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Songwriter Forum => Competitions => Topic started by: Wicked Deeds on October 11, 2023, 07:15:26 PM

Title: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 11, 2023, 07:15:26 PM
If there is enough interest,  I thought it might be a good idea to have another challenge once 'Old For New' is completed.

This involves three draws: 

The 1st draw will involve selecting the name of a forum member wishing to participate. 

The 2nd draw will involve selecting a subject for each forum member to write about.

The third draw will select a musical key that the song must be written in.

Finally, I'm happy to write out the relevant chords for each key so that participants don't have to work them out.

It's early stages and the 'New For Old' challenge is still ongoing but it would be good to discover if this proposal appeals to anyone.  Answers on a postcard, please.

Thanks

Paul

Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: ChrisPrice on October 12, 2023, 06:07:39 PM
Go on then. I haven't taken part in a challenge since the 'headline' jobbie a while back which had me writing a crazy song about 'Sasquatch'!!
Count me in. :)
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: pompeyjazz on October 12, 2023, 06:50:50 PM
Yeah - I'm in too @Wicked Deeds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22987)  :)
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: MonnoDB on October 12, 2023, 07:33:16 PM
Hmmmmm.... maybe.... I don't do challenges but this appeals to me as a prompt....
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: PaulAds on October 12, 2023, 07:46:24 PM
Yeah...count me in too  :)
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: adamfarr on October 12, 2023, 10:07:04 PM
I seem to do better starting with a restrictive brief than freestyling, so maybe maybe maybe!
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 14, 2023, 08:54:17 AM
@adamfarr (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20124), @paulads, @MonnoDB (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=19820), @pompeyjazz (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20269), @Chris Price, that's great news and I hope that you are all able to take part. I'll keep an eye on the 'Old For NEw' challenge and when it has ran its course, I'll arrange to set this in motion. Of course, I'll hapilly join in with this challenge too. 

All forum members are welcome so please include your name in this thread.  If the 'New for Old' challenge is over, I'll arrange the draw for next weekend.

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 14, 2023, 11:00:47 PM
Ok, the song titles for the key challenge are:

1. The Emperors New Clothes.

2. Exclusive.

3. Making Progress.

4. Tell Me about Donna.

5. Beneath The Street Lamps.

6. 24 Hours, No More.

7. The Wonder Of The Universe

8.  Caught In The Lens.

9. 5 Miles From The Coast.

10. A Phone Call At Midnight.

11. Suitably unimpressed.

12.  When .com Didn't Exist.


Names of contestants will go into hat number one.

The 12 song titles as listed above will go into hat number two.

keys will go into hat number three (24 keys; major and minor will go into the hat, you could get either major or minor)

Each person will get one of the above titles, and a key to write in, including a list of chords belonging to that key.  It's not important that we cover all musical keys or all of the song titles.  Once again, 5 entrants would be enough to make this challenge worthwhile and I believe that we are almost there.   However, if there eare more entrants, then even better!

Thought I'd prepare a list of titles to get everyone thinking.

Additional note: if for example we only attract 6 entrants, you can decline the song title/key drawn from the hat and accept a second choice.

Apologies if I'm running ahead with this but I really want to get the forum moving again.

Paul








Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 15, 2023, 07:10:54 PM
Ok, the song titles for the key challenge are:

1. The Emperors New Clothes.

2. Exclusive.

3. Making Progress.

4. Tell Me about Donna.

5. Beneath The Street Lamps.

6. 24 Hours, No More.

7. The Wonder Of The Universe

8.  Caught In The Lens.

9. 5 Miles From The Coast.

10. A Phone Call At Midnight.

11. Suitably unimpressed.

12.  When .com Didn't Exist.


Names of contestants will go into hat number one.

The 12 song titles as listed above will go into hat number two.

keys will go into hat number three (24 keys; major and minor will go into the hat, you could get either major or minor)

Each person will get one of the above titles, and a key to write in, including a list of chords belonging to that key.  It's not important that we cover all musical keys or all of the song titles.  Once again, 5 entrants would be enough to make this challenge worthwhile and I believe that we are almost there.   However, if there eare more entrants, then even better!

