Songwriting

Songwriting has been one of the blessings – and curses – of my life.  There are few things that feel more rewarding than finishing a song.  But then there are those unfinished fragments of songs (a riff or piano melody or few lines of lyrics) that can torment you for years.

As a producer, one of my roles is to help the artist finish the song – by refining it a bit, nudging parts in other directions or, in some situations, saying, “yep, that’s ready.”  It’s easier to be objective when it’s not your “baby”.

Madeleine L’Engle once said, “A book comes and says, ‘Write me.’  My job is to try to serve it to the best of my ability, which is never good enough, but all I can do is listen to it, do what it tells me and collaborate.”

I feel that sentiment is absolutely the same when it comes to songs.  I just try and do what the songs tell me to.

I’ve been fortunate enough to have friends who are absolutely great songwriters – people like Ty Manning, Wes Lupold, Bob Williams, Scott Nicholson and many more.  Without their love and support, my songs would be mere shadows of what they are.  They are present in every artistic endeavor I have pursued.

Occasionally, I may say something here about the craft of songwriting – but to be honest, I’m still shocked when I finish a song.  I believe that songs are little hints from the spiritual world.  They not only tell the story of what’s happening now but also what’s happening in the places unseen.

If you want to talk about songwriting, or need an objective ear – email me.  I’m also occasionally commissioned to write music for jingles, soundtracks, etc.

Take a look at the Soundcloud links around this site and you’ll find a few of my songs – many works in progress.  So check back periodically to hear changes or new songs.  Who knows?  One day I may even decide to release an album again.

Happy writing!