Whether you’re a beginner picking up the guitar for the first time or an experienced player looking to add fresh tunes to your repertoire, playing modern songs can be both enjoyable and rewarding. The great thing about learning contemporary hits is that many of them feature simple chord progressions, catchy melodies, and fun strumming patterns. Below, we explore some of the best modern songs to play on the guitar, categorized by skill level and style.

Beginner-Friendly Songs

If you’re just starting out, these songs will help you develop essential guitar skills without overwhelming complexity.

1. “Riptide” – Vance Joy

• Chords: Am, G, C, F (optional)
• Why It’s Fun: The upbeat ukulele-style rhythm translates beautifully to guitar. The simple strumming pattern makes it a great introduction to playing modern indie songs.

2. “Someone Like You” – Adele

• Chords: G, D, Em, C
• Why It’s Fun: Though originally a piano song, it’s easy to adapt to the guitar with simple open chords and an emotional, expressive playing style.

3. “Blinding Lights” – The Weeknd

• Chords: Em, C, G, D
• Why It’s Fun: The driving rhythm and energetic progression make it a crowd-pleaser that sounds great on acoustic and electric guitars alike.

4. “Love Yourself” – Justin Bieber

• Chords: C, G, Am, D
• Why It’s Fun: This song features a gentle fingerpicking pattern that’s excellent for beginners looking to develop their picking skills.

Intermediate Songs

Once you’re comfortable with basic chords and strumming, try these songs to build more dexterity and rhythmic versatility.

5. “Shallow” – Lady Gaga & Bradley Cooper

• Chords: Em, D, G, C, Am
• Why It’s Fun: It combines soft fingerpicking with powerful strumming sections, giving players a dynamic learning experience.

6. “Take Me to Church” – Hozier

• Chords: Em, C, G, D
• Why It’s Fun: The dramatic and bluesy feel of this song makes it a blast to play while improving strumming intensity and control.

7. “Believer” – Imagine Dragons

• Chords: Bm, G, D, A
• Why It’s Fun: The percussive strumming pattern and energetic rhythm make it an engaging challenge for intermediate players.

8. “Sweater Weather” – The Neighbourhood

• Chords: Am, G, Dm, F
• Why It’s Fun: Its hypnotic chord progression and syncopated strumming make it a great practice piece for groove and rhythm.

Advanced Songs

For those ready to take their guitar skills to the next level, these modern hits provide intricate fingerpicking, fast chord changes, and more complex techniques.

9. “Neon” – John Mayer

• Techniques: Slap-and-pop, complex chord voicings
• Why It’s Fun: It’s a challenge that helps improve finger strength, percussive playing, and intricate fretwork.

10. “Polyphia – Playing God”

• Techniques: Tapping, harmonics, flamenco-inspired picking
• Why It’s Fun: This song is a technical masterpiece and a must-learn for players looking to push their skills to the limit.

11. “Everlong” – Foo Fighters (Acoustic Version)

• Chords: D, Bm, G, A
• Why It’s Fun: The rhythmic strumming pattern and emotive chord progression make it a deeply satisfying song to play.

12. “Gravity” – John Mayer

• Techniques: Bluesy licks, smooth chord transitions
• Why It’s Fun: It offers a great way to work on expressive soloing and emotive playing.

Tips for Learning These Songs

1. Start Slow: If a song has challenging sections, slow down and gradually increase speed as you become comfortable.
2. Use a Metronome: Keeping time is crucial, especially for songs with complex strumming or picking patterns.
3. Practice Transitions: Smooth chord changes make a song sound polished. Spend extra time on tricky transitions.
4. Experiment with Tone: If playing on electric guitar, tweak your amp settings or use effects to match the song’s original sound.

Final Thoughts

Modern songs are a fantastic way to stay motivated and improve your guitar skills while having fun. Whether you prefer pop, rock, indie, or blues, there’s always a great song waiting for you to learn. So grab your guitar, pick a song from this list, and start playing!