Thought I'd prepare a list of titles to get everyone thinking.

Additional note: if for example we only attract 6 entrants, you can decline the song title/key drawn from the hat and accept a second choice.

Apologies if I'm running ahead with this but I really want to get the forum moving again.

Paul

Apologies for bumping this thread. We need it to remain at the forefront as it will promote a more vibrant forum. Everyone is welcome to join in!

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: PaulAds on October 15, 2023, 07:12:26 PM
Some great topics there…I’m looking forward to this 😀
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: pompeyjazz on October 15, 2023, 09:15:23 PM
This is going to be interesting. Looking forward to it 😀
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Nick Ryder on October 16, 2023, 03:45:04 PM
Hi Paul,

I'd love to take part but I just don't have the time at the moment. I'm going to watch with interest though.
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 22, 2023, 08:23:11 AM
Good morning,

Thought I'd check in to remind everyone about this challenge and hopefully to attract one or two more entrants.  As I see it, we have both definites and maybes:

Definites:

@ChrisPrice (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22723)
@PaulAds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20253) 
@pompeyjazz (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20269) 
@Wicked Deeds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22987)

Maybe:

@MonnoDB (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=19820)
@adamfarr (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20124)

So, I'll be pushing this over the next week.  Next friday, a decision will be made to see if this has potential.  I'll then make the drawer if that is the case.

I know challenges are not everyone's cup of tea but if you can find it within yourself to take part then I urge you to do so.  The forum has seen a little bit of a revival lately and everyone benefits from activities like this as there is a greater footfall and member's songs receive more reviews.

Let's make this a success!

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: ChrisPrice on October 22, 2023, 07:48:37 PM
I'm ready! Well, ready as I'll ever be!! :)
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 22, 2023, 09:55:39 PM
Thanks @ChrisPrice (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22723), I was hoping for at least 5 definitely but will make the draw for the benefit of those who have stressed an interest. 

I do wonder what it takes to persuade people to embrace initiatives like this. I know we are all busy but it is appreciated when members become involved. If time is a problem, submit a single instrument and vocal or perhaps collaborate with another member.

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 23, 2023, 01:36:09 PM
A quick reminder that Friday is the deadline to stress interest in this challenge.

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 24, 2023, 07:09:17 PM
A reminder that this challenge is active and we are hoping to attract more forum members to take part. The deadline to
Stress interest in taking part is Friday.

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: MichaelA on October 24, 2023, 07:52:44 PM
Hi Paul, well it is about time I got my lazy arse into gear and did a song for a change. Although your concept might be a bit challenging for me as I can only sing in D!  :D

But it will be very nice to rub shoulders again with one or two old mates off here.

So count me in. 👍

All the best.
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 24, 2023, 08:44:12 PM
A reminder that this challenge is active and we are hoping to attract more forum members to take part. The deadline to
Stress interest in taking part is Friday.

Paul

That's brilliant news @MichaelA (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=21274),  it sometimes feels like platting tomato soup trying to drum up interest in community activities for the forum.

So, the list is now:

Definites:

@ChrisPrice (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22723)
@PaulAds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20253)
@pompeyjazz (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20269)
@Wicked Deeds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22987)
@MichaelA (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=21274)

Maybe:

@MonnoDB (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=19820)
@adamfarr (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20124)

Could the above please let me know if they are still intending to enter. It now looks like it could be worthwhile.

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 24, 2023, 08:46:14 PM
As a reminder, the song titles that will go into the draw will be:

1. The Emperors New Clothes.

2. Exclusive.

3. Making Progress.

4. Tell Me about Donna.

5. Beneath The Street Lamps.

6. 24 Hours, No More.

7. The Wonder Of The Universe

8.  Caught In The Lens.

9. 5 Miles From The Coast.

10. A Phone Call At Midnight.

11. Suitably unimpressed.

12.  When .com Didn't Exist.

There's still room for forum members to join the challenge.

