Songwriting
My mother's gift for singing and writing jingles was passed on to me, and I've been writing songs since I was about twelve years old. I take my lyrical inspiration from my surroundings.
I've got lyrics in my apartment scribbled on receipts, post-its, and homework, but I still keep writing, waiting for a song that mesmerizes the masses.
The box to the right features some lyrics I've written. Take a look.
I am a member of the Austin Songwriters Group and love helping the organization in any way I can. ASG hosts a weekly 'Song Doctor' which I attend, where songwriters come together to receive feedback about their latest work.
At the end of January 2010, I attended the annual ASG Symposium which brought together publishers, producers, and songwriters from Nashville and Austin. The informational sessions were another great addition to my songwriter's toolbox.
Recommendations
I also read songwriting books whenever I get the chance. Two that I recommend are:
- "If You've Got A Dream, I've Got A Plan" by Kelley Lovelace, a songwriter signed to EMI. He has cowritten multiple Brad Paisley songs, including "He Didn't Have To Be" and "Wrapped Around." He also cowrote Carrie Underwood's "Don't Forget To Remember Me." This is a great book for songwriters who are just starting out or are unfamiliar with the music business.
- The Billboard Guide to Writing and Producing Songs that Sell: How to Create Hits in Today's Music Industry by Eric Beall. This is a must-have for all songwriters. It's a step-by-step guidebook to creating hit songs.