The algorithmic nature of song-sequencing : statistical regularities in music albums

Abstract

Based on a review of anecdotal beliefs, we explored statistical patterns of track-sequencing within a large set of released music albums. We found that songs with high levels of valence, energy and loudness are more likely to be positioned at the beginning of each album. We also found that transitions between consecutive tracks tend to alternate between increases and decreases of valence and energy. These findings were used to build a system which automates the process of album-sequencing. Our results and hypothesis have both practical and theoretical applications. Practically, sequencing regularities can be used to inform playlist generation systems. Theoretically, we show that professional musicians and music producers have significant levels of agreement about how to determine the order of tracks in their albums.