All too often young artists knock out something and think that’s the end of it as far as songwriting goes. What we all forget is that it’s a craft that you have to work at, learn about and hone as you develop.

Great post.

Very tough call. My personal belief is that if you can’t remember your song very well, you should consider calling in the Grim Reaper. But before you do, sit down with your instrument and as best you can, play and sing the song. Does it feel natural? Do you like it? Does it have a twist (a blues will feel natural and likable, but unless your lyrics are positively smokin’, you’re taking the easy way out).

Also, as Rob points out in his great post, learn your craft. Know the rules, so you can know how to break them. Tired advice? Maybe, but I’m always staggered by how few people really bother to understand craft. They always want to jump straight to art.

Last, learn basic theory. All I mean by this is if someone says “I IV V” in A, you should know what they mean. Knowing that the V is the dominant chord and creates tension driving to the I HELPS when you’re writing a song.

Stepping back from the podium…

Jeff

Rewriting a song that isn’t your own – as a way to see and understand the possibilities – is a fantastic idea. And I don’t have to get up the courage to tell any of my songs that they’re just not that good.

Great post, thanks.