There is not much I can’t say about creative block when it comes to writing music.
Because I live in it.
I am not a natural music writer.
I am a story teller.
How to make a story fit inside a melody frustrates the heck out of me.
But here are some areas of focus I use to break out of that life long bondage to squeeze out a song that just might change the world.
1. Stop listening to music that sounds like yours.
This would seem like a no brainer. But it is not. When writing a song, if you want to sound like John Legend, don’t listen to John Legend.
Why?
Because your natural tendencies will ALREADY take you that direction. Let those tendencies flow while allowing other influences to seep in and make you unique.
2. Change instruments.
Now I know some of you are screwed.
You only play one instrument.
So go down to Toys R Us and pick up a kazoo.
Seriously.
This change will explode new and fresh ideas into your lame G C D chord brain.
Then put the instrument down all together and just sing.
3. Ask a 5 year old to sing back your melodies.
It may be a whack idea…
But I honestly think that if a 5 year old can’t remember your melody, then neither will I. Keep it simple and as you simplify your ideas will begin to flow.
4. CoWrite.
I know. It’s kinda like walking into a room with another person naked and asking them to judge your body.
And honestly, it is that bad.
Sometimes. Not all the time.
Great ideas come in sets.
Use this to your advantage to flow off of each other.
If it is not working…then don’t force it, just find someone else.
5. Write a song, verse, hook, chorus, or bridge every day for a month.
I’m serious.
Even if it sounds like Twinkle Twinkle Little Stars or Ice Ice Baby.
I GUARANTEE you that if you get 30 ideas, at least ONE of those is gold. You just have to empty the trash before you can find the treasure.
So there you have it.
Spread the love and share your song writing creative block solutions in the comment section!
