Songwriting for Dummies

Songwriting for Dummies
by Jim Peterik, Dave Austin, Mary Ellen Bickford

Songwriting for Dummies
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Book Summary Information

Author: Dave Austin, Jim Peterik, Mary Ellen Bickford
Brand: Mel Bay
Edition: Paperback
Audio: English (Unknown); English (Original Language); English (Published)
Published: 2002-08
ISBN: 0764554042
Number of pages: 360
Publisher: Wiley Publishing, Inc.

Book Reviews of Songwriting for Dummies

Book Review: For the New Kid on the Block to Seasoned Music Professional
Summary: 5 Stars

As an independent artist doing the music convention circuit and tackling a grass roots approach to the business as a new comer, I found "Songwriting for Dummies" refreshingly full of useful information. Additionally, much of the material gave inspiration and comfort to those with a penchant for the art of making music.

I have repeatedly heard the same 3 or 4 book titles mentioned as a "must have book" for anyone in the buiness. In my opinion "Songwriting for Dummies" blows the others away by simplifing many of the industry's mysterious and confusing terms while not striking fear into the heart of the rookie artist that is trying to grasp the many issues that are involved within the music business.

I read much of "Songwriting for Dummies" on my airplane ride home from a music conference I attended on the west coast. By the time the plane touched down I had a read much of the book and had written a new song for my next compilation that had come to me during that same flight. The song was written spontaneously on the 2 white, paper bags that were conveniently stored in the seat pocket in front of me, compliments of the airlines. This was a suggestion I followed from the authors on how to manage times when inspiration hits and one is without paper.

Later that month, I received an offer from a highly reputable company that required me to have some knowledge of what to ask in negotiating a contract as well as typical compensation. Luckily, I had my "Songwriting for Dummies" handy and was able to compare the information in the book to my offer to determine if it was fair and whether the typical legalities were addressed in the contract. Not only did I get a fair deal, I came across in a confident manner that enhance the contract relationship on both sides.

I suspect that future music conventions will be adding this fresh-to-the-market book to the top of the list of must-haves.....both for new comers and veterans in the biz.

Valerie Nager
EquinoxxMusic Producer

Summary of Songwriting for Dummies

Learn to write songs like a pro

Want to know how to make it as a songwriter? Songwriting For Dummies, 2nd Edition gives you a chance to learn from the best. Written by a group of music industry pros, this practical guide shows you how to develop your songwriting skills and successfully utilize the Internet to promote and market your work!

Whether you?re a first-time songwriter or songwriting vet looking for a fast-track into the recording industry, this friendly, easy-to-follow guide is the source for you. Using well-known tunes as examples, the authors walk you through everything you need to know to write hit singles, catchy jingles, and everything in between.

  • 25% new and updated content, including information on social media networks YouTube, Twitter, Viddler, and Digg
  • Coverage of the latest music industry trends and techniques
  • Tips and tricks to combat songwriter?s block

Whether you want to know how to compose a love song for that special someone or you?re looking break into the industry Songwriting For Dummies, 2nd Edition is a gold mine of inspiration and how-to information.

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