Is It True That “The Best Songs Aren’t Written, They’re Rewritten?”
The statement, “In songwriting, the best songs aren’t written, they’re rewritten,” is more than a clever catchphrase, it’s an essential truth rooted deeply in the creative process. Let’s unpack this idea further and explore what makes rewriting such a powerful tool in crafting memorable songs. 1. The Myth of Inspiration Many people believe songwriting is […]
10 Ways That Songwriting Can Be Used As Therapy
Writing songs as therapy—often called “therapeutic songwriting”—can be a powerful tool for emotional healing, personal growth, and self-expression. Here are 10 ways songwriting can function therapeutically: 1. Expressing Deep Emotions Writing songs provides a safe space to express intense or complex emotions—sadness, anger, grief, anxiety—that might be difficult to articulate otherwise. It allows you to […]
8 Ways That The 80/20 Rule Can Transform Your Songwriting Process
The 80/20 rule (also known as the Pareto Principle) suggests that roughly 80% of results come from 20% of efforts or inputs. Applying this to songwriting can offer clarity, boost creativity, and significantly enhance productivity. Here’s how the 80/20 principle can transform your songwriting process: 1. Focus on Your Core Strengths (20% Effort = 80% […]
10 Things To Do If Your Songs Are Starting To Sound The Same
Feeling stuck in a creative loop where all your songs sound alike can be frustrating, but it’s also a natural phase every songwriter faces at some point. If you’re looking to break this pattern and inject some fresh energy into your music, here are 10 things you can try: 1. Change Your Musical Environment Sometimes […]
Is There Such A Thing As “Too Much Rewriting” In Songwriting?
In songwriting, rewriting is often hailed as the magic ingredient—transforming initial sparks of inspiration into polished, compelling compositions. Yet, like many powerful tools, rewriting comes with a paradox: too little can leave your song feeling incomplete, while too much can strip away its soul. So, is there such a thing as “too much rewriting”? Absolutely. […]
Make Your Songs Twice As Good with Power Positions – How To Write Songs
Learn the secret to unforgettable lyrics with “power positions”! Discover how strategically placing your lyrical lines can change your song’s emotional impact This article, written by Keppie Coutts on How To Write Songs, introduces the concept of Power Positions, a songwriting technique that enhances the emotional impact of lyrics by strategically placing powerful lines at […]
3 Mindset Shifts to Stop Overthinking Your Songs
Struggling with overthinking your songs? Learn 3 mindset shifts to stop second-guessing, write faster, and finish more songs with confidence. Introduction Overthinking is a common obstacle for songwriters, often leading to creative blocks and unfinished songs. Instead of waiting for perfect ideas, successful songwriting involves showing up consistently, writing freely, and refining later. The article […]
The Must Have Characteristics To Make A Living As A Songwriter
Here is a great video from the guys at SongTown and in this video they go through the must have characteristics that a songwriter must have to make a living from their chosen craft. Grit: Successful songwriters persist despite frequent rejection and setbacks, continuously showing up and doing the work, even when discouraged. Diversity: Earning […]
Songwriting Dos and Don’ts
A recent “Play For a Publisher” event featured Stacey Willbur, from Full Circle Music, sharing her feedback about 10 songs selected for the showcase. The article, based on insights from a “Play For a Publisher” event with Stacey Willbur, VP of Publishing and A&R for Full Circle Music, highlights key songwriting tips shared during Episode […]
What Is The “Hook” Of The Song?
The hook of a song is a memorable musical or lyrical phrase designed to “hook” the listener’s attention and make the song memorable. It’s often the most catchy part of a song and can appear in various forms throughout the track. A good hook is essential in songwriting because it creates the earworm effect, keeping […]