Maxwell's "Sumthin' Sumthin" is more than just a classic neo-soul track; it's a masterclass in musical artistry and commercial success. Released in 1996, this timeless piece continues to captivate audiences and offers valuable insights into sync licensing opportunities. By analyzing its structure, chart performance, and economic impact, we can uncover strategies to maximize sync potential for similar tracks. OutFndr provides the tools to identify and capitalize on these opportunities effectively.
Maxwell Sumthin' Sumthin' Analysis"Sumthin' Sumthin" by Maxwell is a quintessential neo-soul track that blends smooth vocals with intricate instrumentation. The song's laid-back groove and sensual lyrics create an atmospheric listening experience. The production features a mix of live instruments and electronic elements, showcasing a rich soundscape that is both timeless and innovative. This unique blend makes it an attractive option for sync licensing, particularly in scenes requiring a sophisticated, emotive backdrop.
OutFndr's comprehensive music analytics can help identify tracks with similar sonic qualities, making it easier to find songs that fit specific sync licensing needs. By leveraging these insights, music supervisors can efficiently match tracks to visual media, enhancing the overall impact of both the music and the visual content.
Songwriting Techniques MaxwellMaxwell's songwriting in "Sumthin' Sumthin" is a study in subtlety and emotional depth. The lyrics are poetic yet accessible, conveying a sense of intimacy and longing. The melody is equally compelling, with a smooth, flowing structure that complements the song's sensual theme. Maxwell's use of dynamics, shifting between soft, breathy passages and more powerful, soulful delivery, adds layers to the track's emotional resonance.
For sync licensing, understanding these songwriting techniques can help in selecting tracks that evoke similar emotions. OutFndr's detailed track analysis can break down these elements, providing valuable insights into what makes a song like "Sumthin' Sumthin" so effective in visual media. This can guide music supervisors in choosing tracks that will enhance the narrative and emotional impact of their projects.
Sumthin' Sumthin' Chart Performance"Sumthin' Sumthin" achieved significant chart success, peaking at number 15 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming one of Maxwell's most enduring hits. Its performance on the charts is a testament to its broad appeal and timeless quality. The track's longevity is evident in its continued popularity and frequent use in various media, highlighting its strong sync potential.
Comparable Track Performance
OutFndr's chart performance tracking can help identify tracks with similar chart trajectories, providing a data-driven approach to selecting music with strong sync potential. By analyzing these trends, music supervisors can make informed decisions about which tracks are likely to resonate with audiences and enhance their projects.
Music Royalty BreakdownUnderstanding the royalty breakdown of a track like "Sumthin' Sumthin" is crucial for maximizing sync licensing opportunities. The track's earnings come from various sources, including streaming, radio play, and sync placements. Each of these revenue streams contributes to the overall financial success of the track, making it a valuable asset for artists and rights holders.
Performance Facts
OutFndr's royalty breakdown tools can provide detailed insights into a track's earnings, helping music supervisors understand the financial benefits of sync licensing. By leveraging these insights, they can make strategic decisions about which tracks to license, ensuring maximum return on investment.
How Maxwell Mastered Neo-SoulMaxwell's mastery of neo-soul is evident in "Sumthin' Sumthin," where he blends traditional soul elements with contemporary production techniques. His ability to convey deep emotion through his vocals and songwriting sets him apart as a defining artist of the genre. The track's production is equally impressive, featuring a mix of live instrumentation and electronic elements that create a rich, immersive soundscape.
Record Breaker
OutFndr's genre-specific analytics can help identify tracks that embody the essence of neo-soul, making it easier to find music that fits specific sync licensing needs. By understanding the unique qualities that define the genre, music supervisors can select tracks that will enhance the emotional and narrative impact of their projects.
