109. Four Questions I Ask During the Demo Production Process

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear songwriter,

Are you overwhelmed by the plethora of sounds and instruments you have at your disposal once you open up your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)? I've been there too, and this episode is designed to be your friendly guide through the seemingly daunting terrain of music production. We're diving into the art of creating purposeful music with insights from my own journey from creating sounds to forging music with intention and precision.

You will be guided through a step-by-step process aimed at helping you make decisions about which instruments to use in your tracks and which ones to boot. Learn how to externalize and implement a mental checklist that brings clarity as you write, arrange, and produce your new songs.

Four Questions I Ask During the Demo Production Process:

  1. What is the role of the instrument I’m adding?

  2. What is the context for this instrument (AKA why is it even there?)

  3. What is its relationship with the other instruments and voices?

  4. Do I even need this instrument? 

Take this chance to transform your DAW session from a daunting challenge into a playground of limitless potential!

Like what your hearing in the Dear Songwriter... podcast? Leave us quick review or 5 star rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!

Mentions and Links:

Social Media:

Songs/Artists:

Digital Audio Workstations(DAWs):

Podcasts:

108. Analyzing the Songwriting of The Beatles' George Harrison

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear Songwriter,

Are you ready to dive into the songwriting secrets belonging to The Beatles' quiet genius, George Harrison? Today, we'll be breaking down the timeless tracks "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" and "Something" to see what makes them so great. We'll uncover the mystery of why these songs chose to forego the comforts of a traditional chorus, and instead, follow a jazz-like structure.

With George Harrison's deep understanding of musical storytelling, we'll delineate the characteristics that set his creations apart from the typical pop song. You will also unearth the underlying similarities that are subtly woven into these two distinct songs. Ultimately, the goal of this episode is not just to marvel at Harrison's extraordinary talent, but to extract and introduce his unique techniques into your songwriting universe.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • The distinct role of the guitar in Harrison's songs

  • The transition between minor and major keys

  • The power of subtle lyrical repetitions

  • Understanding the absence of a traditional chorus.

  • The unique, jazz-like structure of these compositions


Are you ready to resonate your own songs with some of this Beatles magic? Let's get into it with today's episode!

Ever wanted to connect with like-minded songwriters, embarking on the same journey as you? Join our free group, Songwriter's Vault, for exclusive trainings and a chance to connect: https://connorfrost.com/vaultpodcast

Mentions and Links:

Songs/Artists:

Musicians/Songwriters:

Movies/Books:

107. Re: My “Controversial” Post About Song Structure

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear Songwriter,

This week I'm diving into the ripple effect a simple social media post about song structure sparked and why it got people divided and talking. The post I made on Threads amassed 106,000 views and 71 total comments, many of which were in clear opposition to what I was saying.

Challenging traditional norms of songwriting, I'm going to dissect varying viewpoints, breaking down the reasons behind such strong sentiments. Tune in to know more, test your beliefs, and perhaps even switch up your songwriting techniques.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why learning song structure became a heavy debate among musicians and songwriters

  • The role of repetition in crafting compelling songs

  • How to analyze and improve existing song structures

  • The benefits of experimentation and open-mindedness in songwriting

  • A practical songwriting exercise to enhance your understanding of song structure


Ready to jump into the discussion? Hit the play button now and let's get into some of these comments!

Ever wanted to connect with like-minded songwriters, embarking on the same journey as you? Join our free group, Songwriter's Vault, for exclusive trainings and a chance to connect: https://connorfrost.com/vaultpodcast

Mentions and Links:

Socials:

FROM THE VAULT: Have You Considered a Songwriting Retreat?

