As I get older, and hopefully wiser, it has become apparent to me how the best solution to any given problem is simplicity.
As a musician and writer of songs it has become self evident that the key to any memorable piece is the “tune.” Simplicity is a primary ingredient in this case but because the public has heard nearly every combination of melodic possibilities the new challenge is to make a twist which confounds natural expectations. This “twist” can be melodic, harmonic or rhythmic. The element of surprise is what makes a difference and, of course, maintaining some sort of atmospheric charm. On my best “tunes” I get there.
In the end, I feel the most fulfilled by crafting a short, concise piece of music that is hauntingly familiar but altogether new. And if that statement seems presumptuous I apologize but it is just how I really feel.