Outsider music is a genre of music that is characterized by its DIY ethos, experimental approach, and often, a complete disregard for traditional music conventions. It's a style that celebrates individuality and creativity, often at the expense of technical proficiency or commercial appeal. Outsider musicians often operate outside of the mainstream music industry, creating music that is truly unique and innovative.
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The History of Outsider Music
The roots of outsider music can be traced back to the 1950s and 60s, with artists like The Shaggs, The Residents, and Captain Beefheart. These pioneers of outsider music rejected the commercialism and conformity of mainstream music, instead opting for a more avant-garde and experimental approach. Since then, outsider music has continued to evolve, with new generations of musicians pushing the boundaries of what is considered "normal" in music.
Characteristics of Outsider Music
Outsider music often features unconventional sounds, instruments, and recording techniques. It can be lo-fi, DIY, and intentionally amateurish, with musicians embracing their lack of technical skill as a badge of honor. Lyrics can be surreal, abstract, or even nonsensical, and song structures can be unpredictable and unconventional. Outsider music often defies categorization, blending elements of rock, folk, electronic, and avant-garde music.
How to Write Outsider Music Songs
So, you want to write outsider music songs? Here are some tips to get you started:
First, forget everything you've learned about songwriting. Outsider music is all about breaking the rules and pushing boundaries. Don't worry about writing a catchy hook or a memorable melody. Instead, focus on creating a mood, atmosphere, or feeling.
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Experiment with unconventional instruments and sounds. Use household items, found objects, or even your own voice to create unusual textures and timbres. Don't be afraid to get weird and wacky – that's what outsider music is all about!
Lyrics and Poetry
Outsider music lyrics often blur the line between poetry and prose. They can be abstract, surreal, and open to interpretation. Don't be afraid to get weird and wacky with your lyrics – use metaphors, allegories, and stream-of-consciousness writing to create a unique and captivating narrative.
Draw inspiration from avant-garde poetry, surrealism, and experimental literature. Read the works of writers like William S. Burroughs, Allen Ginsberg, and Jean Arp to get a sense of the kind of language and imagery that can inspire outsider music lyrics.
Recording and Production
Outsider music often eschews traditional recording techniques in favor of a more DIY approach. Use low-fi equipment, cassette tapes, or even your smartphone to record your music. Don't worry about getting a "perfect" sound – the imperfections and quirks are often what make outsider music so charming.
Experiment with unconventional recording techniques, such as reverse recording, tape loops, or found sounds. Use effects pedals, distortion, and other audio manipulation tools to create a unique and otherworldly sound.
Collaboration and Community
Outsider music is often a solitary pursuit, but it doesn't have to be. Seek out like-minded musicians and artists who share your vision and aesthetic. Collaborate on songs, share ideas, and learn from each other.
Join online forums, social media groups, and local music communities to connect with other outsider musicians. Attend experimental music festivals, noise concerts, and avant-garde art events to experience the vibrant and eclectic world of outsider music.
Embracing the Outsider Ethos
Writing outsider music songs is not just about creating music – it's about embracing a way of life. It's about rejecting the commercialism and conformity of mainstream music and embracing your individuality and creativity.
Don't be afraid to take risks, push boundaries, and challenge yourself and your listeners. Outsider music is not for everyone, and that's what makes it so special. So, be bold, be fearless, and above all, be true to yourself and your art.
Writing outsider music songs is a journey, not a destination. It's a journey of self-discovery, experimentation, and creativity. It's a journey that requires courage, conviction, and a willingness to take risks.
By embracing the outsider ethos and pushing the boundaries of what is considered "normal" in music, you can create something truly unique and innovative. So, don't be afraid to get weird, get wacky, and get creative – the world of outsider music is waiting for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is outsider music, and how does it differ from traditional music?
Outsider music is a genre of music that is characterized by its unconventional and often untrained approach to music composition and performance. It often features unusual sounds, lyrics, and instrumentation, and can be quite experimental in nature. Outsider music differs from traditional music in that it doesn't follow traditional music theory or conventions, and often doesn't conform to typical song structures or melodies.
Why would I want to write outsider music songs?
Writing outsider music songs can be a liberating and creative experience, allowing you to break free from traditional songwriting conventions and explore new sounds and ideas. It can also be a great way to express yourself in a unique and authentic way, and to connect with listeners who are looking for something different and innovative.
Do I need to have any musical training or experience to write outsider music songs?
No, you don't need any formal musical training or experience to write outsider music songs. In fact, many outsider musicians are self-taught and have little to no formal music education. The beauty of outsider music is that it's often raw and unpolished, and that can be a refreshing change from more polished and produced music.
What kind of instruments do I need to write outsider music songs?
You don't need any specific instruments to write outsider music songs. You can use anything from traditional instruments like guitars and keyboards to found objects like pots and pans, toy instruments, or even household appliances. The key is to experiment and find the sounds that work best for your music.
How do I come up with ideas for outsider music songs?
Coming up with ideas for outsider music songs can be as simple as experimenting with different sounds and textures, or as complex as drawing inspiration from your personal experiences, emotions, and observations. You can also try using unconventional techniques like automatic writing, free association, or improvisation to generate ideas.
What's the best way to structure an outsider music song?
One of the defining characteristics of outsider music is its lack of traditional song structure. Instead of following a typical verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus structure, outsider music songs often feature unconventional structures, such as repetitive loops, improvisational sections, or even complete abandonment of traditional song forms.
