There is a strange non-relationship between the formal study of music theory and pop music. While there are many music theorists who study/research popular music, most theory classes and textbooks focus on “classical” music and treat pop music as an afterthought at best.
A songwriter or producer trying to learn music theory will likely learn about 16th century counterpoint, the types of cadences in the music of Mozart, and Bach-style voice leading. But s/he will not be taught some of the most crucial skills for his/her development. Non-functional chord loops, melodic strategies of producers like Max Martin, sound design, and tension/release in sound production are just a few of the many aspects of pop music that songwriters and producers need to figure out for themselves.
In founding Top40 Theory, my goal is to give pop songwriters and producers music theory knowledge that is directly relevant to every aspect of their work. As I add more and more content, I want Top40 Theory to become a resource for creators who are looking for ways to choose more interesting chord progressions, who want their melodies to sound tighter, who need help finishing their songs, and who want to become better collaborators.
Most importantly, I want Top40 Theory to inspire pop creators to be as creative as possible and to maximize their own unique talents. Learning the 'rules' of pop music helps creators become fluent in the musical language of pop and gives them tools to work with, which is extremely important. But in my opinion, the #1 rule of pop music is this:
The only way to stand out and have a shot at making a hit is to write the song that only you can write.
My mission is to help you do just that.
Dr. Asaf Peres
A songwriter or producer trying to learn music theory will likely learn about 16th century counterpoint, the types of cadences in the music of Mozart, and Bach-style voice leading. But s/he will not be taught some of the most crucial skills for his/her development. Non-functional chord loops, melodic strategies of producers like Max Martin, sound design, and tension/release in sound production are just a few of the many aspects of pop music that songwriters and producers need to figure out for themselves.
In founding Top40 Theory, my goal is to give pop songwriters and producers music theory knowledge that is directly relevant to every aspect of their work. As I add more and more content, I want Top40 Theory to become a resource for creators who are looking for ways to choose more interesting chord progressions, who want their melodies to sound tighter, who need help finishing their songs, and who want to become better collaborators.
Most importantly, I want Top40 Theory to inspire pop creators to be as creative as possible and to maximize their own unique talents. Learning the 'rules' of pop music helps creators become fluent in the musical language of pop and gives them tools to work with, which is extremely important. But in my opinion, the #1 rule of pop music is this:
The only way to stand out and have a shot at making a hit is to write the song that only you can write.
My mission is to help you do just that.
Dr. Asaf Peres