10 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 MoreSongwriting Masterclass: 3 Skills Every Serious Songwriter Needs to Master
What separates a serious songwriter from the rest? In this SongTown mini masterclass, Clay Mills and Marty Dodson break down 3 essential skills every writer needs to master to grow in song craft and write better songs. If you want to level up your songwriting and start thinking like a pro songwriter, this lesson is…
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 More10 Major Focus Mistakes That Amateur Songwriters Focus On
by SongTown Co-founder Clay Mills Over the past 10 years of teaching thousands of students in SongTown, I’ve noticed that one of the biggest things holding writers back is what they choose to focus on—both during the writing process and in everything surrounding it. Whether it’s mindset, expectations, or industry myths, these distractions can seriously derail…
Read MoreWhy You Should Write Songs Even If No One Hears Them
Why should you keep writing songs even if no one hears them? In this SongTown lesson, Marty Dodson and Clay Mills share why songwriting helps you find your voice, grow your confidence, and connect with other songwriters. This is for anyone who wants to write better songs and live a more creative life. Clay &…
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…
Read More3 Things Most Indie Artists Miss When Releasing Music
Clay Mills of SongTown chats with Clay Myers (Top Artist Development Consultant) about 3 areas every indie artist need to master to have a successful career. 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: Mastering Melody Writing : Check It…
Read MoreHow Publishers Know If Your Songwriting Is Good?
How do publishers know if your songwriting is actually good? In this lesson, Clay Mills and Marty Dodson break down the 3 instant tells… Plus, there’s a secret hidden audio track as a bonus. 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! …
Read MoreStop Shooting in the Dark: Why Writing With Intention Can Change Your Songwriting Career
by SongTown co-founder Marty Dodson I see it every day: talented songwriters pouring their hearts into songs, only to watch them gather dust on a hard drive. Why? Because 99% of songwriters are shooting in the dark. When I first started writing songs professionally, I was no different. My goal each day was simple —…
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