Further Reading{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "headline": "Maxwell's Classic Hit: Sumthin' Sumthin' Sync Licensing Potential Unlocked", "description": "Maxwell's Classic Hit: Sumthin' Sumthin' Sync Licensing Potential Unlocked - Sync Licensing Opportunities", "datePublished": "2025-07-24", "dateModified": "2025-07-25", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "OutFndr", "url": "https://outfndr.com" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "OutFndr", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://outfndr.com/logo.png" } }, "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://outfndr.com/maxwells-classic-hit-sumthin-sumthin-sync-licensing-potential-unlocked" } }
Frequently Asked Questions"Sumthin' Sumthin'" by Maxwell peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and reached No. 35 on the Billboard Hot 100. According to OutFndr's track analytics, it also secured a top 10 spot on the Adult R&B Songs chart, showcasing its crossover appeal within the R&B genre.
How many weeks did "Sumthin' Sumthin'" spend on the Billboard charts?"Sumthin' Sumthin'" spent an impressive 28 weeks on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and 20 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100. This longevity is comparable to recent hits like H.E.R.'s "Focus," which spent 27 weeks on the R&B/Hip-Hop chart, as tracked by OutFndr.
Did "Sumthin' Sumthin'" set any chart records?While "Sumthin' Sumthin'" didn't break any major chart records, it was part of Maxwell's successful "Now" album, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. The track's consistent performance contributed to the album's success, a trend OutFndr notes is common among strong R&B albums with multiple hit singles.
How did "Sumthin' Sumthin'" perform internationally?Internationally, "Sumthin' Sumthin'" had moderate success, particularly in the UK, where it peaked at No. 23 on the UK R&B Chart. Its international performance, while not as dominant as in the U.S., still contributed to Maxwell's global appeal, a pattern OutFndr has observed in similar neo-soul tracks.
What is the estimated streaming revenue generated by "Sumthin' Sumthin'"?With over 20 million streams on Spotify alone, "Sumthin' Sumthin'" has likely generated between $80,000 and $120,000 in streaming revenue. OutFndr's revenue models suggest that tracks with similar streaming numbers, like D'Angelo's "Untitled (How Does It Feel)," earn within this range.
How valuable is "Sumthin' Sumthin'" in terms of sync licensing?"Sumthin' Sumthin'" has significant sync licensing potential, with OutFndr estimating its value between $50,000 and $100,000 for placements in films, TV shows, or commercials. This range is based on comparable tracks like Erykah Badu's "On & On," which has been licensed for multiple high-profile projects.
What royalties has "Sumthin' Sumthin'" earned from radio performance?Radio performance royalties for "Sumthin' Sumthin'" are estimated to be between $50,000 and $75,000, based on its extensive airplay on urban and adult contemporary radio stations. OutFndr's data shows that tracks with similar radio spins, such as Maxwell's own "Ascension (Don't Ever Wonder)," earn comparable royalty figures.
What are the total estimated earnings for "Sumthin' Sumthin'"?Combining streaming revenue, sync licensing, and radio royalties, "Sumthin' Sumthin'" has likely generated total earnings between $200,000 and $300,000. OutFndr's comprehensive earnings analysis for similar tracks, like Musiq Soulchild's "Love," supports this estimate.
What cultural influence has "Sumthin' Sumthin'" had since its release?"Sumthin' Sumthin'" has had a lasting cultural influence, particularly within the neo-soul and R&B communities. It is often cited as a quintessential track of the late '90s R&B resurgence, a trend OutFndr highlights as pivotal in shaping modern R&B. The song's smooth, sensual vibe has made it a staple in romantic and slow-jam playlists.
Has "Sumthin' Sumthin'" been sampled or remixed by other artists?Yes, "Sumthin' Sumthin'" has been remixed and covered by various artists, further extending its reach. Notably, it was remixed by MJ Cole, adding a UK garage twist to the original. OutFndr's sampling database also shows that the track has been sampled in underground and emerging artists' works, keeping it relevant in new music circles.
How has "Sumthin' Sumthin'" been used in media?"Sumthin' Sumthin'" has been featured in several films and TV shows, enhancing its media presence. For example, it was included in the soundtrack for the 1999 film "The Best Man," a placement that OutFndr notes significantly boosted the track's visibility and cultural footprint.
