What's in a Song

Send us a textTo sign up for the online songwriting in process class:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1376858744569?aff=oddtdtcreatorOn today's show I have Psychologist Dr. Jill Stoddard So much of what goes into a song is the psychology of the songwriter.  Mindset is so important to the creative.  Today, Dr. Stoddard talks about how to work with our inner critic, why we have it, how to focus on meaning even when your critique is loud.  She talks about how important self compassion is to the creative and the wise mind.  How persona can help an artist and so much more!More about Jill:https://jillstoddard.com/To find Jill's book:https://www.amazon.com/Imposter-More-Self-Doubt-Imposterism-Successful/dp/1538724790/ref=sr_1_1?crid=QBJQVVVTQCWA&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.t0gJrRrxlr7fbTqpBlq1PA6UmSg3LRmFwVPsRRiQkPNkS5rCe9HIM2zzvrZrw0gcbalD0-zlisuqEpcOscgx8cyeW7zeGdwiSJJtTO6m8AmGoKnflb9bqT2mOyuNBXxzFC2IszG9pjxX0gbcncLqaEH0J_Wz-5PlUeW7AMlW-NqbSUB7cTAngYXrv51YQ936.iml6zLsvasbi9q-BxQCaDOaeAWoajBYcHnKmTlFp71E&dib_tag=se&keywords=imposter+no+more&qid=1748007040&sprefix=imposter+no+mor%2Caps%2C121&sr=8-1To join the weekly writing class: https://buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keysThe monthly membership:https://buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keysScarlet's website:https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

Send us a textIn this episode, Mark Simos takes us through writing songs for social change, political protest, songs for that evoke empathy and songs of conscience.We talk metaphor, point of view and the most effective way to handle this delicate topic.We give you a song prompt and this episode is woven with songwriting crafts gems.Spotify songs for social justice:https://open.spotify.com/playlist/0PigbEAOxbwXOwvHFsq1vZ?si=cc729ee146d54003To join the weekly writing class:https://buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keysThe monthly membership:https://buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keysScarlet's website:https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

Send us a textUpcoming classes:To sign up for the April 5th workshop: "The songwriting of Taylor Swift": https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1252499231919?aff=oddtdtcreatorTo support this podcast and membership:https://buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keysShow take aways:Try writing a song using the words and rhythm of a nursery rhyme to try audio doodling in your melody.Write your chorus firstStart a song with the chorusYou need input for output: Go hear live music, new music, travel, try new things, read...ABOUT TODAY'S GUEST:Rodney AlejandroGrammy nominated artist/songwriter/producer Rodney Alejandro stands as a formidable polymath whose talents span an impressive array of roles both on stage and in the studio. Renowned for his dynamic passion for music, Alejandro has excelled as amusician, arranger, songwriter, producer, music director, executive, and educator,establishing himself as a linchpin in the entertainment world.In one of his eras, Alejandro dazzled audiences worldwide as the keyboardist and music director for the international pop band, The Script. His innovative arrangements transformed the band's hits into captivating live experiences, weaving emotionalnarratives that swung from exhilarating highs to poignant lows, leaving concert-goers spellbound.Alejandro's illustrious career as a live performer includes collaborations with an array of music legends. From the Latin rhythms of Mañá, and Chucho Valdez y Irakere to the soulful strains of Stevie Wonder and Labrinth, to the rock prowess of Roger Daltry and Bunburry, his diverse collaborations have cemented his reputation as a versatile and sought-after talent.Before joining The Script, he had already made a name for himself behind the scenes.His songwriting and production prowess has earned him accolades across multiple genres, including English, Latin, and Asian music markets. He has contributed to multiple Grammy and Latin Grammy nominated projects and earned a Billboard Latin Pop Album of the Year, along with numerous gold and platinum certifications.In the studio, Alejandro's versatility shines through, with his fingerprints on projects ranging from R&B giants like Ray Charles and The Tempatations, to Latin superstars like Kumbia Kings and Olga Tañon, Zydeco royalty Sean Ardoin, and rock legend Sammy Hagar. His contributions have spanned various projects showcasing his ability to adaptand excel in diverse musical settings.Alejandro's talents extend to television and film as well, where he has composed and produced music for acclaimed shows such as "The Shield" (Golden Globe winner for Best Drama Series), “Thief,” and “The Ellen DeGeneres Show”(Latin Theme). His work has also enriched the soundtracks of programs like CBS's “The Unit”, HBO's “Pee-Wee Herman's Broadway Special” and “Smallville.”His current era has been thirty plus years in the making. Although he initially deferred college to pursue a major record deal, he later attended San Jacinto Junior College, followed by Berklee College of Music, where he graduated summa cum laude with dual majors in Contemporary Writing and ProductScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

