Songwriting Instruction – Getting Started

This is the first of a series of articles that I’m going to be writing on songwriting. It is my hope that you will get a lot out of this series.

First, let me tell you a little something about myself so you’ll see why I feel that I’m somewhat qualified to give songwriting instruction. My name is Steven Wagenheim. I’ve been writing songs for over 30 years. I’ve had two songs published in my lifetime. No, I’m not a big name like a Diane Warren, but I do know something about the business and a lot about the craft of songwriting. I am totally confident that after you’re finished reading this series, you’ll be on your way to writing songs with relative ease.

Having said that, let me tell you something that few people are going to admit, usually because they’re trying to sell you something. I don’t care how much songwriting instruction you have. Ultimately, your songs are only going to be as good as the talent that you bring to the table. Now, don’t panic, because talent can be developed. As you write more and more, you’ll begin to develop a feel for it. It’s no different from somebody who starts to play basketball. They don’t become Michael Jordan overnight. It takes time to develop the skill. The same thing is true with writing songs.

One thing you don’t need is to learn how to read music. I can barely read music and it doesn’t matter. I write all my songs either just by picking up a guitar or sitting down at the piano. Combined with a simple tape recorder and I’m done. Now, these days, I have a whole digital recording studio, but if you’re just starting out, a cheap recorder is all you need to get your songs down. The techniques I’m going to teach you will require nothing else. So that’s the first thing you’re going to want to do…get something to record on.

You’re also going to need some kind of instrument to play. I recommend either piano or guitar or some instrument where you can play chords. Otherwise, in order to get your songs down, you’re going to have to learn notation…something I’m going to try to stay away from in this series.

In the next installment in this series, we’re actually going to get into the songwriting process. Trust me, it’s not hard. With the methods I’m going to share with you, you’ll be writing songs in no time at all.

To YOUR Songwriting Success,

Steven Wagenheim