It's Okay to Change Some Notes From the Original Song?

[Asterbee]

I've noticed that even the most experienced remixers, even the ones with millions of views, seem hesitant to alter the original work too much. I'm not referring to reimagining the music or arranging it in a completely different style. I'd say just changing a few notes, rhythms, or adding a few phrases, without much reason, simply because I think it would sound better (in very repetitive measures, for example, I'd like to add some motivic and rhythmic variation).

Is there any rule against this? I mean, I feel a bit like I'm disrespecting the original work (especially since I'd like to make changes specifically to parts I don't like or think could be improved). Perhaps this could be interpreted as "wanting to be better than the original?

[DarkeSword 🎮]

No rules against it. This is a very valid way to interpret and arrange.

[Master Mi]

@Asterbee

That is precisely the charm of a remix or arrangement.

Creating a sometimes completely new soundscape that still carries the character of the original at its heart.

This is true artistry, requiring the appropriate skills, experience and sensitivity to do justice to such matters.