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear songwriter,

In this episode from the vault, initially aired on October 10th, 2023, my colleague Julie and I take you on a journey into the heart of songwriting creativity. Join us as we delve into our recent songwriting retreat held in picturesque Vermont, where songwriters from all walks of life came together to experience an immersive 72-96 hour songwriting adventure. Today, we are going to cover:

Five Reasons to Attend a Songwriting Retreat

  1. Giving yourself the chance to focus solely on songwriting.

  2. The opportunity to join a supportive community of like-minded individuals.

  3. The transformative power of collaboration and peer feedback.

  4. The thrill of stepping outside your comfort zone or doing something scary.

  5. Leaving with more than just songs—a richer, more profound experience with other musicians.

Join us in this episode as we share the magic of songwriting retreats and the countless reasons why you should consider embarking on your own creative journey. Whether you're a seasoned songwriter or just starting, there's something incredible waiting for you at the intersection of inspiration and community.

And if you're interested in applying to this year's 2024 Green Mountain Songwriting Retreat, please head to http://www.connorfrost.com/retreat2024

Mentions and Links:
Third Eye Blind
Hogwarts
Colgate University
Julie Lavery Website

106. 10 Thoughts to Help Your Songwriting in Quarter 2

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear songwriter,

It’s a quarter into 2024! How’ve things been? In this episode, I open up about my journey in the first quarter of 2024, sharing my personal reflections, struggles, and growth experiences in the songwriting world. It's heart-to-heart talk as we delve into how I overcame the negativity and further heightened my creativity and persistence.

Amidst preparations for my two-week tour in May and the summer songwriting retreat come August, I’ve been having a lot of feelings of self-doubt and imposter syndrome. I’m guessing I’m not alone in this feeling. From defeating the dread of negative comments to fostering real connections with listeners, and from experiencing numerous drafts to the enthralling satisfaction of a completed song, I hope this episode offers some insight into the songwriting process.

My 10 Takeaways from Quarter 1:

  1. Why taking negative comments, especially from unrecognizable sources, to heart can hinder your songwriting journey.

  2. The importance of serving the song rather than feeding your ego.

  3. The realization that true listeners aren't simply handed over, they must be earned.

  4. Understanding that not all song ideas will work out - sometimes, you just need to test it out to confirm that it's not worth pursuing.

  5. The essence of the creative process - the first draft is about transformation from thoughts to ideas. Subsequent drafts help transition these ideas into a complete song.

  6. The usefulness of an instrumental section, giving the listener time to absorb the song's narrative.

  7. Viewing writer's block as an opportunity rather than a roadblock.

  8. If the alternative to failure is staying where you are, then which is the lesser of two evils?

  9. Acknowledging that often a song idea or draft may evolve into something entirely different - persevere through even the difficult songwriting moments.

  10. People tend to dream endlessly, rather than taking actual steps towards achieving their dreams.


Hit play to kickstart your own journey of resilience and creativity in the songwriting world.

Ever wanted to connect with like-minded songwriters, embarking on the same journey as you? Join our free group, Songwriter's Vault, for exclusive trainings and a chance to connect: https://connorfrost.com/vaultpodcast

Mentions and Links:

Digital Audio Workstations(DAWs):

Socials:

REPLAY: How to Write, Produce, and Release Your Debut Album in Six Months (interview w/ Capella Daydream)

Podcast Show Notes:

In this replay episode, my client, Zach, AKA Capella Daydream, shares how he wrote, produced, and released his debut album in just six months.

Listen to Capella Daydream here: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3XfbOnwDsfqwvZBka6uuky?si=Mz-YXB2XRReYSwdvRbASGQ

If you'd like to connect with me and my team for a FREE "JUST START" call, head to http://www.connorfrost.com/call.

REPLAY: How Do I Start Writing Melodies for My Song?

Podcast Show Notes:

You’ve got some lyrics written out on paper or in the notes app of your phone, maybe you even have a chord progression in place, but there’s just one major problem - you can’t figure out a melody to fit it all together, and a lot of times you’re not even sure where to start. 