Learning to play the piano is an exciting and rewarding journey that can provide a lifetime of enjoyment. Whether you’re starting as a complete beginner or returning to the instrument after a break, getting started with piano lessons requires the right approach, mindset, and preparation. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to begin your piano journey successfully.

1. Understanding Your Goals

Before starting piano lessons, it’s essential to determine why you want to learn. Are you interested in playing classical music, pop songs, or jazz? Do you want to pursue it professionally, or are you simply looking for a fun and relaxing hobby? Knowing your goals will help guide your learning process and help you find the right teacher or method.

2. Choosing the Right Instrument

If you don’t already own a piano, you’ll need to decide between an acoustic piano and a digital keyboard.

• Acoustic Piano:
  • Provides a more authentic sound and feel
  • Requires regular tuning and maintenance
  • Ideal for serious learners
• Digital Keyboard:
  • More affordable and portable
  • No tuning required
  • Features like headphone compatibility and recording options

If space or budget is a concern, a digital keyboard with weighted keys is a great alternative to an acoustic piano.

3. Basic Piano Setup and Accessories

To get started, you’ll need a few essential accessories:

• Adjustable Bench: Ensures proper posture and comfort while playing.
• Music Stand: Built-in on most pianos and keyboards, but external stands are also available.
• Metronome: Helps develop timing and rhythm.
• Sheet Music and Books: Start with beginner books such as “Alfred’s Basic Piano Library” or “Bastien Piano Basics.”

4. Developing Good Posture and Hand Position

Proper posture and hand positioning are crucial for effective piano playing:

• Sit with a straight back and relaxed shoulders.
• Keep your elbows slightly above the keys.
• Curve your fingers and keep your wrists level.
• Avoid unnecessary tension in your hands and arms.

Establishing good habits from the start will prevent strain and injuries in the long run.

5. Learning the Basics of Music Theory

While you don’t need to be an expert in music theory to start playing, understanding basic concepts will enhance your progress.

• Musical Notes and Staff: Learn to read notes on the treble and bass clef.
• Rhythm and Timing: Understand note values (whole, half, quarter) and time signatures.
• Scales and Chords: Begin with simple major and minor scales.
• Key Signatures: Recognize the sharps and flats in different keys.

Many beginner piano books introduce music theory in an easy-to-understand format.

6. Establishing a Practice Routine

Consistent practice is the key to progress. Follow these guidelines to create an effective routine:

• Set a Regular Practice Schedule: Aim for at least 20–30 minutes per day.
• Break Practice into Sections: Warm-ups, scales, exercises, and song practice.
• Use a Metronome: Develop steady timing and rhythm.
• Track Your Progress: Keep a journal or use an app to monitor improvement.

7. Starting with Simple Songs

Begin with easy songs that build confidence and reinforce foundational skills:

• “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”
• “Mary Had a Little Lamb”
• “Ode to Joy” by Beethoven
• “Chopsticks”

These pieces use simple note patterns and help develop finger independence.

8. Using Online Resources and Apps

There are numerous online tools to supplement your piano learning:

• YouTube Tutorials: Free lessons covering various skill levels.
• Piano Learning Apps: Simply Piano, Flowkey, Yousician.
• Interactive Websites: Musictheory.net, Piano Marvel.

These resources can provide extra guidance between lessons and make learning more engaging.

9. Staying Motivated and Overcoming Challenges

Every learner encounters challenges, but staying motivated is key to long-term success.

• Set Small, Achievable Goals: Focus on mastering one song or scale at a time.
• Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge improvements and milestones.
• Play Music You Enjoy: Incorporate songs that excite you into your practice.
• Join a Community: Participate in online forums or local piano groups for support.

10. Preparing for Recitals and Performances

Even if you’re not planning to become a concert pianist, performing for friends, family, or at recitals can boost confidence and motivation.

• Choose a piece you enjoy and are comfortable playing.
• Practice playing in front of others to reduce stage fright.
• Stay relaxed and focus on expressing the music rather than perfection.

