The TechTimes Scam by Sascha Ende
Driving indie rock with atmospheric guitars, a narrative female vocal, and a serious, slightly dark tone. Ideal for dramatic scenes, documentaries, corporate critiques, or podcast intros.
- License CC BY 4.0
- Released 30.05.2024
-
Genres
-
Topics
-
Moods
-
Tags
Hybrid digital production workflow using licensed AI-assisted tools. Fully cleared for commercial use.
The TechTimes Scam
30.05.2024
3,749
95
Driving indie rock with atmospheric guitars, a narrative female vocal, and a serious, slightly dark tone. Ideal for dramatic scenes, documentaries, corporate critiques, or podcast intros.
/
04:55
00:01
00:01
Track begins with atmospheric, slightly melancholic layered electric guitars, establishing the moody indie rock feel.
00:18
00:18
Full band entry (bass and drums), creating a steady, driving rhythm section.
00:33
00:33
Female vocal enters, clear and narrative-driven, setting the storytelling focus.
01:06
01:06
First mention of 'TechTimes' in lyrics, directly linking to the song's theme.
01:39
01:39
Chorus section begins ("Tech Times, you're spamming my mind"), lifting the energy slightly and delivering the core critical message.
02:11
02:11
Transition back to verse feel after the first chorus, showcasing dynamic structure.
03:15
03:15
Second chorus, reinforcing the main theme with slightly more intensity.
03:48
03:48
Instrumental bridge section, featuring a more prominent guitar lead and build-up, creating tension.
04:00
04:00
Vocal re-enters with spoken-word feel during the bridge ("We'll spread the word..."), adding a defiant tone.
04:10
04:10
Final vocal lines ("Your scam is up...") before the track fades out on the instrumental groove.
Additional Information
I want to share the story behind my latest track, "The TechTimes Scam". This song was born out of a frustrating experience that many of us in the industry might relate to: falling victim to deceptive marketing practices, specifically unrequested spam emails.
It all started with an unsolicited email from TechTimes, a seemingly reputable tech news website. This email, which landed in my inbox without my consent, offered me a feature in their upcoming article about the best royalty-free stock music platforms of 2024. In Europe, such unsolicited emails are not just annoying—they're illegal. And let's be honest, they're unwelcome in almost every country.
Initially, it sounded like a fantastic opportunity. They promised high visibility, SEO-focused content, and a spot in their top 5 list. All I had to do was pay a hefty fee. The email listed different price points for different spots, with a tempting discount for the No.1 spot if I acted quickly.
As I delved deeper, something felt off. The email seemed too generic, and the promises were too grandiose. I asked for more details, hoping to validate their claims. What I found was a web of misleading information and pay-to-play tactics designed to exploit eager content creators and businesses.
Frustrated by this blatant attempt to monetize false promises, I decided to channel my energy into something creative. Thus, "The TechTimes Spam Scam" was born. This song is my way of shedding light on the deceptive practices that plague our industry. It's a catchy, yet poignant anthem that calls out the scams and encourages others to be vigilant.
I hope this song resonates with you and serves as a reminder to always question too-good-to-be-true offers. Thank you for supporting me and for being part of the journey towards a more honest and transparent creative community.
LYRICS
[Verse]
I got an email, said it’s from TechTimes,
Promising me spotlight, in their digital lines,
Top 5, they said, in royalty-free stock,
All it takes is cash, it’s quite a shock.
[Pre-Chorus]
They talked about reach, SEO dreams,
But something felt off, behind the screens,
Demographics, analytics, all seemed planned,
But the more they spoke, the less I could stand.
[Chorus]
TechTimes, you're spamming my mind,
Selling fake dreams, oh, what a grind,
Pay to play, that's your game,
But we see through, we know your name,
Scammy schemes, wrapped up neat,
TechTimes, you're dancing on deceit.
[Verse]
They offered a discount, just for today,
$4,000 dollars, that’s the price to pay,
For the number one spot, in a list they create,
But it’s all just a ruse, a money-making bait.
[Bridge]
Newsletter reach, and social media hype,
But it’s all for show, just another type,
Of trick and deceit, to pull you in,
TechTimes, your game is wearing thin.
[Chorus]
TechTimes, you're spamming my mind,
Selling fake dreams, oh, what a grind,
Pay to play, that's your game,
But we see through, we know your name,
Scammy schemes, wrapped up neat,
TechTimes, you're dancing on deceit.
[Outro]
So here’s to the spammers, and their shady ploys,
We’ll spread the word, we’ll make some noise,
TechTimes, your scam is up, we’ve seen the light,
No more tricks, we’re ready to fight.
