Are you looking for a way to enhance your songwriting skills and unleash your creativity? Well, I’ve got a powerful source of inspiration that can reduce stress and relax you. Plus it will elevate your songwriting game. Simply look to nature. We’ll explore how integrating nature into your life can boost your songwriting abilities. You will learn to improve your well-being. Plus, this will ignite your creative spark.
Nature’s Symphony: Taking a Stroll for Inspiration
Picture this: You’re out in the great outdoors, taking a leisurely walk. The sights, sounds, and smells of nature envelop you, offering a visual and sensory feast. This simple act of connecting with nature can work wonders for your songwriting. As you walk, your body benefits from exercise. The exercise also helps your mind gains the freedom to wander and explore new ideas. Basking in the sun’s rays invigorates your body. It also provides essential vitamins and a breath of fresh, healthy air.
Moreover, nature’s beauty surrounds you. Even a short walk around your neighborhood can unveil hidden sources of inspiration. The act of walking can relieve stress, and the beauty of nature can uplift your spirit. In these moments, you may discover new songwriting ideas. Or you will find that your stress levels significantly decrease. Nature has an uncanny ability to inspire, and as songwriters, we can tap into that inspiration.
The Serenity of Parks for a Sanctuary for Creativity
For those seeking deeper inspiration, consider spending time in a nearby park. Find a peaceful bench, take a seat, and let the world pass you by. Parks offer an oasis of serenity, a precious gift for songwriters. As you sit in the stillness of nature, you’ll may find answers to life’s questions. You could also discover new perspectives that can enrich your songwriting.
Gardening For Cultivating Creativity and Inner Peace
If you’re looking for a more hands-on way to fuel your creativity try planting a garden. Gardening provides an opportunity to care for living things. It offers a sense of purpose and connection with the natural world. As you tend to your garden, you may find that it becomes a therapeutic outlet. That therapeutic outlet then allows you to channel any frustration. Or change negative emotions into something beautiful and thriving.
You don’t need a massive garden; even a small space can serve as your creative sanctuary. Landscaping can be incredibly peaceful. This will transform your home into a welcoming oasis. Which in turn helps you release pent-up emotions.
Bringing Nature Indoors: A Songwriter’s Haven
For moments when you simply need to relax consider bringing nature indoors. Position a chair by a sunlit window, open the blinds, and bask in the warmth and comfort of the sunlight. These moments can be truly inspirational. Thereby offering a sense of freedom and inner peace that can fuel your creativity.
You can also decorate your living spaces with elements from nature. The elements can include rocks, feathers, flowers, and more. Surrounding yourself with these natural elements can provide connection to the outdoors. Consider adding a water fountain to your workspace for the calming sounds of nature. Or you can place a bowl of fresh fruit on your kitchen table to infuse the room with positive energy.
Conclusion: Nature as Your Muse
In conclusion, nature is a songwriter’s best friend. It reduces stress and fosters relaxation. It also sparks inspiration and creativity. By embracing nature you bring an endless reservoir of ideas and melodies. Through nature you can energize your songwriting.
Join me on social media. From there we’ll continue to explore the relationship between songwriting and nature. Let’s unleash our creativity and compose the songs that nature has inspired within us!
John Pape is songwriter and composer from El Cajon, California. He was surrounded by music from a young age. He began playing the guitar during his high school years and started writing his own songs as a teenager. John writes and records music, with a goal of reaching and touching to as many people as possible with his music. Checkout his artist webpage at John Pape Artist
Embrace Nature To Unlock Songwriting Inspiration was last modified: September 12th, 2023 by John Pape
If you’re passionate about songwriting and looking to enhance your craft, this article is for you. Today, we’re diving into a crucial aspect of songwriting – setting goals. Imagine a ship. It needs a destination to navigate the vast ocean. It is the same with a songwriter. Creating goals help to steer the creative journey.
As you read you will learn why setting goals is essential for your songwriting success. Along with how they can help you stay on track, motivated, and constantly improving.
