Making old songs new again: Tips for making a great cover

Whether you want to propel your cover band to stardom or kick-start your musical career on YouTube, it’s a crowded and competitive landscape out there. That’s why you must make your cover songs stick out from the crowd. It’s easy to get intimidated by recording songs by your favorite artists, so here are four tips to make an old song sound new again.

Belt the Song in a Different Key

It’s incredible how much singing a song in another key can change the composition. Lyrics will take on a brand new meaning for listeners, and everything about the tune will feel unique and fresh. For example, if the song is in the major key, try singing it in the minor key, and it will probably feel more intense and have a level of gravitas that wasn’t there before. Changing the key is a popular technique for pop songs, which generally sound upbeat and happy.

Try Out Songs From the Past

Great hits have been popping up for as long as music has existed. Even though the musical landscape has changed dramatically even in the last couple decades, it is always a good time to revive old classics. Bringing back top songs from the past will distinguish your covers from the average pop cover artists. 

One good genre to start with is Motown music. Motown Records started in 1959 and was one of the rare African-American-owned companies and crucial in popularizing African-American artists in the mainstream. Eventually, Motown became its own distinct sound, and the genre was filled with many great artists. Motown music has a novel style of rhythm and blues melodies that would make unique covers. Look up music from Motown record producers to find songs to cover.

Change the Tempo of a Song

Changing the tempo of a song can fundamentally transform its sound. You can increase the pace of a sad, slow tune and decrease the speed of a fast strain depending on the effect you want to elicit. For some covers, it might be fun to switch back and forth during the song.

Use Different Instruments

Covering a song with new instruments can produce a melody distinctive to your musical vision. If a song uses the piano, try it out on the guitar or be bold and use a Launchpad. A composition typically backed by classical instruments can be transformed by using electronic instruments instead. It’s a great way to pick up new artistic skills and create an outstanding cover.

Use these tips and tricks in your future cover songs. The marvelous thing about covers is that they allow artists to experiment and push creative boundaries. Whether you want to record a throwback with a Motown record or you want to sing a pop song in the minor key, these tips will help you stand out in a sea of cover artists and capture an audience’s auditory attention.

Making old songs new again: Tips for making a great cover