Send us a textIn this episode, I speak with Neuroscientist, author and musician Dr. Daniel Levitin on how music affects our health.  From reducing cortisol to lessening the effects of Parkinsons and how we can use music as medicine!  We talk science and his new book "I Heard there was a Secret Chord: Music as Medicine":  Daniel Levitin's music:https://open.spotify.com/artist/7iRoKs96ka4AJPOA39VJj5?si=su7HYKBPT5y1LKw1ws5YfQhttps://www.daniellevitin.com/contacthttps://www.amazon.com/Heard-There-Was-Secret-Chord/dp/1324036184/ref=sr_1_1?crid=274VRU3KC3Q2Y&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.5IaZHwLTgwh8-AzCAHt3kPDTjEUUDj8oH7KYdhuKtZU8XWjEBPwfWA2yUYORIZ_itvi4tir_1TPCxuwyfK5XhOgIuWi6s06iC9NL3rlr-0S7HxC5Dhb2zElgfXUKl9fq5hukodT71mwY0kfSQfodgZvyabALJAoj0-7dbUmqsXQpzu5Vcq8ecsXDWAOC9uUgfRz9X35zmy3J08juQ3Qua_O5xLXVEks31MwO7kqidw0.izSDOoW9LvNCZ-lOnOMvJqL_cNZZlqR5IfpZ0pimcqM&dib_tag=se&keywords=music+as+medicine&qid=1733872553&sprefix=music+as+medicine%2Caps%2C200&sr=8-1Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website:https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwrihttps://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=119TH6YQTH349&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.GwjMoShoQQ4LkwVcPHTP5IsFQanO1VPyx1zz3Bb4-7Ffl9gB95Og0_jt8TG-PMDAg4o3Q2vuEwWCma8wUo-DHpR6mFM_eZ6d07zqSbtlMiP1zBKXa2KP6P0g3jksVGTLOkWjxCsHAiNyGUQGHdxttbW_gEag07lREzcDa6Gvc2aN6DYqIurxcLK-xNKq52dS8bK9mDf-I3NHkS_Eu9WuhM7i1cIed4EMOhKHAgQpccs.KkFHodeEgcHLFavSPdmBuI0yXDQ5mWY3pbRLlxJi5lk&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1733872594&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C148&sr=8-1Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

Send us a textTo sign up for the November 16th virtual LYRIC WRITING WORKSHOP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1070697919299?aff=oddtdtcreatorMy guest today is New England based singer/songwriter Jesse Terry.Before I introduce him I wanted to let you know that on Saturday Nov. 16th I am offering a virtual 3 hour songwriting workshop.  There are a few spaces left and you can sign up through the show notes or on my website at scarletvkeys.comThis workshop will be very process oriented focused on lyric writing.You will be doing a lot of small writing exercises to sharpen your lyric writing skills.  We will work on metaphor, avoiding cliche's and literary devices used by some of the best writers.Today we will talk about his writing process, crowd funding an album with your super fans and some of the reasons he writes such beautiful melodies.  He's going to play a few song off of his new record Arcadia, released Oct. 4. And this might just be his best record yet.It's rooted in rhythmic rock & roll and sharp songwriting, Arcadia marks a turning point in Jesse Terry's career. It's the seventh original album from an award-winning musician who's spent much of the past decade on the move, playing 150 shows annually, bouncing between solo performances and full-band gigs. Arcadia captures both sides of that musical personality, finding room for amplified anthems one moment and intimate moments the next, showcasing just how wide Terry's reach can be.  Arcadia is layered with dueling electric guitars, stacked vocal harmonies, and heartland hooks, all supplied by instrumentalists like Ethan Ballinger (Miranda Lambert, Lee Ann Womack), Ross McReynolds (Katie Pruitt, Becca Mancari), Sam Howard (Molly Tuttle, Joy Williams), Juan Solorzano (Ruston Kelly, Parker Millsap), and Danny Mitchell (Rodney Crowell, Anderson East). It's a big, bold sound — the sort of record that begs to be played in the car, windows rolled down, driving down the fast lane toward some new horizon. At the center of that sound is the craft Terry has been sharpening since his years in Nashville, back when he composed songs for others as a staff writer on Music Row. A grand-prize winner of the John Lennon Songwriting Contest, Terry established himself as a top-shelf.Jesse's new record: https://open.spotify.com/album/5lpXAMZDC4hqAU0t2AV29Z?si=SpFXPTHsSL-BidKeOtVbgghttps://www.jesseterrymusic.com/Become a podcast member:Join the "What's in a Song" membership community:https://buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keysMixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website:https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PPScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

Send us a textIn this episode, I talk with singer/songwriter Kylie Rothfield.She shares what she learned about singing and stage fright from Alicia Keys.  We talk about what she learned from writing with some of the best writers in Nashville, song craft, process and so much more.  This was a good one!Pre save Kylie's single coming out Sept. 27th here:https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/kylierothfield/never-loved-somebody?utm_campaign=website&utm_medium=Email+&utm_source=SendGridhttps://www.instagram.com/kylierothfield/When one hears Kylie Rothfield‘s voice, there is no denying the timeless, raw sense of emotion in her delivery. Crafting songs that combine elements of soul, blues and pop, Kylie's music is unique, honest, and expressive. Although her vocal ability is undeniable, she is also an accomplished self-taught guitarist, sponsored by Epiphone guitars and fully capable of supporting her captivating live show as a solo acoustic performer or with a full band. It's no wonder she caught the ears of Alicia Keys, who described her as “a blossoming, powerful flower with so much heart, so much talent, so much emotion and vocal power”.In July of 2015, Kylie signed a publishing deal with Terrorbird Media and Elephant Lady Records/Kyle Andrews. Together, they had 5 placements on national television in their first year together (NBC, E!, ABC, MTV).In September of 2016, Kylie was selected to be on The Voice (NBC). She was chosen by Alicia Keys, who coached her throughout the season, and carried her through to the Top 20 Live Shows in November. Her performance of "Hound Dog" in the knockout rounds garnered attention by many media outlets and was called the "dark-horse breakout performance of the season". Guest advisor Faith Hill said “Kylie absolutely blew me away. She interprets songs like a true artist and she could sing ANYTHING”She has over 1 million combined streams on Spotify & Apple Music from recent independent releases and was recently featured on NBC's Songland S2 (06/08/2020), working with Ester Dean, Ryan Tedder, and Shane McAnally to pitch a song she wrote to Tony and Grammy-winning artist Ben Platt. Most recently, in 2024 Kylie signed a management deal with Arianna Soto and a record deal with new label, DVG Records. She is currently in the process of recording a full-length album that is set to be released in spring 2025.Become a podcast member:Join the "What's in a Song" membership community:https://buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keysMixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this episode, singer/songwriter Michael McDermott talks about writing process, writing from your life and shares new songs off his two new albums dropping Sept 13th.Join the "What's in a Song" membership community:https://buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keyshttps://michael-mcdermott.com/homeMixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