Charting Your Songwriting Journey
Imagine your songwriting journey as a winding road. Without clear goals, you might find yourself lost. You are unsure of where to go next, and easily distracted by other creative pursuits. Goals are like road signs, guiding you along the path you’ve chosen. Goals help you focus on what you want to achieve. They also keep you from getting sidetracked by other creative ideas. Those ideas that might lead you away from your main objectives.
Stoking the Flames of Motivation
Goals are the fuel that keeps the songwriting fire burning. Each goal you set is like a checkpoint on your musical voyage. As you reach each milestone, you gain a sense of accomplishment that propels you forward. This sense of achievement serves as motivation to do three things.
continue writing
learning
growing as a songwriter
Transforming Dreams into Tangible Reality
Your mind is a powerful tool for creativity, but it needs direction. Setting goals transforms your songwriting dreams into actionable plans. When you establish concrete goals, you create a path toward your musical aspirations. Writing your goals down gives them substance, making your dreams feel attainable.
Setting Songwriting Goals: Not Only for the Pros
Don’t think that goal-setting is reserved for professional songwriters. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned artist, goals are your secret weapon for progress. They bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to be in your songwriting journey. Goals are universal, accessible to anyone who loves crafting songs.
Crafting Your Songwriting Goals
Setting goals isn’t about simply saying, “I want to write better songs.” It’s about being specific. Your songwriting goals should be well-defined and detailed. Consider what aspects of your songwriting you want to improve. Once identified, you make a plan to achieve those improvements. A clear plan ensures you cover all the necessary bases.
Dealing with Distractions
In the creative process, distractions can be formidable foes. But, with a well-defined goal in place, you can handle them with ease. Prepare a strategy for dealing with distractions.
For example, you have a songwriting buddy who can help keep you on track. Or they provide feedback when you stray from your goals. Finding a collaborator who shares your passion can be invaluable. This is because they also care about your progress as a songwriter.
The Importance of Setting Songwriting Goals
Goals give your songwriting direction, motivation, and purpose. They help you focus on your craft and prevent you from feeling lost in the creative wilderness. Songwriting is about growth and progress. It is not only about composing lyrics and melodies. Setting goals ensures that your songwriting journey is a purposeful one.
If you’re serious about becoming a better songwriter setting goals is a must. The goals help you reach your full potential. Goals are your guiding stars in the vast universe of songwriting. They keep you on course and motivated to write your best songs yet.
Join me on social media. A place where we’ll continue to explore the world of songwriting. Let’s embark on this musical journey together! #SongwritingGoals #CreativeProgress #ComposeYourSuccess
John Pape is songwriter and composer from El Cajon, California. He was surrounded by music from a young age. He began playing the guitar during his high school years and started writing his own songs as a teenager. John writes and records music, with a goal of reaching and touching to as many people as possible with his music. Checkout his artist webpage at John Pape Artist
The Power of Setting Songwriting Goals was last modified: September 12th, 2023 by John Pape
Songwriting is an art form that has been around for centuries. It is a way for people to express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences through music. Regardless of your experience learning to write songs can be a rewarding experience.. In this article, we will explore the basics of songwriting, including
finding inspiration
song structure
writing lyrics
melody creation
harmony and chords
rhythm and tempo
songwriting software and tools
When anyone want to create music it is important to have basic knowledge of songwriting. The first step is finding inspiration. This can come from personal experiences, current events, or even other songs. Once you have an idea, you need to think about the structure of your song. This includes the verse, chorus, bridge, and other elements. Writing lyrics is also an important part of songwriting. You need to think about the message you want to convey and how you want to say it. Finally, you need to think about the melody, harmony, and rhythm of your song. These elements work together to create a cohesive and memorable piece of music.
Key Takeaways
Songwriting allows people to express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences through music.
Gain basic understanding of the basic of songwriting to start creating music.
Discover various songwriting software and tools to help in the songwriting process. That include creating demos, organizing ideas. Plus learn about how to copyright your song.
