Unlock Your Creativity: Writing Music with a Random Number Generator

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Use of Random Number Generator in Songwriting
3. Exploring Complex Chord Progressions
   • 3.1. Composition Challenges
   • 3.2. Embracing Simplicity in Chord Progressions
   • 3.3. Incorporating Jazzy Elements
4. The Role of Numbers in Music Theory
   • 4.1. 12 Tone Row and its Implications
   • 4.2. Thinking Outside the Box
5. How a Random Number Generator Works
6. Creating Unique Chord Progressions Using a Random Number Generator
   • 6.1. Choosing the Length of the Chord Progression
   • 6.2. Translating Numbers to Chords
   • 6.3. Exploring Different Musical Styles
7. Examples of Chord Progressions Generated with the Random Number Generator
   • 7.1. Chord Progression 1: E Major 9, F# Minor 7, B Dominant 13
   • 7.2. Chord Progression 2: A Major 7, G# Minor, F# Minor 7, B Major
   • 7.3. Chord Progression 3: A Major 7, B Minor 7, C# Minor 7, D Major 7
8. The Importance of Transitional Chord Progressions
9. The Story Behind "Crappy Christmas"
   • 9.1. Exploring Themes of Job Loss and Personal Struggles
   • 9.2. Musical Representation of Emotions and Events
10. The Benefits of Collaborative Songwriting with Numbers
11. Conclusion

The Use of Random Number Generator in Songwriting

In the realm of music composition, finding inspiration for chord progressions can sometimes be a challenging task. Many composers, including myself, often find themselves falling into the trap of using simple and repetitive progressions. As someone who continually seeks to push the boundaries of my own composition style, I decided to experiment with a different approach: using a random number generator.

Exploring Complex Chord Progressions

Composition Challenges

One of the criticisms I often received was the simplicity of my chord progressions. While simplicity can have its merits, I wanted to venture into uncharted territory and create something entirely different. Using a random number generator seemed like the perfect solution.

Embracing Simplicity in Chord Progressions

For my first attempt at using a random number generator, I set the parameters to generate a three-digit number. The length of the number determined the length of my chord progression. Since chord numbers in music theory range from one to seven, any generated number above seven would be modified accordingly. This created a unique and unpredictable starting point for my compositions.

Incorporating Jazzy Elements

To add flair to my chord progressions, I wanted to infuse a jazzy vibe into the song. After experimenting with different variations, I settled on the key of E and crafted a chord progression consisting of E Major 9, F# Minor 7, and B Dominant 13. These rich and complex chords formed the foundation of the song, creating a pleasant and easy-to-listen-to jazz-inspired sound.

The Role of Numbers in Music Theory

12 Tone Row and its Implications

When people hear about the combination of numbers and music, the 12 tone row technique often comes to mind. This highly structured approach may not always result in the most pleasing or accessible music. However, there are other ways to harness the power of numbers in music composition.

Thinking Outside the Box

In my case, I wanted to avoid the complexities associated with techniques like the 12-tone row and explore new possibilities. By using numbers from a random number generator, I found a way to engage with numbers differently, producing captivating and original chord progressions that were both easy to listen to and intriguing.

How a Random Number Generator Works

A random number generator is a tool that generates numbers in a random sequence. These numbers can be utilized in various ways, including in music composition. The length and range of the generated numbers can be customized according to the desired outcome.

Creating Unique Chord Progressions Using a Random Number Generator

Choosing the Length of the Chord Progression

To begin the composition process, I decided on the desired length of the chord progression. By adjusting the parameters of the random number generator, I could generate numbers that matched the intended length.

Translating Numbers to Chords

Next, I assigned each generated number to a specific chord. Since chord numbers typically range from one to seven, any generated number exceeding seven was simplified by mapping it back to the range of one to seven. This ensured that the resulting chord progression remained within the boundaries of traditional music theory.

Exploring Different Musical Styles

An advantage of using a random number generator is its ability to break away from familiar patterns and explore new musical styles. By tweaking the generated chord progressions and experimenting with different chords, I was able to introduce elements of jazz, creating a fresh and captivating sound.

Examples of Chord Progressions Generated with the Random Number Generator

Chord Progression 1: E Major 9, F# Minor 7, B Dominant 13

This chord progression served as the foundation of my song "Crappy Christmas." The soulful quality of the E Major 9 chord, coupled with the melancholic F# Minor 7 and the resolving B Dominant 13, sets the mood for the narrative of the song.

Chord Progression 2: A Major 7, G# Minor, F# Minor 7, B Major

This chord progression acts as a transitional section between two number-generated progressions. The shift to the key of A and the combination of A Major 7, G# Minor, F# Minor 7, and B Major chords creates a distinct and iconic segment in the song.

Chord Progression 3: A Major 7, B Minor 7, C# Minor 7, D Major 7

This progression, modulated later in the song, adds depth and variation to the composition. The combination of A Major 7, B Minor 7, C# Minor 7, and D Major 7 chords gives the song a sense of progression and musical development.

The Importance of Transitional Chord Progressions

Transitional chord progressions play a vital role in maintaining a smooth flow between different sections of a song. In my case, I recognized the need for a transitional progression between two number-generated progressions to create cohesion and enhance the overall listening experience.

The Story Behind "Crappy Christmas"

"Crappy Christmas" tells the story of a character who, around Christmastime, finds himself unemployed and hesitant to share the news with his loved ones. The lyrics follow his journey as he drives aimlessly through the night, trying to release his frustration. The narrative takes a dramatic turn when his car breaks down, leading to a climactic moment at a bridge.

Exploring Themes of Job Loss and Personal Struggles

"Crappy Christmas" delves into themes of job loss and the emotional toll it takes on an individual. By incorporating these elements into the storytelling, the song offers relatability and resonance to anyone who has experienced similar hardships.

Musical Representation of Emotions and Events

Certain sections of the song aim to depict specific events and emotions. For example, the bridge section simulates the feeling of running through the doubled chords, energetic drumming, and rapid piano playing. The bass guitar adds a touch of worry, further enhancing the narrative.

The Benefits of Collaborative Songwriting with Numbers

Working with a random number generator felt like collaborating with another composer. By utilizing numbers and equations, I was able to create my own set of rules and venture into unexplored musical territories. This unconventional approach gave me the freedom to experiment and unleash my creativity without constraints.

Conclusion

Incorporating a random number generator into my songwriting process opened doors to endless possibilities and allowed me to create unique and captivating chord progressions. By breaking away from familiar patterns and exploring new musical styles, I discovered the joy of musical experimentation. So, whether you're a composer looking for a fresh approach or an artist seeking inspiration, don't underestimate the power of numbers in music. Let your creativity soar and see where the journey takes you.