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5 Tips To Help You Get The Most Out Of Spotify
There’s no doubt that the music industry has been taken over by streaming, and Spotify is at the center of this supremacy. With an ever-expanding library of music and podcasts, Spotify’s desktop and mobile apps have evolved considerably over the last few years, becoming more predictive and personalized.
Despite the progress, they can still be quite confusing to the average user, which is why we’ve decided to help our readers out with these five tips on how to get the most out of Spotify. After all, you don’t want to pay for Premium but only use 10% of the advantages it offers.
Finding Songs, Albums, and Playlists
This part is easy. When you first use the Spotify mobile app, you’ll notice three tabs at the bottom of the screen: Home, Search, and Your Library. All you have to do is use the Search tab. You type in names of songs, artists, or podcasts – whatever it is you want to listen to. You can even specify the category in the search query. Spotify will understand.
But what if you’re not looking for something specific? Maybe you just want to listen to some music. Then you’ll want to tap on Search, and you’ll see different categories and subcategories. You can even choose according to mood or activity.
Once you’ve been using Spotify for a while, you’ll inevitably start making your own playlists which you will find by taping the Your Library tab on the bottom right.
Using Your Library
Your Library contains the playlists, artists, albums you’ve saved, songs you’ve downloaded, and radio station you’ve followed – it’s all there. You can also see what songs you’ve been listening to lately.
Note that if you don’t have a lot of mobile data, you’ll want to make sure you make the distinction between saving a song and downloading it. If you’ve saved it, all you’ve done is earmarked so that you can find it more easily in your library. But this doesn’t mean that you’ve downloaded it, so when you play it, it will still use up your data.
Plus, even if you have all the data you need to stream as much as you like, there are times when having an offline library can be very useful – for example, when you’re traveling. To download a playlist, song, or podcast, you just have to toggle the Download option. The items available for offline listening will have a downward arrow icon next to them.
We should also note that if you have a Premium account and you travel to another country, you can still use your account even if Spotify is not available in that particular country. However, if you’re using Spotify Free, you can only use it for 14 days before the app will ask you to update your country. If you’re in a non-Spotify country, you’ll want to use a VPN.
Using Playlists
Spotify’s playlists are one of the main reasons, so many people use the service. The company is always making new playlists for its users based on genre or mood. They’re created both by humans and by algorithms, and their power in the music industry has grown to the point that being featured on a popular Spotify playlist can propel an artist to fame. And even though around half the time users spend on Spotify goes on listening to these playlists, they can be quite tricky.
Making your own playlist is straightforward. You go to Your Library, Playlist, and tap the Create Playlist tab. Then you can just add new songs or albums to your playlist by tapping on the ellipses on their right side. Adding ready-made playlists to your playlist is even easier. Once you found a playlist you like, you just hit Follow. That’s it. Then you’ll find it in Your Library under Playlists.
But there are other things you’ll want to do that aren’t as straightforward. For example, maybe you want to create a playlist by stacking albums so you can listen to your favorite albums from a band or maybe explore an artist’s work in chronological order. If you try to do that from the playlist itself, Spotify will prompt you to add individual songs, and that’s not very convenient, is it?
Instead, you’ll want to search for the album and then tap on the ellipses for more options located in the upper right corner and add it from there.
You can also make playlists with your friends so you can explore music together. To do this, you need to make a playlist and then tap on the ellipsis to make it collaborative. Then you’ll just have to share it with your friends, and they’ll be able to add songs to your joint playlist.
Made for You
We’ve already mentioned the popularity of Spotify’s playlists, so if you have an account, you’ll definitely want to take advantage of the ones the platform puts together just for you based on your listening habits.
To find them, you have to go to Your Library, and you’ll see a section called Made for You. That has daily mixes, new releases the algorithm thinks you might like, and a weekly playlist. Once a year, you’ll also get another playlist made up of the songs you’ve listened to the most. This could be a nice trip down memory lane. Well, unless you had a bad year. Then you might want to skip that one. On the other hand, it might be a nice reminder that you made it through.
The point is that these personalized playlists are a great way to expand your music library and discover new stuff.
