Songwriting For Dummies

Chapter 12

Bringing Talent Together: Collaboration and Networking

In This Chapter

Recognizing your strengths as a songwriter

Collaborating with others to write a song

Splitting up the writers’ share

Getting to know the famous songwriting teams

Being in the right place at the right time

Raising the level of your networking circle

Finding your inspiration in harmony

You may be one of those rare individuals who can literally do it all when it comes to the creation and presentation of your song. But more than likely, you’re like most mortals who, in the process of bringing their songs to fruition, need to team up with other talented people. If so, you’ve come to the right place. This chapter is all about the fine art of collaboration — an all-important element of songwriting. This chapter also covers networking places, where you can reach out to other songwriters and music industry people.

Finding Your Strengths and Weaknesses

Collaboration is a great way to write a killer song. When a team gets hot — look out! The sparks (and hits!) can really start to fly. But before you call your potential Paul McCartney on the phone, do a thorough self-inventory and ask yourself, “What are my strengths?” Take a look at these specific areas of songwriting to help define your own role in the process:

Melody: If you’re the kind of person who goes about your business every day with a tune in your head, whether it’s your own or another’s, your talent may lie in the area of melody. A strong melody ...