Today I have Berklee Professor Ben Camp on the show discussing AI We talk about where it is now and what it means for songwriters in the future.  We talk ethics, creativity, originality, works that are derivative and Ben takes a song we wrote together years ago and puts it through AI to demonstrate some of the current possibilities AI offers creatives.Ben Camp has taught songwriting to over 2,000 students at Berklee College of Music, and is a gold record awarded writer and producer. Ben's songs have amassed over 100 million streams, appeared in film and TV on networks like MTV, CBS, NBC, and more. They have written singles for Brice Fox, Tiesto, Victoria Justice, Sam Feldt, and others. Ben has been following the developments in AI for over a decade, and you can find their interviews about AI + Music on NPR, Al Jazeera, and others.  https://www.bencamp.com/To support this podcast or to join our Membership: https://buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keysMixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this episode, Pat Pattison, author of "Writing Better Lyrics" walks us through step by step of how to find metaphors. This is the exercise I gave to writer Madi Diaz that she talked about in the previous episode.Pat talks about the difference between simile and metaphor for songwriters, passing metaphors and central metaphors and takes us through a song by Eli and Fur and Gillian Welch.https://www.patpattison.com/Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

My guest today is one of my former students singer/songwriter Madi DiazMadi grew up in Pennsylvania where she was homes schooled by her mother and took piano lessons from her father at the age of 5.After high school, Madi was accepted to Berklee College of Music and met her first collaborator Kyle Ryan which led to her recording her first record skin and bones in Hawaii.Later, Madi went on to tour with the civil ward and Landon Pig.  She was featured in Paste magazine as on of teh top ten buzziest acts at SXSW and had songs featrured in ABC family's Pretty little liars, Drop dead Diva, Army Wives, had her song “The End of the Day” featured on the television series Nashville performed by Connie Britton and Charles Esten.Since then she had gone on to record several albums, was a guest on Last Call with Carson Daly, and went on to tour with Harry Styles band playing guitar and singing back up vocals and supported Kacey Musgraves on the UK and European legs of her Deeper Well World Tour.Madi has released 6 studio albums and 4 EP's Today we will talk about so many things that are helpful for songwriters from the biz to inspiration to writing to a prompt for a film placement and listen to a few songs off of her most recent album “Weird Faith”. A case for co-writing and preparing to write.https://madidiaz.com/To support this podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keysMixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this minisode, I talk about writing melody and thinking of melody as the song's tone of voice.Auditioning melodies to make sure we pair the best notes with our most important words and the power of unstable notes in writing great melodies.To join my summer songwriting class "Writing Better Melodies" click here:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/melody-writing-intensive-tickets-943422099897If you sign up before July 15th, you will receive a free copy of my book "The Craft of Songwriting: Music, Meaning and Emotion" or some  "What's in a Song"  swag.Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

"Inspiration is for Amateurs""Don't be 'a writer' but instead be writing." - Faulkner"Just begin and the mind grows heated; continue, and the task will be completed!”― Johann Wolfgang von GoetheTo join the "What's in a Song" community membership: https://buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keysLink to song from band Corner Boy "Morning Morning": https://open.spotify.com/track/7wjyEuRd6pYN34BmVkOpa1?si=a25d393f73594a0bhttps://www.cornerboymusic.com/Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this Episode, Robert Ellis Orrall talks about writing with Taylor Swift.  What she was like as a young writer, how he set up the showcase that got her a record deal and shares two songs her wrote with Swift along with an original from his latest record.Upcoming workshop: Taylor Swift Master class this Tuesday May 28th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-songwriting-of-taylor-swift-writing-great-melodies-tickets-907284772177Robert Ellis Orrall's website: https://www.robertellisorrall.com/Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/6WVQlFV93roOY6iTH3sv6E?si=14585dc1403e4a13Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website:https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

The Yoda: Anastrophe: is the inversion of the usual order of words/clausesExample: Invisible String (gold is the color...red is the color...)Green was the color of the grass where I used to read in centennial parkTeal was the color of your shirt when you were sixteen at the yogurt shop - Invisible String“Long were the night when my days once revolved around you"  - Dear JohnJoin the master class May 15th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-songwriting-of-taylor-swift-master-class-tickets-895672148507To donate to the podcast: https://buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keysScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

My guest today s an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer Will Kimbrough.As a producer, he has produced albums for Rodney Crowell, Todd Snider, Kim Richey, Garrison Star and Matthew Ryan to name a few.His songs have been recorded by Jimmy Buffett, Little Fear, Jack Ingram, and he has collaborated with Rosanne Cash, Guy Clark, Steve Earle, Emmylou Harris, John Prine, and Mavis Staples just to name a few.In 2004 he was recognized as the instrumentalist of the year by the Americana music association.Will is a prolific writer and recording artist, a member of Willie Sugarcapps, DADDY and Emmylou Harris' Red Dirt Boys, has written extensively with Jimmy Buffet and he has released 10 solo alums.Order Will Kimbrough's new album: https://www.willkimbrough.com/Join Taylor Swift Master class May 15th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-songwriting-of-taylor-swift-master-class-tickets-895672148507Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