Understanding the Basics of Songwriting
Songwriting is the process of creating a musical composition. A song consists of lyrics and melody. It is a form of art that requires creativity, passion, and dedication.
The following are some of the basic elements of songwriting:
Melody
The melody is the most important part of a song. It is the tune that people will remember and sing along to. A good melody should be catchy, memorable, and easy to sing. It should also fit the lyrics and convey the mood of the song.
Lyrics
The lyrics are the words that tell the story of the song. They should be meaningful, relatable, and well-written. A good lyricist should be able to convey emotions and ideas through their words.
Chords
Chords are the backbone of a song. They provide the harmony and structure that supports the melody and lyrics. A good songwriter should have a good understanding of chord progressions. They should also know and how to use them.
Structure
The structure of a song refers to the way it is organized. Most songs have a verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus structure. It is important to understand the basic structure of a song. As well as how to use it to create a cohesive and engaging piece of music.
Inspiration
Inspiration is the spark that ignites the songwriting process. It can come from anywhere, but it is important to be open to new ideas and experiences. A good songwriter should be able to draw inspiration from their own life and the world around them.
You can create meaningful and memorable music by mastering the following elements:
melody
lyrics
chords
structure
inspiration
Finding Inspiration
When it comes to writing songs, finding inspiration can be a challenge. However, there are many ways to get inspired and start writing. Here are a few tips:
Listen to music Listening to other musicians can be a great source of inspiration. Pay attention to the lyrics, melodies, and chord progressions. Take note of what you like and what you don’t like, and use that to inform your own writing.
Read poetry and literature poetry and literature can be a great source of inspiration for songwriters. Look for themes and ideas that resonate with you, and use them as a starting point for your own lyrics.
Take a walk Sometimes, getting outside and taking a walk can help clear your mind and spark new ideas. Pay attention to your surroundings, and let your thoughts wander.
Collaborate with other musicians Collaborating with other musicians can be a great way to get inspired. Working with someone else can help you see things from a new perspective. It helps with coming up with ideas you might not have thought of on your own.
Keep a journal Keeping a journal can be a great way to capture ideas and inspiration when they strike. Write down lyrics, melodies, chord progressions, and anything else that comes to mind. You never know when something might come in handy.
By using these tips, you can find inspiration to start writing songs that are very meaningful.
Song Structure
Song structure refers to the organization of a song’s components. You need to know song structure as it provides a framework for songwriting. A typical song structure consists of verses, choruses, and bridges.
Verse
The verse is the section of the song that tells the story or delivers the message. The verse is usually eight to sixteen bars long. It repeats throughout the song with different lyrics. The verse sets up the story and creates anticipation for the chorus.
Chorus
The chorus is the most memorable part of the song. It is the section that repeats throughout the song with the same lyrics and melody. The chorus is the part of the song that listeners sing along to and is usually the catchiest part of the song. It is typically eight bars long and followed by a verse.
Bridge
The bridge is a section of the song that provides contrast to the verses and chorus. It is usually only used once in a song and is typically four to eight bars long. The bridge provides a break from the repetition of the verses. The chorus and can add a new perspective to the song’s message.
In conclusion, understanding song structure is essential for writing a successful song. The verse, chorus, and bridge provide a framework for songwriting. These elements allow for the creation of a memorable and cohesive song.
Writing Lyrics
When it comes to writing songs, lyrics are the heart and soul of the music. Writing lyrics requires creativity, imagination, and a good understanding of language. Here are some tips on how to write lyrics that will captivate your audience.
Rhyme Schemes
Rhyme schemes are patterns of rhyming words at the end of each line in a song. There are several types of rhyme schemes, such as AABB, ABAB, and ABCB. Each rhyme scheme has a unique sound and rhythm that can add depth and meaning to your lyrics.
One of the most common rhyme schemes is AABB. This song form is where the first two lines rhyme with each other and the second two lines rhyme with each other. This rhyme scheme is easy to follow and can create a catchy and memorable melody.
