How to Write Songs on Guitar: A Guitar-Playing and Songwriting Course

Book Description

Now anyone can write and play their own songs on the guitar - with no prior training! This inspirational handbook teaches readers how to play guitar, while providing a solid foundation in songwriting techniques, using well-known songs as examples, easy-to-follow text, and graphics that explain and demonstrate lyrics, melody, harmony and rhythm. This book's straightforward style will have even those who've never played a guitar or written a song making music with ease.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent resource..........2007-10-10

This book is not going to make you a great guitar player and this book is not going to make you a creative person(but what book can??) What this book will do is give you a very strong foundation for chordal progression. The pop song which has been predominant for the last 50 years is analyzed in a straightforward handsome manner. A person with a basic understanding of guitar chords can get through this book and it is an excellent reference guide for those that are advanced musicians.
This book is great for connecting the dots musically. For example, if you have written a bunch of riffs but don't know how to turn them into a song this book can help you gain direction.
Again this book can't make you creative but it can help a creative person get a lot more output from focused effort. This book can give your chord sequences direction in affect turning your meandering strumming into an actual song.

excellent.......2007-08-15

The book is 90% about writing songs with guitar chords. Sections on lyric writing didn't impress me. The very short chapter on making a demo recording was excellent and almost a great (though very very short) book on its own. Best real-world, practical explanation of chords and chord progressions I've ever read. (in the rock and pop genre.) Really breaks down song and musical structures of popular songs. Another great point is inclusion of recent as well as 60s and 70s rock songs. For example, one page analyzes a Fat Boy Slim song. My knowledge and understanding increased greatly from this book. There are so many great example progressions that you can open the book at random, play around with something on the page and come up with something. This book does not go into the "front end" of the psychology or craft of creativity. One of the best books on creating music I've ever read. Also check out "The War of Art" for a brilliant and inspiring book about creating.

Superb Book.......2007-01-09

I have been playing guitar, and writing songs for 15 years. I learned a good bit from this book that I wish I would have known when I first started 15 years ago. You probably think you know how to write a song, but unless you have been trained in music theory, you probably have just been doing things that sound good without understanding why. This book does not go into extreme detail on any one subject in songwriting, its sort of like an really good overview on information such as melody, lyrics, chords, progressions, song types, etc.. It shows you all the pieces you need and more importantly WHY they sound the way they do or go together. It is for the person with beginner-intermediate music theory skill, or for any skill level guitar player. Information is well organized, easy to understand, and backed with examples from popular songs. Not songs like "Greensleeves" and "mary had a little lamb", but beatles, nirvana, oasis, madonna,etc.. Check out this guy's other books- I was very interested in the chord progression section and got his book on that subject. I think it is even better than this one.

Great Book on Songwriting.......2006-11-02

This is a must have for any guitar player trying to write songs, especially the singer / songwriter type. This book is filled with ideas for songs and how to incorporate the guitar into your songwriting. What I like most about this book was the numerous chord progressions listed and what mood each progression can create. It gives examples of songs that use the progressions and what genre of music they fit best. I loved this book and use it regularly. If you are looking to write music and lyrics this is a must.

Stunningly bad.......2006-10-06

To be honest, I've owned this book forever but after seeing someone ask about it on another forum, I just wanted to log in here and write a quick review of it as a warning to potential customers because I found it so poorly executed. This book basically consists of Rooksby very quickly presenting a topic in overly simple terms and then citing hundreds of examples of existing known songs that are supposed to illustrate his idea. This sounds like a great idea in principle but in execution it all falls apart. The examples read like pure fluff and do not cover any detail whatsoever, he does not even go into high level things like chord progressions, etc, from the examples. I presume this is due to copyright restrictions, etc. It would have made much more sense to license a few decent examples and really show how they illustrate the point. Or heck, the book is about song writing, why not actually WRITE a few over the course of the book??

The CD that came with the book is literally content-free, too. There's almost nothing on it. Again, this is in spite of all of the external music cited (some of it obscure) and due to the lack of specifics in the book. The CD can literally be thrown away without harming use of the book. It appears to be included in the book as reassurance that there is something there... i.e. a marketing move more than a useful resource for the customer.

So, really, in spite of the hundreds of general examples cited in the book, there is not a single specific detailed piece of information I can remember off hand. Ie. almost no tab, chord diagrams, or sheet music style content. Almost nothing specific about the guitar's interaction with the rhythm section and the specifics of writing for the rhythm section or vocal melody are covered either. And of course, the tell-tale item: nothing is composed/written by Rooksby for the book.

Looking at the presentation, its very slick. The book looks nice, the layout is great, the writing style is enthusiastic, its easy to WANT to like it but when it comes down to it it's good looking book that doesn't achieve its objective. I regretted the time I spent reading this book hoping for it to get better... Thankfully it's extremely short too, but I won't even bother going there at this point. ;)

So, basically, this book is just flat out not useful and the time spent looking for a different, more suitable, book on the topic will be rewarded many times over.

Also, avoid Rooksby's "Riffs" book as well, it suffers nearly the exact same set of problems as this one.

