Improving Your Craft – Song writing There is no magic formula for success in the music business. If you want to make it, you must begin by believing in yourself and your talent. Develop your own personal vision and stick with it. Why do you write songs? Is it because you want to be rich or because you love the process? Is every song you write and attempt to become famous or a labour of love? Every effort you make to discern your motives and clarify your goals will be a step in the right direction. Successful songwriters usually believe they have a talent that deserves to be heard, whether by 2 or 2,000 people. Song writing is a craft, like woodworking or painting. Talent is involved, of course, but with time and practice the craft can be improved and eventually mastered. Organizations. While working on songs, look for support and feedback where you can. A great place to start is a local song writing organization, which can offer friendly advice, support from other writers, and a place to meet and collaborators. Many organizations offer songs critique sessions to help you identify strengths and weaknesses in your material and give you guidance to improve your craft. Use the criticism you receive in such sessions to fine-tune your writing style. Your song writing will improve, and will be creating connections within the industry and continuing your education not only in the craft of song writing but in the business as well. Books. Books can also be helpful in matters of craft and business. Books are available to help you write better melodies, stronger lyrics and songs that sell. Many books cover the business side of music, explaining the intricacies of how the business works and giving valuable tips on how to network with people in the business. Magazines. Magazines can keep you up-to-date on the latest trends and happenings in today’s ever-changing music business. From industry trade magazines like Billboard and Variety to more specific magazines such as Performing Songwriter and JazzTimes, there is a magazine catering to just about every segment of the industry and type of music you can imagine. Since this is a trend-oriented business, weekly and monthly magazines can help you stay abreast of what’s hot and what’s not. Internet. The internet can be another valuable source of information. Not only are many record companies, publishers and magazines online, but a growing number of music sites exist where artists can showcase their songs for an unlimited audience, chat with other songwriters and musicians from all over the world, and even sell their product online. For an example, www.crunkbox.com. For further in-depth information please refer to “Song Writers Market,” and look for “latest version” for the most updated info.