It all started with an unsolicited email from TechTimes, a seemingly reputable tech news website. This email, which landed in my inbox without my consent, offered me a feature in their upcoming article about the best royalty-free stock music platforms of 2024. In Europe, such unsolicited emails are not just annoying—they're illegal. And let's be honest, they're unwelcome in almost every country.
Initially, it sounded like a fantastic opportunity. They promised high visibility, SEO-focused content, and a spot in their top 5 list. All I had to do was pay a hefty fee. The email listed different price points for different spots, with a tempting discount for the No.1 spot if I acted quickly.
As I delved deeper, something felt off. The email seemed too generic, and the promises were too grandiose. I asked for more details, hoping to validate their claims. What I found was a web of misleading information and pay-to-play tactics designed to exploit eager content creators and businesses.
Frustrated by this blatant attempt to monetize false promises, I decided to channel my energy into something creative. Thus, "The TechTimes Spam Scam" was born. This song is my way of shedding light on the deceptive practices that plague our industry. It's a catchy, yet poignant anthem that calls out the scams and encourages others to be vigilant.
I hope this song resonates with you and serves as a reminder to always question too-good-to-be-true offers. Thank you for supporting me and for being part of the journey towards a more honest and transparent creative community.
LYRICS
[Verse]
I got an email, said it’s from TechTimes,
Promising me spotlight, in their digital lines,
Top 5, they said, in royalty-free stock,
All it takes is cash, it’s quite a shock.
[Pre-Chorus]
They talked about reach, SEO dreams,
But something felt off, behind the screens,
Demographics, analytics, all seemed planned,
But the more they spoke, the less I could stand.
[Chorus]
TechTimes, you're spamming my mind,
Selling fake dreams, oh, what a grind,
Pay to play, that's your game,
But we see through, we know your name,
Scammy schemes, wrapped up neat,
TechTimes, you're dancing on deceit.
[Verse]
They offered a discount, just for today,
$4,000 dollars, that’s the price to pay,
For the number one spot, in a list they create,
But it’s all just a ruse, a money-making bait.
[Bridge]
Newsletter reach, and social media hype,
But it’s all for show, just another type,
Of trick and deceit, to pull you in,
TechTimes, your game is wearing thin.
[Chorus]
TechTimes, you're spamming my mind,
Selling fake dreams, oh, what a grind,
Pay to play, that's your game,
But we see through, we know your name,
Scammy schemes, wrapped up neat,
TechTimes, you're dancing on deceit.
[Outro]
So here’s to the spammers, and their shady ploys,
We’ll spread the word, we’ll make some noise,
TechTimes, your scam is up, we’ve seen the light,
No more tricks, we’re ready to fight.
Similar music (10)
Ghosts
19.07.2012
5,042
267
Ominous synth textures build into a driving, gritty electronic beat. Creates intense suspense and dark energy, perfect for trailers, action scenes, or futuristic thrillers.
/
00:35
00:00
00:00
Track opens with an ethereal, slightly distorted synth arpeggio, establishing a mysterious and tense atmosphere.
00:12
00:12
Impactful drop: Heavy, driving electronic beat and powerful bassline enter abruptly, shifting the mood to urgent action/suspense.
00:19
00:19
Texture thickens with layered, possibly guitar-like distorted synth sounds, increasing the intensity and gritty feel.
00:25
00:25
Intensity slightly modulates while maintaining the core driving rhythm, preparing for the track's conclusion.
00:31
00:31
Music cuts out leaving a decaying synth sound and reverb tail, providing a definitive end point.
Earthquake (neutral)
03.05.2015
2,578
144
Thoughtful piano chords gently open, evolving with atmospheric pads and strings into a deeply cinematic soundscape. Builds with tension and determination, incorporating pulsing rhythms and eventually erupting into a powerful, driving section with distorted textures and impactful percussion before resolving.
/
03:20
00:00
00:00
Track begins with contemplative piano chords and subtle atmospheric pads, setting a serious, cinematic mood.
00:28
00:28
Swelling string-like textures enter, adding depth and emotional weight to the arrangement.
00:55
00:55
Subtle rhythmic elements and bass tones begin to introduce underlying tension and forward momentum.
01:36
01:36
A significant shift occurs with the introduction of a distorted, gritty synth/guitar motif, marking the start of the main build.
01:50
01:50
Full, powerful cinematic percussion enters, driving the track into its high-intensity climax section.
