‣ BOOKS

•  Shortcuts to Hit Songwriting: 126 Proven Techniques for Writing Songs That Sell
Author: Robin Frederick

I worked hard to make this book unique among songwriting books. It's made to be used while you write songs, giving you ideas, creative choices, and inspiration to write your best, your most commercial, and your most memorable songs. Since I feel a little awkward reviewing my own book, I'm going to let a few readers give you their opinions:

"Within the first few pages of Shortcuts to Hit Songwriting I was convinced of two things. Robin is passionate about great songs and equally passionate about teaching others how to write them. Thanks Robin!"~Paul Secord

"I want to say thank you for all the valuable information that you presented in your book. As a result of your tips, I took second place in the Kauai Music Festival this year."~ M.E. Reich

"Oh WOW!!! I am just half way through your book and my writing has changed for the better, forever. Your writing is so clear and to the point that it is amazing to me that someone can get their ideas across that well on paper. Anyhow, I just want to let you know that you have a HIT." ~ David A. Myers, Houston, TX

You can read more reviews here.

Find out more at Amazon.com.

•  Shortcuts to Songwriting for Film & TV: 114 Tips for Writing, Recording & Pitching in Today's Hottest Market
Author: Robin Frederick

This is the first and only book that shows you how to write and pitch songs in the most exciting market for today's songwriters, artists, and bands. I researched this field for a year, interviewed top music supervisors, then broke it all down into easy-to-use shortcuts. Here's what readers are saying:

"I've been noticing songs in commercials and TV shows for a while now and wondering how I could get MY songs considered for those spots. Well, now I know!"~ Steven Maren

"I have found your book on writing, recording, and pitching songs for film & TV to be very helpful with the info & tips concerning this exciting songwriting opportunity. I've already had a song placed in a film and anticipate other placements."~ Lee Kweller

You can read more reviews here. Find out more at Amazon.com.

•  The Craft and Business of Songwriting: Third Edition
Author: John Braheny

The first half of this book is devoted to the craft of songwriting and covers everything you need to know in a way that's clear and understandable. You'll be using the information in this book on your very next song. (The section on melody writing does require note reading skills.)

The second half of the book covers the music business and this may be the most useful part of the book. It offers real-world information, including collaboration contracts, what you can expect from a record or publishing deal, and more.

Buy this book at Amazon.com.

•  6 Steps To Songwriting Success: Guide to Writing and Marketing Hit Songs
Author: Jason Blume

If you could take a class from a master songwriter who has written hit after hit in the Country, Pop, and R&B fields, you'd do it, wouldn't you? Well, that's what this book is! Jason Blume's songs have been covered by artists like Britney Spears to the Backstreet Boys and they've sold records in the multi-millions. Yet he has the ability to teach others and a willingness to share what he knows! This is an excellent book on the craft of songwriting. There are plenty of hands-on exercises to walk you through the process and solid examples that demonstrate his points. Whether you're just starting out or a pro picking up a few tips, it's definitely worth the price. Find out more about this book at Amazon.com.

•  Writing Music for Hit Songs
Author: Jai Josefs

I took private lessons from Jai Josefs some years ago, long after I had started earning my living as a songwriter, and I immediately used everything I learned from him. Chord progressions, harmonizing melodies, and melodic composition are essential parts of a hit song whether it's a Country, Rock, Pop, or R&B. Too often these things are underemphasized in songwriting books. I guess it's easier to write about lyrics and melody than chord progressions.

Well, finally there's an entire book on the subject. Jai is a great teacher and writer. If you are writing both music and lyrics, then this is an essential companion to Jason Blume's "6 Steps To Songwriting Success." (Note reading is required.)

One reader at Amazon.com writes: "I'm a self-taught pianist and this book has opened up a whole new world of ideas to me. I'm on my third reading now and in every reading I seem to pick up something that I didn't before."

Find out more about this book at Amazon.com.

