upspeak-vocal-fry-and-the-like-epidemic/#respond Wed, 10 May 2023 15:00:00 +0000 https://ingovogelmann.net/?p=29074 Modern communication – a brilliant, marvelous tapestry weaved with an array of eloquent sounds, linguistic acrobatics, and… upspeak, vocal fry, and the incessant use of “like”. The grand opera of language has been hijacked by these three renegade stars, ensuring every sentence sounds like a question, a dying engine, or a Facebook algorithm’s dream. Upspeak: The Question that Never Ends Upspeak is fascinating in its ability to leave listeners in a perpetual state of suspense. Imagine listening to a thrilling murder mystery where every sentence ends on a cliffhanger. Now, apply that to every conversation in your life. Every declarative statement, every assertion is turned into an open-ended question. The suspense, initially thrilling, soon becomes like a song stuck on loop – it’s fun at first, then it starts to grate on your nerves. Moreover, upspeak can undermine the speaker’s authority and credibility. In professional settings, constant questioning inflections can signal uncertainty or a lack of confidence. It’s as if the speaker is continually seeking validation, which can be quite irksome when you’re looking for decisive, assertive communication. Example: This linguistic accident has become pretty popular among the younger demographic. Gone are the days of confident, assertive statements. Instead, we’re now serenaded by a constant stream of interrogatives. Whether you’re ordering coffee or presenting a groundbreaking scientific discovery, with upspeak, everything sounds like you’re asking for directions to the nearest surf shop. Vocal Fry: The Groan that Grows on You Vocal fry is the audio equivalent of nails on a chalkboard for some. That low, creaky vibration that has become extremely popular is grating to the ear, especially when it’s used excessively. It makes conversations sound tedious and monotonous, sucking…

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]]> https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/05/10/the-exasperating-trilogy-of-modern-speech-upspeak-vocal-fry-and-the-like-epidemic/feed/ 0 29074 The Power of Simplicity: Unraveling the Secret to Crafting Memorable Music https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/04/20/the-power-of-simplicity-unraveling-the-secret-to-crafting-memorable-music/ https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/04/20/the-power-of-simplicity-unraveling-the-secret-to-crafting-memorable-music/#respond Thu, 20 Apr 2023 06:00:00 +0000 https://ingovogelmann.net/?p=29227 I can’t stop thinking about the beauty that lies in the simplicity of things. In all kinds of things, including music. And so the idea for a small blogpost on this topic was born. In the world of music, simplicity can be a powerful and often overlooked tool. Many musicians and composers – me too, at times – may be tempted to believe that complexity and technical prowess are the keys to creating compelling and memorable music. This is not always the case. It is often the simplest melodies and arrangements that resonate most deeply with listeners and stand the test of time. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of simplicity in music, why it works so well, and provide examples of iconic musical works that have harnessed the power of simplicity to achieve greatness. The Importance of Simplicity in Music Simplicity allows music to be easily understood and enjoyed by a wide range of listeners. A simple melody or chord progression can often evoke a stronger emotional response than a complex, intricate arrangement. This is because our brains are wired to appreciate patterns and predictability, making simpler music more accessible and memorable. Some of history’s most iconic songs and compositions have utilized simplicity to create a lasting impact. For example, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 begins with a simple four-note motif that is instantly recognizable and has become synonymous with the composer’s genius. This motif, known as the “fate motif,” is repeated and developed throughout the symphony, demonstrating the power of a simple musical idea. Another example is The Beatles’ “Let It Be.” This song features a simple piano melody accompanied by basic chords and a straightforward…

From INGO VOGELMANN.

]]> https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/04/20/the-power-of-simplicity-unraveling-the-secret-to-crafting-memorable-music/feed/ 0 29227 Harmonic Mixing and Composing with the Camelot Wheel https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/03/29/harmonic-mixing-and-composing-with-the-camelot-wheel/ https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/03/29/harmonic-mixing-and-composing-with-the-camelot-wheel/#respond Wed, 29 Mar 2023 06:00:00 +0000 https://ingovogelmann.net/?p=29077 Harmonic mixing and composing have become essential skills for modern DJs and music producers, as they strive to create seamless, engaging, and emotionally resonant mixes and compositions. The Camelot Wheel, a popular tool in the electronic dance music scene, offers a systematic and intuitive approach to harmonic mixing, making it easier for artists to identify compatible musical keys and create harmonious transitions between songs. This essay explores the concept of harmonic mixing, the functionality of the Camelot Wheel, and its practical applications in both mixing and composing. Harmonic Mixing Harmonic mixing refers to the process of blending two or more musical tracks that are harmonically compatible, meaning they share the same key or a closely related key. This technique allows DJs and producers to create smooth transitions between tracks, enhancing the overall flow and emotional impact of a mix or composition. By paying close attention to the harmonic relationships between songs, artists can build tension, create moments of release, and maintain a consistent musical narrative throughout their sets or compositions. The Camelot Wheel: A Practical Tool for Harmonic Mixing The Camelot Wheel, also known as the Circle of Fifths, is a circular diagram that visually represents the relationships between the twelve major and twelve minor keys in Western music. Each key is assigned a unique alphanumeric code, with major keys labeled from 1B to 12B and minor keys labeled from 1A to 12A. Adjacent keys on the wheel share a close harmonic relationship, making them suitable for mixing or composing. The simplicity of the Camelot Wheel lies in its ability to quickly identify harmonically compatible keys. DJs and producers can easily find the next track by moving one step clockwise,…