02:04
02:04
Peak intensity with layered distorted elements, driving drums, and broad string/synth arrangement.
02:45
02:45
The intensity begins to subside, transitioning out of the main climax.
02:58
02:58
Return to a calmer feel with piano and atmospheric pads, providing resolution and echoing the intro.
Final Destination
22.11.2015
24,508
1,618
Intense orchestral power builds with driving percussion and soaring strings. Creates a dramatic, epic atmosphere perfect for trailers, action scenes, and high-stakes cinematic moments.
/
02:59
00:00
00:00
Track begins with atmospheric pads/strings, establishing a suspenseful and mysterious mood.
00:17
00:17
Low string motif enters, subtly increasing tension and hinting at the building drama.
00:34
00:34
Percussive elements begin to enter, introducing a rhythmic pulse and starting the main build-up.
00:52
00:52
Major impact and entry of full orchestral percussion and strings; the main high-energy section kicks off.
01:10
01:10
Intensification of the string layers and percussive drive, heightening the epic feel.
01:27
01:27
Brief dynamic dip, a moment of anticipation before the next wave of intensity.
02:01
02:01
Peak intensity section / Climax with powerful layered orchestration and driving rhythm.
02:37
02:37
Music begins to deconstruct, intensity rapidly decreases, transitioning towards the outro.
02:45
02:45
Return to the atmospheric texture from the intro, providing a sense of closure as the track fades out.
Are you scared yet (feat. Admiral Bob)
02.02.2019
11,922
385
Gritty indie rock with driving drums, distorted guitars, and a tense male vocal. Creates a raw, energetic, and slightly ominous atmosphere suitable for crime dramas, edgy advertising, or driving game sequences.
/
03:07
00:00
00:00
Intro starts with a distinctive, slightly moody guitar lick with delay/reverb, setting a blues-rock tone.
00:19
00:19
Full band enters with driving drums and bass; male vocals begin, establishing the core rock groove.
00:40
00:40
Chorus section begins with the hook lyric "Are you scared yet?", intensity lifts.
01:00
01:00
Brief instrumental break featuring a bluesy guitar fill.
01:40
01:40
Second chorus entry, reinforcing the main theme and energy.
02:00
02:00
Guitar solo section begins, showcasing more prominent lead guitar work.
02:21
02:21
Bridge section - slight shift in vocal melody and lyrical content, building towards final chorus.
02:41
02:41
Final chorus push, driving energy maintained towards the conclusion.
03:01
03:01
Abrupt ending with a final sustained chord/hit.
Cinema Blockbuster Trailer 15
05.05.2019
26,206
1,751
Intense orchestral piece builds with dramatic strings, powerful percussion hits, and driving tension. Creates an epic, suspenseful atmosphere ideal for high-impact trailers, action sequences, and dramatic reveals.
/
01:14
00:00
00:00
Introduction with tense, rhythmic staccato string ostinato, establishing immediate suspense.
00:12
00:12
Entry of low percussion and deeper strings, adding weight and initiating the build.
00:22
00:22
First major dynamic swell and percussive hit, introducing brass/choir elements and raising the stakes.
00:34
00:34
Brief pause/reset in intensity before the next major build section.
00:45
00:45
Second major build begins, featuring more complex orchestration and driving percussion.
00:50
00:50
Significant climax with full orchestra, choir, and powerful percussion hits.
01:07
01:07
Final impactful hit and rapid decay, providing a clean end point.
Cinematic Suspense Series Episode 006
06.07.2020
22,159
1,311
Dark, ominous orchestral strings build slowly, creating a powerful sense of suspense and unease. Features dissonant harmonies, tense swells, and dramatic hits, perfect for thrillers, investigation scenes, horror, or cinematic trailers.
/
03:29
00:00
00:00
Ominous low strings establish a dark, unsettling atmosphere instantly.
00:17
00:17
Higher, sustained dissonant strings enter, layering eerie texture and building unease.
01:04
01:04
Entry of a more defined, tense orchestral motif; the core suspense element emerges with more weight.
01:36
01:36
Subtle shift in string articulation and harmony, adding a searching or investigative feel.
02:08
02:08
Major dynamic swell begins, using brass and full orchestra to build towards a dramatic peak.
02:24
02:24
First powerful orchestral hit/climax, delivering significant dramatic impact and tension.
03:08
03:08
Brief, stark thematic restatement leading into the track's conclusion.
03:19
03:19
Abrupt, unresolved ending, maximizing lingering tension.
