The music industry can be a confusing place, especially if you’re new to the scene. One of the terms that gets thrown around a lot is EP, which stands for “extended play.” It’s a term that’s been around for a while, but it’s become increasingly popular in recent years. In this article, we’ll decode the music industry lingo and explain what EPs are, why they’re so popular, and how they differ from other music formats.
What Is an EP?
An EP is a musical release that’s longer than a single but shorter than an album. The exact definition of an EP varies, but generally, it’s considered to be a release that contains between 3 and 6 tracks and has a total running time of less than 30 minutes. EPs can be released on a variety of formats, including digital downloads, CDs, and vinyl.
Why Are EPs So Popular?
There are a few reasons why EPs have become so popular in recent years. One reason is that they allow artists to release new music more frequently than they would be able to with a full-length album. Making a full album can take a long time, and it can be expensive, especially for independent artists who have to pay for everything themselves. EPs are a more cost-effective way to release new music and keep fans engaged.
Another reason why EPs are popular is that they give artists the opportunity to experiment with different styles and genres. A full-length album is often viewed as a statement from an artist, and there can be a lot of pressure to stick to a particular sound or theme. With an EP, artists can take more risks and try out new things without committing to a full album’s worth of material.
Finally, EPs are a great way for artists to introduce themselves to new fans. With a shorter running time, EPs are more accessible to people who might not have heard of an artist before. It’s also easier for fans to explore an artist’s back catalog when they have a shorter release to start with.
How Do EPs Differ From Other Music Formats?
EPs are just one of many formats that music can be released on, and they differ from other formats in a few ways.
Singles: A single is one individual track that’s released on its own. Singles are often used to promote a larger album or as a standalone release.
Albums: An album is a collection of songs that’s usually longer than an EP and has a more cohesive theme or sound.
Mixtapes: A mixtape is a collection of songs that’s usually released for free and includes both original tracks and remixes or covers.
EPs fall somewhere in between singles and albums. They’re longer and more substantial than a single but shorter and less cohesive than an album.
Examples of Popular EPs
EPs have been around for a long time, but they’ve become increasingly popular in recent years. Here are a few examples of popular EPs that have been released in the last few years:
1. Drake – Scary Hours
Scary Hours is a three-track EP that Drake released in 2018. The EP was a surprise release and included the hit song “God’s Plan.”
2. Khalid – Suncity
Suncity is a seven-track EP that Khalid released in 2018. The EP was named after his hometown of El Paso, Texas.
3. Billie Eilish – dont smile at me
dont smile at me is a nine-track EP that Billie Eilish released in 2017. The EP featured the hit song “Ocean Eyes” and helped to propel Eilish to stardom.
4. Hozier – Nina Cried Power
Nina Cried Power is a four-track EP that Hozier released in 2018. The EP was inspired by the civil rights movement and featured collaborations with Mavis Staples and Booker T. Jones.
Conclusion
EPs are a great way for artists to release new music, experiment with different sounds and genres, and connect with fans. They’re a popular format that’s been around for a long time, but they’ve become more important in recent years as artists look for new ways to reach their audience. Whether you’re a fan of pop, hip-hop, or indie music, there’s an EP out there for you. So go ahead and give one a listen!