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]]> https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/03/29/harmonic-mixing-and-composing-with-the-camelot-wheel/feed/ 0 29077 Spotify: My Love-Hate Relationship with the World’s No. 1 Streaming Service https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/03/13/spotify-my-love-hate-relationship-with-the-worlds-no-1-streaming-service/ https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/03/13/spotify-my-love-hate-relationship-with-the-worlds-no-1-streaming-service/#respond Mon, 13 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000 https://ingovogelmann.net/?p=29003 As an artist, I have my fair share of frustrations with Spotify, believe it or not, as much as I promote my music on the platform. I do it because it’s the easiest and shortest route for fans to access my music. For no other reason. Spotify Spotify is a streaming service that has taken the world by storm. It offers millions of songs, podcasts, and other audio content to users around the globe. On the surface, it seems like a great service that provides a lot of value to its users. However, if you scratch beneath the surface, you’ll find that Spotify is far from perfect. In fact, there are several reasons why Spotify should be criticized. First of all, let’s talk about the way Spotify treats artists. As a musician myself, I know firsthand how difficult it can be to make a living from your art. Spotify pays artists a fraction of a penny per stream. In other words, if you’re a musician on Spotify, you’re most likely not going to make much money. You might get a lot of streams, but those streams aren’t going to pay the bills. But it’s not just the low pay that’s the problem. It’s also the fact that Spotify doesn’t give artists any control over how their music is presented on the platform. The algorithms that Spotify uses to curate playlists and recommend music are a mystery to everyone, including the artists themselves. This means that even if you’re a talented musician with a unique sound, you might never get discovered on Spotify because the algorithm doesn’t favor your style of music. And then there’s the issue of Spotify’s business model.…

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]]> https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/03/13/spotify-my-love-hate-relationship-with-the-worlds-no-1-streaming-service/feed/ 0 29003 The Best Albums of All Time, According to Me (With Occasional Commentary) https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/02/26/the-best-albums-of-all-time-according-to-me-with-occasional-commentary/ https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/02/26/the-best-albums-of-all-time-according-to-me-with-occasional-commentary/#comments Sun, 26 Feb 2023 14:12:26 +0000 https://ingovogelmann.net/?p=27558 They say you are what you like, and if that’s true, then my taste in music speaks volumes about my private and musical personality. These albums have been with me for ages, some newer than others, but all of them share a common thread: they’re all incredibly good. I’m not trying to sound like an old fogey pining for the good old days, but I do feel sorry for the youngins who missed out on the era when this music was being created. Luckily for them, it still exists and is audible. But buyer beware: just because something’s labeled “remastered” doesn’t necessarily mean it’s an improvement. Some remasters are, dare I say it, worse than the original tracks. It’s not ideal, but we can’t control the rights holders who sometimes replace the original tracks with these subpar versions. Fortunately, the listening technology these days is better than ever, so there’s that. Back in the day, getting noticed as an artist was almost as hard as finding a needle in a haystack because there was no internet. Record managers were the gatekeepers who decided who was worth investing in, and when they did, they invested big. I’m talking piles of cash, enough to set everyone up for life. But hey, that’s what you had to do to get the best musicians, sound engineers, and technology available. Producing an album was a massive undertaking, and failure wasn’t an option. Sure, that whole process might seem a bit shady, but there were some advantages to it. If you could sing or play your instrument like nobody’s business, you had a chance to become a superstar. If you looked good too, well, let’s just…

