The number one question that fills our email inbox is “How do I get a song cut by a major artist if I'm an out-of-town songwriter?” "I don't live in a big music city" is the challenge. This strikes at the very core of why Marty Dodson and I created this virtual SongTown of kindred spirits. To bring a Music...

  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 important to go beyond...

One of the frequent questions we get in SongTown is "How do I write song lyrics?" Many people confuse song lyrics with poetry, but there are some subtle yet important differences. So, how are lyrics to a song different from poems? Poems are typically visual pieces and song lyrics are auditory works. Someone reading poetry can SEE transitions from line...

One of the most important components to reaching any songwriting goal is to know exactly what you'd like to achieve. Here is a songwriter goal-setting worksheet that I like to use to help me focus on where I am going... As you set your goals, be sure that each one is something that you can measure. Goals like these can...

  The more accurate you are in regard to that self-assessment, the better success you will have attracting co-writers who fill in the blanks for you. 1) Be the kind of co-writer you hope to find. If you are organized and professional, then you will be more likely to attract that kind of person. If you listen more than you talk, you...

  One of the hardest things to come to grips with as a songwriter is other peoples opinions on your songs. Here is a story that can help you navigate those waters. I wrote with a writer last week who is actively looking for a publishing deal. He is a super talented writer and was expressing frustration over how two publishers...