Deconstructing the science of songs
Ed Sheeran is certain of topping Billboard Hot 100 year-end songs of 2017, as "Shape of You" would spend twelve weeks at the summit of the pop hits. John Powell's "Why You Love Music" may change the musical landscape, as attempting to understand the science of songs can lead to several breakthroughs.
In the case of Sheeran, more recording artists will be able to figure out how their lead single will spend ten weeks or more on the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. One might be able to surpass the all-time record, which would be "One Sweet Day" by Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men. (It might take a bit of luck, though.) Furthermore, most artists can only wish most songs in their album will end up as Top 10 hits. (Michael Jackson, his sibling Janet Jackson, and Katy Perry share that rare distinction.) This seems tricky after Billboard would change the process of compiling the hits twenty years ago. More importantly, the book may give singers an idea on how to stay in the business longer. It's a fact that an artist's star power will wane after the release of the third studio album.
Music psychologists have been probing into this mystery since the middle of the 20th century, which could intrigue music fans. Powell might be on a breakthrough, which may (or may not) change the recording landscape. For instance, Los Del Rio brought down (the listeners of) the entire world on their knees after the release of "Macarena". Some feared that it may end up as a national anthem, and they were partly right. (The catchy tune spent 14 weeks on the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart.) They didn't anticipate the reversal of fortune on this duo, such that the Spanish act turned into a one-hit wonder. They might have find some gigs, though.
"Why You Love Music" won't give you tips on how to stop yourself from becoming an embarrassment to your family and friends after hearing "Total Eclipse of the Heart". There are tunes that we love playing again (and again) while singing the tunes that we don't really like at all. Guilty pleasure can be a subjective, if not debatable, topic. There would be a few universal truths: Music can cure insomnia. Classical music can bring out the compulsive shopper in you. Communal music has the ability to bond people together. You can call it the love train. The author would reveal the bigger news, which won't surprise readers at all.
Music can influence one's body clock, even prompt listeners to be happy (or sad) about it. And expect an hour (or two) of dancing. There's no need for an alarm clock (in your room) after you are enthralled at David Benoit's piano skills. It can also be Joe Hishaishi's dreamy compositions. How about the greatest hits by Chicago? It can only be heartbreak. This might prompt you to stay wide awake all night. If you have doubts, then listen to your favorite songs again and again (and again). Don't be surprised if you feel the urge.