Recover Deleted Playlists
Maybe you accidentally hit delete on a playlist you’ve been crafting for months. And then somehow, you’ve even confirmed when the app asked you if you were sure. Now you want it back. It can happen to the best of us. It happens so often, in fact, that Spotify has a solution.
To recover deleted playlists, you have to go on Spotify’s website, log in, and click on Recover Playlists. You’ll see it on the left. Then you click Restore, and you’ll get your playlist back.
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Minor Chord Progressions: The Ultimate Guide
Minor chord progressions are a staple of music and can be found in a wide range of styles, from classical to Jazz, Pop, and Rock. Understanding how to use minor chord progressions is crucial for anyone looking to write, play, or appreciate music.
This guide will help you explore the basics of minor chord progressions, advanced concepts, and chord substitutions to help you create more interesting and dynamic compositions.
Understanding minor chord progressions
Musicians create minor chords by lowering the third note of a major chord by one half-step. For example, the A major chord is made up of the notes A, C#, and E, while the A minor chord is made up of the notes A, C, and E.
In a minor key, the chords are built on the scale degrees of the natural minor scale. One of the most common progressions in a minor key is the I–IV–V–I progression, which is the minor one chord, the minor four chord, the minor five chord, and the minor one chord again. Musicians use this chord progression very commonly in pop songs with minor keys.
Basic minor chord progressions
Musicians often use minor chord progressions to create a sad or melancholic feeling in the music. The most common basic minor chord progressions include:
I-IV-V (one, four, five)
I-VI-III-VII (one, six, three, seven)
I-VI-IV-V (one, six, four, five)
While basic minor chord progressions are relatively straightforward, you can still use them creatively to add interest and depth to your music. There are a couple of ways that you can do this. For instance, you could try passing chords, changing chord voicings, or using alternate scales or modes. These techniques can help you create new and unexpected harmonies and can be especially effective in Jazz and fusion music.
Overview of advanced minor chord progressions
To create more interesting and complex compositions, musicians use advanced minor chord progressions. Furthermore, these progressions use more chords, and you can often find them in Jazz, Classical, and Progressive Rock music. Some examples of advanced minor chord progressions include:
I–III–IV–VI–I–V–I–V
I–(III–IV)–V–(I–I7)–(IV–V)
To improve your understanding and ability to recognize and play minor chord progressions, it is recommended to practice ear training. Several websites and tools are available for ear training, such as https://www.useyourear.com/, which can help you develop your ability to recognize and play different chords, progressions, and melodies by ear.
Minor chord progressions in different styles of music
Musicians use minor chord progressions in a variety of styles of music, from classical to pop and rock. For example, in classical music, musicians use minor chord progressions to create a melancholic or mournful feeling.
In pop and rock music, musicians often use minor chord progressions to create a sad or introspective feeling. Furthermore, musicians also use them in more complex and harmonically adventurous compositions in jazz music.
Musicians use minor chord progressions in all styles of music to convey a range of emotions, including sadness and melancholy.
How to use chord substitutions and modifications to create interest in minor chord progressions?
While basic minor chord progressions can create a sense of melancholy or tension, they may become repetitive or predictable over time. One way to add interest and complexity to your music is by using chord substitutions or modifications.
A chord substitution is a process of replacing one or more chords in a progression with a different chord that has a similar function or sound. For example, in the I-IV-V progression, you could substitute the minor four chord with a major four chord (IV), which creates a brighter and more uplifting sound. This can be a great way to bring in a sense of resolution and surprise.
A chord modification is very similar and involves altering one or more notes in a chord to create a different sound or color. When modifying chords, you can add extensions, such as ninths, elevenths, or thirteenths, to create more complex and colorful chords. In jazz music, musicians commonly use chord modifications to create complex and harmonically rich progressions.
Final thoughts
Minor chord progressions are a fundamental aspect of music and musicians use them in a wide variety of styles. Understanding the basics of minor chord progressions is important for any musician or songwriter. Furthermore, exploring more advanced concepts and techniques like how to use chord substitutions and modifications can help take your compositions to the next level.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced musician, mastering minor chord progressions is a key step in unlocking your creative potential. So, grab your instrument, play some chords, and let your creativity flow!
