How to dramatically change the feeling of a song while keeping the melody largely the same?

Question

How to dramatically change the feeling of a song while keeping the melody largely the same? Let's say we have a happy, upbeat pop song and we want to turn it into a sad song (or vice versa). Is it generally possible? Does the feeling of a song depend more on the melody or the harmony? If it can be done, are there any general rules or common patterns that we can follow? One who have time can explore the infinitely many ways, but general rules can serve as good start points and help those with little composing experience. It would be nice if you can provide an example of two passages with the same melody but opposite or very different feelings, and briefly explain the structural differences of the two passages. **Clarification**: Transposing the melody from major and its relative minor is too big of a change for me. If possible, I'd like to preserve the relative pitch of the notes in the melody (but perhaps radically change other stuffs such as the harmony).

Answer 1

You've asked an interesting question, mon ami. And, are doing some Good wondering about the different possibilities of things to try. The feel of a song is, of course, strongly influenced by the melody. Changing from major to minor while using moving the melody with it , will give it the song a different feel. I'm wondering now if there are lyrics involved or is it only instrumental. The song comes to mind that's not exactly what you're asking but still deals a lot with a major/ minor transition. The song that I'm speaking of is, "My Funny Valentine" Rodgers and Hart. It goes from Minor to Major, but does so in the 'bridge' of the song, Then returns back to minor in the last verse. I know it may not be the example you're talking about, but might speak to you and tell you something you weren't looking for. That's why I love writing music. Surprises.

One element you didn't hit in regard to your feel and mood is that of changing something would be that of rhythm, the tempo. Without doing the Major/ Minor thing, you can achieve a dramatic shift in mood and feel with Tempo, and what approach and instrumentation you use change your song's feeling. Well, that's all I got without a second cup of coffee. Best of Luck and Explore! John F.

Answer 2

Hi! How are you today?

Of course, you can do this by using modal interchange. You can use the same degree of a different scale (for example, having a major song and using the IV degree chord of the parallel minor scale... or using both the major and minor versions of the IV degree chord!).

You can hear this in Creep by Radiohead..., for example...

The song goes as: G (I)

Bm (IIIm)

C (IV)

Cm (IVm)!!!!! (minor chord for the IV degree, taken from parallel C minor scale)

This could make a great tool for your songs, even using it in low amounts!

If you're interested in some harmony contemporary harmony lessons please let me know! I'd be glad to assist you.

Have a great week!

Carlos