Fountain Pens : United States of America and United Kingdom

Average customer rating:

Required for any FP collector.
Authoritative But Not Magical
Fountain Pens - U.S. and U.K.
Andy Lambrou's newest authoritative guide

Fountain Pens : United States of America and United Kingdom
Andreas Lambrou
Manufacturer: Philip Wilson Publishers
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Arts & Photography | Subjects | Books
Similar Items:

Fountain Pens Past & Present (Fountain Pens Past and Present)
Fountain Pens of the World
Fountain Pens and Pencils: The Golden Age of Writing Instruments

ASIN: 0856675326

Book Description

Each pen is reproduced individually and to actual size for ease of identification, making the book the ideal reference guide for both the collector and the enthusiast. Many original, specially commissioned, hand produced line drawings present the pens in an exciting and informative matter. The authoritative and comprehensive text as well as period advertisements compliment the illustrations and provide up-to-date and detailed information on the history of the fountain pen and its industry in the United States of America and United Kingdom.

Customer Reviews:

Required for any FP collector........2007-09-03

After writing Fountain Pens of the World (ISBN 0302006680) Andy reprises his position as the preeminent authority of an endangered writing instrument. The chronological and authoritative description of every major manufacturer is interlaced with some of the most beautiful and actual size photography of pens you'll ever see.

This volume is a work of art and effort of a true aficionado, the most comprehensive history of Sheaffer Pens you'll ever see is inside this book, the choice to break the history of Parker into the USA and UK versions is the mark of a purist.

Beautiful heavy stock paper ensures this volume will endure in your collection for decades.

Andy Lambrou's reputation is well deserved, and this is another work of art from the master.

Authoritative But Not Magical.......2002-02-18

Andreas Lambrou has once again produced an authoritative text on fountain pens. It is relatively comprehensive and has spectacluar photographs and line drawings. This is an excellent guide to learn the history of fountain pens and to identify fountain pens. While there can be no doubt that Mr. Lambrou cares very much about fountain pens, this does not come through in his prose style. Writing is straightforward and clear, but does not connect fountain pens to social history, industrial design, or the just plain joy of writing. Inclusion of several pages on the work of Classic Pens, Mr. Lambrou's own firm, which are of limited interest is a questionable decision.

Fountain Pens - U.S. and U.K........2001-07-14

This and other Lambrou books have been described as invaluable references for the collector. I agree, for the most part. The photos and line drawings in this volume are excellent and the text gives detailed history of each manufacturer's models and variations within models. What is missing is a value guide for the pens listed. I'm sure the most serious collectors find such information unnecesary, but I believe that newer or more casual collectors would find pricing benchmarks useful as they muddle through eBay and other auction sites.

Andy Lambrou's newest authoritative guide.......2000-12-25

For the novice and experienced collector both, this book is Andy's finest yet. By dividing out the US and UK manufacturers, this book provides even greater detail and scale images, as well as historical reference of vintage and modern pens from all of the significant pen makers of the last 100 years. The images (both photos and line images) are the best available to-date, and an invaluable reference to the serious collector.

Music Publishing: The Real Road to Music Business Success - 5th Edition (Mix Pro Audio Series)

Average customer rating:

Excellent Book
Priceless
A Great piece of work
Great book that will answer many questions
Music Publishing

Music Publishing: The Real Road to Music Business Success - 5th Edition (Mix Pro Audio Series)
Tim Whitsett
Manufacturer: ArtistPro
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Songbooks | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

Business | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

General | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

General | Publishing & Books | Reference | Subjects | Books

All Titles | Qualifying Textbooks - Fall 2007 | Stores | Books

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Similar Items:

The Plain and Simple Guide to Music Publishing: Foreword by Tom Petty
Making Music Make Money: An Insider's Guide to Becoming Your Own Music Publisher (Berklee Press)
Music Copyright for the New Millennium
All You Need To Know About the Music Business: 6th Edition
New Songwriter's Guide to Music Publishing: Everything You Need to Know to Make the Best Publishing Deals for Your Songs

ASIN: 193114009X

Book Description

This is the definitive guide for people starting or operating a music publishing company. This book reveals why music publishing is vital to anyone actively engaged in the music business and how you can profit from it. Industry expert Tim Whitsett's guide will empower you to succeed whether you're starting up your own company, climbing the corporate ladder in your current job, or adding profits to your current music business activities. Learn how to forecast sales, calculate advances, evaluate copyright purchases, negotiate favorable contracts and licenses, market product effectively, manage personnel and company affairs efficiently, and maximize commercial potential.

Customer Reviews:

Excellent Book.......2007-07-15

I have to rate this publication highly because it really explains in simple clear language the whole business of music publishing. I have to acknowledge the fact that it assisted me in landing a deal with an independent film company in Germany. I would say buy this book you will make back the cost believe me. It is my second bible.

Priceless.......2006-10-07

The invaluable information in this book is a must for everyone in the music industry. Publishing is how the monies from musical works are generated, handled, and distributed. This book goes beyond the pay one is stipulated to receive and explains the origins and derivations of such stipulations. Mr. Whitsett has amassed IMPORTANT information here... good for him... great for us.

A Great piece of work.......2006-07-04

I highly recommend this book to gain greater insights in the Music business or any business. donald does it again. this is one of the only legal books on the Music industry I would recommend. It was a great buy along with a couple of manuals I purchased from Musicbrains.net entitled the Indie label Kit.