‣ MUSIC SOFTWARE

There are many excellent midi and digital audio sequencers available on the market. I couldn't possibly list them all and describe all their bells and whistles because it would take too long. But here are a few inexpensive programs that will get you started. If you've never used a sequencer before, be aware that these programs come with a learning curve attached!

• Band-In-A-Box
I love this software and I use it! It's inexpensive (under $100) and a great creative tool. When the idea of fetching a song out of thin air seems a bit overwhelming, Band-In-A-Box can give you a plenty of chords, melodies - even a title - to get things rolling. Or maybe you're a lyricist who agrees with me that writing a lyric without a melody is like eating fries without ketchup. Band-In-A-Box can create a solid scratch melody for you. I like to think of this software as a really good-natured collaborator: It never runs out of ideas and it's ready to work whenever you are.

What it does: Band-In-A-Box generates original chord progressions, rhythm tracks, bass lines, titles and melodies in various genres from rock to country to pop. (It claims to do 'hip hop' but it really doesn't - see FL Studio software below.) The generated song is available for you to use without copyright restriction because it is based on general patterns derived from pre-existing songs, not the songs themselves. The drawback is that the generated songs sound predictable and familiar... for obvious reasons. BUT the software has a lot of built-in flexibility, allowing you to substitute chords, create new melodies, write in bass parts, re-program drums. Or you can use the random melody-generator to create new melodies until you find something you want to work with.

Using the software as a simple song generator is very easy. There's a bit of a learning curve when you start writing in complete chord progressions of your own, however it's well worth the trouble. Beware: many of the pre-programmed songs that play when you first open the software sound awkward. I hate 'em! What you want to do is find a "style" (drum and bass pattern) that you like. The light rock styles and country styles are very good. Choose one of those styles and start experimenting. You don't even need a midi keyboard - you can use your computer keys to type in chord names and Band-In-A-Box will play the sounds that are already in your computer.

Band-In-A-Box is available for both MAC and Windows. The Windows version can even record your vocals. You can download a free demo at their web site PG Music. Even a seasoned song composer will find this software intriguing.

• Acid Music Studio
This low cost, feature-packed software makes it easy to create your own loop-based tracks and songs on your PC. Play and mix loops and WAV samples -the software comes with over 3000 loops and 1000 midi samples - edit and mix with plenty of bells and whistles for the money. Multitrack recording allows you to mix loops with your midi tracks and recorded vocals and guitar tracks. Does not come with a mic so be sure you have a USB microphone or built-in. That's all you need!

• Garageband for MAC
Try the new GarageBand software for Mac. It's inexpensive and lots of fun plus it'll make you sound good even if you're just starting out! The software includes digital audio and midi sequencing, mixing effects, better yet, it has lots of rhythm and instrument loops you can mix and match. Have fun creating a complete instrumental track within your computer (no midi keyboard needed), then add a vocal using either Mac's built-in laptop mic or a USB mic (not included but they're cheap). This software is part of the Apple iLife '08 software suite available through Amazon.com.

‣ LYRIC WRITING SOFTWARE

• MasterWriter
This software is primarily for lyric writers although it does include midi drums loops and some digital recording capability for keeping track of melody ideas. It includes several dictionaries including a rhyming dictionary, a dictionary of phrases, idioms, sayings and word combinations, a thesaurus, and more! A unique feature is "Songuard," an online date-of-creation Song Registration Service. (To my knowledge this has not been tested legally but should provide some song protection.) There's a database that allows you to keep track of lyrics, melodies and information related to the songs you've written. The software is available for both Mac and PC. You can download a free demo at their web site. Based on the demonstrations I've seen, it looks like it would work best for the country genre. The price is currently around$280.

‣ DEMO RECORDING

You can make a good rough demo of your song with any of the software mentioned above. If you're looking for the sound of a live band but don't have a big budget, here are a few suggestions.

• StudioPros.com
Here's an easy way to create a whole demo or just add a single good live musician or vocal to your track. Check out StudioPros.com. It's affordable and professional. Best of all, you can be in control the whole way through. At each step, you listen to what's been recorded, then give your approval or request changes before moving on. Be sure you give them a solid rough demo so your song's melody and overall feel is clear. A reference track is also useful - that's a a hit song that's similar in some ways to the production you want to hear on your finished demo. StudioPros will discuss what they can do within your budget. Be realistic. Communicate clearly. And you'll get the best results.

