Emotion Archives • INGO VOGELMANN

Aaron Spears: A Rhythm That Never Ends

Ingo — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 17:00:00 +0000

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.…

From INGO VOGELMANN.

You Need to Fail to Succeed

Ingo — Sat, 28 Oct 2023 08:47:45 +0000

And I did, many times. That doesn’t mean I always succeeded after I failed, but whenever I succeeded it never came without failure before. That said… A New Paradigm for Music Makers In an industry that’s constantly evolving, The Crow Hill Company emerges as a breath of fresh air. While still in its early stages, the platform promises an ever-growing collection of free professional resources for music makers. But what sets it apart is its philosophy: it aims to be a “love letter to music makers.” This isn’t just a repository of tools; it’s a community, a support system, and most importantly, a philosophy that values the process as much as the product. What’s in the Vault? While the company is tight-lipped about upcoming content, they’ve teased that it’s something they’re “incredibly reluctant to share,” which only adds to the intrigue. Given the secrecy, one can only speculate about the revolutionary tools and resources that might be in store for members. The Maestro Behind the Mission Christian Henson is a name that commands respect in the world of music composition. With a career that boasts multiple nominations and awards, he’s a versatile talent who’s worked on everything from TV shows to epic sci-fi films. But what truly sets him apart is his unique, self-taught approach to working with the orchestra, a skill honed through collaborations with a diverse range of artists. The Spitfire Legacy Before The Crow Hill Company, Henson made waves with Spitfire Audio, a company that provides essential tools for composers. Spitfire developed a cult following and became a significant supporter of the music industry. This experience undoubtedly informs his new venture, bringing a level of expertise and…

From INGO VOGELMANN.

A Psychological Guide to Harmonic Mixing and Composing

Ingo — Sat, 26 Aug 2023 09:21:18 +0000

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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REVIEW: Extreme’s “SIX” – A Symphony of Sonic Surprises and Unapologetic Authenticity

Ingo — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 16:11:50 +0000

(Isn’t the album cover extremely awesome?) As a grizzled veteran of the rock ‘n’ roll rollercoaster, having clocked up a half-century on this spinning rock we call Earth, I’ve been a passenger on the Extreme journey since the band’s genesis in 1985. Their latest offering, “SIX”, is a testament to their musical evolution, a sonic tapestry that weaves together the threads of their past while boldly striding into uncharted territory. “SIX” opens with “Rise“, a track that hits you like a shot of adrenaline straight to the heart. It’s a powerful opener that sets the tone for the album, a narrative about the fickle nature of fame that resonates with anyone who’s been around the block a few times. It’s a reminder that success is transient, a theme that echoes through the annals of rock history and reverberates in the hearts of seasoned fans like me. Next up is “#Rebel“, a track that lives up to its name in every sense. It’s a rebellious anthem that channels the spirit of Marilyn Manson, a stark departure from Extreme’s usual style. It’s a bold move, but it’s this willingness to push boundaries and experiment with new sounds that has kept Extreme relevant over the years. “Banshee” and “Other Side of the Rainbow” offer a softer side of Extreme, with their intimate ballads that hark back to the band’s earlier days. These tracks are a comforting reminder of the band’s roots, a nostalgic nod to the past that old fans like me can appreciate. They’re like a warm blanket on a cold night, a familiar comfort that wraps you in a cocoon of melodic memories. “Small Town Beautiful” and “The Mask” continue this…

From INGO VOGELMANN.

The Top 50 Most Successful Albums of All Time

Ingo — Thu, 18 May 2023 12:26:47 +0000

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…

From INGO VOGELMANN.

The Exasperating Trilogy of Modern Speech: Upspeak, Vocal Fry, and the ‘Like’ Epidemic

Ingo — Wed, 10 May 2023 15:00:00 +0000

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…

From INGO VOGELMANN.

The Power of Simplicity: Unraveling the Secret to Crafting Memorable Music

Ingo — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 06:00:00 +0000

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…

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