Gather any number of music business professionals in a room and ask, “What makes a song memorable?” It is possible that you will get as many answers as you have people. If you think of one of your favorite songs, it might be hard to pin down exactly what makes it so.
Lyrics
Two kinds of lyrics can give a song staying power. Those that generate powerful emotions, laughter or are just fun to sing (Henry the VIII, anyone?) will keep a song on your lifelong play list. The other may have some of the aspects of the first, but it has its own appeal. A great chorus can wrap the most cerebral or obscure lyrics in a “chart-able” song package. A strong chorus should have a somewhat predictable melody line and lyrics that are easy to sing well.
Melody
Some genres, such as American Country, aim for predictable patterns and progressions. Most country listeners like the comfort of knowing what to expect from the music. Those, whose tastes run more artistic, like to be teased or challenged by a melody. The charm of being taken to a poignant minor note, when you were expecting a major is entertaining. If the change coincides with a compatible emotion, the result is a memorable melody. In either case, the melody contributes to the staying power of the song.
Talent
Have you ever tried to listen to your favorite song played by a bad band or sung by a terrible singer? It’s painful! While great musicians singing and playing a terrible song can make it palatable, this alone will not make it a hit. So, whether the song requires a symphony orchestra or a single acoustic guitar, good musicians will make a good song great, but not a bad song good.
Songwriters, producers and record company executives spend their careers trying to nail down the right configuration of these ingredients to generate hits. All you have to do is listen.