Could this be underscore?

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irthlingz
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Could this be underscore?

Post by irthlingz » Fri Jul 23, 2021 4:52 pm

Could this be underscore? ---> Background Guitar

Or is it too busy? Or other problems we're not even thinking of :?: :o

Thanks!
Sharon & Michael

Underscore as in:

ACOUSTIC GUITAR-Based UNDERSCORE INSTRUMENTAL CUES are needed by a very successful boutique Music Library that's distributed by Universal and has tons of credits in Big Films, Countless TV Shows, and Commercials!

NOTE: We previously ran this request as TAXI Dispatch Listing #D210710AG, but the Library didn't find what they were looking for. If you submitted to listing #D210710AG, please send different material this time around.

This is a catalog you want to be in! Please listen to the following examples the Library gave us to get yourself in the ballpark of what they need:

Instrumental Examples

Quoting the Library: "We're looking for filigree pattern-based Cues featuring acoustic guitar/stringed instruments that are underscore-friendly. Ideal for storytelling on daily TV and advertisements."

Please send well-produced, underscore-friendly Cues that feature well-played, finger-picked Acoustic Guitar as their focal point. Light percussion, synth pads, soft strings, etc. could be nice touches, as well! Craft your Cues around on clear pattern/motif, and create a sense of forward momentum and dynamics by layering instrumentation in and out as they progress. Your production should be competitive with the references. Please be sure that any virtual instruments or samples you use are modern and high-quality.

TAXI Tip: Although this Company wants pattern-based instrumentals, please keep those patterns on the simple side. Remember, you're not trying to show off what an amazing guitar player you are, so much as creating a vibe, feeling, and emotion, while leaving plenty of room for dialogue to be the focus.

All submissions should be about 2 minutes long, give or take. Good edit points and non-faded, buttoned/stinger endings are required. Do NOT copy the references in any way, shape, or form. Use them only as a general guide for tempo, tone, texture, and overall vibe. Broadcast Quality is needed.

NOTE: This company has a strong preference for composers who understand music licensing companies and how typical music library deals are structured. If that's not you, they politely ask that you don't submit to this request.

This Music Library offers an EXCLUSIVE deal with a cool twist. You’ll keep 50% of all gross income generated by your music, plus you’ll get 100% of the Writer’s share income generated by your PRO. In other words, if the company licenses your music under a blanket deal, you’ll get income. If they license it for a YouTube video, you’ll get income. Not all music libraries pay you for things like that! The Publisher will get 100% of the Publisher’s share.

Because this is an Exclusive deal, the music you submit for this pitch cannot already be signed with other Libraries or Publishers. You must own or control 100% of your Master and Composition rights. Please send as many Instrumental Cues as you’d like, online or per CD. All submissions will be screened and critiqued by TAXI. Submissions must be received no later than 11:59 PM (PDT) on Sunday, August 1st, 2021. TAXI # S210801AG

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Re: Could this be underscore?

Post by AlanHall » Sun Jul 25, 2021 7:09 pm

Hi Michael and Sharon!

I like that you are writing subs for the same listings that catch my eye. For me, these are the ones that appear both relatively easy, and fun! Even then, I may not get a sub finished for the deadline. So I applaud you two for your energy and creativity! :)

The rhythm, the pacing, the guitar articulations all seem spot-on to me. You're well-positioned to make something forward-able here. My other observations:
The chord progression seems a bit too developed compared to the ref tracks. They are almost uniformly I - vi - IV - V or some variation. Possibly a bridge contains some other chords; leading the listener's ear away and then to a deliberate return. The main groove is typically unobtrusive enough that cadence points aren't really heard, even if they are felt as harmonic motion.
Along with that, the pauses at the end of every 8 seems out-of-character with the ref tracks. Some pauses, sure, but not the same over and over. Looking at the ref tracks, they may have a pause after an intro, or a pause before a big finish, or a pause about halfway, or maybe all three. But not so many as you have. Keep the motion up for most of the cue.
I'm not sure what to make of the percussion. It enters, then drops out for most of the cue. Splitting the percs up into layers might give you some options.
I think I hear layers added as you go, but I can't tell what or how many. They all seem to be whole-note pads. More variation, please.
Something weird happens right around the minute mark. Did your sequencer hiccup here for a few beats? The motion stops and then resumes, but like nothing else that happens in the cue.

Please take my comments as they are offered - with gratitude that you do the work, and share - and also help me to critically think about the process that I tend to take for granted all too often!

Alan

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Re: Could this be underscore?

Post by irthlingz » Tue Jul 27, 2021 8:50 pm

Hi Alan - Thanks for the detailed feedback and the encouragement! We will look at all this - hopefully in time to submit!

===
Michael and Sharon

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Re: Could this be underscore?

Post by AlanHall » Wed Jul 28, 2021 7:22 pm

I was out of town last week, just got some acoustic guitar tracked tonight. I'll have to see if I can budget my time to get a cue or two done by Sunday night. I'll try to share when I have something concrete. The catch with my plan is the temptation to enjoy a rare perfect weekend! My sig other is already making plans for me :o

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