5 tips to give your compositions a summer vibe

As the sun warms the air and days grow longer, the call of summery songs is irresistible. We've got you covered this summer with a collection of tips to add that summery flair to your compositions. Remember, these are just tips and not must-haves! We hope you find this useful.

Tip #1: Nominative syncopation

Nothing evokes feelings of summer more than a syncopated beat! Latin music is well known for its use of syncopation, or nominative syncopation. Syncopation is defined as the disturbance or interruption of the regular flow of rhythm: a placement of rhythmic stresses or accents where they wouldn't normally occur.

This technique works best for dancier tracks, but it can be applied to almost any genre.

Tip #2: Textures & timbre

Considering the timbre of the instruments used in your composition is important for conveying the desired feelings. If dancier music isn't your style, and you prefer a more classical or indie approach, try adding pizzicato textures to your mix. Pizzicato is the act of plucking strings, traditionally on either cello or violin.

This style can easily be achieved with a plug-in using MIDI. The timbre of plucked strings is reminiscent of flowers blooming, and classical strings often draw parallels to nature, as popularized by Vivaldi's 1723 piece, "Four Seasons: Summer." You don't have to use strong strings; other textures, such as hand pans, can also work well!

Tip #3: Major keys

This one is a given and perhaps a little obvious, but it's worth mentioning! Certain keys paired with cadences can set the foundation for your summery compositions. Think of it as scene-setting or the opening shot if you were a movie director.

Tip #4: Tempo

Hit songwriter Stephan Moccio, who wrote Miley Cyrus's summer hit “Wrecking Ball,” tells the CBC: “Our hearts beat at certain specific rhythms.” According to Moccio, 64 BPM is the sweet spot. It's fast enough to keep audience retention but slow enough for those who prefer to enjoy a summer cocktail in peace! Our Metronome app can help keep that rhythm in check. Trust us, your rhythms will become much more synchronized and in tempo.

Tip #5: Additional nonmusical textures

This one's a bit unconventional, but it's commonly used in summer tracks. Take Marvin Gaye’s “Got to Give It Up.” In the background, you can hear what sounds like people enjoying themselves at a pool party.

You don't have to use exactly that; other textures could include light wave sounds or morning bird songs. This scene-setting device immerses the listener in the emotions you're trying to convey in your summery song, adding an extra layer of detail.

Additionally,

If you're having trouble crafting your desired composition, consider seeking help from AI for further inspiration. Numerous AI music production software, such as AIVA, can significantly assist you in creating the perfect summery songs.

Finally, remember that this is your composition, your story, and ultimately you should have the final say on the emotional context of your piece.

So use these tips—or don't. Either way, get up and create something this summer that you're proud of!