Want To Become A Songwriter?
Just Do It!

So you want to become a songwriter, but you don't know where to start? That's easy. I can help you with that.

Just do it! Just start writing!

If you found this site you are on the right track. Not because I have all the answers to your questions, but because you are seeking answers to your questions. Yes, I can help with basic songwriting. But there is more to songwriting than just songwriting.

The Courage To Write

For the beginner songwriter it can be a very nerve-wracking experience putting feelings into words. Putting those words into song for others to hear can be downright terrifying!

As I write this web page it occurs to me how similar this process is to writing a song. At least the way I write songs.

I am writing down random thoughts on the subject of having the courage to present your inner feelings to the world.

This is exactly the process I use when writing a new song. If I'm writing from melody, I start writing down random thoughts based on the emotions I feel listening to the melody I wrote.

After a while I look back and see a common thread beginning to emerge. I sit back and think "Oh, this is the direction this song (page) is going to take." Then I'll just go with it and see where it takes me.

For me, this is one of the most interesting aspects of writing a song (page). I don't yet know exactly where it is going to lead me, but I've learned to happily go along for the ride.

Later I will ask the many questions that come to mind, such as "Who am I writing this for?", "Who is this about?" and "What happens next?"

I Want It Now!

When someone decides they want to become a songwriter, they often fall into this trap: "I have to write a great song, and I have to do it now!"

Do you see how difficult it can be to produce something wonderful under such tremendous stress?

The beginner songwriter is so worked up about creating the Next Big Thing that she never creates anything.

I don't know about you, but I can't work that way. (Believe me, I tried for many years!)

Just Do It!

I've found the best way to overcome this kind of angst is to remember those words immortalised by that Nike commercial: "Just Do It!"

Just start writing, as I am right now. Maybe half of what I'm writing won't make it to publication, and that's okay. As long as my fingers are moving on the keyboard there is no writer's block. And I know that eventually I will end up with something worth reading (singing).

Let It Go

If you want to become a songwriter, don't allow yourself to become paralysed by self-doubt. Let go of feelings of fear or the fact that you're a beginner songwriter.

I understand that state of mind too well!

What you have to say matters. We want to hear what is in your heart. Everyone has something to contribute.

Believe in yourself. Believe in your ability, but don't become so self-absorbed that you won't take constructive criticism. As some point your songs will be critiqued. Take what they say and use it to improve your craft.

Study basic songwriting. Understand that there is always something to be learned from other writers (or even non-writers for that matter).

Don't be afraid to become a songwriter or anything else you would like to be.

Hang on a minute, I'm just going to take a look at what I've been writing for the last fifteen minutes or so...

Each month you'll receive tips and ideas on such topics as...

• Writing better lyrics
• Composing beautiful melodies
• Cool recording techniques
• Music publishing strategies

Each issue will be designed to help you write better songs, and take them to the next level.

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