Timeless Lessons From a 30+ Year, Award-Winning Songwriter
Songwriting looks different when you’re just starting out than it does after years of writing—but the truth is, both beginners and experienced writers struggle with the same core challenges: where to start, how to stay inspired, and how to turn ideas into finished songs.
After more than 30 years of writing songs, performing, recording, and earning award-winning recognition, I’ve learned that good songwriting isn’t about talent or trends. It’s about understanding a few core principles—and applying them consistently, no matter your experience level.
This guide shares practical songwriting tips that work whether you’re writing your first song or your hundredth.
Songwriting Tips for Beginners
If you’re new to songwriting, the most important thing you can do is keep it simple. Many beginners get stuck trying to write something “great” instead of something real.
- Start With One Clear Idea
Every good song starts with a single idea—one emotion, moment, or thought. After decades of songwriting, I can tell you this with certainty: clarity beats complexity every time.
Ask yourself: What is this song about?
If you can answer that in one sentence, you’re ready to write. - Don’t Worry About Being Original Yet
Originality comes from experience, not pressure. When you’re starting out, your job is to learn how songs work. Write songs that:
Sound like what you love
Use familiar structures
Follow simple rhyme patterns
Every award-winning songwriter started by sounding like someone else. Your voice will show up naturally over time. - Finish Songs—Even When They’re Bad
One of the biggest lessons I learned early in my career was to finish songs, even when I didn’t love them.
You learn more from finishing ten imperfect songs than from endlessly rewriting one verse.
Progress comes from completion. - Write in Plain Language
Many beginners think lyrics need to sound poetic or clever. In reality, the strongest lyrics often sound like something someone would actually say.
Simple, honest language connects faster than complicated words. - Write Consistently, Not Perfectly
Songwriting is a practice. Write a little every day or every week. Consistency matters far more than inspiration.
After 30+ years, I still rely on routine more than motivation.
Songwriting Tips for Experienced Writers
If you’ve been writing for a while, the challenge usually isn’t how to write—it’s how to stay fresh, honest, and engaged.
- Break Your Own Habits
Every experienced songwriter develops habits—favorite chord progressions, phrasing, or themes.
Some habits help. Others quietly limit you.
Try:
Writing without your main instrument
Changing tempo or key
Starting with lyrics if you usually start with music
Growth happens when you get uncomfortable. - Reconnect With Why You Write
After years of writing, it’s easy to focus on outcomes—streams, placements, or recognition. I’ve learned that the strongest songs still come from personal truth, not strategy.
Ask:
Why does this song need to exist?
If you can answer that, the listener will feel it. - Edit With Intention, Not Fear
Experienced writers often over-edit. Every line doesn’t need to impress—it needs to serve the song.
Some of my most recognized songs became stronger only after I removed lines I was proud of.
Less can be more. - Stay Curious
One of the reasons I’m still inspired after three decades of songwriting is curiosity.
Listen to new artists. Learn new techniques. Watch how audiences respond to songs live.
Curiosity keeps your writing alive. - Trust What You’ve Earned
Experience matters. If something feels wrong in a song, it probably is.
After years of writing and performing, your instincts are real—trust them.
Songwriting Tips That Apply to Everyone
Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, these principles apply to every songwriter:
- Start with a clear idea
- Write from real emotion
- Finish what you start
- Keep the listener in mind
- Don’t chase trends—chase truth
- Write often and revise thoughtfully
These ideas have stayed true across decades of songwriting, genres, and changes in the music industry.
Final Thoughts: Songwriting Is a Long Game
Songwriting isn’t about overnight success. It’s about showing up, learning from every song, and staying honest with yourself.
After more than 30 years of songwriting and award-winning recognition, the greatest reward hasn’t been accolades—it’s been the ability to keep writing songs that feel true.
Wherever you are on your songwriting journey, keep going.
The next song is waiting.
