I scratched my head for ages. Which track from my recent album should I give away for free? My favourite? My least favourite? Something in the middle?
Despite writing the album in ten weeks, in hindsight it turned out quite well, with four of the tracks – Robot Go Disco / Crush / Lullaby / Do Be Do – ranking amongst my best work (in my not-so-humble opinion).
But more than that, after a few months and a number of listens, I’ve realised that Lullaby might be my personal favourite. Out of anything I’ve ever written. I get goosebumps every time (especially at the ridiculous “Whitney Houston” drum hit). This could be down to the subject matter, but even taking this into account may I rather immodestly suggest that it kicks some serious butt?
It feels weird to give away your best work. Despite all my big talk about the new reality, for someone who’s been a participant in the traditional industry for a good few years, there’s still a residue of attachment to the old model of ownership. I mean, I’m not giving away all my music for free (yet) am I? Doesn’t giving Lullaby away for free then devalue it and suggest that it’s worth less than the ones which cost something?
No. Because as a gift it has to be the very best of me. And I hope you enjoy it.