Your Solo Writing Process

The vast majority of charting songs today are written in a collaborative environment. Pop titans like ABBA, Katy Perry, and Billie Eilish have all benefited from songwriting collaboration. Very rarely do we see a single name on the songwriting credits. Still, I think every songwriter needs to instill a process for solo writing.

Solo writing allows us to step away from other writer’s voices. Outside perspectives can enhance a song, but there are those of us whose creative insights get muddied when they are frequently overpowered by the opinions of others. Indeed, it is when we become uncertain of our own perspective in co-writing that we should practice solo writing most intently.

Returning to solo writing after a long period of co-writing presents us with a unique set of circumstances that can enhance creativity. Unlike co-writing, solo writing can be done sporadically, sans preparation, and without a pressing need to finish a song within the timeframe of a single session. In a solo writing space, we can stretch the process over days or even weeks. We can learn to trust our instincts entirely and choose words or melodies that other co-writers overlook. Through solo writing, we can return to our own voice and experience a singular perspective.

A few recent successes show us that the solo write can be a powerful hit making process as well. Conan Gray’s self-penned “Heather” has wracked up hundreds of millions of streams cross platform. A few tracks from Olivia Rodrigo’s blockbuster debut, Sour, were penned solo by the artist herself. Though songwriting troubadours don’t top the charts like they did in the 60’s and 70’s, we still see examples of commercially successful solo writers.

I don’t say all this so that you throw co-writing as well. But, I do want to give you permission - if you need it - to step away from co-writing from time to time. Return to yourself. Return to your voice. Reaffirm your own perspective through the love of your own ideas.

Happy solo writing.