Greetings.
You’re probably reading my blog because you've found yourself in a bit of a pickle, am I right?
You want to create something special, but you're staring at a blank sheet, the melody in your head refusing to make friends with the words.
I've been there, trust me. And it's not just a pickle. It's a monster-sized Godzilla of a pickle...
The Painful Reality of Songwriting
Let's be real. Songwriting can be like wrestling with a stubborn octopus.
You've got melodies circling your brain like vultures, lyrics that sound like they were spat out of a broken translator, and to top it all off, the one person you played your "work in progress" for just nodded and gave you a pity smile... I mean, that’s just totally humiliating, right?
Ever felt like you're just running around in circles, like a hamster on a wheel that just won't quit?
Well, welcome to the club.
We've got jackets.
The Myth of Overnight Success
Now, let's talk about that sparkling unicorn... overnight success.
You see those pop stars on TV, their faces plastered on billboards, their tunes blasting out of every radio, and you think, "Well, that could be me if I just had that one big break."
Newsflash: That's a load of bull.
Time to stop buying into that instant fame fairy tale, folks.
Most of these "overnight" sensations were grinding it out in dingy clubs or their parent's basement for years before they hit the big time.
What I Wish I Knew
Ah, the wisdom of hindsight.
If only I had a time machine to go back and shake some sense into the younger me.
But since we're fresh out of DeLoreans, let's settle for a virtual chinwag.
Here's the lowdown:
The Importance of Patience
Rome wasn't built in a day, was it?
Neither is your songwriting career.
It takes time. Hours spent strumming, humming, writing, and rewriting.
Patience, my friend, is not just a virtue, it's the musician's secret weapon.
Finding Your Own Voice
But really, nobody's gonna listen if you just sound like a cheap knock-off.
Discover your unique voice.
It's what sets you apart from the rest of the crowd.
It's what makes your songs, well, your songs.
Dealing with Criticism
It stings, sure, but can you imagine a world where everybody just nodded and agreed?
How boring would that be?
Criticism, as much as we hate it, helps us grow.
It's the sandpaper that smooths the rough edges of our work.
The Role of Persistence
I’d sure like to tell you that it's a breeze, but let's face it, you gotta keep at it.
Talent is good, but persistence is better.
It’s the grit that keeps you going when the muse has gone AWOL.
The Ultimate Truth: You're Not Alone
I know it's tough.
There are days when the words won’t come, when the melody sounds like a cat in heat, when you question why you're even doing this.
But remember, you're not alone.
Every songwriter out there has faced the same struggles, the same doubts.
So, pull up your socks and dive right back into the beautiful chaos of creation.
Let's turn this Godzilla of a pickle into a mountain of opportunity.
In Conclusion
So there you have it.
Songwriting can be a real kick in the teeth, but it can also be the most thrilling ride of your life.
A few final words of wisdom from this old timer:
- Don't chase the trends: They change faster than a chameleon on a rainbow. Be true to your own style, your own voice.
- Don't sit still: Write a lot. The best songs aren't written... they're rewritten. And rewritten. And... you get the idea.
- Don't fear failure: The biggest failure is not trying at all. Every failed song is a stepping stone toward your masterpiece.
- Don't forget to live: Experience is the best teacher. Live your life, soak in the experiences, and let them seep into your songs.
In the end, songwriting isn't just about creating melodies and penning lyrics.
It's about expressing yourself, sharing your perspective, and your emotions.
It's about reaching out and touching the hearts and minds of others.
It’s about creating something that's uniquely you.
So, what are you waiting for?
Grab that pen, pick up that guitar, and let's create some magic.
Or, you know, just produce some noise that your neighbors might call the cops on...
Keep the faith, keep hustling, and remember, even the Beatles started out as just a bunch of kids with guitars and a dream.
So chin up, shoulders back, and step into the ring.
There are a whole lotta people with weird tastes out there waiting to hear what you've got. 😉
Peace out. ✌️
Your Songwriting Coach,
Graham English
Enter your first name and email address below and click “GET ACCESS NOW!” to get the Speed Songwriting Cheat Sheet delivered to your inbox!
We guarantee 100% privacy. Your information will not be shared.
Leave a Reply