Great book that will answer many questions.......2006-05-16

Aspiring musicians have alot of questions about this ever-changing industry. This is one book that remains as up-to-date as can be, and answers all these questions and more. You don't end up having information shoved down your throat, but somehow when you're done reading you end up feeling much more knowledgable. For a more step-by-step guide, check out "How To Make A Furtune In The Music Industry By Doing It Yourself: Your Personal Step-By-Step Guide To Having A Successful Career In The Music Business. ... To Sell Music, Book Shows And Get Noticed!" in addition to this book.

Music Publishing.......2005-09-24

Normally, these type of books are very boring. But this one isn't. It's easy-friendly reading. Recommended!

Average customer rating:

Song Writing for Dummies
A Book Written by Dummies
Nice book.
Very useful book
Smart Book for the Songwriting 'Dummie'

Songwriting for Dummies
Jim Peterik , Dave Austin , and Mary Ellen Bickford
Manufacturer: Wiley Publishing, Inc.
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Similar Items:

The Art of Writing Great Lyrics
Singing for Dummies
How to Write Songs on Guitar: A Guitar-Playing and Songwriting Course
Music Theory For Dummies
Melody in Songwriting: Tools and Techniques for Writing Hit Songs (Berklee Guide)

ASIN: 0764554042

Book Description

Want to know how to make it as a songwriter? Songwriting For Dummies gives you a chance to learn from the best. Performer, songwriter Jim Peterik is a 35-year veteran in the business and author of dozens of top-40 hits, including “Hold On Loosely,” “Caught Up In You” “Rocking Into the Night,” “High On You,” “I Can’t Hold Back,” “Is This Love,” “Burning Heart,” and “The Search is Over.” Dave Austin is CEO of Transcension Music Group. He’s produced and promoted some of the greatest talent in the industry, including Carlos Santana, Eddie Money, REO Speedwagon, and Queen. And Mary Ellen Bickford has been involved in music and film production for more than two decades.

Whether you’re a first-time songwriter or songwriting vet looking for a fast-track into the recording industry, this friendly, easy-to-follow guide is the source for you. Using well-known tunes as examples, the authors walk you through everything you need to know to:

Choose a musical style
Develop a song idea
Compose high-impact lyrics
Create melodies that are memorable
Use rhyme and rhythm
Understand song from, from blues to jingles
Create a demo and shop it around
Find an agent and publisher
Find and work with collaborators

From assessing your strengths and weaknesses as a songwriter to signing contracts, Songwriting For Dummies covers all the bases. Among other key topics, you’ll explore:

Various song forms, including the AABA form and various ABAB forms
Snagging your listeners with a lyrical, melodic, musical, rhythmic, or sound-effect hook, or a combination of hooks
Concept-driven, story-telling, parody, love and other types of lyrics
Using rhythm, melody, and chords in writing songs
Rock, pop, R&B, hip-hop, and many other song styles
Writing songs for stage, screen and TV
The business end—from putting together a business team to getting a lawyer and an accountant to finding a publisher

Whether you want to know how to compose a love song for that special someone, or you’re looking break into the industry, big-time, Songwriting For Dummies is a gold mine of inspiration and how-to information.

Customer Reviews:

Song Writing for Dummies.......2006-11-10

It's okay for lyric writing, but it is not really what I had hoped for. It's okay, but not the best reference for music students.

A Book Written by Dummies.......2006-11-03

This book should have been entitled how to sell your song writing professionally. This book has little to do with creating or writing music. The title is very misleading and I feel like I just flushed a wad of hard earned money down the toilet. About the only thing useful in this book is some of the information on how to get your music noticed and circulated, which doesn't interest me since I have no ambition to become a professional musician.

Nice book........2006-08-10

If you write any type of music, get this, sit down with pen & pad, and enjoy yourself. There are helpful tips and lessons to keep you absorbed and hungry for more.

Very useful book.......2005-09-26

Interesting, useful, well done. If you are iterested in songwriting this is an indispensable tool; doesn't matter if you know nothing about music theory. Don't miss it.

Smart Book for the Songwriting 'Dummie'.......2004-12-10

I bought this book when a musician friend recommended it to me. As someone who writes lyrics and who doesn't have even the most basic knowledge of musical terminology, I was looking for something that wasn't too technical and something that wouldn't completely confuse me when I tried to read it. This book definitely fit the bill.

Songwriting for Dummies isn't perfect. It could have done without all the self-promotion of Survivor and 38 Special and it could have done with more late '60s, early '70s music. I was disappointed to find that Stevie Nicks was mentioned in connection with "Bootylicious." Plus, the more technical explanations of writing music caused me to skim over a couple of the chapters. But the overall package gave me what I was looking for.

Despite going through a long period when I would start reading a book, put it down and then forget about it, I concentrated on reading this book and finished it in a matter of days. I enjoyed picking it up and reading it and going back over certain chapters again when necessary.

If you want to find a book that covers chord progressions in great detail, this book isn't for you, but if you want something that touches on the basics of lyrics and melodies, plus gives you an example of the kind of artist rights issues many songwriters face, this is a good reference.