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: pompeyjazz on October 24, 2023, 08:47:57 PM
Great to see that you’ll be participating @MichaelA (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=21274) This is going to be fun !
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: MichaelA on October 24, 2023, 08:54:24 PM
Well done @Wicked Deeds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22987) for your tenacity. I’m sure that those who join in will all appreciate it.

Cheers also @pompeyjazz (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20269) for welcoming me back in. 😉
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: ChrisPrice on October 24, 2023, 10:14:03 PM
@Wicked Deeds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22987) Yeah, I'm still in.
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: MonnoDB on October 24, 2023, 10:23:38 PM
@Wicked Deeds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22987) I'm in if you can live with a possible inability to meet deadlines....  I'm not convinced I'll make it, but I'd like to try!!!

K
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: PaulAds on October 24, 2023, 11:43:54 PM
I’m definitely still up for it…and it’s great to see that a few familiar faces are going to give it a shot 👍🏻
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 25, 2023, 08:09:40 AM
It's great to see that members are embracing this challenge. 

Hello,  Karen @MonnoDB (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=19820),  there isn't a deadline to complete the challenge.  To steal an overused cliche, the important thing is taking part.

This should be really good.

Paul

Definites:

@ChrisPrice (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22723)
@PaulAds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20253)
@pompeyjazz (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20269)
@Wicked Deeds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22987)
@MichaelA (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=21274)
@MonnoDB (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=19820)

Maybe:

@adamfarr (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20124)

Hello @adamfarr (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20124), would you like me to put your name in the elite group of definites?  ;D. There isn't a deadline for completion.  It would be lovely to have you in the draw for Friday.

I'd like to stress again, that the challenge is open to anyone of our forum members.  It would be great to see one or two newer contributors taking part.  A the moment it's essentially long-term established members.  You'll be more than welcome to take part.

Paul

Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: adamfarr on October 25, 2023, 08:19:35 AM
I’d better be in really hadn’t I?! Can’t be the only party pooper. Less goooooo!
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 25, 2023, 08:25:53 AM
@Adamfarr,

that's fantastic news.   :) I know how much this means to a number of forum members who all want the forum to be vibrant.

@ChrisPrice (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22723)
@PaulAds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20253)
@pompeyjazz (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20269)
@Wicked Deeds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22987)
@MichaelA (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=21274)
@MonnoDB (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=19820)
@Adamfarr

This really helps with preparation for the event


The song titles that will go into the draw will be:

1. The Emperors New Clothes.

2. Exclusive.

3. Making Progress.

4. Tell Me about Donna.

5. Beneath The Street Lamps.

6. 24 Hours, No More.

7. The Wonder Of The Universe

8.  Caught In The Lens.

9. 5 Miles From The Coast.

10. A Phone Call At Midnight.

11. Suitably unimpressed.

12.  When .com Didn't Exist.

There's still room for forum members to join the challenge.  @popitup (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22885) I think you'd like to take part! ;D. @Skub (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20061) I know you're itching to be a part of this!  What do you reckon Rich @cowparsleyman (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=21308)?

Once again, this is open to any forum member who wants to participate.

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: cowparsleyman on October 25, 2023, 11:42:14 AM
@Wicked Deeds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22987) - Paul I'd love to join but I'm in the same boat as @Nick Ryder (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=23004) - it's not that I don't want to, I would LOVE to be more involved in this forum, and you know me, I'd try to inject a bit of vvvoom into it, but for over a year now I really have not been able. I plan to be more involved around June next year, the time I do have available for music is very scarce these days...I'll check this challenge out as it unfolds....Thanks for the mention though man, I appreciate it.

Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: popitup on October 26, 2023, 02:51:55 AM
@Wicked Deeds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22987)  Hi Paul . . . thanks for the invite, must admit I've never done a challenge before, but would love to support this forum ! One thing I don't understand is how long do we have to complete the song ? You can count me in, but if I fail miserably to meet the deadline, I'll still post it here eventually anyways . . .
Lots of good topics you listed, so hope it goes well for me . . . or is part of the challenge to meet the deadline ? (my muse rebels, and writes crap when pressure is applied) :)
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 26, 2023, 08:30:00 AM
@popitup (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22885), Bruce.  That's brilliant news.  There isn't a deadline for completion we're really happy to have you on board.  You'll be in the draw tomorrow.  That's eight people ready to take part in the challenge and is a really good result.  We'd love to push the total up to 10.  There's room for one or two more!

