Hey a,

Over the past two days, I've shared my Creative Funnel workflow and why it's designed to help you finish more (and better-sounding) tracks consistently.

But there's still a giant elephant in the room...

Even the best workflow won't help if you're starting with mediocre ideas that are nothing more than a bunch of layered loops.

This is why today I'm going deep on the most important skill of all: creating Strong Core Ideas (SCIs).

Let me ask you something:

If you were in an elevator with one of your musical heroes and they asked to hear your music, what part of the song would you show them?

The answer is obvious: the part with the most emotional intensity.

In a genre like Techno, this could be a bit of the breakdown leading into the main drop of the track. In other genres it might be a bit of the verse or bridge leading into the main chorus.

This is exactly what a Strong Core Idea is.

It's more refined than a loop but less than a full song. It's the heart and soul of your track – the part that makes people feel something.

Here's how to create one:

Start with just a few key elements, but make sure the sound design and sample selection are at the absolute best of your abilities.

Every element needs to count as we want to avoid stuffing the track with too many layers at this point.

Then, quickly expand this into a micro-arrangement of at least 64 bars (usually around 60-120 seconds long).

This isn't just another 8-bar loop. It's an evolving section that captures the emotional core of what your full track will become.

The key difference between a Strong Core Idea and a random loop is that an SCI is deliberately designed to make arranging and mixing your track easy.

When you build a solid SCI first:

Arrangement becomes intuitive (you simply build the track from the inside out)
Mixing falls into place naturally (because you're not cluttering it with unnecessary elements)
You maintain the emotional impact that made you excited about the idea in the first place

Let me share how I personally approach creating SCIs.

I always start by putting myself into an emotional state. This might sound strange, but it's crucial.

Sometimes I'll explore memories of specific club nights that deeply moved me. Other times, it's recalling experiences in nature or exploring a new city. I've even created some of my best work while processing intense emotions from events in my life.

The goal is to create something that resonates with you on a deep emotional level first.

Remember: Emotional connection > technical perfection.

Here's a tactical approach you can try this week:

1. Set aside 90 minutes of uninterrupted time. Put your phone away, close your email, and create a space where you can fully immerse yourself in the process.

2. Start with an emotional prompt. Before you even open your DAW, spend a one or two minutes reflecting on a specific memory or feeling. What sound would capture that emotion?

3. Build your core elements. Start with just 2-3 elements that capture the essence of that emotion. You'll be surprised how much you can express with a characterful kick drum, an evolving pad, and an interesting percussion pattern. Whatever key elements you choose, make sure they convey that emotion. From there on, add no more than 5-10 other elements to complete your SCI.

4. Expand to a micro-arrangement. Quickly develop this core into a 60-120 second section that includes for example a brief breakdown and the main emotional peak of what will become your track. Don't overthink it – focus on maintaining the emotional impact.

5. Trust the process. If it moves you, it's working. If not, no worries. The next SCI is waiting to be created by you and it might be a winner. In the ideation and experimentation phase of the creative funnel, you're allowed to fail. Zero pressure, maximum flow-state.

Once you let go of the concept "this has to turn into a full song" and instead focus on expressing that core emotion, true art can unfold.

Now you're ready to tackle the most difficult part of finishing tracks: The arrangement phase.

But don't worry, I'll share a technique with you that will make arranging your song feel like a Super Mario speedrun with unlimited power-ups.

So watch out for my email tomorrow on the Jigsaw Method. You don't want to miss it.

Your music matters. Let's make it count.

Philip

PS: Want personalized guidance on creating Strong Core Ideas in your specific genre? In our 1:1 coaching and mentoring program, my team and I work directly with a small group of committed producers who want to make massive progress. Spots are limited – book your free 60-minute discovery call to see if we're a good fit.