In this episode I’m going to be walking you through, step-by-step, on how to start writing melodies, so that you can write catchy songs that you can be proud of, and get over that hump of simply STARTING. Because starting can be the hardest part. 

To schedule a free call with me/my team, go ahead and apply by heading to http://www.connorfrost.com/call

105. The Ins and Outs of Crowdfunding Your Album

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear songwriter,

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer cost of pushing your art forward? You're not alone. Many talented artists are stuck in a perpetual struggle to put their art out into the world due to financial constraints. But hang on, what if there's a way to share this financial burden with those who believe in your talent and want to be part of your journey? This is where our guest, Jess, a successful coach helping artists crowdfund their projects, steps in. Jess not only shares her story but also demystifies the whole idea of crowdfunding, explaining how she thrived in the crowdfunding arena and how she helps artists germinate their dreams into reality using the power of crowdfunding.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • Understanding the concept of crowdfunding and its potential

  • The story behind Jess's success in the crowdfunding space

  • Tips and tricks to succeed in your crowdfunding journey

  • How artists can leverage crowdfunding to accomplish their dreams

  • The emotional and financial challenges in crowdfunding and how to overcome them

  • The role of support and perseverance in achieving crowdfunding goals


Tap into the inspiration and practical advice you need to kickstart artist journey in this episode!

You Can Reach Out to Jess Here:

Email: coaching@jessevaallen.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jesslivingtothefullest/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jesslivingtothefullest

Ever wanted to connect with like-minded songwriters, embarking on the same journey as you? Join our free group, Songwriter's Vault, for exclusive trainings and a chance to connect: https://connorfrost.com/vaultpodcast

Mentions and Links:

Digital Audio Workstations(DAWs):

TV Shows:

Brands:

104. 2 Songwriting Tools From Oasis

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear Songwriter,

Ever delved into the architecture of your favorite songs and wondered how the magic happens? I sure have. Today, I'm peeling back the layers of one of Oasis' most universally beloved anthems - "Don’t Look Back in Anger." In this episode, we'll navigate the fascinating landscape of the song's sophisticated construction, bringing you valuable points to enhance your own songwriting craft.

Our guided journey through the song's composition focuses on two instrumental tools from the song; a layered and complex two-part pre-chorus and a skillful alignment between production elements and lyrics. At the heart of "Don’t Look Back in Anger" is an unconventional pre-chorus that layers emotional tones to create a deeply moving bridge to the chorus. Additionally, we'll explore how Oasis heightens the song's emotional resonance by harmonizing instrumental elements with lyrics, making for a composition that continues to inspire.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • The unconventional structure of Oasis's "Don't Look Back in Anger" and how it enhances the song's emotional arc.

  • The art of layering in songwriting and its effectiveness in building emotional depth and drama.

  • How Oasis uses a two-part pre-chorus and how you can apply this technique in your own songs.

  • The role of instrumental elements in enhancing lyrics and how Oasis maximized this connection.

  • Ways to make your song's production and lyrics complement each other to deepen its impact.


Let's uncover the songwriting secrets behind this timeless Oasis classic and get ready to elevate your own songs to new heights!

Want to spend four days immersed in writing songs, meeting friends along the way, co-writers for life, and leveling up your songwriting? The Green Mountain Songwriting Retreat is happening again, and you won't want to miss it! Start your application here before early bird pricing ends: https://www.connorfrost.com/retreat2024

Mentions and Links:

Arists/Songs:

103. I Wrote a Song for TV Consideration - What I Learned

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear Songwriter,

Have you ever found yourself on the edge of a new, somewhat terrifying, adventure? This episode is all about the journey of diving into the unfamiliar as I discuss the challenges and triumphs of writing a song for sync consideration for the very first time. I'll unmask the process, the initial fears, and the ultimate decision to grab the opportunity by the horns.