11. Advancing Your Skills

As you progress, consider expanding your skills:

• Explore Different Genres: Classical, jazz, pop, blues.
• Learn Improvisation: Experiment with melodies and chords.
• Improve Sight-Reading: Practice reading new music fluently.
• Compose Your Own Music: Create simple compositions and experiment with musical ideas.

Conclusion

Getting started with piano lessons is a rewarding experience that requires dedication, patience, and the right mindset. By setting clear goals, choosing the right learning method, and maintaining a consistent practice routine, you can make steady progress and enjoy the journey of making music. Whether you aspire to play for personal enjoyment or future performances, embracing the learning process will lead to a fulfilling and enriching musical adventure.

Now is the perfect time to start. Find a teacher, get your instrument ready, and begin your piano journey today!

The holiday season is a perfect time to show support for the aspiring vocalists in your life. Whether they’re just starting out or pursuing a serious passion for singing, thoughtful gifts can enhance their musical journey. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best Christmas gifts for vocal students, covering practical tools, fun accessories, and inspiring items.

1. Essential Vocal Gear

a. Microphones
A high-quality microphone is crucial for vocal practice, performances, and recording sessions. Consider these options:

• Shure SM58 – A legendary, durable mic perfect for live performances.
• Audio-Technica AT2020 – A budget-friendly studio mic with excellent sound quality.

b. Pop Filters and Mic Stands
These accessories are essential for recording vocals:

• Pop Filter – Reduces harsh plosive sounds.
• Adjustable Mic Stand – Ensures proper mic positioning during practice or recording.

c. Headphones
Consider studio-quality headphones like the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X or Sony MDR-7506, known for clear sound and comfort.

2. Vocal Health and Wellness

a. Steam Inhalers
A personal steam inhaler like MyPurMist can keep vocal cords hydrated and healthy.

b. Throat Sprays and Teas
Gift sets of herbal teas and throat sprays such as Singer’s Saving Grace are thoughtful and practical.

c. Water Bottles
A stylish, insulated water bottle encourages hydration—a must for any vocalist.

3. Music and Learning Resources

a. Sheet Music and Songbooks
Look for collections of popular songs, classical pieces, or musical theater hits that match the student’s style.

b. Vocal Exercise Apps and Software
Consider a subscription to apps like Vocal Coach or Sing Sharp for guided vocal exercises.

c. Music Theory Books
Books like “The Complete Singer’s Guide” or Berklee Music Theory can deepen musical understanding.

4. Home Studio Essentials

a. Portable Recording Equipment
A USB audio interface like the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 allows home recording with professional-quality sound.

b. Acoustic Treatment Panels
Simple foam panels can improve sound quality by reducing echo and background noise.

c. Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) Software
Gift recording software like Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, or GarageBand for creating professional tracks.

5. Fun and Personalized Gifts

a. Customized Microphone Accessories
Personalized mic covers or engraved stands add a special touch.

b. Music-themed Jewelry and Apparel
Consider music-note necklaces, T-shirts with singing-related quotes, or cozy hoodies.

c. Vocal-Themed Home Décor
Music-themed wall art, throw pillows, or mugs can brighten a practice space.

6. Experiences and Memberships

a. Vocal Lessons
Consider paying for a few vocal coaching sessions with a reputable teacher.

b. Concert Tickets
Tickets to a live performance can be inspiring and motivational.

c. Masterclass Subscriptions
Online platforms like MasterClass offer singing lessons from renowned artists like Christina Aguilera.

7. Stocking Stuffers for Singers

• Vocal warm-up cards or flashcards.
• Music-themed stationery for jotting down lyrics.
• Keychain tuners or portable pitch pipes.
• Compact travel humidifiers.

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect Christmas gift for a vocal student doesn’t have to be challenging. From essential gear and wellness products to personalized keepsakes and learning resources, these thoughtful presents will support their musical development and make their holiday season even more special. Give a gift that helps them hit the right notes and pursue their passion with joy and confidence.

A Jumpstart for Children’s Development

Music education has long been touted as a valuable tool for children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. But just how impactful is it? In this article, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of music education for children, backed by credible studies and research.

