Short Songs: The Trend and Reality in Today’s Music Industry

Music has evolved over the years, and with the advent of streaming services and the digital age, the length of a song has become an interesting point of discussion. Can a song be as short as just 40 seconds? This article explores the reality and implications of short songs in the current music landscape.

Can a Song Be Only 40 Seconds Long?

Surprisingly, the answer is yes. While most songs you see and hear are much longer, there are instances where a 40-second song can be created and appreciated. Punk, experimental, and some pop music genres often feature short tracks that serve specific purposes such as enhancing a particular emotion or delivering a direct message. Some artists intentionally embrace brevity, and shorter songs can also fit well with the trend of quick consumption and social media sharing.

However, when it comes to official releases and distribution, the 40-second mark becomes a challenge. Streaming services and PROs (Performing Rights Organizations) typically have a minimum length requirement of 60 seconds. Most distributors will not even consider uploading songs shorter than this benchmark. Despite this, it is possible to upload a 56-second song with some effort, but it's not recommended.

Why 60 Seconds?

The 60-second minimum length is a by-law of streaming. It ensures that artists' names and copyright information are properly included in metadata, facilitating better discovery and monetization. Distributors, like PROs, require this minimum length to ensure that songs are cataloged and distributed effectively.

Some stores may even remove songs that fail to meet these criteria later on, especially if they violate the terms and conditions of the platform or the store. I experienced this firsthand with a 56-second release, which I had to take down after it was distributed.

Other Considerations and Exceptions

Interludes can be an exception to the 60-second rule. However, it's still best to adhere to the minimum limit of 60 or even 61 to 62 seconds to account for compression safety during the exportation and distribution process.

Furthermore, building a song that is 40 seconds long is challenging. It would require a rhythmic and melodic structure that can effectively convey a message or emotion within such a short duration. For example, a song like Blast Test by the band East West Blast Test, which is built on 27 rapid-fire drum flurries, is a prime example of brevity and effectiveness.

The band members in East West Blast Test utilized the digital age to their advantage. The drummer is based on the West coast, and the guitarist is on the East coast. They would send recordings back and forth to create their music, giving rise to a unique and dynamic sound. Their work is a malleable masterpiece that is at once percussive, progressive, and utterly proficient.

Many artists find inspiration in creating short songs that fit the quick consumption trends of today's music industry. This trend is especially prevalent in genres like punk and experimental music, where the message and emotion can be delivered in a concise and impactful manner.

Conclusion

While a 40-second song may be possible and even impactful in certain contexts, the music industry generally adheres to a 60-second minimum. Artists who embrace brevity face challenges in distribution, but the trend towards shorter songs is evident. Songs like East West Blast Test showcase the potential of creating powerful and effective music within a limited timeframe.