Join me as I walk through this exciting progression, from the moment Yago, a team member with experience in producing music for sync, presented this opportunity, to the sweat-and-blood process of crafting the perfect song. I go through the four-step process that moved from picking a narrative to recording the rough takes, and the final steps to sending this song out for consideration. It's a tale of creative courage, meticulous craftsmanship, and significant insights gained during this rollercoaster ride.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • How opportunities can appear from the most unexpected places

  • The importance of overcoming initial fears and uncertainties to grab hold of new experiences

  • The step-by-step approach to writing a song for sync

  • How detaching oneself from the 'character' can afford creative liberty

  • The importance of being decisive in the creative process, and treating songwriting as a craft


Want to take a deeper dive into sync? Tune into this episode and let's unlock the mystery together!

Want to spend four days immersed in writing songs, meeting friends along the way, co-writers for life, and leveling up your songwriting? The Green Mountain Songwriting Retreat is happening again, and you won't want to miss it! Start your application here before early bird pricing ends: https://www.connorfrost.com/retreat2024

Mentions and Links:

Audio Gear:

People/Public Figures:

TV:

Digital Audio Workstations:

Get More Involved:

102. Breaking Down the Important Relationship Between Notes and Syllables

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear Songwriter,

Ever wondered why certain songs stick, while others simply fade into the background? It’s all about the interplay of melody and lyrics. In this episode, I'm delving into the nitty-gritty to uncover the secrets behind memorable songwriting.

We begin by breaking down melodies and lyrics to their basic components—notes and syllables. Recognizing the power of these elements, we explore their role in creating songs that feel natural and conversational. We go even further to examine different sections of a song, such as verses, and choruses, illustrating what role melody plays in each. Focusing on syllables, we explain their relation to rhythm and use hymns and popular songs as examples to visualize the process. As we progress through the episode, you'll get practical tips and guidelines, from identifying the more and less prominent notes and aligning words to the strength of your melody, to trimming unnecessary syllables for clearer, catchier verses and choruses.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • The breakdown of melodies and lyrics into their essential parts.

  • The role that prominent notes play in crafting melodies.

  • How to choose words that match the strength of your melody.

  • The importance of using syllables strategically to maintain the rhythm and enhance the impact of your melody.

  • Techniques for cutting out unnecessary words and syllables to write clearer, catchier lyrics.

  • Practical tips for infusing your lyrics and melody with a natural, conversational cadence.


Let's dive deep into the craft of songwriting and hep you create songs that truly resonate!

Mentions and Links:

Social Media:

Podcast Episodes:

Songs/Artists:

People/Public Figures:

Movies:

101. How to Say More with Fewer Words in Your Lyrics

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear Songwriter,

Ever feel like your songs have too many words? In this episode, I'm delving into my own challenges with writing lyrics that were more wordy than necessary. As a songwriter and mentor, I've come across this hurdle multiple times, and today, I share not only my battle with "wordiness", but also the insights I gained on this creative journey.

Through my experience, I've identified two principal reason that led to such verbose lyrics: an overpowering attachment to the melody, and an overwhelming desire to infuse every detail into the song's narrative. We'll address how these tendencies can become obstacles in the process of crafting clear, concise, and efficacious lyrics. I'll guide you through the three transformative steps I undertook to tackle this issue head-on: recognizing the problem, utilizing the "lyric machete" technique to trim needless words, and deciding whether to rewrite lyrics or transition to instrumental sections for greater impact.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • The common causes of over-wordy lyrics in songwriting.

  • How attachment to melody and story can interfere with lyric clarity.

  • The three-step process to combat lyric wordiness.

  • The power of the "lyric machete" technique.

  • The impact of creating instrumental spaces in songs for listener understanding and connection.


Bottom Line: Don't miss out on this episode, as it equips you with the tools to combat verbosity in songwriting, helping you create lyrics that are catchy, clear, and captivating.