• Beaird Music Group
I have recommended Larry Beaird's demo service to several of my clients and they have all been pleased with the results. Larry and his brother, Eli, are based in Nashville so they've got the pick of some of the best musicians and singers working in the business today! And he's not limited to Country demos, either! Check out the samples on Larry's web site to hear the high quality work he does. He posts a complete menu of prices which is very helpful in planning your recording budget.

• Session Singer Online
Need a strong vocal for your demo? Maybe your song is in a genre that's not right for your voice or you need a second version with a male or female vocal. The singers at Session Singers Online are true professionals. Just listen to their reel. You'll get a world class vocal performance from these folks. Be sure to discuss the vocal style you want. Play a few examples for reference just to be sure everyone is on the same page. You'll need to discuss a deal. A buy out of the vocal performance for film & TV pitching is probably not an option. Consider offering a percentage of what you are paid for any Master Use licenses of the song in addition to the session fee.

• Edrum Sessions
A good live drum track can be the one thing standing between you and an excellent demo. A great drum track adds energy, life, and sizzle to a track. But few of us have the ten mics, sound-proof room, great kit, and mighty session drummer it takes to get a solid recording. Solution: Have session drummer Shay Godwin lay down a drum track to your demo and send it to you as an mp3. To find out more about how this works, visit his web site at Edrum Sessions. Prices are very reasonable.

‣ PITCH SHEETS & SUBMISSION SERVICES

• TAXI
In their own words: "TAXI is the leading independent A&R company helping unsigned bands, artists and songwriters get record deals, publishing deals and placement in films and TV shows." Here's the cool part: you can see their current listings online at TAXI listings. Just click on a music genre in the right-hand sidebar to see the latest listings. Of course you can't submit your songs unless you are a TAXI member and they will be screened. If your song is forwarded to the listing, you will be contacted directly if there is interest. Whether your song is forwarded or not, you will receive a critique if requested. Critiques offer valuable suggestions from industry pro's on how you can make your song more attractive to record labels and publishers. Check out the listings, read the info posted on their web site and decide for yourself if it's right for you.

The TAXI Road Rally, held in Los Angeles each November, is a great event and free to members. The Road Rally alone is worth the price of a membership: three days of panels, lectures, one-on-one mentoring, and networking. I know many people involved with TAXI and I can tell you they are honest and do what they say they do. Membership fee is $300 for the first year. (Tip: If you sign up for their email, you will be notified of occasional membership fee discounts.)

• musicSUBMIT.com
In the own words: "Music SUBMIT helps independent musicians gain exposure by submitting you to genre-specific Internet radio stations, online music magazines, online music directories, blogs, podcasts and other electronic music media. There are thousands of Internet resources out there eager for new music, and we'll not only save you hundreds of hours online tracking them down, we'll research the best match for your style and deliver your music right to their inbox!"

This is a very affordable service. The first 25 submissions are free. After that there's a monthly charge (less than $20) for up to 50 submissions per month. There are also bulk rates for 100 to 800 submissions. This is excellent value for the money. I have talked to people who have used this service and they tell me it is worth the money. They do what they say they do. The one drawback - you have to do the follow up yourself. Sending out CDs and doing uploads can eat up a lot of time but if you're serious about being heard this is worth the money.

• Music Publishers' Association
The Music Publishers Association of the U.S. provides an online list of publishers that includes address, phone number, and contact name. It does not say whether they accept unsolicited material or what type of material they are interested in. You could visit the individual publishers' web sites, get an email address and write to find out their policy regarding unsolicited songs.

