Songwriting Tutorial # 01

Most people don't know how to write songs, how can YOU become one of them?

I've been writing songs for 12 years now and still have tons to learn. Songwriting and Composition are the soul and passion of my music. I sit down after some inspiration and start to think of a concept (no paper). My mind scans over all the different ideas that might work with the concept, adding new ones to the pile left, right and center.

As soon as I can see a clear picture of the song/imagery/topic etc I run for a piece of paper. Some people might like to carry something on them but I find it better to just make sure paper is around so you can run to it in excitement. There is a reason for this; When you're holding paper it can be really hard to think, you'll find as soon as you let the paper go the ideas will start to flow. (If you are walking or out and about then a piece of paper and pen in the pocket are a good idea, just don't hold it while you're thinking.

The concept is usually overlooked... just sit there and even close your eyes and relax, let your mind wander, this is not the same as meditation because you aren't trying to focus, you are letting your mind do some deep mind treasure hunting. The more you practice this before writing a song, the better you'll get.

Don't be discouraged if this doens't work the first time, this idea came to me gradually as I progressed. There is one thing that I can guarantee, if you do this before you write music or do anything creative, you'll notice improvements around the 3rd and 4th times.

I've recommended this technique to many songwriters and it's helped them to find their magic again.

Whether you've lost your magic, or you're still trying to find it.... this technique will get you on the road to harvesting musical magic. 

 

Read Songwriting Philosophies Part 02 >>