Yes, the numbers are impressive: 4,000 people from over 140 countries submitting nearly 13,000 sounds. The whole process ran for nearly seven weeks. While Avicii reached 3,000,000 FB fans, there was also an ongoing search for a 'break'. He chose weekly semi finalists, and the fans decided what was going to be used, by voting for their favorite submissions. The contributor who got the most votes became the featured producer of a specific part of the track. Melody, bassline, rhythm and effects were all found in this way. Avicii then had to curate them, and create the final song in his studio in L.A.
The Swede commented on what has to be one of the biggest crowd-sourcing projects in music: "I think it's cool that people will be able to hear this track on the radio and know that they've all been part of creating it. Five years ago, this would not have been possible and now we have the whole world collaborating. Imagine what will happen in five, ten years from now when everyone everywhere is connected."
Besides helping upcoming producers get their name out there, the initative also contributes to charity. You can buy the track here, and according to the website:
"All royalties from the creative contributions together with part of the master royalties from the final track will be donated to House for Hunger, an initiative by Avicii, Ash Pournouri and Feeding America."
Also: Read about crowd-sourcing music videosIn the end, we have something we are accustomed to hearing from Avicii. His uplifting progressive house signature is instantly recognizable. I'm not sure if this is a good thing or not. There are really exciting parts to the track, especially the melodic break about half way into it. Overall you must admit, it's got that special feeling to it, for so many people got to be a part of it.