Tunesmith: Inside the Art of Songwriting

Average customer rating:

Tunesmith is pure inspiration for songwriters!
Serious book for serious songwriters
Fundamental book for understanding the meaning of songwriting
Priceless
A must read for songwriters or wannabes

Tunesmith: Inside the Art of Songwriting
Jimmy Webb
Manufacturer: Hyperion
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

Songwriters on Songwriting
Melody in Songwriting: Tools and Techniques for Writing Hit Songs (Berklee Guide)
The Complete Rhyming Dictionary: Including The Poet's Craft Book
The Craft of Lyric Writing
Writing Better Lyrics

ASIN: 0786861312

Customer Reviews:

Tunesmith is pure inspiration for songwriters!.......2007-07-08

I have been a professional songwriter and producer for many years, but this book gave me so much inspiration it made it all feel fresh and new again. Of course Jimmy Webb's track record as a successful songwriter gives him plenty of credibility as an authority, but that is no guarantee he can write a book. Well, he certainly can! It is very well written, entertaining, informative, and gives us a real insight into his processes and motivations, as well as useful tidbits on how others who practice our craft work their magic. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in any way in the creative processes as they may apply to any creative endeavor.

Serious book for serious songwriters.......2007-05-15

One of the reviews cited on the back cover calls the book a master class in songwriting. It is. But it is not for the musically illiterate--gotta know them little dots on the staff before you crack this book.

Webb goes deep into the structures and grammar of musical creation, phrasing, cadence, theme, motif, etc. etc. And his discussion of the blending of lyrics and music is profound and fascinating. But light reading, it ain't. If you are a play-by-ear musician who often says "I don't read enough music to hurt my playing," accompanied by self-deprecating aw-shucks grin, don't even think about buying this book.

Fundamental book for understanding the meaning of songwriting.......2006-11-30

"Tunesmith" is a brilliant, insightful book if you're interested in the structures and methods behind the craft of popular songmaking. Its prose style is very warm, witty and laid back. I can see some people having problems with part of the anecdotical content: I cannot agree, and while one's engagement in such content might be strictly dictated by his/her own generational background, I can't see such content as detrimental in the least in the context of what the book sets itself out to achieve. I am waiting on a further edition of "Tunesmith" with a chapter on basic arranging.

Priceless.......2006-11-06

This book is jam packed full of practical information. I find something literally on every page. It is also inspirational. It helps to define and unlock ideas that are floating around in my head. It is one of the best music books I have ever read. I am in the process of reading it for the second time.

A must read for songwriters or wannabes.......2006-08-19

Jimmy Webb covers a lot of ground in this book but its a suprisingly quick and enjoyable read. It was comforting to realize that even highly successful songwriters share the same struggles as those not so famous. One point hit home well and that is "songwriting is work". Nothing will happen unless you sit down and put your fingers to the instrument. There's just enough music theory in the book to understand the foundation of a good song. Jimmy spends equal time discussing lyric and melody as well as the interplay between the two. There's also a fair amount of coverage on the music and songwriting industry. The book includes perspectives from other notable songwriters as well. Published in 1998, it only hints at the forthcoming transfomation of music distribution brought on by the internet. None the less, a highly recommended book.

The Craft and Business of Songwriting (2nd Edition)

Average customer rating:

Ever wondered what it would be like to write a hit song?
Bumpy Ride---Great Guide
A Must Read Book for All Songwriters!
Strategy and structure andlots more
Terrific book for basics of songwriting & the business

The Craft and Business of Songwriting (2nd Edition)
John Braheny
Manufacturer: Writer's Digest Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

Songbooks | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

Business | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

General | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

6 Steps to Songwriting Success: The Comprehensive Guide to Writing and Marketing Hit Songs
Melody in Songwriting: Tools and Techniques for Writing Hit Songs (Berklee Guide)
The Craft of Lyric Writing
Songwriting: Essential Guide to Lyric Form and Structure: Tools and Techniques for Writing Better Lyrics (Songwriting Guides)
Songwriting: Essential Guide to Rhyming: A Step-by-Step Guide to Better Rhyming and Lyrics (Songwriting Guides)

ASIN: 1582970858

Book Description

Discover the secrets of successful songwriting with this essential guide! Cofounder of the Los Angeles Songwriters Showcase John Braheny teaches you the craft of songwriting while going behind the scenes of the music business to reveal insider secrets that will make your work stand out. Dozens of exercises, examples and anecdotes from songwriters such as Vince Gill, Sheryl Crow, TLC, Lenny Kravitz and Paul McCartney will you show you how to: develop a songwriter's consciousness; overcome barriers in the creative process; write in all musical styles, and for film and TV; and skillfully manage the business of demos and contracts. This updated edition also covers online opportunities for songwriters. "A practical street-level look at today's world of songwriting ... Read and learn." - Diane Warren, six-time ASCAP Songwriter of the Year with more than 50 Top 10 hits

Customer Reviews:

Ever wondered what it would be like to write a hit song?.......2003-11-21

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to write a hit song? Perhaps you have asked yourself why do some songs become commercial successes while others end up in the dustbin?

Journalist, talk show host, teacher and consultant, John Braheny, provides us with the answers to these queries as well as many other topics in his blue-ribbon manual The Craft and Business of Songwriting-Second Edition.

