Have You Asked Yourself, “Am I A REAL Songwriter”

Are you a REAL songwriter?

I can’t count the number of times someone has said to me “I’m a songwriter – well not a really, because I haven’t had any cuts.” Believe me; I felt the same way early in my career. Have you felt like you needed to somehow qualify or justify yourself in the eyes of other people? Me too.

As time went by, I realized that I was a real songwriter all along.

Why? Because I wrote songs. I had the guts to pour my heart out and put it to music when others were afraid to be that vulnerable. Because I had music in my heart and a story to tell. I was, and am a legit songwriter, regardless of my commercial success.

Do You Fit My Songwriter Criteria? Do You…

• Have something to say?
• Have the courage to say it?
• Find time to write whether anyone listens or not?
• Want people to “get” your music because you care about writing it?

You’re A Songwriter

If you meet those qualifications, then I’d say you’re a real songwriter. Don’t let anyone tell you differently. Say it confidently and proudly. “I’m a songwriter.”

Remember, almost anybody can learn how to write a great song if they put in enough time.

Will it happen quickly? Not likely. It took me almost 6 years to get a hit. So, instead of playing me, or anyone else one of your songs and asking if you have what it takes, do a little self-inventory. Ask yourself: 1) How hard and how long am I willing to work at this? 2) How bad do I want it? 3) Am I honestly willing to learn, or do I think I have it all figured out? The answers to THOSE questions are better gauges of your chances of success in songwriting or in anything you try.

Work your tail off, want it with everything you’ve got and soak up every chance to learn.

Now say it again… “I’m a songwriter.”

Write on! MD