The Most Shocking Halloween Trailer 5
23.09.2024
3,501
236
Intense and driving orchestral track building with urgent staccato strings, powerful percussion hits, dramatic swells, and choir elements. Perfect for epic trailers, horror scenes, action sequences, and high-stakes dramatic moments.
/
02:12
00:01
00:01
Track begins with tense, pulsing low string ostinato, immediately establishing suspense.
00:11
00:11
Higher string motif enters, adding a layer of melodic urgency.
00:24
00:24
First major percussive impact and arrival of fuller orchestral texture.
00:34
00:34
Main driving rhythmic section starts, layering staccato strings and percussion.
00:47
00:47
Intensity increases with faster rhythmic patterns and more frequent impacts.
01:07
01:07
Significant impact followed by the entrance of powerful choir elements, adding epic scale.
01:17
01:17
Major theme statement with full ensemble, high energy and drama.
01:33
01:33
Final build-up section begins, escalating towards the ultimate climax.
01:49
01:49
Peak climax with massive hits, full choir, and intense orchestration.
02:00
02:00
Final impacts and decay begin, providing a conclusive end.
The Most Shocking Halloween Trailer 7
25.09.2024
6,135
484
Intense, high-impact cinematic trailer cue featuring driving percussion, aggressive synths, dissonant hits, and dramatic orchestral elements. Builds relentlessly towards an earth-shattering climax. Ideal for horror, action, thriller trailers, and intense video game sequences.
/
02:12
00:00
00:00
Track opens with a massive impact and establishes a dark, low pulsing synth rhythm.
00:11
00:11
Driving, rhythmic percussion enters, significantly increasing tension and pace.
00:34
00:34
Major percussive hit and brief pause, creating a structural edit point before transitioning.
00:37
00:37
Introduction of an eerie, atmospheric synth/choir pad melody, creating a brief textural contrast.
00:56
00:56
Main theme/rhythm kicks in with full force – powerful hybrid orchestral stabs and driving percussion.
01:08
01:08
Intense staccato string/brass section driving the main rhythm.
01:18
01:18
Another structural break/transition point, dropping intensity slightly before the final push.
01:47
01:47
The final, massive build-up begins, layering elements towards the climax.
02:04
02:04
Peak climax with huge impacts and orchestral power, followed by abrupt silence and decay.
The Most Shocking Halloween Trailer 10
28.09.2024
2,862
217
Intensely dark and suspenseful cinematic track, driven by unsettling sound design, eerie textures, and powerful, aggressive percussion. Features a dramatic build-up culminating in a chaotic, high-impact climax. Ideal for horror trailers, scary game scenes, and intense thriller moments.
/
02:12
00:01
00:01
Track opens with an immediate, unsettling high-pitched processed vocal/synth wail, establishing instant dread.
00:14
00:14
Introduction of a slow, ominous rhythmic pulse and subtle rising tension elements, beginning the structured build-up.
00:30
00:30
Noticeable increase in intensity and layers, the rhythmic elements become more insistent.
01:02
01:02
Signature trailer moment: a dramatic riser leads into a brief pause/near-silence, building anticipation before the main assault.
01:06
01:06
Track erupts into a high-energy, aggressive section dominated by heavy percussion hits and distorted sound design.
01:35
01:35
Further escalation with complex, chaotic rhythms and dense layering, pushing towards the climax.
01:50
01:50
The final, intense climax begins, building into a powerful wall of sound with maximum impact.
02:04
02:04
The track culminates in a final, massive percussive hit and abrupt end, providing a definitive, impactful conclusion.
The Most Shocking Halloween Trailer 12
30.09.2024
1,563
88
Intense, dramatic orchestral track building with powerful percussion, aggressive strings, and huge impacts. Ideal for high-stakes trailers, action sequences, horror scenes, and epic video game moments.
/
02:12
00:00
00:00
Massive opening impact and brief atmospheric swell.
00:05
00:05
Main driving, percussive orchestral theme enters with aggressive energy.
00:37
00:37
Huge stinger/impact marks a transition point, followed by relentless hits.
00:54
00:54
Introduction of a new section with insistent string ostinatos and powerful hits.
01:10
01:10
Intensity builds further, string melodies become more prominent over the driving rhythm.
01:27
01:27
Brief breakdown/pause creating anticipation.
01:34
01:34
Final build-up begins, reintroducing earlier motifs with increased layers and intensity.
01:45
01:45
Climactic return of main thematic elements, full orchestra and percussion.
02:02
02:02
Final powerful crescendo hits leading to the end.
02:06
02:06
Abrupt final stinger and cutoff.