Braheny was one of the founders, along with Len Chandler, of the Los Angles Songwriters Showcase. For 15 years he was intimately involved with this national non-profit organization that was dedicated to creating opportunities for discovering aspiring songwriters. As a result of this relationship, he accumulated an exceptional amount of knowledge pertaining to the business and craft of song writing. The reader is fortunate to have all of this information neatly wrapped up in a compact manual that is split into two main sections, the craft of writing songs and the business of selling and marketing songs.

Within the section dealing with the craft the author delves into such topics as creativity, inspiration, subject matter, media, listeners, lyric writing, song construction and possible collaboration with other writers. Naturally we would probably be sceptical of a book that purports to teach us how to write a song. Some would say you are born to write a song, others would disagree and say it is possible to be taught the craft. Braheny believes that you can't be taught inspiration or imagination. However, you can be taught ways to get in touch with what you have to say and how to communicate it effectively. Using this premise as a base, the book provides us with the tools that will perhaps uncover our hidden talents.

The second half of the book deals with the business features of song writing and as the author states, "writing a great song is only part of being a successful songwriter. Unsung thousands possess the talent and craft to write great songs, but without understanding the business and knowing how to protect your creations and get them heard by those who can make them successful, those songs are like orphans." Perhaps we should refer to the second half as the entrepreneurial skills needed to sell, promote and market your songs. Within this section we are introduced to such topics as protecting your songs, securing money, publishing, self- publishing, demos, marketing, Internet and record deals.

The appendix of the book provides the reader with a very comprehensive listing of songwriters' resources containing names, addresses, phone numbers, web sites and general descriptions of the various references. No doubt this inclusion will save anyone who aspires to be a songwriter a great deal of time and effort.

After reading the book are you guaranteed that you will be successful songwriter? Probably not. Unfortunately, we don't have a crystal ball indicating who will succeed and who will fail. However, at least after reading and being exposed to the elements of song writing, you will have a better understanding as to how the music industry works in relation to the songwriter, or writer/performer. As the author asserts in his introduction, "it will demystify and humanize what can often feel to a newcomer like a cold, monolithic, and impersonal industry."

The above review first appeared on the reviewer's own site

Bumpy Ride---Great Guide.......2003-01-09

So what if words and music come natural? We write the stuff down, add a tune and sing it to the world. Then what? This book, The Craft and Business of Songwriting, is a very affordable reference; and probably all you need.I'm happy it contains material that will make me wiser.Buy this or you'll miss out.

A Must Read Book for All Songwriters!.......2002-05-03

The first Edition of the book, was a must read, now this 2nd Edition, updated with new information and current song references, is also a must read for everyone that writes songs. The most complete songwriting book, for beginning songwriters to the aspiring, to even pro writers will learn from the book. I often refer to it as "The Songwriters Bible", just full of information that we need in the world of songwriting.
I have been a Nashville Songwriters Association International coordinator in Charlotte for (6) years, and do at least one activity or read a quote from a hit writer or music professional in the book at every meeting. This book is years of songwriting seminars and workshops all in one. The reader will learn just like the title says, the craft and business from someone who knows what they are talking about, and has led workshops for some of the best songwriters of all time, including the awesome Diane Warren and several other hit writers. John Braheny made a difference with hit writers, with myself, and other songwriters that I have recommended the book to in the past 14+ years of reading the first edition, and now the 2nd edition. I recomend this as the very first book for every songwriter to read and study. If you know someone who writes songs, buy the book for them, and a copy for yourself. Buy a highlighter or two, to use when reading the book. ...Doak Turner
...

Strategy and structure andlots more.......2001-01-11

One of my most basic problems when starting off as a songwriter, was the lack of background and knowledge on how to approach a new song. I am talking about your basic strategies and how to structure them into a final product. Where does one begin, what do you need to take into account, what to do first, how to approach rhyme, basic tips about melody, chords etc. I found this book to answer these type of questions in a simple and interesting way.

The author is obviously a specialist with a very good track record. He taught me how to analyse existing songs to expand my knowledge. No more do I just listen to music, I learnt the skill to expand my songwriting knowledge whilst listening to other songs on the radio or on CD.

I have learnt how to decide on a basic structure, how to approach the most important issue of finding a "hook" for your song and refining it to something useful. I have discovered that it is O.K. to rewrite songs, but I have learnt how to approach it. This book has taught me how to make songs more interesting and it has made songwriting a more interesting hobby for me.

I think the most important lesson from this book is how to grow from a songwriter that tries to express his/her own feelings to himself/herself and a few close friends, to someone who can express his deepest feelings in such a way that his song could be loved by millions and could become a commercial success. It also contain an abundace of valuable information on the industry and how to promote your music.

If I did not read this book I would have missed something for sure. If you are serious about songwriting you cannot go without this book.

Terrific book for basics of songwriting & the business.......2000-01-29

Although this book isn't as comprehensive as others in the songwriting department, it presents information in a very concise and interesting format. It also has a comprehensive section (half the book) on the BUSINESS. It's a quick, easy read and definitely worth the price. But if you want to get serious about songwriting, you'll also need a book with more theory such as WRITING MUSIC FOR HIT SONGS.

