We songwriters borrow from those who came before us. We take a groove we like, we’re inspired by a sample, we think in terms of a particular vocal quality or use a chord progression from another song and write something new over it. We keep one foot planted in what we know already works, so the rest of us can let loose over top.

This is the second of four articles, published every Monday this month, suggesting 20 songwriting activities to help push outside the writing process that may be familiar to you.

Over the course of four articles, published every Monday this month, I’m going to suggest 20 songwriting activities to help push outside the writing process that may be familiar to you.

The problem with bridges is we’re often more clear about what we don’t want them to be than what we do.

Great song hooks break boundaries surrounding genre, generational listening preferences, and longevity. Here are five characteristics to consider when writing a hook.

The most important quality in songwriting is melody. In this video tutorial, Shane Adams provides songwriting strategies for making your melodies stronger.

Tanya Donelly discusses her life in music, including her beginnings with Throwing Muses and the Breeders, and her major breakthrough with Belly, a band she’s currently enjoying a reunion with.

If you’re suffering from songwriter’s block or can’t seem to find the motivation, here are some things you can do to help kickstart your creativity.

Want a long-term career in music? Embrace these 5 essential habits!