The storytelling effects of nouns.Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website:https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/Scarlet's website:https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this minisode, I talk about the power of verbs and how they can do more than just their expected work but can help to tell your story, create characters and build metaphors.Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/Scarlet's website:https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this episode, Ingrid talk about her influences, meeting her producer and shares three songs from her upcoming album.She talks about writing in opening tuning and writing process.https://www.instagram.com/ingridsaga/?hl=enMixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website:https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this Episode I talk with singer/songwriter/producer/actor Aidan Laprete aboutVoice lessons, finding your sound, and producing.He walks us through writing melody takes - gibberish to find melodies, turning mumbles into words and making it make sense and shares guitar voicings to help you out of sonic ruts.Aidan is from Hawaii and was first known for his ukulele playing at age 8.  He has been in film and tv such as "Hawaii Five-O" and "The Wilds" and performs and dissects several of his newly released songs sharing his process.More on Aidan:http://www.instagram.com/aidanlapretehttps://open.spotify.com/artist/2odS5igGjEJRondDXWBy0K?si=Dcy6AVQgTd6IZxZqW-iAXwhttp://www.twitter.com/aidanlapretehttp://www.facebook.com/aidanlapreteMixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website:https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/Scarlet's website:https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

Stuart Roslyn is a composer, producer and musician specializing in original music for motion pictures and their trailers.  He also creates unique soundscapes for network tv and big brand commercials.  His career spans more than 20 years composing and producing many genres of music for the biggest names in entertainment.  He is either directing a full orchestra or writing and mixing in his studio.Today, Stuart is here to talk about his approach to work and to life.  This episode is packed with wonderful advice for working and living.https://stuartroslyn.com/Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website:https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "What if it All Goes Right"https://www.scarletkeys.com/store/what-if-it-all-goes-rightScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this episode, I share a little peak into the craft and poetry of Taylor Swift's songwriting.We look at her choice of chord progressions and  one way in to one of her epic bridge sections as well as her use of metaphor.You will walk away with a few tools from the woman currently ruling the world that you can try in your own songs no matter what the genre.Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

David Wilcox is an award winning and highly acclaimed American singer songwriter from Asheville North Carolina.His storytelling cuts deep into the soul and observes the human condition from both the nerve center and the outside looking in.  He's released more than 20 records and is famous for his thoughtful insights, humor and open tunings on guitar.In this episode, David talks about process and prompts and writes a song on the spot.https://www.davidwilcox.comTo pre-order Scarlet's new book "What if it All Goes Right: Practicing Hope in the hardest times" go to: https://www.scarletkeys.com/store/what-if-it-all-goes-righthttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keysScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

David Wilcox is an award winning and highly acclaimed American singer songwriter from Asheville North Carolina.His storytelling cuts deep into the soul and observes the human condition from both the nerve center and the outside looking in.  He's released more than 20 records and is famous for his thoughtful insights, humor and open tunings on guitar.In this episode, David takes a deep dive into his writing process and will leave you totally inspired.https://www.davidwilcox.comhttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keysScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this episode, we break down co-writing and talk about reflecting back on process and what can be learned from taking pause and observing what went well and what you wish had gone differently making you a better writer and co-writer going forward.To purchase Mark's books: https://www.amazon.com/Songwriting-Strategies-360-Degree-Approach-Music/dp/087639151X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2P5EAKVUEMJCD&keywords=mark+simos&qid=1691706851&sprefix=mark+simo%2Caps%2C184&sr=8-1Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this episode of a two part series, Berklee Professor and Grammy winning writer Mark Simos and I try out his unique approach to writing using different chord configurations in a writing exercise he calls Hank Williams in hell.  This is a live co-write so if you are curious about how people write songs collaboratively or want to explore new ways to use the classic three chords, this episode is for you.  The final song is shared at the end of this episode.To purchase Mark's books: https://www.amazon.com/Songwriting-Strategies-360-Degree-Approach-Music/dp/087639151X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2P5EAKVUEMJCD&keywords=mark+simos&qid=1691706851&sprefix=mark+simo%2Caps%2C184&sr=8-1Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this episode of a two part series, Berklee Professor and Grammy winning writer Mark Simos and I try out his unique approach to writing using different chord configurations in a writing exercise he calls Hank Williams in hell.  This is a live co-write so if you are curious about how people write songs collaboratively or want to explore new ways to use the classic three chords, this episode is for you!Sign up for keyboard class email scarlet@scarletkeys.com Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

Today's guest is grammy winning songwriter and producer Rich Jaques.  Rich has had over 1500 songs placed on film and t.v. and is going to share today about his musical journey.Some key points:Follow the point of enthusiasm (follow your  bliss)Finding your own pathNotice what makes you excited Writing more impressionistically as not to impose a lyric on a sceneDon't ask who you want to be but who are youGetting over your emotional wall in the biz What gets in your way to successFigure out your blocksTo listen to Rich Jaques: https://open.spotify.com/album/39NM2EhS00PH1mQbdQbRCi?si=SPFutN-NQ5mpFSMkFRYKcQScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

On today's show, I have singer/songwriter Will Dailey.In this episode, Will shares some brilliant marketing ideas and talks about:Tools: Try cutting something in halfthe chorusthe bridgea bara linedo something upsetting to your cadenceGreat advice on writing your best verse 2Why songwriting is good for you even if it's not your professionStep outside your comfort genreFinding your instrumentDon't worry about the note you singWorry about the truth you singMumbling as lyrical placeholderStarting with narrativeProcess over outcomeYoutube for will dailey: https://www.youtube.com/willdaileyWill Dailey website: https://www.willdailey.com/Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

Today I have Susan Rogers who many of you know as Prince's recording engineer.  Today we talk about her new book “This is what it sounds like” and who we are as listeners, what Prince used to ask her to prepare for his writing sessions and insight into writing songs that appeal to a wider audience.Some takeaways:Ask a non musical person for feedback on your songsActive listeningGetting your best vocal performance in the studioMusic from the neck up vs music from the neck downMaking music is an expression of life and you need to put your life into itBalance between something common and something novelWho you are as a listenerTaylor Swift workshop: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/650136163767Membership:  Scarletkeys.com Susan Rogers' book: https://www.amazon.com/This-What-Sounds-Like-Music/dp/0393541258Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

