What's in a Song
A weekly podcast about the craft of songwriting, hosted by Berklee College of Music professor Scarlet Keys. Each episode features in-depth conversations with prominent songwriters, producers, and other creatives. Keys asks insightful questions about the craft, technique, and art of songwriting, offering listeners clear and actionable tools to apply to their own work.
Episodes
Part 2 Taylor Swift "Ruin the Friendship" The music, Nashville tunings, copy right infringement
Send us Fan MailIn this episode Scarlet Keys is joined with Forensic Musicologist Dr. Joe Bennett. Joe breaks down the chords in this song and shares Nashville tunings for the guitar.Joe gets granular in this discussion as he compares Lenny Kravit's "It Ain't over 'til it's over" with "Ruin the friendship" and clarify's what constitutes copyright infri
Part 1 Taylor Swift "Ruin the Friendship" - lyric techniques and the power of a great bridge
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we talk about Taylor Swift's narrative and lyric techniques. We break down the bridge in the song "Ruin the Friendship" with a focus on lyrical techniques and a touch on melody. We talk about the power of a bridge and the alchemy this bridge has on the rest of the narrative.Support this podcast:https://buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keys Venmo: @scarlet
Diagnosing a song
Send us Fan MailIn this episode we talk about the critical thinking skills of a songwriter and the puzzle of the song. When your song feels like it's missing something or you might feel bored by your own song but don't know what to do to change it. After the song is written, it's important to know what to look for on how to make the song as effective as possible. I hope you will
Taylor Swift's Eldest Daughter break down with Guest forensic musicologist Joe Bennett
Send us Fan MailWelcome back to a new season!We are continuing on with the Life of a Show Girl interpreted with new up coming episodes.Today, I am joined with Dr. Joe Bennett as we break down "Eldest Daughter" by Taylor Swift.Songwriting retreats:Star Island In person songwriting retreat: https://starisland.org/program/songwriting-intensive-the-art-of-the-song/Support this podcast:https:
Taylor Swift's "Father Figure" The break down with guest Forensic musicologist Joe Bennett
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we break down Father Figure from Taylor Swift's record "The Life of a Showgirl".In this episode we look at:The chord progressionMelodic hooksRhetorical devicesGuitar voicingsThe stunning bridge and what the back ground harmonies are bringing to this section to make it so spectacularPhrasingProsodySign up for the Master class:The songwriting secrets o
Taylor Swift's Opalite - break down
Send us Fan MailTrack32 on "The Life of a Showgirl" - OpaliteI'm back with Forensic Musicologist Dr. Joe BennettIn this episode we look at:The chord progressionChord tensionsHarmonic rhythmBorrowed chordRhetorical deviceProductionDirect modulationTo sign up with the virtual live master class "The Songwriting of Taylor Swift" with Scarlet Keys: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/
Taylor Swift's "Elizabeth Taylor" - The break down
Send us Fan MailTrack 2 on "The Life of a Showgirl" - Elizabeth TaylorI'm back with Forensic Musicologist Dr. Joe BennettIn this episode we look at:The chord progressionChord inversionsTensionsHarmonic rhythmPhrase lengthsMelismaWriting from a titleMelodic hooksTo sign up with the virtual live master class "The Songwriting of Taylor Swift" with Scarlet Keys: https://www.ev
Breaking down Taylor Swift's "The Fate of Ophelia" with Musicologist Joe Bennett
Send us Fan MailThis is the first of a 12 episode series where Berklee College of music professor Scarlet Keys talks about each song off of the new Taylor Swift album "The Life of a Showgirl" searching for clues and signature moves that Swift uses as a writer to write songs that resonate with millions of listeners and pack stadiums. They are listening for literary devices, chord progres
It's never to late to become a songwriter with former Berklee College of music president Roger Brown
Send us Fan MailAbout this weeks guest:Roger Brown is an American businessman, philanthropist, and academic administrator and former president of Berklee College of Music. Brown is also the co-founder of Bright Horizons and founder and chairman of the Salt Lick Incubator. He is most recently a grammy nominated songwriter!!!In this episode, Roger talks about becoming a songwriter later in life, wr
From Buzz to Bond: Queen of PR Ariel Hyatt talks about how to create real fans
Send us Fan MailToday, Ariel Hyatt introduces the concept of the Three Communities every artist must understand: - **Ambient Fans** who are aware of you - **Engaged Fans** who pay attention and interact - **Superfans** who support, advocate, and stick with you over the long term.She talks about the power of the mailing list, gaining true fans and if you only have 10 min a day to market, how should
Imposter Syndrome (no more) with Dr. Jill Stoddard on the inner critic, the wise mind and so much more
Send us Fan MailTo sign up for the online songwriting in process class:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1376858744569?aff=oddtdtcreatorOn today's show I have Psychologist Dr. Jill Stoddard So much of what goes into a song is the psychology of the songwriter. Mindset is so important to the creative. Today, Dr. Stoddard talks about how to work with our inner critic, why we have it, how to focus o
Writing songs for Social Change with Multi grammy winning singer/songwriter Mark Simos
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Mark Simos takes us through writing songs for social change, political protest, songs for that evoke empathy and songs of conscience.We talk metaphor, point of view and the most effective way to handle this delicate topic.We give you a song prompt and this episode is woven with songwriting crafts gems.Spotify songs for social justice:https://open.spotify.com/playli
Creative agility and writing process with hit songwriting Rodney Alejandro
Send us Fan MailUpcoming classes:To sign up for the April 5th workshop: "The songwriting of Taylor Swift": https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1252499231919?aff=oddtdtcreatorTo support this podcast and membership:https://buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keysShow take aways:Try writing a song using the words and rhythm of a nursery rhyme to try audio doodling in your melody.Write your chorus firstStart
Music as medicine- The health benefits of listening to your favorite songs with Neuroscientist Dr. Daniel Levitin
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I speak with Neuroscientist, author and musician Dr. Daniel Levitin on how music affects our health. From reducing cortisol to lessening the effects of Parkinsons and how we can use music as medicine! We talk science and his new book "I Heard there was a Secret Chord: Music as Medicine": Daniel Levitin's music:https://open.spotify.com/artist/7iRoK
Singer/songwriter Jesse Terry - Writing great melodies and crowd funding
Send us Fan MailTo sign up for the November 23rd virtual LYRIC WRITING WORKSHOP: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1070697919299?aff=oddtdtcreatorhttps://www.eventbrite.com/e/1080037885389?aff=oddtdtcreatorMy guest today is New England based singer/songwriter Jesse Terry.Before I introduce him I wanted to let you know that on Saturday Nov. 16th I am offering a virtual 3 hour songwriting workshop. Ther
Kylie Rothfield on writing process, craft, what she learned from Alicia Keys about singing and stage fright
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I talk with singer/songwriter Kylie Rothfield.She shares what she learned about singing and stage fright from Alicia Keys. We talk about what she learned from writing with some of the best writers in Nashville, song craft, process and so much more. This was a good one!Pre save Kylie's single coming out Sept. 27th here:https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/kylier
Songs with a message, writing from your life with Michael McDermott
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, singer/songwriter Michael McDermott talks about writing process, writing from your life and shares new songs off his two new albums dropping Sept 13th.Join the "What's in a Song" membership community:https://buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keyshttps://michael-mcdermott.com/homeMixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.you
What does AI mean for songwriters with award winning songwriter and Berklee Professor Ben Camp
Send us Fan MailToday I have Berklee Professor Ben Camp on the show discussing AI We talk about where it is now and what it means for songwriters in the future. We talk ethics, creativity, originality, works that are derivative and Ben takes a song we wrote together years ago and puts it through AI to demonstrate some of the current possibilities AI offers creatives.Ben Camp has taught songwritin
Creating metaphors with Pat Pattison
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Pat Pattison, author of "Writing Better Lyrics" walks us through step by step of how to find metaphors. This is the exercise I gave to writer Madi Diaz that she talked about in the previous episode.Pat talks about the difference between simile and metaphor for songwriters, passing metaphors and central metaphors and takes us through a song by Eli and Fur
Madi Diaz on writing process, and the magic of co-writing
Send us Fan MailMy guest today is one of my former students singer/songwriter Madi DiazMadi grew up in Pennsylvania where she was homes schooled by her mother and took piano lessons from her father at the age of 5.After high school, Madi was accepted to Berklee College of Music and met her first collaborator Kyle Ryan which led to her recording her first record skin and bones in Hawaii.Later, Madi
What we can learn from Billy Eilish and Bonnie Raitt about great melodies
Send us Fan MailIn this minisode, I talk about writing melody and thinking of melody as the song's tone of voice.Auditioning melodies to make sure we pair the best notes with our most important words and the power of unstable notes in writing great melodies.To join my summer songwriting class "Writing Better Melodies" click here:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/melody-writing-intensive-
Minisode: Making time for your art and the myth of inspiration
Send us Fan Mail"Inspiration is for Amateurs""Don't be 'a writer' but instead be writing." - Faulkner"Just begin and the mind grows heated; continue, and the task will be completed!”― Johann Wolfgang von GoetheTo join the "What's in a Song" community membership: https://buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keysLink to song from band Corner Boy "Morni
Robert Ellis Orrall on writing with Taylor Swift, and writing process
Send us Fan MailIn this Episode, Robert Ellis Orrall talks about writing with Taylor Swift. What she was like as a young writer, how he set up the showcase that got her a record deal and shares two songs her wrote with Swift along with an original from his latest record.Upcoming workshop: Taylor Swift Master class this Tuesday May 28th: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-songwriting-of-taylor-swift
Will Kimbrough: Writing techniques, guitar voicings and so much wisdom
Send us Fan MailMy guest today s an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer Will Kimbrough.As a producer, he has produced albums for Rodney Crowell, Todd Snider, Kim Richey, Garrison Star and Matthew Ryan to name a few.His songs have been recorded by Jimmy Buffett, Little Fear, Jack Ingram, and he has collaborated with Rosanne Cash, Guy Clark, Steve Earle, Emmylou Harris, Jo
Minisode - The impact and storytelling of NOUNS
Send us Fan MailThe storytelling effects of nouns.Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website:https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/Scarlet's website:https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scar
Minisode: The song changing effects of good verbs
Send us Fan MailIn this minisode, I talk about the power of verbs and how they can do more than just their expected work but can help to tell your story, create characters and build metaphors.Mixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarletkeysofficial/Scarlet's
Singer/songwriter Ingrid Saga on jazz, Joni Mitchell's influence, guitar tunings and process
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Ingrid talk about her influences, meeting her producer and shares three songs from her upcoming album.She talks about writing in opening tuning and writing process.https://www.instagram.com/ingridsaga/?hl=enMixed by Peter Sykes: https://www.petersykesmusic.com/Otto Gross: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMnxx19QD-vxD4wnYGTn3JwScarlet's website:https://www.sca
Aidan Laprete on finding your sound and gibberish as a lyric writing process
Send us Fan MailIn this Episode I talk with singer/songwriter/producer/actor Aidan Laprete aboutVoice lessons, finding your sound, and producing.He walks us through writing melody takes - gibberish to find melodies, turning mumbles into words and making it make sense and shares guitar voicings to help you out of sonic ruts.Aidan is from Hawaii and was first known for his ukulele playing at age 8.
Writing For T.V. and film and how a little bit of Woo woo can help us with Stuart Roslyn
Send us Fan MailStuart Roslyn is a composer, producer and musician specializing in original music for motion pictures and their trailers. He also creates unique soundscapes for network tv and big brand commercials. His career spans more than 20 years composing and producing many genres of music for the biggest names in entertainment. He is either directing a full orchestra or writing and mixing
The songwriting of Taylor Swift - Two things we can learn from the craft of her songwriting
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I share a little peak into the craft and poetry of Taylor Swift's songwriting.We look at her choice of chord progressions and one way in to one of her epic bridge sections as well as her use of metaphor.You will walk away with a few tools from the woman currently ruling the world that you can try in your own songs no matter what the genre.Upcoming workshop si
David Wilcox Part 2
Send us Fan MailDavid Wilcox is an award winning and highly acclaimed American singer songwriter from Asheville North Carolina.His storytelling cuts deep into the soul and observes the human condition from both the nerve center and the outside looking in. He’s released more than 20 records and is famous for his thoughtful insights, humor and open tunings on guitar.In this episode, David talks abo
David Wilcox on inspired writing Part 1
Send us Fan MailDavid Wilcox is an award winning and highly acclaimed American singer songwriter from Asheville North Carolina.His storytelling cuts deep into the soul and observes the human condition from both the nerve center and the outside looking in. He’s released more than 20 records and is famous for his thoughtful insights, humor and open tunings on guitar.In this episode, David takes a d
