Key Takeaways
1. Songwriting Springs from Deep Emotion
Song ideas are the most intense longings of the soul and its deepest regrets.
Caring is Key. Songwriting isn't a fun way to make easy money; it's hell on Earth if you're doing it right. Ideas come from caring deeply or loathing intensely. Without strong feelings, helpful hints are useless. A great song proclaims the writer's upset or excitement about something.
Nine Categories of Inspiration. Song ideas arrange themselves into nine categories: happy, sad, or angry memories; present-time emotions; future anxieties; satire; fictional characters; true ballads; silly music; abstract surrealism; and allegorical tales. These categories provide a framework for understanding the diverse sources of songwriting inspiration.
Title as Idea. The "idea" and "title" are virtually synonymous. A title announces a destination, guiding the writer's efforts. Even if the song's name changes, the initial idea tied to a title provides a fulcrum for the creative process.
2. Technique is Personal, Practice is Universal
Technique is a personal and very private conceit.
Technique is Individual. Songwriting techniques vary widely. Some free-associate, others write draft after draft, some sing stream-of-consciousness, and others "word jam" to finished tracks. All these techniques are valid, and writers develop unique methods through hard work.
Tools of the Trade. Despite diverse styles, professional songwriters share common tools: a rhyming dictionary and a thesaurus. These resources are essential for crafting effective verse. Other reference materials, like Bartlett's Familiar Quotations, can also be invaluable.
Read and Listen. Writers must read, and composers must listen. This provides a comprehensive knowledge of the art form's history. Originality requires familiarity with the best examples ever written.
3. Words are the Songwriter's Building Blocks
Talking about music is like dancing about architecture.
Words Matter. Songwriters must accomplish their aims in about three minutes. Every word must count. Songwriting is "technological haiku."
Ambiguity is Essential. Begin with questions or ambiguities. Don't reveal the story too soon. Let the listener wonder, "Where are we going?"
Clichés Can Work. Cliché titles can be effective, especially in country music. However, the lyric itself must avoid cuteness and balance the trite title with clever metaphors and images.
4. Form Provides the Song's Foundation
With a knowledge of form we can learn more about chord structure and melody in order to develop a technique.
Form Follows Function. Songwriting form is not arbitrary. It's shaped by the need to breathe and the desire to remember. Rhyme and artificial line division are mnemonic devices.
Classical Influences. While modern songwriting is less rigid, understanding classical poetic terminology is helpful. Metaphor, simile, imagery, analogy, and allegory are essential tools.
The Power of the Notebook. Keep a notebook to capture ideas, titles, and observations. The world is grist for the mill. Observation and curiosity are key.
5. Melody Carries the Song's Soul
The sharpest memory is fallible.
Melody and Emotion. Melody carries the emotional weight of a song. It's a magical marriage between lyric and music.
Avoid Overused Devices. Be wary of clichés like "fool," "baby," and overused metaphors. Seek fresh language and imagery.
The Importance of Rhyme. While some songs succeed without rhyme, it's a powerful tool. Use it skillfully, avoiding false rhymes and forced constructions.
6. Collaboration: A Double-Edged Sword
The professional loves songs and loves songwriting.
Collaboration is Complex. Collaboration can be a source of synergy, but it also presents challenges. Conflicting egos, creative differences, and power dynamics can derail the process.
Clear Communication is Key. Establish clear expectations and boundaries at the outset. Define roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes.
Respect and Trust. Successful collaborations require mutual respect, trust, and a willingness to compromise. Be open to criticism and value diverse perspectives.
7. Persistence and Passion Conquer All
In this room, you can never make a mistake.
Embrace Failure. Songwriting is a process of trial and error. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. View them as learning opportunities.
Create a Dedicated Workspace. A dedicated workspace fosters continuity and tranquility. It's a place where you can focus, experiment, and develop your craft.
Never Stop Learning. Study the work of other songwriters, read poetry, listen to music, and explore new ideas. Continuous learning is essential for growth.
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Review Summary
Tunesmith receives mixed reviews, with ratings ranging from 1 to 5 stars. Positive reviewers praise Webb's insights into songwriting and the music industry, appreciating his detailed explanations of music theory and creative process. Critics find the book self-important, verbose, and outdated. Some readers struggle with the book's length and technical aspects. Many acknowledge Webb's expertise but find his writing style challenging. The book is recognized as a comprehensive resource for aspiring songwriters, though its relevance has diminished since its 1998 publication.
