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Tips for Lyrics Writing, Writers' Block and Not Giving Up

Metadata

title
Tips for Lyrics Writing, Writers' Block and Not Giving Up
description
After that super fun convo with Slow Leaves, I wanted to talk a bit about how I tackle songwriting, with a specific focus on lyrics and problem solving. I hope these techniques and perspectives help those that write to write more and those that just enjoy music to have a bit more insight into the process.
status
complete
date
2022-03-21
kind
solo
guestSlugs
listenUrl
https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/lovemusicmore/episodes/Tips-for-Lyrics-Writing--Writers-Block-and-Not-Giving-Up-e1fm52o
appleUrl
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tips-for-lyrics-writing-writers-block-and-not-giving-up/id1567355195?i=1000554719894&uo=4
spotifyUrl
https://open.spotify.com/episode/6M16a4FUPg1uFIGZfPbFtz
topicsDiscussed
  • Creativity
  • Songwriting
  • Lyric Writing Strategies
  • Overcoming Writer's Block
  • Song Structure
  • Storytelling in Lyrics
  • Using Sensory Imagery
  • Finding Your Voice
  • Writing Techniques
  • Internal vs. External Lyrics
  • Not Giving Up on Songs
hostNote
In this solo episode, I delve into the intricate process of **lyric writing** and share my personal strategies for overcoming obstacles like **writer's block**. Drawing on my experiences and insights, I aim to help songwriters navigate the sometimes daunting task of crafting meaningful lyrics.
selectedMoments
  • label
    On Songwriting Reflection
    startSec
    19
    note
    I reflect on my conversation with Slow Leaves and how it prompted me to consider my own songwriting journey.
  • label
    Masterclass Insight
    startSec
    69
    note
    I share a memorable critique from **Randy Newman** on my lyrics and how it influenced my writing process.
  • label
    The Challenge of Lyric Writing
    startSec
    151
    note
    I discuss the difficulty many musicians, including myself, face when it comes to capturing the essence of a song in lyrics.
  • label
    Two Steps Removed Method
    startSec
    185
    note
    I explain a lyric writing technique I call 'two steps removed' to help generate creative ideas.
  • label
    The Importance of Stepping Away
    startSec
    272
    note
    I emphasize the value of taking breaks to refresh one's perspective before tackling lyrics.
  • label
    Brainstorming Techniques
    startSec
    361
    note
    I discuss the effectiveness of brainstorming using sensory words to inspire creativity.
  • label
    Embracing Imperfection
    startSec
    639
    note
    I talk about why I prefer to finish songs rather than abandon them and how this approach enhances creativity.
  • label
    Seeing Ideas Through
    startSec
    819
    note
    I share the experience of transforming an originally discarded song into a successful new piece.
excerptQuotes
  • text
    I wanted to talk about songwriting and specifically lyric writing... when to move on and say that song is either dead or, you know, suspended animation.
    startSec
    51
    reviewed
    true
  • text
    Randy Newman told me that my lyrics were lazy... I'm simultaneously trying to prove them both right and wrong with this project.
    startSec
    93
    reviewed
    true
  • text
    Talking about a simple subject so for example, 'Can't Imagine Feeling Better'... the chorus says it all. I'm feeling good, okay, what do I do for verses?
    startSec
    139
    reviewed
    true
  • text
    I kind of gravitated towards this method that I call two steps removed... you just write it down bluntly.
    startSec
    182
    reviewed
    true
  • text
    There's value in stepping away from lyric writing... getting down all the ideas you can possibly think of and then maybe coming back tomorrow.
    startSec
    275
    reviewed
    true
  • text
    There's a lot of options for brainstorming... like a bunch of sensory words based around a singular topic, time or place.
    startSec
    363
    reviewed
    true
  • text
    I like how it forces us sometimes to jump between the narrator's thoughts, feelings, experiences, and environment.
    startSec
    541
    reviewed
    true
  • text
    I like finishing stuff and then deciding whether or not to release it rather than letting something die before you really dig into it.
    startSec
    631
    reviewed
    true
faq
  • question
    What are some tips for overcoming writer's block?
    answer
    In this episode, I discuss stepping away from the writing process and revisiting it later to gain new perspectives and ideas.
  • question
    How can I improve my lyric writing?
    answer
    I share various techniques, including the 'two steps removed' method and brainstorming sensory words, to enhance your lyric crafting.
  • question
    What should I do if I feel like my lyrics are lazy?
    answer
    I recount my experience with Randy Newman, who challenged my lyrics, and how it's essential to push yourself and explore beyond initial ideas.
transcriptPublished
false
draft
false

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