Want to spend four days immersed in writing songs, meeting friends along the way, co-writers for life, and leveling up your songwriting? The Green Mountain Songwriting Retreat is happening again, and you won't want to miss it! Start your application here before early bird pricing ends: https://www.connorfrost.com/retreat2024

100. 18 Months to Write a Song?!

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear songwriter,

Do you ever feel like your songwriting process seems to drag on forever? Today I'm opening the doors and revealing my own intense songwriting process - the grueling (and rewarding) 18 months I took to complete a deeply personal song. Spun from my struggles of fitting in due to race and upbringing, my journey was just as much about self-discovery as it was about crafting a song.

In this episode, we strip down the truth behind the art, diving deep into the stress, the critics, the unexpected revelations, and the inevitable tweaks that finally take the rough draft to a song ready for the world to hear. This is for every artist who's ever felt the weight of their story and the struggle of finalizing their work.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • The power of taking breaks and gaining perspective in the creative process.

  • The importance and art of seeking constructive feedback.

  • The impact of performing an unfinished piece to discover its potential.

  • The reflection of cultural identity, race, and upbringing in an artist's work.

Tune in to this episode and unearth the foundational elements that make the songwriting process a cathartic journey while finishing that new song!

Ever wanted to connect with like-minded songwriters, embarking on the same journey as you? Join our free group, Songwriter's Vault, for exclusive trainings and a chance to connect: https://connorfrost.com/vaultpodcast

99. 3 Songwriting Breakthroughs I’ve Experienced Recently

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear songwriter,

Ever felt stuck in your songwriting process, unable to break through to a complete song? In this episode, I take you on the rollercoaster ride of my most personal battles with songwriting - the frustrations, the detours, and ultimately, the breakthroughs. The journey from a straying second verse to a moving narrative or from cliché-filled lyrics to emotionally charged phrases, we'll get into it today.

As any songwriter will tell you, our craft is a labor of love that often involves more labor than love! But the thrill of that "aha" moment, of hearing your creation come alive, is indescribable. In this episode, you'll witness—and perhaps relate to—my struggles and triumphs as I grappled with my second verse, wrestled clichés in my lyrics, and finally, embraced the beauty of simplicity in songwriting.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • The importance of aligning each verse with the main theme of the song

  • Overcoming cliché lyrics for a deep, emotional connection with your audience

  • Harnessing the power of simplicity in songwriting

  • How changes can significantly improve the melody, tone, and resonance of a song

  • Practical insights into the creative process of songwriting


Listen in to this week’s episode and discover how you, too, can work your way through those frustrating roadblocks in your songwriting process.

Ever wanted to connect with like-minded songwriters, embarking on the same journey as you? Join our free group, Songwriter's Vault, for exclusive trainings and a chance to connect: https://connorfrost.com/vaultpodcast

Mentions and Links:

Social Media:

98. How I Balance Writing Songs with My Coaching Business

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear Songwriter,

Ever found yourself questioning how it might be possible to strike the perfect harmony between pursuing your passion, while simultaneously running an entrepreneurial venture? In this candid chat, I sat down with my own coach, Evan from Artist Collective, a seasoned professional who's made it his mission to aid creatives in building lives and businesses rooted in their passions. Together, Evan and I dive into the practical strategies that can help attain a balanced life as a creative entrepreneur, and we discuss the unique challenges and opportunities faced by those in the industry.

In this episode, I also take you on a personal journey through my life as a professional songwriting mentor. I reveal the significance I place on documenting my journey for the benefit of those learning from me, as well as for my own reflective practice. I share with you my belief that true fulfillment comes from creating art and guiding others in their artistic pursuits. Our mission is to fuel your confidence through this episode, empowering you to transform your artistic aspirations into reality, without ever feeling that your entrepreneurial ambition has to take a back seat!

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • Practical strategies for achieving balance as a creative entrepreneur.

  • Insights on coping with unique challenges faced by those in the music industry.

  • The benefits of having a business coach to guide your entrepreneurial journey.