Cognitive Benefits:

* Improved memory and spatial-temporal skills (Rauscher et al., 1998)

* Enhanced language development and literacy skills (Forgeard et al., 2008)

* Better math and reading skills (Hetland & Winner, 2001)

Social-Emotional Benefits:

* Improved social skills and teamwork (Hallam, 2010)

* Reduced stress and anxiety (Kruger & Schechter, 2017)

* Enhanced creativity and self-expression (Boden & Mayer, 2009)

Brain Development:

* Increased grey matter volume in auditory and motor areas (Schlaug et al., 2005)

* Stronger neural connections and plasticity (Kraus & Chandrasekaran, 2010)

Conclusion:

The evidence is clear: music education gives children a significant jumpstart in life. By introducing music education early on, parents and educators can help shape young minds, foster creativity, and set the stage for future success. At times, when you’re in the moment- it may feel as though progress is slower than you would expect, but it’s important to remember, music education like anything else, takes time to understand, master and produce results. If we allow ourselves opportunity to enjoy the process, the results will surprise you in such an amazing way.

Nurturing Musical Growth in Children

Learning to play a musical instrument is a journey filled with excitement, challenges, and, most importantly, patience. For children embarking on this adventure, the concept of patience might seem elusive amidst their eagerness to master the instrument quickly. However, understanding the importance of patience in this process is essential for both parents and educators alike.

Patience serves as the cornerstone of a child’s musical development, fostering a positive and enriching learning experience. Rather than focusing solely on achieving immediate results, cultivating patience allows children to embrace the journey of learning an instrument, nurturing their creativity, and building a lifelong passion for music.

One of the key aspects of fostering patience in children learning a new instrument is encouraging them to “play” rather than “practice.” This subtle shift in language can have a profound impact on a child’s perception of the learning process. By framing their musical exploration as play, children are invited to approach the instrument with curiosity, imagination, and a sense of freedom. This mindset shift empowers children to explore the instrument at their own pace, experiment with different sounds, and express themselves creatively without the pressure of perfection.

Here are some practical tips for suggesting children to “play” rather than “practice” when learning a new instrument:

1. Create a Playful Environment: Set the stage for musical exploration by creating a playful and supportive environment. Encourage children to view their instrument as a tool for creative expression rather than a daunting challenge.
2. Embrace Mistakes as Learning Opportunities: Help children understand that making mistakes is an integral part of the learning process. Encourage them to embrace their mistakes, learn from them, and use them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
3. Encourage Creativity: Foster a spirit of creativity by encouraging children to experiment with the sounds and techniques of their instrument. Provide them with opportunities to improvise, compose their own melodies, and explore different genres of music.
4. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection: Shift the focus from achieving perfection to celebrating progress. Recognize and celebrate each small milestone along the way, whether it’s mastering a new chord, playing a simple melody, or improvising a short tune.
5. Be Patient and Supportive: Above all, be patient and supportive throughout the learning process. Encourage children to enjoy the journey of learning an instrument and reassure them that progress takes time.

By encouraging children to “play” rather than “practice,” we empower them to take ownership of their musical journey, make it their own, and develop a lifelong love for music. Through patience, encouragement, and a playful approach, we can nurture the next generation of musicians and inspire them to unlock their full potential.

Introduction:

In the symphony of a child’s development, music education plays a pivotal role, harmonizing cognitive, emotional, and social growth. As we delve into the orchestration of academic studies, it becomes evident that the influence of music on young minds goes far beyond the notes on a page. Let’s explore the symphonic journey of why music education is not merely a supplemental class but an essential element in the composition of a child’s holistic learning experience.

The Cognitive Crescendo:

Research from renowned institutions such as Harvard and Johns Hopkins has been tuning into the cognitive benefits of music education for years. The brain, akin to a musical instrument, undergoes a transformative tune-up when exposed to the intricacies of music. Studies suggest that children engaged in music education demonstrate enhanced cognitive skills, including improved memory, attention span, and problem-solving abilities.