Grammy-winning artst Paula Cole has released seven solo albums of original songs. Cole has performed with icons in many genres of music, from Peter Gabriel to Dolly Parton, Herbie Hancock to Emmylou Harris, and Amy Lee of Evanescence to Burt Bacharach. Cole's emotionally deep performances and her poetic, intelligent writing makes her stand out from the masses of contemporary music. Her compositions have been covered by a diverse range of artists—including Hancock, Annie Lennox, Katherine McPhee, and JoJo—and she has sold approximately 3 million albums. As the first woman in history to solely produce and receive the Best Producer Grammy nomination for her album This Fire, Cole has broken boundaries with a searcher's spirit. From her top 10 hits of the 1990s to her more recent, critically acclaimed albums, Cole continues to write, produce, record, and perform heartfelt, meaningful, lasting music that defies categorization.In this episode, Paula shares her writing process, prompts she gives her students and what she's learned from journaling and writing.  She talks about how she found her sound as an artist and the artists who have inspired her.  How walking helps her write.Singer/songwriter Sam Robbins' song about his father from one of Paula's prompts: https://open.spotify.com/track/6R1NtDvc6i24t7pZROFaED?si=44837935583f449chttps://www.petersykesmusic.com/Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this short episode, I talk about starting with an idea or emotion and one of my favorite ways to find a good title for your potential song.Sometimes, an  idea just needs a great hook to hang our song on.Announcing my 6 week songwriting course starting June 20th and my weekend workshop on the songwriting of Taylor Swift in July.Click here to sign up and for more information:https://www.scarletkeys.com/To hear a full version of "Little Big Sky", here is Susan Cattaneo's version: https://open.spotify.com/track/03g3yrMqmYHCoskJPeVdgS?si=b56beecfdadd4e4bhttps://www.petersykesmusic.com/Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Joe BennettFirst, we talk about what constitutes copyright infringement from the point of view of a forensic musicologist.Then, Joe dives into the analysis of "If I were a Fish" (pun intended) leaving everyone with some great new ideas to spark their songwriting.Dr. Bennett has been analysing and transcribing popular music for international publication since 1994. He has written 30 books, including transcription, teaching and reference works (published worldwide by Music Sales Group), and more than 300 academic and media articles, relating to song analysis, guitar techniques, music similarity, music copyright law, and songwriting. He is currently a professor at Berklee College of Music in Boston USA, and the resident musicologist for TIDAL magazine. As an academic Joe's primary area of research expertise is the psychology of songwriting https://joebennett.net/Podcast engineer Peter Sykes music:https://open.spotify.com/artist/41llpsdBBIDlQixP0VHVA8?si=LhMf9SylS_6k6rjfWf2DawThis is Apple Musichttps://music.apple.com/us/artist/peter-j-sykes/1599264277For info on Otto Gross:The show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

Today I am so happy to have Corook and Olivia Barton on the show.Corook is a multi-instrumentalist based in Nashville, Tennessee. they are signed to Atlantic Records, and thave toured with JP Saxe and Jukebox the Ghost.Today share my conversation with Corook and their partner artist Olivia Barton.  We talk about instant fame and it's impact on an introvert, Corook talks about their path leading up to their first record deal and then they both talk about writing their magical viral song “If I were a fish” and a few tools they used in the process to capture joy in a jar.https://www.corook.com/https://www.instagram.com/oliviabartonhaha/?hl=enPodcast engineer Peter Sykes music:https://open.spotify.com/artist/41llpsdBBIDlQixP0VHVA8?si=LhMf9SylS_6k6rjfWf2DawThis is Apple Musichttps://music.apple.com/us/artist/peter-j-sykes/1599264277For info on Otto Gross:The show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

Robert Gillies is a hit songwriter and artist living in Norway.In this conversation we talk about finding the sweet spot of tempo for your songThe 2 rules to start every cowrite withWorking with Charlie PuthHis fav microphone for home recordingHow our road to success can feel like a guided experienceHow to be in service of the workOpening for Andy GrammerTo Pre-order Robert's next single "You're a Better Friend"https://orcd.co/yabfhttp://www.robertgillies.comPodcast engineer Peter Sykes music:https://open.spotify.com/artist/41llpsdBBIDlQixP0VHVA8?si=LhMf9SylS_6k6rjfWf2DawThis is Apple Musichttps://music.apple.com/us/artist/peter-j-sykes/1599264277For info on Otto Gross:The show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this episode, I am talking with someone at the start of it all, Berklee student Kieran Rhodes.He shares his favorite songwriting tools that he learned from Billy Joel and Randy Newman, why his friends nick named him the V/V, his experience on being on America's Got Talent and the two chords he won't leave home without.He plays a song he wrote in his songwriting 1 class in the mixolydian mode and I give a mini lesson on how to write in mixolydian.https://kieranrhodes.com/https://www.instagram.com/kieranrhodesmusic/Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Podcast engineer Peter Sykes music:https://open.spotify.com/artist/41llpsdBBIDlQixP0VHVA8?si=LhMf9SylS_6k6rjfWf2DawThis is Apple Musichttps://music.apple.com/us/artist/peter-j-sykes/1599264277For info on Otto Gross:The show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In today's episode, I talk with Folk artist Vance Gilbert on How to be a great opening act.Some show takeaways:Be yourself, you can be shy and confident, but be sure about what you're doingWood shed the music and rehearse so you are comfortable with your performanceWork on your timing and all the things that go into a great performancePracticing your relative pitchWhen singing: drop your jaw with an over emphasis with open vowelHow to be a great opening act: Streamline your set up,Use a boom mic and XLRHave a solid 5 song set, Play  up tempoYou don't have to talk a lotUse the word WreckageUse the b77 and the b3 chord: Key of A: G7 and Cajhttps://vancegilbert.com/Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Podcast engineer Peter Sykes music:https://open.spotify.com/artist/41llpsdBBIDlQixP0VHVA8?si=LhMf9SylS_6k6rjfWf2DawThis is Apple Musichttps://music.apple.com/us/artist/peter-j-sykes/1599264277For info on Otto Gross:The show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this episode, I am talking to Prince Charles Alexander about the evolution of hip hop music, production and rap.Prince Charles is a sought-after recording and mixing engineer whose clients include Mary J. Blige, Destiny's Child, Faith Evans, P. Diddy, the Notorious B.I.G., Usher, Boyz II Men, Brandy, Babyface, Sting, Aretha Franklin, Usher, Brian McKnight, and others. Alexander has garnered more than 40 Platinum and Gold certifications from the RIAA and has multiple Grammy Awards and nominations. He holds an adjunct instructor position at New York University's Clive Davis Department of Recorded Music, has taught audio technology at the Institute of Audio Research, and is a frequent lecturer at the City College of New York in Manhattan.He teaches advanced production and mixing at Berklee. From the early to mid 80s, he produced, wrote, and recorded on Virgin Records with his group, Prince Charles and the City Beat Band. Alexander was an early innovator of wind synthesis and a part of the "punk-funk" generation that incorporated many of the devices that would propel rap music to the forefront of the American music scene. https://www.amazon.com/Hip-Hop-Production-Alexander-Downloadable-Practice/dp/0876392117/ref=sr_1_1?crid=5ABA4ITYJ05P&keywords=prince+charles+alexander&qid=1679496194&sprefix=prince+charles+alexander%2Caps%2C162&sr=8-1Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Podcast engineer Peter Sykes music:https://open.spotify.com/artist/41llpsdBBIDlQixP0VHVA8?si=LhMf9SylS_6k6rjfWf2DawThis is Apple Musichttps://music.apple.com/us/artist/peter-j-sykes/1599264277For info on Otto Gross:The show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

