This is where I share my process along with things I’ve found helpful.
“Hmm…this could be a song.” That’s the first thought I have before I record something in my iPhone voice memo app. It’s usually the moment I have a little snippet of lyric I like, and some guitar pattern I’ve been fiddling with. What does it sound like? It varies. But for “The Kindness of Strangers” […]
The Kindness of Strangers (Origins) Read More »
My answer is in this throwback Thursday video clip circa 2013. Starting to write songs was one thing; sharing them was a whole different thing!
When Did I Start Writing Songs Read More »
Even after writing hundreds and hundreds of songs, it still happens every time. Here’s the scenario: I’ve just finished a song. I attach it to an email and compose a message to my publisher. But before I hit “send” I pause. I question the song. Is it good enough? Is it even worth their time?
Francis Coppola, the great movie writer and director, was reportedly heard telling a group of students that he likes to write early in the morning before anyone has hurt his feelings. Think about that for a second. There is so much truth in that one little tip that I’ve tried to abide by it since
A Lesson From Francis Coppola About When to Write Read More »
(From Aaron’s book On Songwriting: Practical Tips and Insights from a Decade in Music City) There are only two ways to write a song. Ok, sure, there are plenty more. But what I’ve found is it primarily comes down to these two: you can paint or you can use the GPS method. The GPS Method
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Sometimes your lyrics lack punch or impact, and it’s difficult to know why. Try running it through the dad joke filter. Let me explain. A well-crafted song is often like a dad joke. Take this one I heard recently. Question: Where do generals keep their armies? Answer: In their sleevies. I laughed the first
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