  • The importance of documentation for personal reflection and effective teaching.

  • How to derive fulfillment not just from creating art, but also from mentoring others.

  • Ways to confidently transform artistic aspirations into reality without compromising entrepreneurial goals.


Armed with this arsenal of knowledge, I hope this episode guides you towards your musical dreams while learning the business skills that will make them last!

You Can Connect with Evan Here:

Website: https://theartistpreneur.com
Group Join: https://www.artistcollect.com/artistpreneurs

97. Four Lyric-Writing Tools from Death Cab for Cutie

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear Songwriter,

Can you relate to the frustration of struggling with your song lyrics, feeling like you're digging deeper and deeper without pulling up anything of interest? Then today's episode is precisely the creative boost you've been looking for. Today I'm focusing on the genius lyrical power of the lead vocalist of the Death Cab for Cutie - Ben Gibbard, and how his vision and approach can guide upcoming songwriters to explore new territories in their creative journeys.

From my assessment, Gibbard's magic lies in his deep and thought-provoking lyricism, using effective imagery and metaphors. For the budding songwriter, studying his approach could very well be the lighthouse in the storm, illuminating the path to expressive, meaningful lyrics. Using examples from two of Gibbard's classic hits with Death Cab for Cutie, "I Will Follow You Into the Dark" and "Title and Registration", we delve into the essential tools and techniques of his craft.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • How to make use of vivid, storytelling language to progress your second verse beyond the clichés

  • The power of "showing" rather than "telling" in your lyrics to draw your listeners in

  • Crafting a descriptive, wordy chorus that opens up new layers to your song's story

  • The use of clear metaphors based on specific objects to make your lyrics stand out and evoke emotions


Ready to grab a pen and pour out your thoughts onto paper? Let's get inspired together on today's episode!

Have you been wondering what it'd be like to work with us? Book a FREE call today, and let's set some  personalized songwriting goals together: https://www.connorfrost.com/call

Mentions and Links:

Songs:

Bands:

People/Public Figures

Books:

Communities:

96. Four Songwriting Habits for 2024

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear songwriter,

Ever wondered if small changes in 2024 could amp up your songwriting? That's the question we're tackling in this episode. As a fellow songwriter, I'm right there with you at the start of 2024, trying to create new habits that could really make a difference to my work. It's only January, but I'm finding these changes are taking root and adding joy to my creative journey.

In this episode, we're talking about why getting up early could mean your best lyrics yet. We'll discuss how reading novels and memoirs can spill into your songs, changing the way you think about lyrics. I'll take you with me to the library, my go-to space for quiet inspiration. And I'll share why I've started documenting my songwriting journey on social media, and how it's helping me connect with other songwriters like you.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • The benefits of writing earlier in the day and actionable steps to integrate this into your routine

  • How reading novels and memoirs can act as a muse for your songwriting, and strategies to make reading a habit

  • Ways to utilize public spaces like libraries to ignite your lyric-writing process

  • The value in documenting your songwriting process on social media for reflection, growth, and community building

Hit that play button and let's start 2024 off the right way!

Ever wanted to connect with like-minded songwriters, embarking on the same journey as you? Join our free group, Songwriter's Vault, for exclusive trainings and a chance to connect: https://connorfrost.com/vaultpodcast

Mentions and Links:

Social Media:


Tools/Resources:


Songs/Artists:


Books/Publications:

95. How Sia Uses a Post-Chorus

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear Songwriter,

Have you ever found yourself stuck while navigating the leap from your soaring chorus to the calm landscape of your verse? I certainly have, and that's what drove me to delve deep into the songwriting strategy of true pop icon - Sia. In this week's episode of Dear Songwriter, I'm drawing back the curtain on the often overlooked yet potent magic of a post-chorus.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • The complex beauty of a post-chorus: its significant role in wrapping up the chorus and smoothly segueing into the next verse.