@ChrisPrice (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22723)
@PaulAds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20253)
@pompeyjazz (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20269)
@Wicked Deeds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22987)
@MichaelA (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=21274)
@MonnoDB (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=19820)
@Adamfarr
@popitup (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22885)

This really helps with preparation for the event


The song titles that will go into the draw will be:

1. The Emperors New Clothes.

2. Exclusive.

3. Making Progress.

4. Tell Me about Donna.

5. Beneath The Street Lamps.

6. 24 Hours, No More.

7. The Wonder Of The Universe

8.  Caught In The Lens.

9. 5 Miles From The Coast.

10. A Phone Call At Midnight.

11. Suitably unimpressed.

12.  When .com Didn't Exist.

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 26, 2023, 07:42:54 PM
Andy @kafla (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22842), are you tempted.  It would be great to have you on board.

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Kafla on October 27, 2023, 11:11:26 AM
I am going to answer the bat signal and thrown myself into this….whether I come out the other end or not is a different matter   :o
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 27, 2023, 11:27:35 AM
I am going to answer the bat signal and thrown myself into this….whether I come out the other end or not is a different matter   :o

Brilliant news to begin the day!  You've been added to the wheel of fortune Andy @Kafla.
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: PaulAds on October 27, 2023, 12:50:12 PM
Yay! 😀
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: pompeyjazz on October 27, 2023, 07:37:51 PM
Here is the draw......

Key Challenge

@Kafla      Suitably unimpressed.      D maj Bm
@MichaelA (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=21274)      The Emperors New Clothes.   Dbmaj Bb min
@pompeyjazz (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20269)   24 Hours, No More.         F#maj Eb min
@Wicked Deeds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22987)    A Phone Call At Midnight.      Ab Maj Fmin
@PaulAds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20253)       The Wonder Of The Universe   Bmaj G#min
@MonnoDB (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=19820)   Making Progress.         Cmaj Am
@ChrisPrice (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22723)   Tell Me about Donna.              Ebmaj Cmin
@popitup (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22885)       Exclusive                    Fmaj D min
@Adamfarr   Beneath The Street Lamps.           Bbmaj G min
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 27, 2023, 08:31:38 PM
My favourite titles here are:

Beneath The Street Lamps, Tell Me About Donna, Suitably Unimpressed and The Wonder Of The Universe.  Congratulations therefore to: @Kafla, @PaulAds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20253), @Chris Price, and @popitup (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22885).  If anyone is struggling with their title, the draw included 3 more (titles and Keys) that are changeable.  I'm happy to send a PM with chords upon request if anyone needs to know which chords are in the key that they are writing for.

It was great to see everyone who attended and brilliant to see that the forum is becoming more vibrant.

Paul

Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: pompeyjazz on October 27, 2023, 08:32:08 PM
Great to see you guys that popped into the Zoom call this evening - It was really nice to catch up with you all - Apologies @Nick Ryder (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=23004) as I didn't have my phone with me so didn't see your text  ;)

Here is the live draw..... Looking forward to the compositions - No deadline so do your thang in your own time  :)

Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: PaulAds on October 28, 2023, 12:24:48 AM
It was really excellent to see everyone again 😀

Just like old times…I’d like to do it regularly, if we can…
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: popitup on October 28, 2023, 03:30:58 AM
"Exclusive" ? LOL, so it's turned into more of a Lyrical challenge for me, oh well . . . never won the lottery either . . . missed your lovely faces by 7 hours (I was at work), so thanks for the video !
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: pompeyjazz on October 28, 2023, 09:41:38 AM
I would be more than happy to host a regular(ish) Zoom session if there is an appetite for it  :)
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 28, 2023, 09:48:54 AM
@pompeyjazz (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20269),

Can we offer an alternative title from the unused section of the drawer to @popitup (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22885).  We could extend this to forum members that were in the drawer on a first come, first serve basis.  It might be an idea to list the remaining three tracks.

thanks

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: ChrisPrice on October 28, 2023, 10:21:36 AM
Excellent stuff! I'm on the case with Donna! One of you mentioned kebabs...hmm ;D
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: pompeyjazz on October 28, 2023, 10:31:47 AM
@Wicked Deeds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22987) @popitup (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22885)

The three remaining titles and keys are as follows.....

