The Art of Playlist Curation

“What came first - the music or the misery?” There aren’t many cooler introductions to the art of making a playlist than High Fidelity, the 2000 movie with John Cusack attempting to reconcile his latest failed relationship by making the perfect playlist. So, get ready for quotes from one of the best break-up films of the 21st century and SoSound’s musical guide to curating the perfect playlist.  

“Now, the making of a good compilation tape is a very subtle art.”

Rule 1 of curating a playlist: Figuring out what you are trying to say. By now, you already know if your playlist is going to be for your ears or another’s - we’d argue it’s for both. A playlist is like writing poetry with someone else’s pen. You’re using the words of musicians to convey exactly what you are going through. Most playlists are retrospective by nature. 

“Sentimental music has this great way of taking you back somewhere at the same time that it takes you forward, so you feel nostalgic and hopeful all at the same time.”

Rule 2 of curating a playlist: Choosing the songs. Now you have a story to tell, who is going to tell it? The iconic sounds of Lou Reed? The folky tones of The Beta Band? The genius lyricism of the one and only Bob Dylan? There’s a fine line to walk of new vs nostalgia. Introducing someone to new music is a gift but there has to be a sideline of familiarity in a playlist to hit home with your recipient.  

“You're using someone else's poetry to express how you feel. This is a delicate thing.”

Rule 3 of curating a playlist: Telling the story. Now you’ve got your dozen or so songs, you have to figure out how to play them. Like any album, it’s the art of putting the songs together that can make or break it. Start off too quick and the playlist will peter out. Too slow and you’ll lose your listener. This is the delicate thing. 

Now you’re armed with the tools to rock, it’s over to you. Personalised playlists are our jam, so for your businesses needs you may just need the expertise of SoSound. We offer different solutions when it comes to deciding on what subscription is right for you. Get in touch today to choose from our Refresh, Group or Boutique playlist options, then sit back and listen to the magic happen.