Alright, let's dive into "The TechTimes Scam." From the opening bars, this track establishes a distinct personality – it's got that slightly gritty, atmospheric indie rock feel, driven by layered electric guitars that create both space and a subtle tension. The clean, resonant guitar lines that kick things off immediately signal a mood that's contemplative, maybe a bit wary, setting a perfect stage for narrative content.
The production quality here is solid and professional. The mix is well-balanced, giving each element – the steady, grounded bassline, the purposeful drum groove, and those evolving guitar textures – its own space while ensuring they lock together cohesively. There's a good sense of dynamics throughout; it doesn't just sit flat, it breathes and builds, which is crucial for keeping listener engagement, especially in a media context.
Enter the female vocal – clear, present, and carrying a narrative weight. The performance style is direct and articulate, less about melodic acrobatics and more about delivering the story with conviction. This makes the track particularly potent for sync placements where lyrical content needs to support or drive the visual narrative. Think documentaries exploring corporate ethics, tech industry exposés, or even fictional dramas touching on themes of disillusionment, manipulation, or the search for truth. The slight edge in the vocal delivery adds an authentic, human element that prevents the track from feeling too sterile.
Its core strength lies in its mood and structure. The verse sections maintain a steady, investigative pulse, while the choruses lift slightly, adding emotional emphasis without breaking the overall serious tone. This makes it incredibly versatile for underscore – imagine it under scenes of late-night research, tense conversations, character introspection, or cityscapes representing the complex modern world. It could work brilliantly as an intro/outro theme for a podcast dealing with technology, business ethics, or investigative journalism, immediately setting a tone of seriousness and inquiry.
For advertising, while the specific lyrical content might need careful placement, the instrumental bed alone offers a compelling foundation for brands wanting to project thoughtfulness, realism, or a touch of sophisticated edge. Think less about bubbly lifestyle ads and more about campaigns focused on transparency, social issues, or showcasing complex products or services. The atmospheric guitars and steady rhythm could underscore explainer videos or corporate presentations aiming for a grounded, contemporary feel.
In gaming, it could find a home in narrative-driven indie titles, perhaps during cutscenes establishing conflict or character motivation, or even as menu music for a game with a modern, slightly dark or investigative theme. The track doesn't scream 'action,' but it excels at creating atmosphere and supporting storytelling. It’s a reliable, well-crafted piece with a clear identity, offering a strong moody foundation for a variety of media projects needing depth and a touch of rock authenticity.
The production quality here is solid and professional. The mix is well-balanced, giving each element – the steady, grounded bassline, the purposeful drum groove, and those evolving guitar textures – its own space while ensuring they lock together cohesively. There's a good sense of dynamics throughout; it doesn't just sit flat, it breathes and builds, which is crucial for keeping listener engagement, especially in a media context.
Enter the female vocal – clear, present, and carrying a narrative weight. The performance style is direct and articulate, less about melodic acrobatics and more about delivering the story with conviction. This makes the track particularly potent for sync placements where lyrical content needs to support or drive the visual narrative. Think documentaries exploring corporate ethics, tech industry exposés, or even fictional dramas touching on themes of disillusionment, manipulation, or the search for truth. The slight edge in the vocal delivery adds an authentic, human element that prevents the track from feeling too sterile.
Its core strength lies in its mood and structure. The verse sections maintain a steady, investigative pulse, while the choruses lift slightly, adding emotional emphasis without breaking the overall serious tone. This makes it incredibly versatile for underscore – imagine it under scenes of late-night research, tense conversations, character introspection, or cityscapes representing the complex modern world. It could work brilliantly as an intro/outro theme for a podcast dealing with technology, business ethics, or investigative journalism, immediately setting a tone of seriousness and inquiry.
For advertising, while the specific lyrical content might need careful placement, the instrumental bed alone offers a compelling foundation for brands wanting to project thoughtfulness, realism, or a touch of sophisticated edge. Think less about bubbly lifestyle ads and more about campaigns focused on transparency, social issues, or showcasing complex products or services. The atmospheric guitars and steady rhythm could underscore explainer videos or corporate presentations aiming for a grounded, contemporary feel.
In gaming, it could find a home in narrative-driven indie titles, perhaps during cutscenes establishing conflict or character motivation, or even as menu music for a game with a modern, slightly dark or investigative theme. The track doesn't scream 'action,' but it excels at creating atmosphere and supporting storytelling. It’s a reliable, well-crafted piece with a clear identity, offering a strong moody foundation for a variety of media projects needing depth and a touch of rock authenticity.