Posts by Marty Dodson
You Can Learn Songwriting (And Why “Born With It” Is a Myth)
The other day, I heard a hit songwriter say: “You can’t teach songwriting. You’re either born with it or you’re not.” I’ll be honest—that hit me wrong. There’s a little ring of superiority in that, don’t you think? As if the people who’ve had hits were sprinkled with some kind of magic dust that everyone…
Read MoreHow Pro Songwriters Write Universal Songs (Without Being Generic)
Great songs don’t just tell the truth—they make people feel something true in their own lives. In this SongTown songwriting lesson, Clay Mills and Marty Dodson share how to take a personal idea and turn it into a universal song that connects with more listeners. You’ll learn songwriting tips for finding the core emotion, using…
Read MoreWhy Your Songs Don’t Hit Hard Enough : 5 Songwriting Fixes
Want your songs to hit harder and keep listeners hooked? In this SongTown songwriting lesson, Clay Mills and Marty Dodson share five powerful ways to use contrast in your lyrics, melody, and emotion so you can write better songs that stand out. These songwriting tips will help you create stronger sections, fresher ideas, and more…
Read More4 Worst Ways To Co-write A Song
Great co-writing starts with the right mindset. In this SongTown songwriting lesson, hit songwriters Clay Mills and Marty Dodson share 4 ways amateur songwriters sabotage co-writes—and how to bring better energy, ideas, and collaboration into the writing room. Clay & Marty’s 10-day video series: This video series will help you level-up your songs and finish…
Read MoreHow to Submit Songs as a Songwriter Without Burning Bridges: 2026 Guide
There’s a lot of confusion around one question I hear all the time: “How do I submit my songs to the music business?” The truth is, there isn’t just one way to submit songs as a songwriter. Different types of song submissions come with very different levels of risk. Some are safe places to learn…
Read MoreReal Songwriting Success
By SongTown Co-founder Marty Dodson I’ve had the privilege of writing songs with many—if not most—of the most successful writers in Nashville. These are people with shelves full of awards, walls lined with gold and platinum records, and calendars booked months in advance. When you’re starting out as a songwriter, that’s the dream, right? To…
Read More10 Lyrics Mistakes That Peg You As An Amateur Songwriter
In this SongTown lesson, Clay Mills and Marty Dodson break down 10 lyric mistakes that can make your songs feel amateur. You’ll learn how to strengthen your big idea, write more conversational lyrics, avoid filler, and make every line support the hook. Stick around for the bonus tip on building your signature style. Clay &…
Read More3 Signs You’re a Better Songwriter Than You Think
Think your songs sound worse than ever? That may actually be a sign you’re growing as a writer. In this SongTown lesson, we break down 3 real signs you’re becoming a better songwriter, from hearing problems faster to rewriting smarter and writing for connection instead of cleverness. If you want better songs, stronger lyric writing,…
Read MoreHow To Write Songs People Actually Listen To
How do you write songs that truly connect with listeners? In this SongTown lesson, Marty Dodson and Clay Mills break down pro songwriting tips that help your songs feel honest, believable, and emotionally powerful. Learn how emotional truth, contrast, arc, and audience awareness can turn a good idea into a great song. Clay & Marty’s…
Read MoreThe 7 Deadly Sins of Songwriting | Avoid These Now
What are the biggest mistakes songwriters make that can hurt both their songs and their careers? In this SongTown lesson, Clay Mills and Marty Dodson break down the 7 deadly sins of songwriting—from gossip and blame to preachy lyrics, emotional untruth, and turning opinions into facts. If you want to write better songs, build better…
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