What makes a good song?
 

I can't really come up with an answer to this one...So I'd like to know what you guys think.

There are really so many variables to what makes a song good:
- Structure
- Hooks
- Melody
- Instrumental talent
- Originality
- "IT"
ETC.

What's your formula for a good tune?

-Structure
-Texture
-Melody
-Rhythm
-Timbre
-Hooks
-Skill
-Drugs

Ok the last three aren't always necessary. But they certainly help.

Sounds.

Maybe it falls into structure...but mood and atmosphere are really the most important aspects to me.

Dynamics are a big one for me. A band that maintains the same volume all the time just bores me.

Nothing specific for me, it's just a feeling. I like or don't like. I think it's easier to say why I don't like a song (what makes a bad song) than what makes a good song...because any number of things could make a good song, not always the same thing.

Unless it's chilled (and then the ambience is key for me), basslines are definitely one for me. I also generally like good production unless it's Punk and then I like it sounding like it was recorded onto a tape recorder. What I do dislike (especially in heavier music) is a tinny drum sound. Really puts me off big time.

Hard to say. What works for one band can sound terrible with another. With that said though, I am a pretty big sucker for string arrangements.

I agree with most of this, particularly the bass lines (mostly in electronic or hip-hop) and the tinny drums in rock/metal. There is some punk in which I enjoy good production, but for the most part yes, it should sound rather rough.

One thing I didn't think of before that's big for me is vocals. Bad vocals can ruin a band for me, no matter how good they are musically. So the same applies at the song level.

- Structure
- Hooks
- Melody
- Harmony
- Instrumental and/ or Vocal skill
- Lyrics
- Originality
- "Soul"
- "Meaning"

The last two are far too abstract to define or categorize, but what should occur when one hears a song with "soul" and "meaning" is that they would know it instantly.