How Do You Spell HIDDEN TRACK?

Pronunciation: [hˈɪdən tɹˈak] (IPA)

The term "hidden track" refers to a song that is not listed on an album's track listing but can be found by playing the last track and waiting for a period of silence. The spelling of "hidden track" is straightforward, with the /h/ sound at the beginning followed by the /ɪ/ and /d/ sounds. The "e" in "hidden" is pronounced with a schwa sound /ə/, followed by the /n/ sound. The final word, "track," is pronounced with the /t/ and /r/ consonant sounds and the long /a/ vowel sound. [ˈhɪdən træk]

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
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HIDDEN TRACK Meaning and Definition

  1. A hidden track refers to a secret or concealed piece of audio content that is included on a music album or an audio recording, typically after a period of silence or at the end of a track. It is not explicitly listed on the album cover or tracklist, making it more difficult for listeners to discover. Hidden tracks can be found across various genres and have been used by musicians as a creative and playful element, adding intrigue and surprise to the listening experience.

    These tracks are typically not released as singles or promoted by record labels, as their purpose is to reward devoted fans who take the time to explore the full album. Hidden tracks often deviate from the style of the rest of the album, showcasing experimental sounds, alternate versions of songs, humorous content, or even snippets of conversation or outtakes.

    The practice of including hidden tracks originated in the late 1960s and gained popularity in the 1990s with the rise of CDs. The extended capacity of CDs allowed artists to fit additional material after a period of silence following the last listed track. However, with the advent of digital music and streaming platforms, the concept of hidden tracks has become less common, as tracklistings are readily available and easily accessible online. Nonetheless, hidden tracks remain an intriguing and sought-after element for passionate music enthusiasts who appreciate the discovery and surprise factor associated with them.

Etymology of HIDDEN TRACK

The word "hidden track" is a phrase coined in the context of music, specifically referring to a track or a song that is intentionally concealed or hidden on an album. The etymology of the phrase can be understood by breaking it down into its constituent parts: "hidden" and "track".

1. Hidden: The term "hidden" is derived from the Old English word "hydan", meaning "to conceal, keep secret". developed into the Middle English word "hidden" with the same meaning. The sense of secrecy or concealment in the context of a hidden track refers to the fact that it is not immediately apparent or visible on the album.

2. Track: The word "track" has multiple meanings, originating from different sources. In this context, "track" refers to a recorded song or piece of music. The word has its roots in the Old French word "trac", meaning "path, trail".