New songwriter needing encouragement

[Sterling]

Hi, I'm in my second year of TAXI. I've been learning the whole music making process this last year and a half. I had a couple song submissions "bomb" last year and decided to "up my game" so to speak. Now I've learned a lot, but I keep stalling when I want to write for a TAXI post. Could use a little push to get started again. Any thoughts? Thanks a lot.

[DouglasKnight]

Hey Sterling -

Yes, writer's block is a thing, sometimes I have to just push through and try not to judge my work until it's finished. Why not post a song you feel good about so we can hear some of your work?

If you haven't heard of songwriting instructor, Robin Frederick, you may want to check out her books and courses: https://robinfrederick.com/

All the best,
Doug

[Casey H]

Hi, I'm in my second year of TAXI. I've been learning the whole music making process this last year and a half. I had a couple song submissions "bomb" last year and decided to "up my game" so to speak. Now I've learned a lot, but I keep stalling when I want to write for a TAXI post. Could use a little push to get started again. Any thoughts? Thanks a lot.

It sounds like you are writing songs, not instrumental cues. There are 2 main aspects to discuss, the songwriting itself and the production/performance. We can help the most if you post a link to a song and lyrics in the peer to peer section of this forum. Let us know your goal for the song and if this is just a songwriting rough take or a production.

HTH!
Casey

[smelterbox]

I get it - I'm in the same area that you are. I suppose that for myself, I need to push past the fear of rejection and realize that no one here is going to trash-talk. I have received honest feedback (not always what I wanted to hear, but what I needed to hear) and those I have interacted with have been supportive.

My two cents. Take care.

[Dandillinger]

It is hard to do but check you ego at the door. If you are not being criticized, you are not getting better. Post songs and hope the criticism is specific enough that you can learn.

[Casey H]

It is hard to do but check you ego at the door.

But do we have to tip the ego check person? I never know the proper etiquette.

[funsongs]

It is hard to do but check you ego at the door.

But do we have to tip the ego check person? I never know the proper etiquette.

Only if you don't mind "being handed you your hat..."

[SpecialGuestVillain]

My simple advice is this...ignore all "mentors" and their costly, time-consuming books and seminars. Most of those people can't write, anyway. Go directly to the source and listen to the best music you can find, centered in the 60s/70s. Watch the best movies, and read the best books. There are a dozen great song titles in the dialogue of Shane alone. Plus, Victor Young's score is beautiful.

Avoid all fads and trends.

Songwriting is a way of life and a discipline. Unless you devote yourself to it, the result will be disposable mediocrity, regardless of financial success.

Good luck with it.

[cosmicdolphin]

Ignore the bizzarre advice from SpecialGuestVanilla

There is great music in all eras, so don't get stuck in one - Write to the listings, they know what they want - so give it to them.