George Woods is an amazing guitarist, singer and songwriter and Berklee Professor.In this episode George shares how ADHD is a superpower for songwriters, what chords and melody bring emotionally.He  writes a song on the spot and talks about what theory really is and plays his new single.http://www.georgewoodsmusic.comScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Podcast engineer Peter Sykes music:https://open.spotify.com/artist/41llpsdBBIDlQixP0VHVA8?si=LhMf9SylS_6k6rjfWf2DawThis is Apple Musichttps://music.apple.com/us/artist/peter-j-sykes/1599264277For info on Otto Gross:The show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this episode, I talk with Grammy nominated composer and award winning pianist, educator and author of the best selling book “Effortless Mastery” and  “Becoming the Instrument” in part two of a great conversation.Find a place to sit and listen towards the end of the podcast for the meditation and then enjoy a live performance from Kenny.https://kennywerner.comScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Podcast engineer Peter Sykes music:https://open.spotify.com/artist/41llpsdBBIDlQixP0VHVA8?si=LhMf9SylS_6k6rjfWf2DawThis is Apple Musichttps://music.apple.com/us/artist/peter-j-sykes/1599264277For info on Otto Gross:The show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this episode, I talk with Grammy nominated composer and award winning pianist, educator and author of the best selling book “Effortless Mastery” and  “Becoming the Instrument”.Here are some episode takeaways:You don't move forward unless you practice Let your arms defy gravitySate of presence of mindThe body is the instrument that plays the instrumentBE the instrumentGet your mind out of the way so the body can commit to muscle memory and motor skillThe need to sound good obscures the way the body would play itDon't hold your breathThe spaceGoing into the spacePractice hacks: 5 min at a timeThe problem isn't practicing, it's starting.https://kennywerner.comScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Podcast engineer Peter Sykes music:https://open.spotify.com/artist/41llpsdBBIDlQixP0VHVA8?si=LhMf9SylS_6k6rjfWf2DawThis is Apple Musichttps://music.apple.com/us/artist/peter-j-sykes/1599264277For info on Otto Gross:The show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

On today's show,  Eric Roberson is back!!Eric is a  2x Grammy Nominated Singer/Songwriter/Producer/Artist/Entrepreneur.  Winner of the 2012 Soul Train Music Award For Independent Artist Of The Year.  Widely regarded as the "King Of Independent Soul/R&B".  He was on Jimmy Fallon's show "That's my Jam" and has a new book out "Lessons".Here are some show takeaways: Perception is a golden giftIdeas are everywhereSay no to doubtWhen to say noHow to say noWhen to say yesWhen recording it's not about how good you sound it's about how true you sound.Writing without agendaCapture the moment and get out of the wayRemove doubtSay thank you for the ideaTell doubt to leave the roomTo find out more about Eric Roberson and his music:https://ericrobersonmusic.comhttps://www.instagram.com/erro44/Podcast engineer Peter Sykes music:https://open.spotify.com/artist/41llpsdBBIDlQixP0VHVA8?si=LhMf9SylS_6k6rjfWf2DawThis is Apple Musichttps://music.apple.com/us/artist/peter-j-sykes/1599264277For info on Otto Gross:The show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