  • The reasons a post-chorus could enhance your song: if you're looking to magnify the mood or repeat a poignant line.

  • An in-depth dissection of how Sia leverages the post-chorus in “Unstoppable” and "Chandelier", giving a real-world context to the concept.

  • Identifying the distinctive signature of a Sia post-chorus: the instrumental break, the fresh motif, and its seamless role in transitioning between song sections.

  • Keys to integrate a post-chorus in your own songs: practical steps to evaluate if a post-chorus could be your secret songwriting weapon.


If you've hit a songwriting roadblock or just want to take your songwriting skills to the next level, I can't wait for you to join me as we unfold Sia's post-chorus mastery!

Ever wanted to connect with like-minded songwriters, embarking on the same journey as you? Join our free group, Songwriter's Vault, for exclusive trainings and a chance to connect: https://connorfrost.com/vaultpodcast

Mentions and Links:

Songs/Artists:

94. 12 Harsh Lessons I Re-Learned in 2023

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear Songwriter,

How was your 2023? If you're like me, 2023 brought you many successes, many wins, and also many challenges. So in today's episode, I want to do a little bit of reflection. I'm delving into the brutal truths that every songwriter must face in their career. With an in-depth review of 12 tough lessons that I've re-learned over the year 2023, each of them ranging from understanding the audience's perspective, self-reliance, embracing rejection, to realizing the competitive nature of the music landscape. I hope this episode serves as a thoughtful introspection of your musical journey and a fresh perspective on your craft.

What You'll Learn in This Episode: 

  1. Why it's okay if not everyone likes your music. 

  2. The importance of self-reliance and investing in professional guidance. 

  3. The non-obligatory aspect of rhyming in songwriting. 

  4. How to stay impersonal when facing criticism. 

  5. The inevitability of tough times in songwriting. 

  6. Why your musical passion is your personal journey, not someone else's. 

  7. The place of rejection in your journey to success. 

  8. The subtle competitiveness amongst friends in the music field. 

  9. Why you should be your first investor. 

  10. Why songs being "your babies," may not be serving you well. 

  11. Striking the balance between patience and complacency. 

  12. The necessity of continually seeking growth and challenge in your songwriting.

Listen in now to hear the difficult lessons that could change how you approach your songwriting career, and gain the knowledge you need to excel in your musical path.

Have you been wondering what it'd be like to work with us? Book a FREE call today, and let's set some  personalized songwriting goals together: https://www.connorfrost.com/call

Mentions and Links:

Bands:

People/Public Figures

Brands:

93. 3 Things I’ve Learned About Lyric-Writing

Podcast Show Notes:

Dear Songwriter,

I recently found myself thinking a lot about lyricism and how it all comes together in a song. I know how challenging it can be to strike the perfect balance between personal and relatable, clear and mystifying, nonsense and poetry. We've all been in that space, lost in doubts and insecurities when it comes to articulating our feelings through words. I've been there too. So tune in today as I take a trip down memory lane, retracing the steps I've taken with mentors, coaches, and teachers to conquer these songwriting mountains. I'll be dishing out three essential tips to help navigate the tricky terrain of lyric writing.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

  • The power of clear lyrics and consistency. Consistent point of view, consistent tense, and consistent message all play important roles in songwriting.

  • How you have a limited amount of lines to tell your story. And how to not get bogged down in what happened, but instead why the story is worth telling.

  • How repeating the most important lines of the song is crucial.

Lyrics are an important part to connecting with your listeners, so hit that play button and let's break down the 3 most prominent thoughts I've had about writing over the years!

2023 is coming to a close, and I want to give you the opportunity to connect with me personally for a free one on one! Let's discuss songwriting struggles you might be having and set some clear goals for the new year. Book a FREE just start call here: https://www.connorfrost.com/call

(Our mentorship pricing is going up in 2024, so be sure to to sign up soon!)

Mentions and Links:

Bands: