Writing for the waste basket

[Graham English]

I heard recently that a famous songwriter, Johnny Mercer I think, used to write for the waste basket. That blew my mind because of how much sense it made.

 

I think after hearing a song that seems so perfect, people get the impression that it was written the way it was played- in a short flash of inspiration. But we songwriters realize exactly how much editing can be needed. And if we don't, we usually should

 

So I've decided to write just for writings sake. I'm not trying to create the next timeless masterpiece anymore. I'm just figuring out what it is that I want to communicate and then writing, writing and writing some more. I'm becoming very prolific this way. I edit after the writing is finished and I feel so much more creative.

 

Hope this helps somebody out there.

[whitefang]

I've heard other songwriters mention this. Authors too. Sounds like a good way to clear out all the loose crap clogging your mind and getting down to the good stuff. Sorta like clearing out the 'fridge or the attic!

 

Whitefang

[doug osborne]

I've given this advice many times, both to peers and when teaching songwriting.

 

I wish I would follow my own advice more carefully, sometimes.

[Jason Hoyt]

Personally when I write, the greatest parts always seem to flow uncontrollably, then stop just as unpredictably. Its when I try to force completion of a thought/song, that I am at my worst. So, I have just gotten into the habit of writing when I feel it... Its tough, because when not writing, I feel unproductive, but forcing myself only wastes time... Kind of an odd paradox really... Its also tough sometimes, to get back into the same frame of mind that I might have been in at the moment of inception...