Blog
7 Best Songwriting Contests of 2023
Why Songwriting Contests? Sure, now (more than ever) there’s plenty of different platforms to release your music through. SoundCloud, Bandcamp, and even getting your music on Spotify and Apple Music can be done in a few simple steps. However, outside of one-in-a-million stroke of luck scenario, the chances of getting recognized and put on playlists […]
What is a Refrain in Music?
You’ve got an idea of what refrain in music is, but it’s still a bit fuzzy. If you’re new to songwriting, you’ll quickly find out the whole process can be downright puzzling. There are countless different methods to making catchy originals, each with its own confusing roadmap. Even with conventional song structures, there’s a litany […]
How to License Your Music
Earning cash from writing songs and composing music is the dream, right? However, pivoting from balancing a day job and playing music on the side to a full-on music career is not an easy undertaking. Most songwriters hedge their bets on getting a demo recorded and submitting it to a label. While this is an […]
Preventing Repetitive Strain Injury for Musicians
Preventing repetitive strain is almost as important as practicing. It starts with the calluses you wear as a badge of honor shortly after learning to play guitar. But now, years later, you’re starting to feel that sharp pain in your wrist or the dull ache of your knuckles and it’s not quite as fun. Practice […]
A Songwriter’s Guide to Music Demos
If you write songs, sooner or later, you’ll have to record a demo. The phone in your pocket is good enough to help you remember what you’ve come up with. But sooner or later, you’ll want to share your finished songs with family, friends, and fans — as well as other musicians and industry people. […]
The Ultimate Guide to Writing a Pop Song
Have you ever heard the latest, greatest pop hit and thought, “I wish I would have written that!” It’s understandable. Pop songs are catchy, they’re fun, and listeners can’t get enough of them. Your favorite pop songs might seem to flow effortlessly, but what most listeners don’t see is all the work goes on behind […]
Changing Keys Within a Song: Tips and Examples of Modulation
Songwriters are always looking for new ways to make their music more interesting and engaging. One of the best ways to do that is by adding a key change. Why? Because changing keys in a song really makes an impact! They’re a great way to boost your song’s energy. They’re also a wake-up call to […]
23 Impressive Health Benefits of Playing (and Listening to) Music
Not all professional songwriters play an instrument, but most do. You may be a lyricist who collaborates with musicians during the writing process, or you may write to tracks. And that’s great. Still, I always encourage songwriters to learn at least one instrument. Not only will it make you a more valuable collaborator, but it’s […]
20 Best Songwriting Blogs to Get You Inspired
Whether you want to improve your craft, find inspiration, or search for technical information, you can’t go wrong with blogs about songwriting and music. Many of the best have been around for years, growing into virtual treasure troves of songwriting gold. Blogs give you a wealth of knowledge at your fingertips — articles that educate, […]
What is the Bridge of a Song? (And How to Use One)
If you want to write memorable songs, and especially radio hits, you owe it to yourself to learn the art of writing strong song bridges. A well-written bridge is the icing on the cake of your verses and choruses, and a great one can take your song to a whole new level. On one hand, […]