Ian,

That looks like a great book - just the contents subheadings nail many things I forget often. I think it's worth a purchase and read.

The things that Robin has highlighted ARE elements of hit songs - again and again. There's one about the 'fake' - set up the listener to expect something, then throw a curveball. The Shins hit from a couple years ago - Phantom Limb - does that in the chorus. There's a natural melody note that the singer should go to, but actually he goes probably a 5th higher - gives me goosebumps every single time I hear it.

I love the title of the subheading "make sure you want to write hit songs - clear out any negative feelings you might have to ....."

I'm gonna grab a copy with my 'burfday' money I got a couple weeks back. One is an Amazon gift certificate so I'm all set!

-Scott

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