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Why are songs getting shorter?
Sep 2, 2024
Szu Yu Chen, a graphics reporter at The Washington Post, and Sean Carter, an Atlanta-based audio engineer, dive into the intriguing trend of shrinking song lengths across genres. They explore how technology and platforms like SoundCloud are reshaping music formats, pushing artists to adapt to shorter songs. The conversation touches on how changing listener attention spans influence modern music and the delicate balance between artistic expression and commercial viability. With insights drawn from Grammy nominees, they highlight the evolving landscape of contemporary music.
18:43
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Quick takeaways
- The trend of shorter songs, with many recent hits under three minutes, reflects a cultural shift in music consumption and production.
- Technological changes and streaming platforms have pressured artists to create catchy, concise tracks, often sacrificing traditional song structures for commercial success.
Deep dives
The Trend of Shorter Songs
The podcast discusses the noticeable trend of shorter songs in contemporary music, with many recent hits clocking in under three minutes. For instance, SZA's 'Kill Bill' is highlighted as a significant example, as it was a finalist for Song of the Year yet is only two minutes and thirty seconds long. Su-Yu Chen’s research indicates that this trend is not isolated, as 28 of the 144 songs nominated for Grammys were under three minutes, showcasing a shift in the music industry. The conversation reveals a cultural adaptation to these shorter formats, influencing both the production and listening habits of audiences.
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Discover
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