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]]> https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/02/26/the-best-albums-of-all-time-according-to-me-with-occasional-commentary/feed/ 2 27558 Interview With Myself (And Then You) https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/02/13/interview-with-myself-and-then-you/ https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/02/13/interview-with-myself-and-then-you/#respond Mon, 13 Feb 2023 18:00:00 +0000 https://ingovogelmann.net/?p=26989 I did this many years ago, and here is a very recent (2023) version. The template for this comes from here: 33 Questions For An Interview With Yourself Feel free to pick this up and do it yourself. Link back to this post, so I can see it. 1. What Do You Do for a Living? Well, the fact that you ended up here means you already know at least part of the answer. I’m a music producer, composer and sound engineer, mainly. I work for myself, so I make my own music, and I work for others whose music I either write and produce or edit. I also have a “day job” that feeds me reliably and pays the bills, because I could no longer make a living from music alone. That used to be different, but unfortunately, that’s the way it is today. But I really like my second job. I work with great people, and I can do my work in a relatively free and creative way. I am a marketing manager and board member in the textile industry. There is no good reason to complain. 2. Who Do You Love? Okay, then I’ll be completely honest. You asked for it. I love my friends, some of whom I’ve had for a very long time, and my partner and our dogs. To put it succinctly to the point. Of course, the issue is more complicated. I have a big and fucked up family history that could be described as broken. In this respect, love is not dripping from every crack. I love certain people in this family in a certain way, but that’s more through blood ties…

From INGO VOGELMANN.

]]> https://ingovogelmann.net/2023/02/13/interview-with-myself-and-then-you/feed/ 0 26989 Spotify vs. Apple Music — Distribution — How to Pursue a Musical Career — From an Artist’s Perspective https://ingovogelmann.net/2022/12/16/spotify-vs-apple-music-distribution-how-to-pursue-a-musical-career-from-an-artists-perspective/ https://ingovogelmann.net/2022/12/16/spotify-vs-apple-music-distribution-how-to-pursue-a-musical-career-from-an-artists-perspective/#respond Fri, 16 Dec 2022 19:31:53 +0000 https://ingovogelmann.net/?p=26860 In this article, I’ll look at the two biggest music streaming providers, we’ll look at a good distribution service, and we’ll look at if and how you can or should pursue a music career. The two big boys in the music streaming business As an artist, it is important to choose the right streaming platform to showcase and distribute your music. There are many options available, but two of the most popular are Spotify and Apple Music. While both platforms have their pros and cons, it is important to weigh the options and consider which one is the best fit for your needs as an artist. First, let’s take a look at Spotify. With over 345 million monthly active users, Spotify is the largest streaming platform in the world. It offers a wide range of features for both artists and listeners, including personalized playlists, podcasts, and live audio. For artists, Spotify provides a variety of tools to help promote and monetize their music, including the ability to create artist profiles, upload music, and track streams and listeners. One of the biggest benefits of Spotify for artists is the potential to reach a large audience. With millions of users, there is a good chance that your music will be discovered by new listeners. Additionally, Spotify offers a program called Spotify for Artists, which provides resources and insights for artists to help them grow their careers. However, there are some downsides to consider as well. For one, the royalty rates on Spotify can be relatively low, with artists earning around $0.004 to $0.0084 per stream. This can make it difficult for independent artists to earn a significant amount of money from their…

From INGO VOGELMANN.

]]> https://ingovogelmann.net/2022/12/16/spotify-vs-apple-music-distribution-how-to-pursue-a-musical-career-from-an-artists-perspective/feed/ 0 26860 The Ultimate Harmonic Mixing & Composing Chart https://ingovogelmann.net/2014/10/22/the-ultimate-harmonic-mixing-composing-chart/ https://ingovogelmann.net/2014/10/22/the-ultimate-harmonic-mixing-composing-chart/#comments Wed, 22 Oct 2014 05:09:57 +0000 http://vogelmann.me/?p=6300 Before you dig in… The Ultimate Harmonic Mixing & Composing Chart is a visual aid for musicians, producers, composers and DJs to easily create music that always has harmonic chord progressions. This sheet is now widely used worldwide as a teaching and practical tool in music and DJ schools and has been downloaded hundreds of thousands of times. The situation As both a DJ and composer, the Circle of Fifth or the Camelot Key Wheel system — amongst others — have always been handy tools for me to write and mix music harmonically. There are just too many options in chord progressions than I could ever have in my memory (maybe you can, but I don’t). So yes, I could always have a look at above mentioned helpers to orientate myself through the notes and chords jungle, in case needed, which is not always the case. I have the most common chords in my head. Just not always. As a composer I’m fine with the musical key/chord system, i.e. “A minor“, but as a DJ it isn’t very likely (for me, again) to remember all the musical chords to know what to mix into what. So, Mark Davis came up with Camelot Keys (used in Mixed in Key, which I prefer, because of its accuracy) and then there are the Open Keys (Traktor). Which is basically a range of 12 keys for each gender, major and minor chords. “A minor” is 8A (Camelot Key) or 1m (Open Key). In a nutshell: if you mix 1A into 2A (and so forth, up until 12A and then into 1A again) you’re generally fine. Your mixing transitions will always be harmonic, no key clashes. This…

From INGO VOGELMANN.

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