Lou Reed

Why We Love Bad Singers

A few listener reviews of some of pop/rock music’s big names: Regarding Neil Young: “For as far back as I can remember I’ve disliked this guy. His whiney voice is like nails on a chalkboard.” Regarding Bob Dylan: “Like if a wistful Lee Marvin swallowed a kazoo.” (by Ted Pillow.) Regarding Lucinda Williams: “Out of […]

Guitar and paper - Songwriting

How Your Song’s Melody Can Add Meaning To Your Lyrics

I recently wrote an article for SongBay that discussed ways in which the chords you choose can work hand-in-hand with your lyrics, and actually enhance their meaning. Getting words and chords working together makes for a more meaningful experience for your audience. Along the same lines, there are things you can be doing as you […]

Creating Minor Key Chord Progressions

A minor key may add just the right mood to your lyric. Here’s how to create minor chord progression. ____________ Struggling to build an audience base? “The Essential Secrets of Songwriting” shows you every aspect of what makes a great song great. Read more.. ____________ There are 2 common ways that songwriters get the feeling of minor across […]

The Song as a Miniature Musical Form

Check out and download Gary Ewer’s songwriting e-books here. _____ Many of you know that I have a particular interest in the seemingly disparate worlds of songwriting and Classical music. I’m intrigued by the fact that compositional technique that works when composing Classical music is pretty close to the technique that works in pop song composition. […]

Five Reasons Bach is Still Relevant to Today's Songwriters

Written by Gary Ewer, from “The Essential Secrets of Songwriting” website. You can read Gary’s songwriting e-books (and take advantage of a free deal) by visiting the Online Store. It never ceases to amaze me how similar melodies are, no matter what genre, or even historical period, you examine. There really isn’t much difference between […]

When You've Got Killer Lyrics, Other Elements Can Step Back

“The lyrics on “There’s a Reason” are wonderful, and on first listen you’d swear you’re listening to Dylan…” Written by Gary Ewer, from “The Essential Secrets of Songwriting” website. Check out Gary Ewer’s Songwriting e-books here. Follow Gary on Twitter You’ve probably got the instinct of most songwriter’s out there, which is to ensure that […]