One notable study, conducted at the University of California, found that children involved in music education showed accelerated development in the areas of language processing and mathematical reasoning. The rhythm and patterns inherent in music seem to create a neural symphony, fine-tuning the brain for more efficient cognitive processing.

The Emotional Overture:

Beyond the realms of academia, music education orchestrates a powerful emotional overture in the lives of children. It serves as a melodic refuge, providing an outlet for self-expression and emotional regulation. Music becomes the soundtrack to a child’s emotional journey, helping them navigate the complex tapestry of feelings.

A study published in the Journal of Research in Music Education discovered that children engaged in music education exhibited higher levels of empathy and emotional intelligence. The collaborative nature of playing in an ensemble cultivates a sense of camaraderie, teaching children the art of listening and responding to the emotions conveyed through music.

The Social Symphony:

In the grand performance of life, the ability to collaborate and communicate is key. Music education, with its emphasis on ensemble playing and group dynamics, becomes the rehearsal ground for these essential social skills. You will find resonance in the transformative power of music education to tip the scales in favor of positive social development.

Research from the National Association for Music Education highlights the social benefits of music education, noting that children engaged in musical activities develop a strong sense of teamwork, discipline, and leadership. The shared pursuit of musical excellence cultivates a sense of belonging, transforming classrooms into harmonious communities.

Conclusion:

In the symphony of a child’s education, music is not merely an optional chord but a fundamental note that resonates across the cognitive, emotional, and social dimensions. Let us acknowledge that the true crescendo of a child’s potential is orchestrated by the transformative power of music education. It’s not just about creating musicians; it is about sculpting minds that resonate with the harmonies of lifelong learning and emotional intelligence. The importance of music education, when understood in this comprehensive light, becomes a powerful testament to the enduring melody that shapes the future of our young minds.

As the holiday season approaches, finding the perfect gift for your young guitar player can be challenging. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 holiday gifts based on consumer and expert reviews.

1. Music lessons:

Music lessons provide a unique and lasting experience that fosters creativity, skill-building, and personal growth. Lessons can ignite, or re-ignite passion and help beginners start their creative musical journey. Additionally, music lessons offer a chance to connect to a mentor and join a community, making a thoughtful and engaging gift!

www.freewaymusic.net

2. PRS Headstock Tuner:

Stay in tune easily and in style with the PRS Clip-On Tuner.

https://www.simsmusic.com/prs-headstock-tuner.html

3. Ernie Ball Musician’s Tool Kit – Best Tool Kit:

Ernie Ball’s all in one tool kit is perfect for cleaning, maintaining and keeping your instrument in perfect playing condition. Change strings, set intonation, adjust the action, check string height and more. Tool kit includes Microfiber Polish Cloth, Wonder Wipes, Heavy Duty String Cutter, Peg Winder, 6-in-1 Screwdriver, Ruler, and durable Hex Wrench Set.

https://www.ernieball.com/guitar-accessories/guitar-instrument-care/tools

4. Caroline Guitar Co. Hawaiian Pizza pedal:

A bespoke artisanal blockchain of handcrafted tone, the sonic equivalent of a forbidden delicacy, all from just three knobs and the truth.

https://carolineguitar.com/product/hawaiian-pizza/

5. A new guitar from Sims Music

What young guitarist wouldn’t love a new guitar? Our partners at Sims Music have an incredible selection for every style and budget with an extremely friendly and knowledgable staff, there to help you make the best decision that will absolutely put a smile on your young guitar player’s face!

https://www.simsmusic.com/products/guitars/electric/

These gifts cater to different needs and skill levels, offering a well-rounded approach to learning and enjoying guitar playing. Whether it’s lessons, accessories, or a new guitar, your young guitarist is sure to be delighted with any of these thoughtful gifts.