‣ Music Instruction - Songwriting

•  SongU.com This is a GREAT resource if you're looking for songwriting instruction and a supportive, warm-hearted, talented community of songwriters. I not only recommend SongU.com as an excellent place to find mentors, coaches, and songwriting classes, I actually teach there myself. I'm proud to be part of a first-rate faculty of songwriting teachers including Craig Bickhardt, Sara Light, Jai Josefs, Fett, Pamela Phillips Oland, and many more. And, guess what... it's incredibly affordable! Take classes live online or self-paced courses at your own speed. Collaborate with other songwriters every month and get personal feedback on your songs. It's definitely worth checking out. SongU.com

‣ Music Instruction - Piano & Guitar

Learning to play chords on piano or guitar is easy and fun and it's all you need to be able to write songs! Here are a couple of good, easy-to-follow instruction guides for beginners or musicians who want to fill in their knowledge of chords.

•  Play Piano In A Flash! Winner of the 2002 Pinnacle Award in the category of "how-to" book. From their website: "Have you ever wished you could play the piano? Well, now you can! Scott "The Piano Guy" Houston teaches you to play the way the pros play, in a style enormously simpler than traditional classical piano and with an absolute minimum of note-reading. By focusing on playing the melody with the right hand (one note at a time) and simple chords with the left hand, Houston gives you the tools you need for a lifetime of musical enjoyment. Best of all, your tour guide to this adventure forces you to have fun along the way!" And this from me: If you've seen Scott Houston's PBS special, you know how enormously entertaining he is, but more important, how simple and fun it can be to learn the chords and melody basics of piano playing. This is an inexpensive way to get started. Scott's course is also available on DVD and VHS. It's fun and entertaining!

• "How To Play The Guitar in 30 Days!" - From their web site: "Learn to play the guitar in 30 days online. Over 70 jam packed guitar lessons with image, text, songs, sounds, tabs, and more. It is completely online so you can access it anywhere at any time." I checked this out pretty thoroughly and I'm impressed. I do recommend it. They've done a good job of teaching guitar in a fun, easy to understand way with plenty of photos and demonstrations. There are lots of tips and techniques for avoiding common problems. The emphasis is on getting yourself up and playing as quickly as possible. There's a 90-day money back guarantee. Click here to check it out. COST: One-time fee of $49.95.

• Popular Chord Style Piano (Book & CD or Book & Cassette)
In their own words: "This is the basic introductory program for piano, keyboard, or organ. It shows all the basics so you'll be able to play any song in any key. You'll learn all the chords you need to know and how to use them. Dozens of playing tips with just enough theory. Complete chord charts - all in keyboard diagrams in addition to music notation - plus a Chord Substitution Chart and seven songs. All examples are recorded on CD or cassette tape (included). This is the basic course upon which all our other courses are based. Basic and essential." Web site includes free online mini-lessons. Definitely worth a visit!

• The First Stage Guitar Book: Learn How to Play Guitar Easily & Quickly
From the publisher: "READING MUSIC AND PRIOR EXPERIENCE PLAYING THE GUITAR NOT REQUIRED...Want to learn how to play the guitar EASILY and QUICKLY? This great book by Chris Lopez will jump start your musical development in the right direction. You will find what the beginning guitar player has for so long been looking for, for starters, a guitar book filled with complete and easy to understand illustrations on how to play the most commonly played chords."

CONTESTS

• The John Lennon Song Contest
The John Lennon Songwriting Contest is an international songwriting contest that began in 1997. The contest is open to amateur and professional songwriters. Entries are judged based on originality, melody, composition, and lyrics (if applicable). Instrumental compositions are accepted. Neither performance nor production are considered during the judging process; this is ALL about the song. Winners receive cash prizes, publishing contracts, or recording equipment. See the John Lennon Song contest web site for more information. This contest has a good reputation in the industry.

• The Great American Song Contest
In their own words: "This international songwriting contest began in 1999. Amateur and professional songwriters everywhere are welcome to participate. There are nine categories, including an Instrumental category and a Lyric Writing category for lyricists. Songs are judged on songwriting excellence, not on performance or production. Winners receive a mix of prizes, awards and cash prizes. The Great American Song Contest is sponsored by Songwriters Resource Network."