Another popular rhyme scheme is ABAB. This song form is where the first and third lines rhyme with each other. Then the second and fourth lines rhyme with each other. This rhyme scheme can create a more complex and sophisticated sound in your lyrics.
Storytelling
Lyrics are a form of storytelling, and the best songs are the ones that tell a compelling story. When writing lyrics, it’s important to have a clear idea of the story you want to tell. This can be a personal experience, a fictional tale, or a social commentary.
Creating a powerful story requires using descriptive language like metaphors, and imagery. This will help your audience visualize the story and connect with the emotions behind it. Remember to keep your lyrics concise and to the point. At the same time conveying the message you want to share.
In summary, writing lyrics is an art form that requires creativity, imagination, and a good understanding of language. By using rhyme schemes and storytelling techniques, you can create lyrics that will resonate with your audience.
Melody Creation
Creating a melody is one of the most important aspects of songwriting. It is the part of the song that people hum and remember. A good melody can make or break a song, so it is important to spend time crafting it.
When creating a melody, it is important to keep in mind the overall mood and message of the song. The melody should match the lyrics and convey the emotions of the song. It is also important to consider the musical range of the melody. To accommodate the singer or instruments that will be performing the melody.
One technique for creating a melody is to start with a simple chord progression. Once you have a chord progression build the melody around it. This can help ensure that the melody fits well with the music and creates a cohesive sound. Another technique is to use repetition and variation to create a memorable melody. Repeating a certain phrase or melody line can help make the melody more memorable. This will add variation to keep it interesting.
When creating a melody, it is also important to consider the rhythm. The rhythm of the melody should match the rhythm of the lyrics and the feel of the song. Using syncopation and varying the rhythm can add interest and energy to the melody.
Overall, creating a melody takes time and practice. It is important to experiment with different techniques. Find what works best for each individual song. With patience and persistence, anyone can learn how to create a memorable melody.
Harmony and Chords
Harmony and chords are two essential elements of songwriting. They create the foundation of the song and give it a sense of structure. Knowledge of harmony and chords helps a songwriter create a melody that is memorable and emotionally engaging.
Harmony refers to the combination of different notes played simultaneously. It is what gives a song its distinctive sound and character. Chords, on the other hand, are a group of notes played together to create a specific sound. They are the building blocks of harmony and are used to create the structure of a song.
When writing a song, choose the right chords to create the desired emotional impact. For example, minor chords are often used to create a sense of sadness or melancholy. While major chords are used to create a more upbeat and happy sound.
One tool to create interesting chord progressions is to use a circle of fifths. This is a sequence of chords that move in fifths, creating a sense of tension and release. Another technique is to use chord inversions. This involves changing the order of the notes in a chord to create a different sound.
In conclusion, understanding harmony and chords is essential for any songwriter. This who wants to create a memorable and emotionally engaging melody. Choosing the right chords and using them properly creates a song that will resonate with listeners.
Rhythm and Tempo
Rhythm and tempo are essential elements of any song. They can make or break a song, and understanding them is crucial for any aspiring songwriter. Rhythm refers to the pattern of sounds and silences in a song. Tempo refers to the speed at which those sounds and silences are played.
A good rhythm can help a song feel cohesive and can make it easier for listeners to follow along. It can also help create a sense of movement and energy in the song. There are many different types of rhythms, including:
straight rhythms,
syncopated rhythms
polyrhythms
Each type of rhythm can create a different feel and energy in a song. So it’s important to experiment with different rhythms to find the right one for your song.
Tempo is also an important consideration when writing a song. The tempo can affect the mood and energy of the song, and can also affect how easy or difficult it is to sing or play. A slower tempo can create a more relaxed and introspective mood. Alternatively, a faster tempo can create a more upbeat and energetic feel.
When choosing a tempo for a song, it’s important to consider the genre and style of the song. A tempo that works well for a pop song may not be appropriate for a ballad or a country song.
In conclusion, understanding rhythm and tempo is essential for any songwriter. Experiment with different rhythms and tempos. Consider the genre and style of the song. This creates songs that are cohesive, energetic, and engaging.