What’s your favourite minor chord progression, and what emotions or feelings does it evoke for you?
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Top 4 Online Courses To Learn Music Production
Tutor John W of DoMyEssay lists the best music production online courses for students.
Music production is a fast-growing and promising field. Careers in this industry aren’t only high-paying but also incredibly interesting. Thus, if you have always been a fan of music and wanted to create your own legacy, this kind of job is for you.
But how do you begin a career in this field? Of course, you could go to college and get an actual degree in music production. However, this path takes many years and still doesn’t guarantee success. Moreover, if you are already enrolled in a different major, making this switch can be a real challenge. But there is a simpler way to accomplish your dream!
Today, anyone can learn music production using only the internet. There are lots of great courses that will provide you with the needed skills and knowledge, and they can be easily combined with your current studies. If that sounds like a good opportunity, hire yourself an essay or persuasive speech writer to have your current assignments handled by pros, and read on to learn about the best music production courses that you can take right now!
1. Masterclass: Producing and Beatmaking
An undoubted #1 online course for electronic music production is the one available at Masterclass. Why? Because it’s taught by Timbaland—a famous Grammy-winning music producer who works with top-class stars like Justin Timberlake, Jay-Z, Beyonce, and many others.
Timbaland’s legacy in the music world is huge. Thus, there is definitely a lot you can learn from him. In this course, you will find 15 complete lessons that will teach you how to layer new tracks, create killer hooks, collaborate with artists, and much more. In total, all lessons will take only 3 hours and 2 minutes of your time. But the gained knowledge and experience will stay with you forever.
2. Coursera: Music Production Specialization
The following top course is available on Coursera. This course offers you a complete specialization in music production, through which you will gain such skills as audio recording, sound design, music production, songwriting, music mixing, and many others.
The course is offered by the well-known school—Berklee. The approximate time to complete it is 5 months. In total, this specialization consists of 4 full courses. After completing the courses, you will have to get through a culminating 4-week Capstone, during which you will create your own project from scratch.
Quick note: Compared to other courses on our list, this one is the most thorough and lengthy one. Completing it will require more commitment. Thus, if you don’t want it to interfere with your college studies, check out an objective DoMyEssay review now to find reliable helpers for yourself.
3. Skillshare: Blueprint to Beatmaking
The next course can be found at Skillshare. The Blueprint to Beatmaking is an incredibly user-friendly course that will take you from zero to hero in beat-making in only 3 hours and 5 minutes. The course is ideally suited for beginners as it doesn’t require any prior knowledge, skills, or special equipment. The lessons are short and engaging. And at the end of the course, there is an engaging hands-on project.
The best thing about this course is that Skillshare offers all new users a 7-day free access period. Since the lessons take approximately 3 hours to complete, there is a good chance that you will be able to complete them without paying any fees. Even if you don’t finish it in 7 days, the price is fairly low—$8 per month.
4. Masterclass: Electronic Music Production
Another course available at Masterclass is offered by one of the leading electronic music artists—deadmau5. This famous Canadian DJ and music maker is now known all across the globe for his killer sounds. Now, you have a chance to learn from him without leaving the comfort of your home.
In this course, you will get 9 blocks with 23 thorough video lessons. The lessons will teach you everything from the theory of music production to hands-on tips for mixing and mastering sounds. All in all, the lessons take 6 hours to watch. You also get a downloadable course workbook as a bonus. And the best part of it is that in his lessons, deadmau5 will teach you how to create awesome music without spending millions of dollars on professional gear. So there is a lot you can learn from this course.
The Bottom Line
Although creating music seems like a pretty complex art that requires advanced skills, the truth is that anyone can master it! Thanks to the Internet, you have access to a wide range of excellent online courses that will help you get started. All you need is a bit of free time and dedication. So if you are still in college, enlist the help of the top paper writing services to have your studies covered by pros and use the saved time to follow your dream. Good luck!
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Advice For Students: 9 Music Genres To Help Your Mental Health
For most people, studentship is a challenging and stressful period. That’s why some students find peace of mind and comfort in music. Music has always been an integral part of our lives. In fact, it has the power to affect our emotions and mood in profound ways. It can uplift our spirits, calm our nerves, and help us cope with stress.