The Songwriting Sourcebook: How to Turn Chords Into Great Songs

Average customer rating:

my chord refernce book
Awesome Tool
Just what I was looking for
A Real Winner
Excellent

The Songwriting Sourcebook: How to Turn Chords Into Great Songs
Rikky Rooksby
Manufacturer: Backbeat Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

General | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

How to Write Songs on Guitar: A Guitar-Playing and Songwriting Course
Melody: How to Write Great Tunes
Melody in Songwriting: Tools and Techniques for Writing Hit Songs (Berklee Guide)
Chord Master: How to Choose and Play the Right Guitar Chords
How to Write Songs on Keyboards: A Complete Course to Help You Write Better Songs

ASIN: 0879307498

Book Description

Complementing Rikky Rooksby's bestselling How to Write Songs on Guitar (00330574), this easy-to-use reference book will teach you how to write better songs. It analyzes important issues including writing harmonies, melodies and lyrics, and how to improve your songs by redrafting. The reference section includes sequences from a variety of diverse songs, outlining 20 songwriting moments, recommended listening for songwriters, and quotes about songwriting from professional songwriters. The enclosed CD features examples of chords, chord progressions and harmonies featured in the book, with a case history illustrating how to develop a song.

Customer Reviews:

my chord refernce book.......2007-05-19

man, this book has really really come in handy for me, expeically early chapter, good thing i have this. some of the think in here i have never seen or heard on the internet before, this book seems rare with its information.

Awesome Tool.......2007-01-12

Sparks my creative thoughts and brings me back to the love of writing music with passion.

Just what I was looking for.......2006-12-23

I was looking for a book that wasn't for complete noobs, but not for the person who knows the innermost workings of music theory. The quality of the pages (book in general), perfect organization, easy to understand terminology, great content, and usefulness of this book make it perfect. I ordered 6 books on the subject for amazon, and unfortunately only 1 of them (this one) was great. I will be ordering the rest of this guy's books because this one really was amazing.

A Real Winner.......2006-11-10

This is a great book to learn from. You can pick a chapter and start from there. It will help you with writers block, if you have it....

I would recommend this to my friends.

Excellent.......2006-03-13

Excellent source of material to take your songs up a notch. The author provides clear examples. The book is extremely well organized.

Average customer rating:

Need a jumpstart?
Lyric writing
gets the job done
Excellent work.
Had to buy this book!

Writing Better Lyrics
Pat Pattison
Manufacturer: Writer's Digest Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Similar Items:

Songwriting: Essential Guide to Lyric Form and Structure: Tools and Techniques for Writing Better Lyrics (Songwriting Guides)
Songwriting: Essential Guide to Rhyming: A Step-by-Step Guide to Better Rhyming and Lyrics (Songwriting Guides)
The Complete Rhyming Dictionary: Including The Poet's Craft Book
Melody in Songwriting: Tools and Techniques for Writing Hit Songs (Berklee Guide)
The Craft of Lyric Writing

ASIN: 1582970645

Book Description

Pattison presents a unique, in-depth approach to the process of lyric writing. Apprentice songwriters will examine 17 extraordinary songs and learn the distinct elements that make them so effective. Pattison then presents more than 30 lyric-writing exercises designed to help them achieve the same results. From generating lyric ideas and managing repetition to developing verses, it's all here. Songwriters will:

* find warm-up exercises that revolutionize songwriting imagery
* use a rhyming dictionary and a thesaurus to generate ideas and find snappy rhymes
* create meaningful metaphors and similes while avoiding clichés
* develop verses by using or by breaking conventional rules
* experiment with point of view in every lyric to make a song stand out

Customer Reviews:

Need a jumpstart?.......2007-08-15

If you do, her exercises will help you jump right in with an idea. I agree with someone else who recommended Jimmy Webb's Tunesmith (the best songwriting book I've read) but this is my second favorite- very practical, very creative.

Lyric writing.......2007-06-10

Mr Patterson gives a great exercise for developing lyrics. No one should attempt to write lyrics without first knowing the proper procedures and Mr Patterson defines these procedures in such a manner that anyone can use it to improve their lyrics and poetry.

Fantastic guide if you have the slightest desire to write lyrics. Get "unstuck" and proceed with that worldclass song you are writing.

gets the job done.......2006-07-12

this seems to be more of a compilation of pat's other "essential songwriting guides" i have this book and the "songwriting: essential guide to rhyming, i am planning on getting the one for form and structure. as for this book in question, it tends to be difficult to comprehend,
the author is supposed to be a professor at berkley, and what i am getting at is when reading and trying to do the exercises i feel like i need to go enroll in a songwriting class and have an instructor go over the exercises with me.

Excellent work........2006-03-20

This book has advanced concepts that can be used by professional songwriters or those aspiring to become one. Excellent information.
I wish the book was available in hardcover. My pages have begun to fall out.