Songwriting Software and Tools
Songwriting software and tools have become increasingly popular in recent years. They provide songwriters with a range of options to help them create, edit, and produce their music. These tools can be useful for both beginners and experienced songwriters. Helping them to streamline their workflow and improve their creative output.
One popular example of songwriting software is Ableton Live. It ch is widely used by musicians and producers to compose, record, and arrange music. This software includes features used to create a wide range of musical styles including:
MIDI sequencing
audio editing
virtual instruments
Another popular option is Logic Pro X. It is a digital audio workstation designed for Mac users. This software includes a range of tools for composing and editing music, including:
virtual instruments
MIDI sequencing
audio recording and editing
If you prefer a more traditional approach to songwriting, there are also physical tools available such as:
notepads
pencils
chord charts
These tools can be useful for capturing ideas quickly and easily. This allows songwriters to focus on their creative process without technology distractions.
Songwriting software can be a valuable addition to any songwriter’s toolkit. It provides flexibility and control they need to create and produce their music. Whether you prefer digital or physical tools, there is a wide range of options available to suit your preferences.
Collaboration in Songwriting
Collaboration in songwriting can be a great way to bring new ideas and perspectives to a project. It allows for the sharing of skills and experiences. It can often result in a more well-rounded and polished final product.
When collaborating on a song, it’s important to establish clear expectations from the start. This can include discussing the overall vision for the song. And defining each person’s role in the collaboration, and how decisions will be made.
It’s also helpful to establish a timeline for the project. Also to set regular check-ins to ensure that everyone is on the same page. Monitoring that the project is progressing as planned.
Collaboration can take many forms. This includes co-writing lyrics and melodies to working together on arrangements and instrumentation. It’s important to be open to feedback and to be willing to compromise. This insures a cohesive and successful final product.
Collaboration in songwriting can be a rewarding and enriching experience for all involved. It can lead to some truly memorable and impactful music.
Practicing and Improving Songwriting Skills
To become a skilled songwriter, one must practice and refine their craft consistently. Here are some tips to help improve songwriting skills:
Write regularly Writing songs regularly is essential to improving songwriting skills. It helps to develop a habit of writing. It also provides opportunities to experiment with different styles and techniques.
Study song structure Understanding the structure of a song is crucial to writing a good one. Analyzing the structure of different songs can help develop an understanding of how to create a compelling melody and lyrics.
Collaborate with other songwriters Collaborating with other songwriters can provide valuable feedback. And it helps to develop new ideas. It can also help to identify areas of strength and weakness in songwriting.
Experiment with different instruments and styles Experimenting with different instruments and styles helps to develop a unique sound. It can also help to break out of creative ruts and generate new ideas.
Listen to different genres of music Listening to different genres of music can provide inspiration for new songs. And it helps to develop a diverse range of styles and techniques.
In conclusion, practicing and refining songwriting skills is essential to becoming a skilled songwriter. Consistently writing, studying song structure, collaborating with other songwriters, experimenting with different instruments and styles, and listening to different genres of music can help to improve songwriting skills and develop a unique sound and style.
Copyright and Protecting Your Songs
When it comes to songwriting, protecting your work is essential. Copyrighting your songs ensures that no one else can use or profit from them without your permission. Here are some ways to protect your songs:
Copyright Registration
The first step is to register your work with the appropriate organizations. In the United States, you can register your songs with the U.S. Copyright Office. This will give you legal proof of ownership and the right to sue if someone infringes on your copyright.
Use Copyright Notices
Another way to protect your songs is to include a copyright notice on all of your work. This lets others know that your songs are protected. So that the song cannot use them without your permission. A copyright notice should include
Working with a music attorney can also help you protect your songs. They can help you register your work, draft contracts, and provide legal advice if someone infringes on your copyright.
Keep Records
Keeping records of your songs is important in case you need to prove ownership. This can include recordings, lyrics, and any other documentation that shows you created the work.
By taking these steps, you can protect your songs and ensure that you are the only one who can profit from your hard work.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the best songwriting software options available?
