The Craft and Business of Songwriting - Softcover

This updated edition of John Braheny's classic book is essential reading for anyone contemplating a career as a professional songwriter. He shares the insider secrets that help songwriters make their work competitive in an overcrowded marketplace. Readers will learn how to: Develop a "songwriter's consciousness" in picking out original ideas; Overcome barriers in the creative process; Discover what subjects work best for them, from novelty to message songs; Know what their audience wants; Focus on one idea when writing lyrics, ensuring the greatest impact; Handle the business of demos and contracts; Readers will also find anecdotes, exercises and examples from dozens of successful songwriters.

John Braheny is the co-founder/director for the Los Angeles Songwriters Showcase, a national non-profit service organization for songwriters. He conducts seminars throughout the U.S. and offers one-on-one consultations with writers, writer/artists and businesses. He lives in North Hollywood, California.