Had to buy this book!.......2006-01-15

I checked this book out from my public library and after reading
it, I needed to buy it for further use. I suggest that people who get this book, read it as if a fiction book the first time through...just to get a total overview of the direction Pattison is taking with his teaching. Then, read it a second time, doing the exercises, and studying and practicing the material. The book develops upon development until it summarizes the whole lyric writing process in the final pages of the book. Pattison, a professional writer, lets the reader "watch" how he himself creates a real lyric from start to finish in the final chapter of this book. But in order to understand what he is doing, a reader must have read all the prior chapters.
The only criticism that I have is that I felt as if I was being
programmed into only one style of lyric writing--a country western ballad-type, the kind that would tell a short story just so that the repeated refrain could be looked at with new eyes and not be boring. I think though that is because I'm new at proper lyric writing and haven't studied much before this book. A person who buys this book will probably need to read other material and authors as well, so as not to get into a same-old, same-old rut. But what the heck...a person has to start learning somewhere...and this is a great book to start with.

Average customer rating:

Surprisingly good
THIS IS THE BEST BOOK ON THE SUBJECT OF LYRIC/POETRY WRITING
How Lyric Writers Eat their Veggies
This book is awesome!
Obscure . . .

The Craft of Lyric Writing
Sheila Davis
Manufacturer: Writer's Digest Books
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

General | Music | Entertainment | Subjects | Books

Successful Lyric Writing: A Step-By-Step Course & Workbook
The Songwriters Idea Book: 40 Strategies to Excite Your Imagination, Help You Design Distinctive Songs, and Keep Your Creative Flow
The Complete Rhyming Dictionary: Including The Poet's Craft Book
Writing Better Lyrics
Melody in Songwriting: Tools and Techniques for Writing Hit Songs (Berklee Guide)

ASIN: 0898791499

Book Description

With over 100,000 books in print, this successful author and songwriter provides a complete guide to writing words for and to music, showing how to create lyrics with universal appeal, choose a song form, and more. 350 pages. 6x9.

Customer Reviews:

Surprisingly good.......2007-07-09

I've gotten over "writer's block", which was a myth to begin with. I'm writing great lyrics now, and feeling confident in my lyrics.

THIS IS THE BEST BOOK ON THE SUBJECT OF LYRIC/POETRY WRITING .......2007-01-13

If your goal is to learn all you ever need to know about lyric writing, then this is the book you must own. I have read many books on this subject, and this book is clearly, the authority on the subject. And because this book brings forth a sound foundation for meter and rhythm, it is perfect for high school and college students that are studying poetry; I should know, by reading this book, I got all A's in my English classes where poetry was taught. And being a songwriter for over 10 years, I can't say enough about what a great help this book has been to all my research in the field of popular music composition. The book is full of examples from newer pop songs, but also gives examples of Tin-Pan Alley songs that are worth noting; upon listening to the Tin-Pan-Alley songs, my taste in music has expanded.

How Lyric Writers Eat their Veggies.......2006-10-02

This is THE book to learn the tools to write excellent lyrics for pop music. It systematically explores techniques and presents successful examples of their use. Yes, it plods like a school textbook, but it is written by a successful teacher who has mastered her craft. Yes, some examples are old, but they still illustrate excellence in action. Some other books are certainly quicker and more entertaining reads, but if your goal is to write the very best lyrics you possibly can, you are only hurting yourself if you do not work carefully through this book, however long it takes. Then do it again, and keep it handy for future reference.

This book is awesome!.......2006-07-02

This book proves that Lyricism is a craft that can be taught, not a gift that you either have or have not. In reading it I have already identified which of my lyric ideas are the strongest, which ones need a lot of work, and which ones need to be thrown out all together. Every page of this book gives you more tools to work with to push your lyric writing in the right direction.
Much of the book is written about popular music (but not necessarily "pop" music) with a lot examples from older country songs and theatre songs. However, no matter what style of music you want to write, the same principles apply. If you are looking to write quality lyrics for a band, a singer, or for publication, you MUST read this book.

Obscure . . . .......2004-07-26

Maybe I'm just too young, but I became frustrated with the references to obscure songs from the roaring 20's. Most of the lyrical references in this book are before 1950. Surely there are some modern songs containing good lyrics, right? The book reads like a reference book, and is quite preachy. Not a joy to read. I suggest "88 Songwriting Wrongs, and How to Right Them".

The Musical Theatre Writer's Survival Guide

Average customer rating:

Simply essential
Indispensable, Unique Reference for Musical Theatre Writers
BUY NOW!!
And it's even funny!
Invaluable!

The Musical Theatre Writer's Survival Guide
David Spencer
Manufacturer: Heinemann Drama
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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Similar Items:

Writing the Broadway Musical
Writing Musical Theater
Words with Music: Creating the Broadway Musical Libretto
Making Musicals: An Informal Introduction to the World of Musical Theater
Stage Writers Handbook: A Complete Business Guide for Playwrights, Composers, Lyricists and Librettists

ASIN: 0325007861

Book Description

David Spencer has written a book full of truths a young writer will not find articulated anywhere else. Most of us in the theatre gained our "experience" by making mistakes and learning from them. David's book lets you gain the "experience" and skip the mistakes part. Anyone maneuvering the treacherous waters of musicals will find it not nearly so lonely or baffling with this remarkable volume as a companion.
- Richard Maltby, Jr., Director/Lyricist, Miss Saigon, Ain't Misbehavin', Baby

Consider The Musical Theatre Writer's Survival Guide your new best friend in the business.
- Alan Menken, Oscar recipient and TonyAward nominee, composer, Little Shop of Horrors and Beauty and the Beast

At long last: a how-to book written by someone who actually knows how to. It hits so many nails on the head I could barely get through it for the sound of all that hammering.
- Larry Gelbart, Award-winning co-librettist, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum and librettist, City of Angels

For its practitioners, musical theatre is an art, a passion, and a lifelong love. But it's also a complex landscape involving not merely principles of craft about book, music and lyrics, but also principles of collaboration, script/demo presentation, project/production development, venue, business, and - everybody's area of uncertainty - politics.