There are several software options available for songwriting, including
Logic Pro X
Ableton Live
GarageBand
These software options offer a range of features for composing and arranging music, recording demos, and mixing tracks. It’s important to choose a software that fits your needs and budget.
How can one learn the fundamentals of songwriting?
Learning the fundamentals of songwriting involves understanding the basics of melody, harmony, and rhythm. It’s also important to study the structure of songs and the use of lyrics to convey meaning and emotion. One can learn these fundamentals through online courses, books, or by studying the work of successful songwriters.
What are the steps to starting to write song lyrics?
The first step to writing song lyrics is to choose a topic or theme. From there, one can brainstorm ideas and start writing down phrases or lines that fit the theme. It’s also important to consider the structure of the song and how the lyrics will fit within it. Finally, revising and editing the lyrics is crucial to creating a polished final product.
What are some tips for writing a song from the heart?
To write a song from the heart, it’s important to tap into personal experiences and emotions. One can also draw inspiration from the world around them or from the experiences of others. It’s important to be honest and authentic in the lyrics and to focus on conveying a clear message or emotion.
Can songwriting be self-taught, and if so, how?
Yes, songwriting can be self-taught. One can start by studying the work of successful songwriters. And by analyzing the structure and lyrics of their songs. It’s also important to practice regularly and to seek feedback from others. Online courses and resources can also be helpful in developing one’s skills.
What are some beginner-friendly resources for learning how to write songs?
There are several beginner-friendly resources available for learning how to write songs, including:
online courses
books
workshops
It’s important to choose a resource that fits your learning style and budget. Seeking feedback from others and practicing regularly are also key to developing one’s skills.
Learn How to Write Songs for Beginners: Tips and Techniques was last modified: August 13th, 2023 by John Pape
Songwriting is a creative process of taking music and melody to create a song. It does not matter what level songwriter’s range from hobbyist to professional. The main difference is dedication and compensation. A well-placed song can help a songwriter get paid a decent amount for their creative works. But it does not necessarily mean that only professional songwriters find this field favorable. Even if you are new to the craft of songwriting, you still can make great songs like a pro. To help you write better songs there are tools you can use to learn and excel in this field. This article will take a look at some of the best songwriting software tools you can use
We’ve all been there. A blank page, a strong desire to write an awesome song, but – nothing. No ideas, zero inspiration. Trying to force the beginnings of something but nothing works. In a group dynamic like rehearsals, one member of the group is usually charged and ready to lead the rest out of a creative void. But, alone, staring at your computer, mic or instrument, it can be much harder to bring something to life.
This is when you most need an unexpected boost or nudge in the new direction. You may already have an idea or two bouncing around your mind but it’s missing something to bring it together. Enter the all-important drum groove. Unless you’re an experienced drummer or very well versed in using drum loops, it might not be your first thought to look to drum beats for inspiration. But, whether it’s a laid back vibe or a rock and roll pounding – the energy of a drum beat can really get your creativity flowing and bring a song idea to life.
Here are some great ways to use drum loops to write awesome songs.
After the first attempt, even the most seasoned guitar players realized that songwriting is a horse of a different color. Don’t be disheartened by the new challenge and its learning curve. A well-composed song is a permanent reflection of you as an artist.
In this post, I’ll share five handy (interconnected) tips that will help you turn a good guitar riff into a great song. Of course, my method isn’t the only way to go about it. But I learned it from the pros and found it to be immensely helpful.
So, with the hope that you can accomplish your creative goals with it, let’s get to it.
One problem with therapy—be it psychological or physical, for mental illness or substance abuse—is that it involves a lot of repetition, so keeping focus and attention can be a problem for some clients. Boredom often results, leading to resistance to and the feeling that therapy sessions are something unpleasant that need to be avoided.
We don’t have to tell you how incredible music is. The benefits are endless and impossible to capture with words. Music connects us as people. It is known as the “universal language”. It’s calming. It’s healing. People even use music therapy to lower stress and treat mental health conditions.