One lesson that I drill into all of my music students is the importance of being prepared. I stress how important it is to be professional in any business. Here are some situations to be prepared for:

Your Music Instructor

There is no doubt that part of furthering yourself in you music career is mastering your instrument. If you aren’t studying or taking private music lessons, do it! When your teacher gives you an assignment, make sure you come back to the next lesson with it nailed down and then some. If a student shows up unprepared they might as well say, “I don’t care about getting better,” or “music actually ISN’T a priority to me.” Not only does it slow down the student’s personal growth, but it also leaves a bad impression on the music instructor. If someone calls me for a gig that I can’t do or if they are looking for a player in a band, I am going to refer my students who have practiced and have been prepared.

Your Rehearsal

Show up on time to your rehearsals, have all of your parts perfected, and bring a great attitude. Everyone WILL notice. You will sound better and you have instantly created a great reputation for yourself. The word will definitely get around that you are a true professional. Other people will call you for gigs and other people will refer you to other gigs. The same is true if you aren’t prepared; no one will want to refer you…no matter how “awesome” you are.

Your Studio Session

Get yourself a recording of the tune you are going to record…even if it’s a scratch recording from a phone or computer. Listen to the tune and get it in your head. I generally try to come up with a few options for parts to present to the artist or producer/engineer. Then, experiment with tone, gear, effects, etc. Once you head into the studio, everyone again will be blown away by how prepared you are and it will immediately affect your reputation. You will probably land more session gigs in the future.

These are just a few situations for which you need to be prepared. There are so many chances for you to prove your professionalism through being prepared. Take the time and work hard to be ready. Teachers, fellow musicians, artists, producers, engineers, and others in the industry will be your best way to solidify your reputation and propel your career.

I often tell people my guitar teacher changed my life forever. I loved taking guitar lessons so much! I love teaching music lessons even more! There are more benefits to taking music lessons than I have space for. So, I am going to try and narrow it down…wish me luck!

1. Confidence
   I remember overhearing Luke in his voice lesson at Freeway one week. He sounded so amazing that I had to poke my head in and compliment him. He never sang in front of a crowd before, and was frightened to do so. It came time for him to perform at his first showcase, and he was so nervous that he was shaking. Luke couldn’t go through with it. So he bowed out. Then, this past Sunday we had a Christmas recital for our music students. It came time for Luke to perform again. He was so nervous. At first, he said he couldn’t do it. His voice teacher, parents, other teachers at Freeway and myself encouraged him to do it. Luke stood on stage and sang his heart out. There were tears all throughout the audience. He crushed it! I watched a student’s confidence grow right in front of my eyes. I have witnessed this time and time again. There is no doubt that music helps kids grow in confidence.

2. Creativity
   Music is such a great tool to spark creativity. Students can create melodies, lyrics, riffs, songs, and much more. There are so many elements of music that you can manipulate such as: time, meter, dynamics, tone, pitch, and even the instruments themselves. Music doesn’t stop at performance. There is writing, arrangement, production, promotion, etc. The creative possibilities in music are endless and available to all music students. I constantly challenge my students to take what they learn from their lessons, apply it, and create with it. This makes the lesson material stick better, and urges students to create their own signature within music. Michael Cammarata comes to mind. He is a guitar student of mine. He started playing guitar in his 50’s. He began writing, recorded an album, and released it recently to his church and friends. This is a great example of how any student can begin the creative process at anytime.

3. Accountability
   Music lessons are a weekly commitment. Students must come at the same time each week, and be prepared for the previous week’s lesson. I give my guitar students practice schedules detailing what they are to practice each week. Then, I have them check off the days they practiced. I even go a step further and make them sign the schedule as an extra level of accountability. Recitals and showcases force students to be accountable for a certain part they must have prepared. I don’t know any student who wants to stink it up in front of a crowd, or let their fellow students down by not being prepared for a group performance. That is a great Segway into the next benefit.

4. Teamwork
   Recently, our music students marched and performed in the Blythewood Christmas parade. The students that were performing on the float called each other and rehearsed together. Once at the parade, other students came early to help set up and carry equipment. While we were marching, students were carrying the banner, making sure the equipment was safe, clapping and singing, and handing out candy. The energy was so positive as students supported and encouraged one another. The various outreach opportunities, showcases, rock band classes, and all star bands give students the chance to learn how to work together. This is a skill that will translate into school, athletics, jobs, and more.