How do I record an outsider music song?
Recording an outsider music song can be as simple as using a smartphone app or a digital audio workstation (DAW) like GarageBand or Ableton. You can also experiment with unconventional recording techniques, such as using distorted or low-fidelity equipment, or recording in unusual locations like a bathroom or a basement.
What's the role of lyrics in outsider music songs?
Lyrics can play a significant role in outsider music songs, but they can also be completely absent or nonsensical. Outsider musicians often use lyrics as a way to express themselves in a more abstract or experimental way, using techniques like stream-of-consciousness writing, cut-up lyrics, or even made-up languages.
How do I know if my outsider music song is any good?
One of the most challenging things about writing outsider music songs is that there's no clear definition of what makes a "good" song. Instead of worrying about whether your song is "good" or not, focus on whether it's true to your vision and whether it expresses what you're trying to convey.
Can I make a career out of writing outsider music songs?
While it may be more challenging to make a career out of writing outsider music songs than traditional music, it's not impossible. There are many successful outsider musicians who have built careers around their unique sound and style. It may take more creativity and perseverance, but it's possible to build a following and make a living from your music.
How do I find other outsider musicians and fans?
There are many online communities and forums dedicated to outsider music, as well as local music scenes and events that can help you connect with other musicians and fans. You can also try attending experimental music festivals, joining online groups and forums, or participating in music workshops and classes.
What's the most important thing to keep in mind when writing outsider music songs?
The most important thing to keep in mind when writing outsider music songs is to stay true to your vision and don't be afraid to take risks. Outsider music is all about experimentation and pushing boundaries, so don't be afraid to try new things and see where they take you.
Can I incorporate elements of traditional music into my outsider music songs?
Absolutely! While outsider music is often characterized by its rejection of traditional music conventions, there's no rule that says you can't incorporate elements of traditional music into your songs. In fact, combining traditional and unconventional elements can create a unique and interesting sound.
How do I deal with criticism or negative feedback on my outsider music songs?
As with any kind of artistic expression, criticism and negative feedback are inevitable. Instead of taking it personally, try to see it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Remember that outsider music is often polarizing, and what one person hates, another person might love.
Can I use outsider music as a way to express my emotions and personal experiences?
Outsider music can be a powerful way to express your emotions and personal experiences in a unique and authentic way. Because outsider music often rejects traditional conventions, you're free to explore new sounds and styles that can help you convey your emotions and experiences in a way that feels true to you.
How do I know when I've written a "good" outsider music song?
Instead of focusing on whether your song is "good" or not, try to focus on whether it feels true to your vision and whether it expresses what you're trying to convey. If you're happy with the song and it feels authentic, then that's all that matters.
Can I write outsider music songs with a group or band?
Absolutely! While outsider music is often associated with solo artists, there's no reason why you can't write outsider music songs with a group or band. In fact, collaborating with others can be a great way to generate new ideas and push the boundaries of what's possible.
How do I market and promote my outsider music songs?
Marketing and promoting outsider music songs can be challenging, but there are many online platforms and tools that can help you reach a wider audience. You can also try building a community around your music, engaging with fans, and creating a unique brand or image that sets you apart.
What's the future of outsider music, and where is it headed?
The future of outsider music is uncertain, but it's likely that it will continue to evolve and adapt to new technologies and trends. As more and more musicians experiment with unconventional sounds and styles, outsider music is likely to become even more diverse and innovative.
How do I stay inspired and motivated to keep writing outsider music songs?
To stay inspired and motivated, try to keep an open mind and be willing to experiment with new sounds and ideas. You can also try collaborating with others, setting challenges for yourself, or exploring new sources of inspiration, such as art, literature, or film.
Can I use outsider music as a way to challenge social norms and conventions?
Absolutely! Outsider music has a long history of challenging social norms and conventions, and it can be a powerful way to express dissent or rebellion. By pushing the boundaries of what's considered "normal" or "acceptable," you can create music that's thought-provoking and subversive.
How do I balance creativity with technical skill when writing outsider music songs?
While technical skill can be important in music, outsider music is often more focused on creativity and experimentation. Instead of worrying about technical perfection, focus on capturing the essence and emotion of your music, even if it means sacrificing some technical proficiency.
Can I use outsider music as a way to explore my own identity and sense of self?
Absolutely! Outsider music can be a powerful way to explore your own identity and sense of self, especially if you're feeling like you don't fit into traditional categories or norms. By expressing yourself in a unique and authentic way, you can create music that's deeply personal and meaningful.
How do I deal with feelings of self-doubt or uncertainty when writing outsider music songs?
Self-doubt and uncertainty are natural feelings that can arise when creating art, especially when you're pushing the boundaries of what's considered "normal." Instead of letting self-doubt hold you back, try to focus on the process of creation and the joy of experimentation, rather than the end result.
Can I use outsider music as a way to connect with others who feel like outsiders?
Absolutely! Outsider music can be a powerful way to connect with others who feel like they don't fit in or who are looking for something different. By creating music that's authentic and true to yourself, you can create a sense of community and connection with others who share your values and sensibilities.
Write Lyrics Like a Professional Songwriter
The ultimate songwriting tool that takes your creative vision to the next level! With just a few clicks, you can unleash your inner songwriter and craft a hit that's uniquely yours. Your song. You own it.