But, again, as a songwriter, you undoubtedly already know all of that. Songwriters often have a passion for music that many others don’t possess. But, unless you manage to sell your songs to a famous musician or record label, you might not be able to rely on a career as a writer.
There’s nothing wrong with that. Many songwriters write for themselves or do it as a hobby. But, if songwriting alone isn’t scratching your musical itch, you might want to consider a career in music education. It’s a fantastic way to share your gift and passion with others, and fuel them with the tools and skills they need to discover how incredible music really is.
Traditional CD’s and tapes have been replaced by digital downloadable music. Currently, you can register in a music streaming service and enjoy your favorite music.
There are diverse music streaming platforms and provide varied options for music lovers. Music streaming platform should be compatible with every device you choose. It would be best if you consider the audio quality and support platform for the digital assistant.
Let’s forget about all the technique that goes into lyric writing and let’s look at why you like creating amazing lyrics in the first place. Professional songwriters know that lyric writing is all about what works for you creatively and not so much about the technical things. Lyric writing can present problems in many different ways and technique will help you move past these problems really easily, but just going with what feels right for you is the key to good songwriting.
Whether you are promoting your music, looking for a label, trying to snare a manager or agent, or trying to establish any kind of music industry relationship, there is a simple, yet often overlooked, trick you can use to increase your chances of success – know who you’re contacting.
Sounds pretty obvious, right? Well, it doesn’t just mean to know someone’s name and email address.
What is their job?
What kind of experience do they have?
What kind of music do they like?
There are a few reasons why doing your homework before you approach someone with your music makes sense:
Like all creators, songwriters largely depend on inspiration. Any songwriter would confirm that, when inspired, they feel the creative power with which they can move the mountains.
But, what should you do if you suddenly run out of ideas and Euterpe, the muse of poetry and music, hasn’t been visiting you for days?
In this case, you need to take matters into your own hands and start searching for inspiration.
Don’t know where to start?
We’ve prepared a few productivity tips specifically for those songwriters who’ve been feeling increasingly demotivated and are currently experiencing the creativity drought.
Mechanical Licensing Collective ( MLC) is a new nonprofit organization designated by the U.S. Copyright Office pursuant to the historic Music Modernization Act of 2018. Starting in January 2021, The MLC will administer a new blanket mechanical license available to eligible streaming and download services (digital service providers or DSPs) in the United States.
The MLC will be responsible for collecting the mechanical royalties due under those licenses from the DSPs and then distributing you to music publishers, administrators, and self-administered songwriters, composers, and lyricists.
Hi! My name is Steven Gerein. I am the creator of SongShop! I wanted to take a few minutes to introduce myself, and give you a bit of background as to how SongShop came to be.
SMALL TALK
It was just another set up day – Spend the afternoon loading in gear. Set the stage and lighting. Line check, sound check, and then break until show time. Me and a couple band members did what most others would do – walked down to the bar and grabbed a beer. We sat and chatted for a while, just the usual small talk about the show, set up, and how we thought the night would go. But then we started talking about something else; something that sparked the idea for SongShop. One of the guitar players who plays with us also has his own project, and he had been prepping songs for his next album. I was also starting to prep for another recording, and we got on the topic of finding songs from other writers.
It’s always a good idea to find a way to expand your soloing “vocabulary”. Whatever is your instrument, finding new ways to approach your lead sections is a must if you’re a lead player. You might prefer to write them first, or you might feel like improvising them completely. However, you need to have a better grasp on the matter and have more material to work from. While the choice of scales for lead sections is somewhat limited and usually relies on the minor pentatonic scale or natural minor and major scales, there are a few others worth mentioning. One of the examples is the Dorian mode, which comes as a very interesting collection of notes (so to speak) that can completely reinvent your music and add a new dimension to it.
In some cases, you can use a clich’ to your advantage. Put it in a context that brings out its original meaning or makes us see it in a new way. For example, ‘I’ll be seeing you’, although a clich’, works as a substitute for so long or good-bye.