When .com Didn't Exist.   Emaj C#min
Caught In The Lens.           G maj Emin
5 Miles From The Coast.   Am F#min
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 28, 2023, 11:31:28 AM
Thanks John @pompeyjazz (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20269).
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 28, 2023, 01:48:43 PM
I've really enjoyed the build up to this challenge and can happily say that I've now written my song 'A Phone Call At Midnight'.
Essentially the harmony (chords) vocal melody (albeit with a terrible cold) and the lyrics. I'll start to add instruments and record the vocals again when my voice is better.  What I am going to take away from this challenge is how important it is to write in as many different keys as you are able to and think about the chords that we use to create specific moods.  I've written something that I think is quite charming that perhaps I would not have done so If I hadn't written to a title and defined key. I really enjoyed the writing task, which is what it is all about.

paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: adamfarr on October 28, 2023, 02:16:56 PM
Great to see everyone again yesterday. Definitely up for doing this more often. Stunningly, though, my entry is still not ready!
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: pompeyjazz on October 28, 2023, 02:32:46 PM
I’ll do another Zoom in 2 weeks time ? 24 Hours No More in F#maj Eb min is under construction!
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: ChrisPrice on October 28, 2023, 06:44:17 PM
I too have now written my song.. 'Tell Me About Donna' in Eb. I'm going to start recording it tonight. It may take me a few days to complete but I'm looking forward to the challenge. Working to a specific key, particularly one in which I wouldn't normally write, is good for me. Donna Kebab?..I was bloody tempted!!  ;D
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 28, 2023, 06:52:37 PM
I too have now written my song.. 'Tell Me About Donna' in Eb. I'm going to start recording it tonight. It may take me a few days to complete but I'm looking forward to the challenge. Working to a specific key, particularly one in which I wouldn't normally write, is good for me. Donna Kebab?..I was bloody tempted!!  ;D

Great work Chris. I'm going to recover from a heavy cold before I sit down to produce. Great speedy work my friend

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: pompeyjazz on October 28, 2023, 07:17:02 PM
I'm really enjoying this - Like you say @ChrisPrice (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22723) Working in a key that you wouldn't usually makes it interesting !!
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: MonnoDB on October 28, 2023, 11:02:49 PM
@Wicked Deeds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22987) - done already??? WHAT? That's a bit impressive!!

Noted re title and key.. So I have to write a positive song in a low key then?? No problem at all!  :o

Will be interested to see where this goes..

Thanks for organising!!!

K
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 29, 2023, 12:12:46 AM
@MonnoDB (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=19820),

I've been writing for almost 42 years and enjoy this activity more than any other. I'll go on to produce but it could never inspire me the way that I am inspired when it's just me, inventing chords, rhythms, lyrics and melodies. That's really when all of the magic takes place.

Your song can be positive or otherwise. I began writing a dark song then stopped myself for something that is playful and light..I'm confident that your song will be exceptional either way

I've enjoyed organising this and bringing everyone together. Thank you for taking part. I'm looking forward to hearing your work!

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on October 29, 2023, 02:16:51 PM
I realised today that my song needs only a limited selection of instruments.  It's pretty much good to go except I can't shake my cold at all. and therefore won't be able to sing 'til later in the week or perhaps the following week.  I know that I wouldn't have written this song without the guidelines of the 'Key" challenge so am thankful for that.  I love the song that I've written. I'm tempted to say that it is beautiful.  I've taken so much enjoyment from the writing aspect of the challenge.