5. Mind
   There is a lot of research showing that musical training has various cognitive benefits. These quotes are from the Journal of Neuroscience
   “If you took piano lessons as a child but never continued with them in adulthood, they could still provide brain benefits later in life”
   “…And the positive effects seemed to be stronger the longer a person took music lessons as a child”
   “…people could stand to benefit from starting music lessons at a very young age”
   “…musical training before age 7 is linked with more white matter in the corpus callosum part of the brain, as well as better performance on visual sensorimotor synchronization tasks compared with people who started music training after age 7”

A study of 7,500 university students revealed that music majors scored the highest reading
scores among all majors including English, biology, chemistry and math
~ The Case for Music in the Schools, Phi Delta Kappa, 1994

I could list facts all day long. It is very apparent that music has incredible benefits to the brain. I believe the research speaks for itself.

If you are an adult trying to stretch your brain, or a parent considering signing up a child for lessons, I urge you to do it as soon as possible. Music lessons are a great way to make people more well-rounded. The benefits are endless. Start your music journey today!

A lot of music students come in with the question of “How do I write a song?”. So, I analyzed my own songwriting, and came up with three basic approaches to sparking the songwriting process. All three are important, and tend to lead into each other.

The Poet

Carry a notepad or take notes on your smart phone. Begin writing down interesting words, or things that you see. Be more tuned into the world around you, and keep lyric writing in the front of your brain. Once you have some words, you can either write a melody around them, or play chords and force the words to fit within a chord progression into a melody. The benefit of writing lyrics first is that you can say exactly what you want to say, and make the lyrics as rich as you want up front. Also, sometimes creating the words up front causes a songwriter to use phrasing that they normally wouldn’t use. These phrases can be very original and creative.

The Garbler

The garble approach is one of my favorites. I tend to do it alone because it can be awkward for other people to hear you “garbling”. The basic idea is to come up with a chord progression first, or a riff. Then, you begin singing nonsense over the chord changes or “garbling”. Soon, you’ll begin to form actual words and phrases. I love this approach because it is a very organic approach. There is very little thought in this approach and a lot of natural reaction. The benefit of this approach is that you will sing melodies, consonants, and phrases that naturally flow within the progression or riff that you are playing. Also, the words that come out will be a stream of conscious. You will say things that are in your mind already. This is great if you are at a lost for what to write about.

The Hummer

We all are guilty of humming in our cars. Typically, it’s other tunes we have heard, but sometimes a melody will just pop in your head. I tell my guitar students to carry some kind of recording device. Today, it’s easy to record yourself on a smart phone or an IPod. For this approach, you simply hum a melody and then lock it into chords and words. My guitar teacher, Robert Newton, told me one time, “Melody rules!”. He was speaking of the importance of melody. It is very true. Just go listen to the top hits. Typically, the words are pretty shallow, and the melody is very strong. So a strong melody can create a big hit! Also, if you have a melody first, you aren’t locked into a specific chord progression. One of my favorite things to do is to change chords under the same melody. It makes it sound like you are playing a different melody each time.

So are you a poet, garbler, or a hummer. I consider myself to be all three at different times. Here are three things you can do to spark your creativity and songwriting:
1. Carry a notepad, or use your smart phone, and write down lyrics.
2. Create a new riff or progression on you instrument and try to sing along.
3. Start humming and record your melody ideas on a voice recorder.

If you are a songwriter in Columbia, SC, here are some things to check out:

Musician’s and Songwriter’s Guild of SC

OPEN MICS:
Monday- Kelly’s pub 10 pm, Evening Muse (In Charlotte-worth the drive) 8 pm

Tuesday- Lucky’s 10 pm, Delaney’ Songwriter Night (Every other Tuesday)

Wednesday- Lucky’s Burger Shack Irmo, 8 pm

Conundrum is a local music hall that features a lot of local & regional songwriters as well.

Good luck writing!