Today I have Grammy winner and producer Cliff Goldmacher.  Cliff has a catalog of over 1,000 songs and writes with and for artists across multiple genres. He has written a #1 single on the jazz charts, a song on a GRAMMY-winning album and multiple songs featured in major movie releases and national advertising campaigns.  Some of his songs have been recorded by Kesha, Keb Mo, and Lisa Loeb to name a few. On today's show, Cliff shares some writing tips from his book “The Reason for the Rhymes” and breaks down his songwriting process and career advice.  The function of a chorus, metaphor, simplicity and being a good cowriter. Show takeaways:When trying to find a metaphor, ask the question "What is my concept like?"If you are using one metaphor, stay with that metaphor.  Stay in the ocean for example, keeping all of your imagery connected to your original metaphor When in doubt say lessTry to have the maximum impact with the fewest wordsThe importance of staying organizedThe chorus is the moment in the song when you stop and explain to your listener why you've been saying what you've been saying in the verseThe chorus should have the same lyric each timeProductivity supports creativity and creativity supports productivityWhat assets are you bringing to a cowriter? production? great vocals? great instrumentalist?The art of collaborationThe importance of listening to an artist and helping them translate what's important to themBe macro-patient and micro-impatient:  Be impatient enough to get up every day and do the workToday's guest Cliff Goldmacher:https://www.cliffgoldmacher.comCliff's book "The Reason for the Rhymes":https://www.amazon.com/Reason-Rhymes-Mastering-Essential-Innovation-ebook/dp/B089RSCLCV/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1B1FNTKHS2MF1&keywords=cliff+goldmacer&qid=1672445129&sprefix=cliff+goldmacer%2Caps%2C80&sr=8-1Podcast engineer Peter Sykes music:https://open.spotify.com/artist/41llpsdBBIDlQixP0VHVA8?si=LhMf9SylS_6k6rjfWf2DawThis is Apple Musichttps://music.apple.com/us/artist/peter-j-sykes/1599264277For info on Otto Gross:The show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic Scarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/To purchase Scarlet Keys' book "The Craft of Songwriting:https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1

In this episode, I talk with award winning singer/songwriter Anna Wilson and Golden Globe and Country Music Hall of Fame nominee, hit songwriter and producer Monty Powell.  This power duo have written songs for Keith Urban, Lady A., Reba McEntire, Rascal Flatts and too many more to mention.This is a master class in lyric technique!Take aways from today's episode:Song mapsLyrical flowAlliteration to grab the listener's earInternal rhyme Technical writing Image ladderCreating a visual picture with wordsLead a narrative that you want your listener to perceiveBe detailed and exact and clear so the listener sees what you want them to seehttp://annawilson.comhttp://www.montypowell.comhttps://www.scarletkeys.comhttps://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Engineer: Peter Sykes https://www.petersykesmusic.comThe show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic 

In this episode Berklee Professor and artist Susan Cattaneo shares the magic of songwriting and breaks it down offering some wonderful ideas on how to use metaphor.With her powerful voice, captivating melodies and finely-crafted lyrics, Susan Cattaneo is one of Boston's most respected singer/songwriters and educators. Susan won the CT Folk Festival and is nominated for Singer Songwriter of the Year at this year's Boston Music Awards. She has been a finalist or winner in the country's most prestigious songwriting and music contests. An in-demand collaborator for a wide range of local and national artists, she is a three-time Kerrville New Folk finalist. Her double album The Hammer and The Heartcharted #1 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart and yielded a folk radio #1 single and top 10 album. Her latest work, All is Quiet has been featured as a top 10 folk radio album since its release in April.In her 20 plus years teaching Songwriting at Berklee, Susan has helped students work on over 15,000 songs in all musical genres and styles and mentored over 2,000 artists. https://susancattaneo.comhttps://www.scarletkeys.comhttps://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Engineer: Peter Sykes https://www.petersykesmusic.comThe show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic 

Tom Hambridge is an American rock, country, and blues, producer, songwriter, musician and vocalist. Hambridge has received two Grammy Awards, an ASCAP award, seven Grammy nominations, seven Boston Music Awards, and has been inducted into the Buffalo Hall of Fame.In this episode, Tom talks about his influences, how being a drummer informs his writing, working with vocalists, what he learned from Chuck Berry, avoiding cliches and navigating a cowrite.https://www.instagram.com/tomhambridge/https://www.scarletkeys.comhttps://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Engineer: Peter Sykes https://www.petersykesmusic.comThe show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic 

Master piano player Matt RollingsMatt has played on countless records for artists such as: Wynonna Judd, Lyle Lovett, Shania Twain, Trisha Yearwood, Leonard Cohen, Mark Knofler, Dixie Chicks, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Billy Joel, Steve Martin, Bruce springsteen, Toy Story 4 Randy Newman and Christ Stapleton. Matt has produced many artists such as: Keith Urban and Mellissa Manchester He won a Grammy for Producing, arranging and playing on Willie Nelson's  record: Willie Nelson Singers Gershwin and  Willie Nelson's record Willie Nelson Sings Sinatra  Matt has toured extensively with Lyle Lovett and Allison Kraus and is here today to talk about songwriting and the elements of being a master player in service of the song or the singer. Show takeaways:The importance of feel and timingLean into the nervousness  Lead with your weaknessThe importance of vulnerabilityWhen playing: 80% attention on the singer who is performing and 20% read the chart, play the fills, adjust, play in time, remember the song and create the partVoicing an F Major chord: CFA: F chord in second position. Take the F out of the middle and drop it an octave When you play close voicing, all of the overtones bash into each otherWhen you don't, it doesn't ring the same way and  you give the overtones roomThe Three things: Time, Feel and FunctionInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/mattrollings88/https://www.scarletkeys.comhttps://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Engineer: Peter Sykes https://www.petersykesmusic.comThe show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic   