I know several of the judges (who are listed at the SRN web site) and they are truly among the best in the music business. Harriet Schock, Steve Seskin, Pat Pattison, and many more; they are all highly qualified to judge song excellence. The entry fee is $20 per song. You can expect a song evaluation from one of the judges whether you win or lose. Sounds like a pretty good deal to me!

• Songdoor.com
Here's a contest with a low entry fee ($10) that gives you free melody writing software just for entering! You can check it out without spending a lot. Be sure to read their "Entry Tips." Production is not a factor in the judging; it's your song that counts!

• Indie International Songwriting Contest
The Indie International Songwriting Contest is an annual song competition that spotlights emerging songwriters. The contest is designed to help develop songwriting talent and increase success. One extra I especially like with this contest: The judges will give a "standard evaluation" on every entry, or written feedback (for $10 extra). You'll also know which judge listened to your song. Standard entry fee is currently $30 and each contest is limited to 150 entries, so you won't get lost in the crowd. This is an interesting mix of song feedback and contest.

• Songwriter Universe: "Best Song of the Month"
From the web site: The "Best Song of the Month" contest honors and publicizes the top songs submitted to Songwriter Universe each month. This contest not only spotlights the winning song and songwriter but also showcases the Top Five new songs that we hear each month. The winning songs will remain online indefinitely. We will be referring top music publishers, label A&R execs, producers, music supervisors and managers to read the "Best Song of the Month" articles and listen to the winning songs. Our objective is not only to honor the winning songwriters, but to help expose and promote their songs to top people in the music industry."

The "Best Song of the Month" contest is run by Dale Kawashima, one of the music industry's most respected publishers. If you have ever wondered how to get past the "no un-solicited submissions" hurdle to be heard by a top publisher, well, here's your chance. There is a very low fee to submit to the contest (currently $12 per song). I can recommend this competition. And I recommend getting a song critique from Dale. See the web site for more details.

Forums & Message Boards

Looking for information, constructive criticism, or just someone to grouse with about how hard it is to get a little respect in this business? Here are a few places you can go to find like-minded souls. Usually you can read as many posts as you like but if you want to post something yourself, you'll need to sign up. As with all message boards, take what you read with a grain of salt; people are trying to help each other out but not everyone knows what they're talking about.

• The TAXI forum
Not just for TAXI members, this is a great place to hang out with some people who are seriously involved in writing and pitching music to labels, publishers, and film & TV music users. There are personal recommendations for recording gear and home studio tips. Get some of your own questions answered or share your knowledge. The Peer-to-Peer section will give you a chance to hear some of their music and even play some of your own. The Collaboration Corner can help you hook up with some of these folks for a co-write. Altogether a great free resource!

• The Muse's Muse
The Muse's Muse is a songwriter web site with an excellent online newsletter and VERY active message boards. When You get to the site, click on "Message Board" near the top of the page, then scroll down to "Songwriter." There are boards for lyric critique only, lyrics and music, creativity and inspiration, and they ar all very active with plenty of replies, feedback, and ideas.

Songwriting Resource Web Sites

ASCAP - performance royalties (airplay)

BMI - performance royalties (airplay)

Harry Fox Agency (HFA) - Mechanical royalties (album sales)

Songwriters Guild Of America (SGA) - Publishing contracts and contract review, workshops, seminars, publisher audits, newsletter

Songwriters Resource Network - articles, contest, bulletin board, links

Share My Lyrics - A good forum for lyric writers looking for feedback and collaborators. Plus spell checker,rhyming dictionary, online collaboration tools, drafts engine, lyrics writing competitions and more.

Addicted-to-Songwriting - info on songwriting including articles, in-depth interviews, tips, links & more.

Craft Of Songwriting - chatroom, articles, resources, links

American Songwriter Magazine - sample articles, lyric contest, bulletin board

Songwriters Directory - listings, links to songwriter web pages

Song Lyricist - advice for marketing lyrics, articles, networking list, links

SongStuff.com - Songstuff has articles, reference material, artist music pages, music news, music forums, a music glossary, and a large collection of categorized music related links.