3 Classic Tells That You’re An Amateur Songwriter (And How To Fix Them)

3 Classic Tells That You’re An Amateur Songwriter (And How To Fix Them)

I’ve been a student of songwriting my whole life. I’ve had guitar lessons since I was 5, went to 2 different conservatories, studied jazz guitar, classical and pop music, I’ve written for bands, orchestras and big bands. And with all of this experience I also learned a thing or two. When I listen back to my first songs I can hear that I didn’t understand a couple of simple concepts that I now use all the time. Listening to your contributions on Feedback Friday (my youtube show where I review your songs for free) I now see that I’m not the only one with these problems. There really are 3 things I hear amateur songwriters do repeatedly that tell me they don’t know what they’re doing. …continue reading →
7 Productivity Techniques That Will INSTANTLY Speed Up Your Workflow

7 Productivity Techniques That Will INSTANTLY Speed Up Your Workflow

Probably the most undervalued factor in becoming a professional songwriter is speed. Being able to write a song in a day or two dramatically increases your output and therefore possibilities.
  • The more songs you write, the more artists you can write for.
  • The more songs you write, the more you can upload for your fans.
  • The more songs you write, the more you can sell (hey, we all gotta make a living, right?)
  • It simply feels great to be able to write a song quickly.
  • There's no overthinking things, you have to rely on your intuition, meaning your songs don't mutate
  • You are always the first to be heard in pitches if you can send in your songs first.
…continue reading →
3 Major Ways In Which Songwriting Has Changed

3 Major Ways In Which Songwriting Has Changed

Growing up with my parents's favorite bands such as the Beatles and Simon & Garfunkel, I recently noticed 3 major changes in how songs are written now as opposed to 30+ years ago. Understanding these 3 major changes in the songwriting industry is important because the consequences are very present in which songs make it to the radio (thus, your audience) and which don't.…continue reading →