By way of Heather McDonald’s Music Careers blog, I just learned of this wacky new program called Microsoft Songsmith. What is it? I could tell you, but I think you should find out the way I did by watching this cheese-tastic video:
Judging from some online reactions, I’m not sure if musicians will take this software very seriously. But who said you had to take it seriously? At a retail price of $30, it’s not like you’re breaking the bank to purchase some big, advanced software package. It’s a simple program that can have some practical uses as well as some other entertainment value.
I’m going play devil’s advocate and stick up for the underdog here (because I think this Microsoft company could really succeed if they were just given a chance).
If I were in charge of marketing this product, I’d put the focus back on children. I came across this post about another program called Mario Paint for the 16-bit Super Nintendo system. The author writes a heck of a tribute to this simple yet engaging software. He cites it as a major inspiration and reason as to why he got into music, art, and animation. Songsmith could be that other simple utility that sparks some creativity into another generation of youth.
I’m even considering downloading the trial version(except I need to find a microphone first). I think it may have some great entertainment value. I’m picturing another party game along the lines of Guitar Hero or Rock Band. Imagine inviting some friends over, having a few adult beverages, and passing around the microphone to make up your own songs. Lacking improv skills? You can sing anything that you can read (closed captions from the TV, a passage out of a book, the label on your laundry detergent, etc.).
The next day, you’ll be sharing some audio files of your new songs along with your photos and videos from the party. It may be hilarious or it may be utterly obnoxious. Either way, I’m still curious.
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