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Is it possible to have a successful career writing 'filler songs?" I know that most publishers, artists and TAXI are only interested in potential hits, but several weeks back, I came across an article about a guy (forgot his name now) who had a successful career writing these types of songs. I've always heard that no one is interested in someone who pitches filler songs because they let their 'brother-in-law' or whatever friend or family member write these types songs for recording projects. Anyone know of someone who's made a living from 'filler?'

Quote:Is it possible to have a successful career writing 'filler songs?" No 99.9999% of the time...

Why write filler songs when 99 out of 100 songs the artists write are that already?

I'd say you'd have a much better chance of making a living playing the lottery.In addition to the artist's relatives, most artists themselves are quite capable of writing filler songs , and of course most hit writers write tons of filler material for every hit.So there's definitely no shortage there, and no record label would have to go to a dedicated "filler songwriter" to get those types of songs... matto

Hurowitz, if 'dem's the odds' for being a successful filler writer, well, I guess it's not an option for me. I see your point, Matto and Rockinthebox. It completely escaped me that I'd have to compete with successful songwriters if I'm going to write filler songs. Seems like a waste of time now. I'd rather try to write a potential hit and compete that way.

You can even put on your business card: "Specializing in the mediocre song for artists who are tired of the same old great songs. Songs for every occasion, and Garaunteed mediocre. We promise not to write you a hit."

LOL, Horace.

Thats like putting together a compilation CD of TAXI reject songs.... maybe useful for educational value...Did you ever notice in the songwriting seminars they always analyze hit songs.... never come out with.... "here's a tune written by someone you never heard of that is absolute garbage..... here are all the things wrong with it...." I think the objective is Killer songs... not filler songs...ArkJack

Personally I can never see the point of putting filler songs on an album.. An album full of hits will sell Monster numbers and add more lustre to the artist than an album with only a couple of hits. The follow up album maybe more difficult But diluting an effort. Heck I cant see the point.J

A la thriller..... Quincy Jones, Michael Sembello, MJ..... what a team...