In The Musical Theatre Writer's Survival Guide, award-winning musical dramatist and teacher David Spencer provides a guide-to-the-game that helps you negotiate all those aspects of the business and more. This professional handbook will walk you through:

getting your name and your projects into the hands of producers, instead of the rejection pile
choosing the right producer, agent, or director, instead of surrounding yourself with people uninterested in your work and your careeror interested for the wrong reasons
bringing your vision to life through stage-savvy writing, instead of watching it sputter due to flaws in craft
living a happy, healthy life in musicals, instead of dying a slow, showbiz death.

If you're taking your first steps, Spencer's counsel, anecdotes, and instructions will save you years of blindly stumbling about without results. Likewise, if you've been around the block a few times, The Musical Theatre Writer's Survival Guide can rescue you from the kinds of career-stalling traps, bad habits, and false assumptions that lead to dead ends.

Customer Reviews:

Simply essential .......2006-11-27

THE MUSICAL THEATRE WRITER'S SURVIVAL GUIDE is, one the whole, an excellent and much-needed resource. This is not so much a book about how to write a musical, but what to do with it once you have written it. The most valuable parts for me were the sections dealing with collaboration. Author David Spencer discusses not only how to deal with writing partners, but also with the other collaborators, like the director, the producer and the designer. He also gives practical advice about the most effective way of presenting the reading and making the demo recording. He goes into great detail about what any material that you send out should look like. These parts of the book alone make it worth owning.

I felt that Spencer jumped the track toward the end with a lengthy discussion of setting up one's own recording studio, which would have been much better as an appendix, rather than in the main body of the book. My other quibbles with the book are the rather gag-inducing Sondheim worship and the author's frequent tooting of this own horn. (I found the section dealing with awards and grants depressing because it only pointed up the unlikelihood that material by a maverick like me would ever be considered.) There are a couple of minor errors (such as when he says that William Redfield played Rosencrantz in Burton's HAMLET, when in reality he played Guildenstern) and there is a glaring use of "principle" as an adjective, rather than "principal." But in general, I found this an invaluable book that absolutely needed to be written. Every serious musical theatre writer should have his own copy. This one is simply essential.

Indispensable, Unique Reference for Musical Theatre Writers.......2006-10-01

I am an aspiring musical theatre writer with no real experience yet, but reading this makes me feel like I have twenty years of experience under my belt! It seems that Mr. Spencer has thoughtfully included, out of his own widespread experience in the biz, absolutely every thought, information, helpful tidbit or advice that I think EVERY new or seasoned musical theatre writer will find very, very helpful. He is very intentional about sharing stories and information to help young writers avoid pitfalls and mistakes he once made, or is familiar with. Every chapter flows well, is thorough, well-structured, & intriguing to read. I am sure I will continue looking back to this for frequent reference as I continue pursuing this career. Thank you, Mr. Spencer, for this invaluable resource!! It is worth more than every penny!

BUY NOW!!.......2006-09-17

This will sound incredibly cheesy, but it's the honest-to-god truth: reading David's book made me feel like he was sitting across the room from me giving away free valuable life lessons. He is eloquent and knowledgable, and honest! He doesn't hold anything back about the cut-throat nature of the business, but at the end of the day, he wants you to succeed, and that's why (i think) he wrote the book. I'm a young composer and I'll be applying to the BMI workshop for next fall. I can only hope to be accepted so I can learn from him firsthand. Thanks David!

And it's even funny! .......2005-10-13

In-between buying this book and finishing it, I auditioned for and was admitted to the BMI program of which Mr. Spencer writes (if everything goes well, I'll get the benefit of his wisdom in-person next year).

However, I can honestly say right now that this is THE book for everyone who doesn't have access to a workshop or specialized program, as well as those of us who do. Mr. Spencer apparently remembers everything he's ever learned about the art of making a musical and passes it on in this splendid, concise, and entertaining volume. A must-buy, and that's the plain, unvarnished truth.

Invaluable!.......2005-09-18

The Musical Theatre Writer's Survival Guide is invaluable from the instant you're hit by the "Hey, let's make a musical!" idea, all the way to choosing the best font for your finished score. Spencer provides exhaustive practical answers to every question you might possibly have-and to questions you never even knew you should be asking: What makes a good libretto? Effective music? Lyrics? What about collaborators? Directors? Contracts? Put another way, to the budding builder of an Empire State Building confronted by a daunting pile of unsorted bricks and bolts, Spencer's the guy who tells you which brick to put where, and how-from the foundation all the way up to the spire. An amazingly comprehensive work, which should be in every writer's library.

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