Do you dream of someday writing a popular song — one that people just can’t get enough of? You can! No matter where your melody-writing skills are today, you can learn to write stronger ones. There are tips and techniques that pro songwriters use to keep listeners engaged — and even to make them want […]
The Best Songwriters of All Time — Or The Problem With “Best of” Lists
People are endlessly fascinated by GOAT (greatest of all time) lists, including the greatest songwriters of all time. We love to read these lists. We agree with them, fight over them, aspire to them, and we’re inspired by them. Because they’re so popular, magazines like Billboard and Rolling Stone continue to publish them. But when […]
Inspiration Is Everywhere: How to Source Song Ideas From Your Life
Do you struggle to come up with song ideas? If so, you’re not alone — but it can be especially tough if you’re a new songwriter. Some days, you can sit down with your instrument and a notebook and everything flows. Other days, it feels like nothing’s clicking. You might check out some songwriting prompts […]
How to Compose Music: A Step-by-Step Guide for Songwriters
Are you thinking it’s time to take your songwriting to the next level? You’ve probably been writing intuitively for a while, but you’d love to become more of an expert at composing music. Maybe you’ve been honing your musical skills, experimenting with new approaches in your home studio, and working to fill in the gaps […]
How to Write a Love Song
If you’re a songwriter, you’ve probably written at least one love song. Love’s something we all can relate to, regardless our age, gender, experience, or life situation. And love songs are popular. People have been writing and listening to love songs for thousands of years. That’s not likely to change anytime soon. People love love. […]
How to Become a Professional Songwriter
If you’re reading this blog, you’re probably wondering how to become a songwriter — and actually make a living writing songs. Maybe you’re wondering if it’s a realistic goal, or if you even have what it takes to succeed, so let me set your mind at ease. First, if you’re already writing songs, either for […]
16 Songwriting Tips for Beginners and Pros
To be a songwriter, you need a bit of talent. There’s no doubt about that. But, you should never worry about not having enough talent. Writing a good song mostly depends on skill — and skill is something that can be learned and practiced. That’s why you’ll often hear me stress the need to write […]
Song Structure 101: Everything You Need to Know About How to Structure a Song
Music is powerful, and humans are hard-wired for song. Part of how we connect with music is through the song structure. We recognize and remember music that has familiar patterns — including rhythms and rhymes and a definable beginning, middle, and end. And as songwriters, if we’re doing our jobs right, our songs will be […]
How Much Do Songwriters Make?
So you’ve decided you love songwriting. Maybe you’re wondering how much do songwriters make, and if you can really make a living doing it. After all, it’s a tough business. And it’s not all that clear how the top songwriters became successful. Do they have something you don’t? Can you make your own success with […]
How to Set Up a Home Recording Studio: A Guide for Songwriters
Are you thinking about setting up your own home recording studio? After all, it doesn’t cost much to write a song. The creative process is nearly free. All you need is a bit of inspiration, some time, an instrument, and a notebook or phone to record your ideas. But if you’re serious about making money […]