However, it can’t assist you with everything. For instance, if you are overloaded with college assignments the best way out is to ask a professional to write essays for money instead of racking your brain. Different genres have their own effects on our mental health. Now, let’s dive into the world of music to explore the genres that help to improve your mental health.
Indie
The first genre on our bucket list is Indie for good reason. Indie often addresses themes of mental health and emotional wellness in a thoughtful and nuanced way. This can provide a sense of connection and understanding, which can be particularly helpful for individuals who are struggling with mental health issues and feeling isolated or misunderstood.
Moreover, indie songs can provide a sense of hope and positivity during difficult times due to their upbeat and optimistic nature. They also help to process and cope with difficult emotions and experiences.
Instrumental Music
Instrumental music is known for its positive effect on the mind and body. It helps us to develop a sense of calmness and peace, reduce stress levels, and improve focus and concentration.
In addition, this genre can be used for mindfulness and meditation practices. Its repetitive and soothing nature can help individuals stay present at the moment and cultivate a sense of mindfulness and awareness.
Meditation Music
One of the primary goals of meditation music is to promote relaxation and reduce stress. Slow, calming sounds can help slow down the mind and give us a sense of inner peace and tranquility. Also, listening to such a genre helps to have better sleep and get rid of insomnia.
In addition, this genre helps people to look at their life from a different perspective, similar to how essay service review analyzes college assignments. This helps to determine which areas of your life need improvement.
Classical Music
Classical music can help with mental health in several ways:
● Cognitive Enhancement. This genre has been shown to enhance cognitive function, including memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Listening to classical songs while studying or working can improve focus and productivity.
● Pain Management. Classical music is believed to reduce pain perception.
● Sleep Aid. This genre also helps to improve sleep quality. Its calming melodies can promote restful sleep and reduce the incidence of sleep disturbances.
Jazz
If you want to boost your mood and be more productive you should listen to Jazz. This genre often features upbeat and lively melodies that help your body stimulate the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and happiness.
In addition, jazz songs can convey a wide range of emotions, including joy, excitement, and enthusiasm. Listening to jazz can help individuals connect with these positive emotions and promote a sense of happiness and contentment.
Folk Music
Many folk songs tell stories of everyday life, such as love, work, and family, as well as stories of historical events and cultural traditions. The storytelling aspect of this genre can help individuals connect with their cultural heritage and promote a sense of community and belonging. This is especially useful for those students who are longing for a home.
Folk music can be a valuable tool for promoting emotional expression and connection. The simple melodies and lyrics of folk songs can help individuals express their emotions and connect with others who may be going through similar difficulties.
Lo-fi
Lo-fi music often features a combination of samples, field recordings, and electronic instrumentation, and is known for its warm and nostalgic sound. Its slow, repetitive melodies and gentle rhythms help to relax and reduce stress and anxiety. Moreover, the nostalgic and introspective nature of lo-fi can provide a source of comfort and emotional support.
In addition, many individuals use lo-fi songs as a tool for studying or working. While most students turn to the best dissertation writing services for help, others turn on lo-fi and get down to business. Its repetitive and soothing sound can help improve focus and concentration.
Pop Music
Pop is a genre that is characterized by its catchy melodies and upbeat tempo. While it may not seem like an obvious choice for promoting mental health, this genre can be an effective tool for boosting mood and motivation.
The upbeat nature of pop can help increase energy levels and improve overall mood. Additionally, pop music is often associated with positive memories and experiences, which can provide a sense of comfort and nostalgia for listeners.
Heavy Metal
Heavy metal is a genre that is characterized by its intense, heavy sound and dark themes. While it may not be for everyone, studies have shown that listening to heavy metal can have a positive impact on mental health.
Listening to heavy metal can provide a sense of catharsis for individuals who are experiencing intense emotions such as anger or frustration. The loud, aggressive sound of the music can also help individuals release tension and energy in a healthy way.
To Sum It Up
Ultimately, the key is to find music that resonates with you personally and use it as a tool for self-care and emotional regulation.