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: ChrisPrice on October 30, 2023, 01:34:37 AM
I too have now written my song.. 'Tell Me About Donna' in Eb. I'm going to start recording it tonight. It may take me a few days to complete but I'm looking forward to the challenge. Working to a specific key, particularly one in which I wouldn't normally write, is good for me. Donna Kebab?..I was bloody tempted!!  ;D

Great work Chris. I'm going to recover from a heavy cold before I sit down to produce. Great speedy work my friend

Paul
Yeah, I've been a bit rough around the gills myself of late. I've now completed a full rhythm track which I'm chuffed with. I'm hoping for a good day asap when the pipes are clear so I can belt out some respectable vocals. Meanwhile I've got some brass stabs and a lead guitar to do. This key challenge thing is great! It's made me come up with one or two tricks which I wouldn't usually have thought of. Hoping I can make it to the next Zoom meeting. :)
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: pompeyjazz on November 01, 2023, 04:16:34 PM
I’ve just about finished my song for the challenge but as @ChrisPrice (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22723) has posted his submission I’ll wait a few days before posting on the forum  :)
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on November 01, 2023, 05:40:11 PM
I wonder if there's a way of adding each of the songs to a dedicated thread or if we should load them all on to a free SoundCloud page with a permanent link available on the forum.

If we do this, it won't really matter if those that are ready, add their track to the finished songs section. We can always refer to the SC page or other platform link and out efforts won't disappear overnight. It's also a good advertisement for the forum.

Suggestions are welcome.

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: pompeyjazz on November 01, 2023, 06:10:36 PM
A Soundcloud playlist under the UK songwriter user ? I've got access to that and can set up if required  :)
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: pompeyjazz on November 01, 2023, 06:23:10 PM
How about this ?

https://soundcloud.com/songwriterforumuk/sets/the-key-challenge/s-r3D2v55GhSd?si=c0f8ccb1f3644588bee7b2d2e9b3ce22&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

Private playlist atm but I can make public if it's agreed

John
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on November 01, 2023, 06:39:54 PM
Yeah, that's cool John, @pompeyjazz (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20269).  I've made one too but am happy to delete it. If everyone is happy, I think we should start to populate it with songs.  Please upload your song John and I will send mine across to you so that you can upload it.

It's all coming together.

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: pompeyjazz on November 01, 2023, 06:43:02 PM
@Wicked Deeds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22987) Great - I'll do that !
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on November 01, 2023, 06:48:56 PM
@pompeyjazz (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20269),

I'd forgotten that there is already a showcase soundcloud page in existence.  I'd be more than happy to add my work to this page.

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on November 01, 2023, 06:57:10 PM
Hello John @pompeyjazz (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20269).  I've sent a track across to you for the soundcloud page.

Paul
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: ChrisPrice on November 01, 2023, 08:45:25 PM
How about this ?

https://soundcloud.com/songwriterforumuk/sets/the-key-challenge/s-r3D2v55GhSd?si=c0f8ccb1f3644588bee7b2d2e9b3ce22&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

Private playlist atm but I can make public if it's agreed

John
Looks good to me John. :)
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: pompeyjazz on November 02, 2023, 08:19:22 AM
Playlist added to UK Songwriter Forum Soundcloud page

https://soundcloud.com/songwriterforumuk/sets/the-key-challenge
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: PaulAds on November 02, 2023, 08:26:12 AM
Great job…off for a listen now…I’m sure I’ll get some much needed inspiration 👍🏻
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: ChrisPrice on November 02, 2023, 09:42:19 AM
Playlist added to UK Songwriter Forum Soundcloud page

https://soundcloud.com/songwriterforumuk/sets/the-key-challenge
Cool! Looks good. :)
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Kafla on November 03, 2023, 06:29:00 PM
Be back soon….

That’s my song written, produced and vocals down….need to spend some time mixing now….

It’s wonderfully bonkers  :o

Much love

Kafla 
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: ChrisPrice on November 03, 2023, 08:26:41 PM
Thought I'd better not bump my song up the list again, but here's part of what robertwill had to say about my effort over on the other forum:

'Most of it is good but there's a part near the end that sounds amateurish. Sorry to be so harsh! Just my opinion!'