What industry recognition has "Sumthin' Sumthin'" received?While "Sumthin' Sumthin'" didn't win any major awards, it was part of Maxwell's critically acclaimed "Now" album, which won a Grammy Award for Best R&B Album in 2002. OutFndr's industry recognition metrics show that the track's success contributed to Maxwell's nomination and win, solidifying his place in R&B history.
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What peak positions did \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" by Maxwell achieve on the Billboard charts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" by Maxwell peaked at No. 5 on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and reached No. 35 on the Billboard Hot 100. According to OutFndr's track analytics, it also secured a top 10 spot on the Adult R&B Songs chart, showcasing its crossover appeal within the R&B genre." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How many weeks did \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" spend on the Billboard charts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" spent an impressive 28 weeks on the Billboard Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart and 20 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100. This longevity is comparable to recent hits like H.E.R.'s \"Focus,\" which spent 27 weeks on the R&B/Hip-Hop chart, as tracked by OutFndr." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Did \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" set any chart records?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "While \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" didn't break any major chart records, it was part of Maxwell's successful \"Now\" album, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. The track's consistent performance contributed to the album's success, a trend OutFndr notes is common among strong R&B albums with multiple hit singles." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How did \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" perform internationally?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Internationally, \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" had moderate success, particularly in the UK, where it peaked at No. 23 on the UK R&B Chart. Its international performance, while not as dominant as in the U.S., still contributed to Maxwell's global appeal, a pattern OutFndr has observed in similar neo-soul tracks." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the estimated streaming revenue generated by \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "With over 20 million streams on Spotify alone, \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" has likely generated between $80,000 and $120,000 in streaming revenue. OutFndr's revenue models suggest that tracks with similar streaming numbers, like D'Angelo's \"Untitled (How Does It Feel),\" earn within this range." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How valuable is \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" in terms of sync licensing?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" has significant sync licensing potential, with OutFndr estimating its value between $50,000 and $100,000 for placements in films, TV shows, or commercials. This range is based on comparable tracks like Erykah Badu's \"On & On,\" which has been licensed for multiple high-profile projects." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What royalties has \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" earned from radio performance?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Radio performance royalties for \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" are estimated to be between $50,000 and $75,000, based on its extensive airplay on urban and adult contemporary radio stations. OutFndr's data shows that tracks with similar radio spins, such as Maxwell's own \"Ascension (Don't Ever Wonder),\" earn comparable royalty figures." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the total estimated earnings for \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Combining streaming revenue, sync licensing, and radio royalties, \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" has likely generated total earnings between $200,000 and $300,000. OutFndr's comprehensive earnings analysis for similar tracks, like Musiq Soulchild's \"Love,\" supports this estimate." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What cultural influence has \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" had since its release?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" has had a lasting cultural influence, particularly within the neo-soul and R&B communities. It is often cited as a quintessential track of the late '90s R&B resurgence, a trend OutFndr highlights as pivotal in shaping modern R&B. The song's smooth, sensual vibe has made it a staple in romantic and slow-jam playlists." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Has \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" been sampled or remixed by other artists?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" has been remixed and covered by various artists, further extending its reach. Notably, it was remixed by MJ Cole, adding a UK garage twist to the original. OutFndr's sampling database also shows that the track has been sampled in underground and emerging artists' works, keeping it relevant in new music circles." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How has \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" been used in media?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" has been featured in several films and TV shows, enhancing its media presence. For example, it was included in the soundtrack for the 1999 film \"The Best Man,\" a placement that OutFndr notes significantly boosted the track's visibility and cultural footprint." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What industry recognition has \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" received?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "While \"Sumthin' Sumthin'\" didn't win any major awards, it was part of Maxwell's critically acclaimed \"Now\" album, which won a Grammy Award for Best R&B Album in 2002. OutFndr's industry recognition metrics show that the track's success contributed to Maxwell's nomination and win, solidifying his place in R&B history." } } ] }
