Answers to top questions about co-writing

If you’re reading this blog, you’re most likely here because you’re new to co-writing. Or maybe, you’re an experienced co-writer looking for guidance about how to be even better at cowriting.

If you want to be a professional songwriter, knowing how to co-write and handle different co-writing situations is a must. The most you practice co-writing, the better you will get at it. If you are new to cowriting, this discussion should be especially helpful in getting you started on the right foot.

What should I look for in a co-writer?

Find someone who’s going to complete you.

If you’re a topliner, you need a great musician. If you’re a musician, you need a great topliner. Ultimately, it’s knowing yourself well enough to know both your strengths and weaknesses.

Also, you want to find someone you have chemistry with, and want to spend all day with. If you’re going to be co-writing a lot with this person, chemistry is key. Songwriters have to be vulnerable with each other during the writing process, so your co-writers need to be people you feel comfortable opening up to.

How do you find co-writers?

The only real way to find co-writers is through networking! You can go to writer’s rounds, open mics, songwriting retreats, or join Facebook groups and social media forums. These are all great places to find new and professional co-writers that will complete you.

How can I prepare for a co-write?

Preparing for a co-write depends on your creative process. Again, it’s all about knowing yourself as a songwriter and creative.

What do I do if someone wants to release a song I co-wrote but I don’t want it?

Let them release it. You can release it under a different name, or ask that your name be unattached.

What are ways to smooth over things with co-writers?

Hear them out as you want to be heard. Give them space to talk. Then, give your suggestions in response to what they have to say. Give them options.

What if I’m in a co-write I hate?

My suggestion is to never go over 3 hours for a first co-write. This will give you time to test the chemistry you have with someone, without too much of a commitment.

Sometimes though, you just have to walk away from a co-write. Be civil about it, and let them know the chemistry just isn’t there. If they are professional, they will understand and probably be on the same page.

Can my co-writer and I both release the same song?

As long as you communicate about it, yes - you and your co-writer can release the same song. There is no rule or law that says it can only be released under one person.

Do I need a co-writer?

No, a co-writer is not required to write or publish a song. But, there are definitely benefits to co-writing.

First, co-writing brings more ideas to the party. Second, it helps you stay challenged and growth-oriented as a songwriter.

How do I address split sheets in co-writes?

Start the co-write with a conversation about how you want to handle the split. If you aren’t familiar with splits, my blog about split sheets will explain them and give you some tips!

What if I think a split is unfair?

Go to your co-writer and state your case. Then ask, “how do you feel?”

It’s important to give people space. Let them express how they feel about the situation, and then talk it out to come to a resolve.

If you have more questions about co-writing and how the music business works, I invite you to schedule a consultation with me. I’m happy to answer any more questions you have one-on-one, to help you better navigate the music industry as an aspiring songwriter or artist.

I also invite you to attend one of my upcoming retreats. If you really want to get serious about co-writing, my retreats provide aspiring and professional songwriters alike the opportunity to come together and write amazing songs. You can learn more about my retreats here: https://judystakee.com/retreats