Write great songs and perform them honestly and powerfully and with heart or humor or sadness -- whatever emotion is at the core of the song. And enjoy yourself doing it. It's what you love doing most, isn't it? Share that love with your listeners.
Should songwriters pay attention to trends?
I don't think songwriters should look for trends, because by the time you've noticed one and you get a song written, produced and released, the trend has probably changed. The greatest songs are written from a need to express something real, something personal, and something universal, all at the same time. If you're thinking, "I'm going to write a hit song," chances are you won't.
Overall, what advice would you give to songwriters today?
Write as much as you can. It's your job. And I don't mean you should write a song a day. But as you go through a day, write down or record lyrics or snippets of melody or song titles or ideas. And be open to receiving this "stuff," because it's all around you. Read, listen, observe, feel. And then get your songs out there. Get them to folks who can get your songs published, recorded and on radio. Network, do showcases, take workshops, attend seminars. Get to know the industry and who inhabits it, because all of us are looking for the same things -- great songs, great records, great performances, and great artists.
(For more information about SHOF/NAPM, you can call Bob at 212.957.9230.)
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