Justin Tranter is one of the most successful pop songwriters of our time.Tranter has co-written with Julia Michaels, and written songs for artists such as Britney Spears, Gwen Stefani, Linkin Park, Kelly Clarkson, Selena Gomez, Justin Bieber, DNCE, Kesha, Imagine Dragons, Fifth Harmony, 5 Seconds of Summer, Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga, Bea Miller, Demi Lovato, Dua Lipa, Måneskin, and Fall Out Boy. From 2004 to 2014, Tranter was the lead singer of Semi Precious Weapons, a rock band based in New York. Since February 2017, they have been a board member of GLAAD, an organization that promotes LGBT acceptance in the entertainment and news industries and they also have their own jewlry line.Here are some takeaways form todays show:The bullies are wrongStart each section of your song in a different part of the phraseMake sure you're using new notes for the chorusUse the highest note in the chorus or now, use new notes, doesn't have to be the highest note in the songLearn 10 different songs rom 110 different genre and feel what makes them great songsLyricist looking for strong melody writerWhat you're most passionate about you're the best at because you pay more attention to itLyric structureEnhancing your skills through technical thinking Change your rhyme schemes up in each song sectionhttps://www.instagram.com/tranterjustin/?hl=enhttps://www.scarletkeys.comhttps://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Engineer: Peter Sykes https://www.petersykesmusic.com

Ellen Britton is an amazing guitarist and songwriter who has toured with many huge acts and appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Night with Conan O'Brien, The View, The Rosie O'Donnell Show, and The Today Show. As a teacher, she has worked with Brandi Clark, Pam Tillis, Mickey Guyton, Carly Pearce, Little Big Town and so many more.On this episode, Ellen talks about the importance of dynamics as a performer and guitar player and shares some voices, strumming patterns and power chords for anyone who would like to write on guitar!https://www.ellenbritton.comhttps://www.scarletkeys.comhttps://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Engineer: Peter Sykes https://www.petersykesmusic.comThe show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic 

 Chris DuBois is a songwriter and music publisher based out of Nashville.  He is co-owner of Sea Gayle Music with business partners Brad Paisley and Frank Rogers. Sea Gayle is one of the most successful independent publishing companies in all of music.  In 2010 and 2011, Sea Gayle was named ASCAP Country Publisher of the Year. It was the first time since 1982 that an independent publishing company had won that award. In 2009, Sea Gayle Music launched Sea Gayle Records as an imprint of Sony Music Nashville.They have some of Nashville's most successful roster of staff writer's one of which was Chris Stapleton.As a songwriter, DuBois has had more than 30 Top 20 singles including 17 songs that have reached No. 1. DuBois has been the recipient of over 30 ASCAP awards and in 2004 was named ASCAP Country Songwriter of the Year.[3] DuBois was also named NSAI Songwriter of the Year for 2010 and 2011.[4]A few of these songs include:Mud on the Tires: Brad PaisleyYour Man: Josh TurnerBuy me a Boat: Chris JansenYou should probably leave: Chris Stapleton He has had songs recorded by artists such as:Darius Rucker, George strait, Tim McGraw, Luke Bryan, Blake Shelton, Keith Urban, Chris Stapleton, Kenny Chesney, Adele, and Sheryl Crow to name a few.In this episode Chris shares how he finds titles, inspiration, what he looks for in a writer to sign, we talk about revenue for writers, writing techniques, story songs, copywriting your songs and so much more!Take aways:Identify the songs that give you chillsIdentify the moments in the songs that give you chillsThen study what's going on there melodically or lyricallyTry to emulate what you're hearingTry to write a song that sounds like a song you loveTry the title gameWrite from a piece of art with a 500 word narrativeHave an outline for your song Think of a third layerAn exercise on finding song titlesPick a piece of artWrite a written narrative on that pieces of art500 word written narrative

Charlie Worsham won the ACM award for best acoustic guitar payer in 2022, is signed to Warner Bros. and is a master session player, multi instrumentalist, songwriter and tours with Dierks Bently.In this episode, Charlie shares his journey of moving to Nashville, getting a record deal, and being a side man for major acts.  He shares the power of asking for help, and following the next thing.  We dive into two of his songs off of his new EP "Sugarcane" and he shares his take on writing great lyrics and how to play your best as a guitarist.https://www.charlieworsham.comhttps://www.scarletkeys.comhttps://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Engineer: Peter Sykes https://www.petersykesmusic.comThe show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic Episode is LivePublished: Oct. 12, 2022 @ 7PM EditUnpublishAdd a TranscriptGet episode better indexed by search engines.Add Chapter MarkersListeners can tap through & see what's coming up.Create a Visual SoundbiteBest way to share to social media for engagement.Share Episode On FacebookTwitterLinkedInMore OptionsEmail Link to EpisodeDirect Link to MP3Embed this ONE EpisodeView Episode Stats

My guest today is hit songwriter Jason Blume.  He was Brittany Spears first co-writer and has gone on to have more than 50 million album sales with singles on Billboard's pop , country and R&B charts with songs recorded by Britney Spears, the backstreet boys, the oak ridge boys, K-pop and J-pop artists and many more.  His songs have appeared on Emmy winning shows and you can hear Jason's songs all over film and television.  Jason is a writer with the heart of a teacher and I can't wait for you to hear him talk about writing unforgettable melodies and the techniques fond in hit songs.  Jason shares his story on his road to becoming a successful writer and how to create your own luck, cowriter splits, copyrighting your song and writing for a large audience,  how he has only had two hit songs that weren't rewritten and so much more!Show take aways:The most important tool in writing a melody is repetition.Write singable, memorable melodies The rhythm of your melody is a power toolCreating a surprisePay your duesMake your own luckBe flexibleRewrite!!!!!!!!http://www.jasonblume.comhttps://www.scarletkeys.comhttps://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/https://www.amazon.com/Craft-Songwriting-Music-Meaning-Emotion/dp/0876391927/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2PP55NU6E9ST6&keywords=the+craft+of+songwriting&qid=1659573139&sprefix=the+craft+of+songwritin%2Caps%2C153&sr=8-1Engineer: Peter Sykes https://www.petersykesmusic.comThe show's theme song "What's in a Song" was co-written with Otto GrossRecorded and performed by Otto Gross: @OttoGrossProduction (instagram)@OttoGrossMusic (Youtube, facebook, TikTok)https://biglink.to/ottogrossmusic