Posts by Clay Mills
Your Next Song Demo: 7 Tips Before You Spend Money
I have received several emails this week asking about the best approach to recording song demos. There are many things that have changed over the last year since I first blogged about this. Here are a few questions to consider when demoing your songs. 1. Who will be listening? If you are playing your demo…
Read More5 Simple Ways To Boost Your Creativity And Songwriting Power
As a professional writer, learning to boost your creativity and songwriting power is crucial to success. I am asked often how I walk into a co-write with superstars like Darius Rucker, Little Big Town, or Lady Antebellum and create songs “on-demand?” Well, I didn’t start out doing this, but I’ve learned a few tricks over…
Read MoreBrian Davis: Messing With Memories and Songs
Multi #1 songwriter stops by the SongTown Studios to talk about his music and offer songwriters key tips on how to write a song that hits your audience… heart to heart. Clay & Marty’s 10-day video series: This video series will help you level-up your songs and finish them faster. CLICK HERE to begin! SongTown Press Books:…
Read MoreSongwriters: 5 Keys To Building A Better Song Catalog
Several SongTownian’s have recently asked the question, “what’s the best way to build a better song catalog?” Here are some key things I’ve learned over the years after writing for several major publishing companies and building a new catalog at each. Write, write, write! There is no substitute for this. A catalog is a collection of songs. You…
Read More#SongwritingHack 1.06 – How To Write Killer One Chord Songs
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been at workshops or songwriting classes and had students come up to me and say something like, you know, I wish I had taken more music theory when I was younger. Or, I wish I’d taken piano lessons or guitar lessons; I can only play a few…
Read More#SongwritingHack 1.18 – “Top 5 Songwriter Guitar Hacks For The Broke A$$ Writer”
Today I’ve got five songwriter guitar hacks that are free for all – check them out. 1. Capo Trick When you’ve come up with that great guitar idea, and you want to come back in a few days and remember what you did, your iPhone can perfect for recording a short little video. Simply grab…
Read MoreAre You A Pro Vs. Aspiring Songwriter? Great Songs Don’t Care!
Over the weekend someone tagged me in a Facebook thread that had over 500 comments debating heatedly over whether or not a lyricist was an actual “songwriter”… All I can say is who cares? I don’t mean that in a harsh way. You see, I’ve been fortunate that over 150 major artists have recorded my…
Read MoreMoments That Change Your Songwriting Fate Forever
Multi #1 songwriters Clay Mills and Marty Dodson share the key decisions and moments that pushed them into full-time songwriting careers. Learn to recognize your moments and make the most of them. Kickoff 2024 with the SongTown MasterClass for Songwriters. Led by multi-#1/Grammy nominated songwriters… Clay Mills & Marty Dodson. Our students have gone on…
Read MoreAdd New Skills To Your Songwriter’s Toolbox Like A Pro
Songwriters, like any craftsmen, rely on skill. But skill is largely based on your ability to consistently add tools to your songwriter’s toolbox. Here are 4 steps to get you on the path to adding new tools, break out of old ruts, and level-up your writing. Practice Active Listening. When we’re listening to music, it’s…
Read MoreHow Songwriters Can Crush It In 2024!
Hit Writers Marty Dodson and Clay Mills give their top ways songwriters can make 2024 their best writing year yet. What should you be focused on and how do you set yourself up to reach your goals in 2024. Kickoff 2024 with the SongTown MasterClass for Songwriters. Led by multi-#1/Grammy nominated songwriters… Clay Mills &…
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