He maybe right of course but.. ;D
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: PeteS on November 05, 2023, 10:45:01 PM
Just catching up on this for reviewing some of the entrants.  Do you have to use both keys?
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: Wicked Deeds on November 06, 2023, 01:21:31 PM
Hello @PeteS (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=22588),  please feel free to take one of the remaining titles:

When .com Didn't Exist.   E Maj C#min
Caught In The Lens.         G Maj Emin
5 Miles From The Coast.   AM F#min

I think that they are all great titles and to be hones would have preferred either of the above over the title that I got in the drawer.

For anyone wishing to do the same please note that both Major and relative minor keys share the same chords.
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: MonnoDB on November 11, 2023, 10:52:34 PM
Sorry for my tardy response on this thread... I have been playing around with this.. I've written 4 full lyrics, 3 I've thrown in the bin and I'm playing with the 4th at the moment...

I'm thinking I'm not suited to challenges - I've never written from a title and I'm not sure I can... The lyric I'm working on at the moment has the title as the opening line but I'm not too worried about that cos it's all about prompting a song so if I get a song out of it, regardless of fitting in the rules or not, I'm happy!

I shall update anon...

K
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: PaulAds on November 12, 2023, 10:40:46 AM
Yeah…I’m still nowhere with this. I’d thrown a few chords together…and have the outline of a story with some lyrics, but seem to have lost the motivation on it. I’ll have another look at it this week and see what I can do.
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: popitup on November 13, 2023, 04:46:55 AM
I've posted my song contribution for this "Key Challenge" in the Finished Songs area of the forum . . . seems to be what everyone else did.
Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: PaulAds on November 18, 2023, 05:17:24 PM
Well...this nearly killed me  :-[

Wrong key for my increasingly tired voice, no inspiration, apart from the shameful episode I decided to write about, and for a variety of reasons I've probably mentioned before, I really wasn't at the races for this one at all...but I said I'd do something and all of the other guys managed to get their shit together, so I felt I had to do something. I won't post it in "finished songs" as I haven't been reviewing, and it's anything but my finest moment, but here it is anyway. I didn't even bother picking up a guitar.

I was wrestling with a middle 8 and chorus but I just thought "what's the point" ?

I think I'm done here, this time...ta for everyone for inspiring me to keep at it. I will likely try and catch up on Zoom now and then.

I'll try and review the other entrants before I toddle off...thanks to Paul for making such a great effort to inject some life into the forum.




Starfish Prime

Your quest to escape
The scene of the crime
Clearly collectively
Losing your mind
Lighting it up
For the very first time
Destroying
Your own paradigm

You don’t come in peace
You come to deprave
You soil your own nest
Just to get what you crave
So it’s little surprise
That you reach for the stars
In search
Of new abattoirs

You see self-destruction
And seek to go faster
You turn to the dark side
And make it your master
There you boldly go
Embracing disaster
Perdition
Per ardua, ad Astra

It's about the time that the USA decided to detonate a 1.4 megaton atomic bomb in space. As you do. You could look it up, if you haven't already heard about it...it's not as though it was newsworthy or particularly interesting, after all. It was back in 1962 and although it was mentioned at the time, they later probably just decided to pretend it never happened...like an awful lot of other disgusting shit that goes on. It's the sort of thing that makes me wonder if I am actually on the same planet as these monsters.

Title: Re: "The Key challenge"
Post by: pompeyjazz on November 18, 2023, 06:08:08 PM
This is another cracker from you @PaulAds (http://www.songwriterforum.co.uk/index.php?action=profile;u=20253) Love those happy little arpeggios that contrast with the lyrics so well. Great driving bass and cool guitars. Amazing how the bomb was just swept under the carpet. Was watching a program about 1971 last night when some activists broke into an FBI office and uncovered some of the very unsavoury surveillance that the FBI were undertaking at that time on "Communists" All hush hush stuff of course. Brilliant as ever Paul  :)