Co-Writing Tips
As many of you know, I preach the gospel of co-writing. I believe (and the Charts and Numbers bear this out) that a lot of our best songs come from a collaborative environment. If you’re new to the co-writing space it can seem like there’s a lot of things to learn. Let me give you some tips and tricks to remember when you’re stepping into a write with a new person for the first time.
Avoid saying “no.” If someone tosses out a line and you reply negatively with a “no” then it can shut down the creative flow. This doesn’t mean you need to accept every line that’s uttered in a session. Instead opt for some positive verbiage. Try out “Let’s challenge that” or “I think there’s a better line out there” when someone offers a lackluster lyric.
In that same vein, offer up ideas knowing that they might get rejected by your peers. Remember that it’s not personal and that you are all seeking to write the best song possible.
Pay attention to the artist. If you’re in a session with an artist then you’re likely trying to secure a cut with that artist. Pay attention to the artist - how do they speak, what language comes naturally to them, what stories do they want to tell. Remember that in an artist session, your job as the songwriter is to help them tell their story. Make sure they’re responding positively.
Stay til the session is finished. Yes, there are situations in which its best to leave (specifically if someone is being a creepy weirdo to you), but for the most part it behooves you to stay til the end of the session. This will demonstrate your commitment to the work and ensure that the end product is in line with your own dreams for the song.
Be kind. This one is self-explanatory.
Come prepared. Make sure you’ve researched your co-writers a bit by listening to some of their cuts. Brainstorm a few concepts in your NotesApp to offer up at the beginning of the session. Identify some chord progressions you’ve been loving.
DO not be afraid to reference. Most sessions start out with folks listening to songs they’ve heard and liked recently. Bring in your favorite songs and help the other writers understand what it is you like about them. Then, try and take some of these bits and pieces of songs you like as inspiration for what you create that day.
Get the split sheet done. At the end of the session, make sure that the producer e-mails you the demo and that you all agree on the publishing splits either in an e-mail or on paper - either will work. This bit of administrative work might save you a fight with a manager or lawyer down the road.