Part 3 Mark Simos: Reflecting on your writing and what you can learn from it
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we break down co-writing and talk about reflecting back on process and what can be learned from taking pause and observing what went well and what you wish had gone differently making you a better writer and co-writer going forward.To purchase Mark's books: https://www.amazon.com/Songwriting-Strategies-360-Degree-Approach-Music/dp/087639151X/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2P
Part 2 Hank Williams in Hell live co-write with Mark Simos
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of a two part series, Berklee Professor and Grammy winning writer Mark Simos and I try out his unique approach to writing using different chord configurations in a writing exercise he calls Hank Williams in hell. This is a live co-write so if you are curious about how people write songs collaboratively or want to explore new ways to use the classic three chords, th
Hank Williams in Hell exercise and live cowrite with Grammy winning songwriter Mark Simos
Send us Fan MailIn this episode of a two part series, Berklee Professor and Grammy winning writer Mark Simos and I try out his unique approach to writing using different chord configurations in a writing exercise he calls Hank Williams in hell. This is a live co-write so if you are curious about how people write songs collaboratively or want to explore new ways to use the classic three chords, th
Writing songs for film and t.v. with Grammy winning artist/producer Rich Jaques
Send us Fan MailToday’s guest is grammy winning songwriter and producer Rich Jaques. Rich has had over 1500 songs placed on film and t.v. and is going to share today about his musical journey.Some key points:Follow the point of enthusiasm (follow your bliss)Finding your own pathNotice what makes you excited Writing more impressionistically as not to impose a lyric on a sceneDon’t ask who you wan
Will Dailey: Genius marketing, the importance of narrative for your art, finding your instrument
Send us Fan MailOn today's show, I have singer/songwriter Will Dailey.In this episode, Will shares some brilliant marketing ideas and talks about:Tools: Try cutting something in halfthe chorusthe bridgea bara linedo something upsetting to your cadenceGreat advice on writing your best verse 2Why songwriting is good for you even if it’s not your professionStep outside your comfort genreFinding
Prince's recording engineer Susan Rogers on authenticity, getting your best vocal performance and her new book "This is What it Sounds like"
Send us Fan MailToday I have Susan Rogers who many of you know as Prince’s recording engineer. Today we talk about her new book “This is what it sounds like” and who we are as listeners, what Prince used to ask her to prepare for his writing sessions and insight into writing songs that appeal to a wider audience.Some takeaways:Ask a non musical person for feedback on your songsActive listeningGet
Paula Cole on her writing process, the books that have inspired her and what writing teaches her
Send us Fan MailGrammy-winning artst Paula Cole has released seven solo albums of original songs. Cole has performed with icons in many genres of music, from Peter Gabriel to Dolly Parton, Herbie Hancock to Emmylou Harris, and Amy Lee of Evanescence to Burt Bacharach. Cole’s emotionally deep performances and her poetic, intelligent writing makes her stand out from the masses of contemporary music.
Finding a title for your song - Minisode
Send us Fan MailIn this short episode, I talk about starting with an idea or emotion and one of my favorite ways to find a good title for your potential song.Sometimes, an idea just needs a great hook to hang our song on.Announcing my 6 week songwriting course starting June 20th and my weekend workshop on the songwriting of Taylor Swift in July.Click here to sign up and for more information:https
Forensic musicologist Joe Bennett breaks down "If I were a fish" and talks about what constitutes copyright infringement
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I talk with Dr. Joe BennettFirst, we talk about what constitutes copyright infringement from the point of view of a forensic musicologist.Then, Joe dives into the analysis of "If I were a Fish" (pun intended) leaving everyone with some great new ideas to spark their songwriting.Dr. Bennett has been analysing and transcribing popular music for internationa
Corook and Olivia Barton: Fame and the introvert and breaking down "If I were a fish"
Send us Fan MailToday I am so happy to have Corook and Olivia Barton on the show.Corook is a multi-instrumentalist based in Nashville, Tennessee. they are signed to Atlantic Records, and thave toured with JP Saxe and Jukebox the Ghost.Today share my conversation with Corook and their partner artist Olivia Barton. We talk about instant fame and it’s impact on an introvert, Corook talks about their
Robert Gillies on writing hit songs, 2 rules for every co-write, finding the best tempo for your song, his fav home recording mic,
Send us Fan MailRobert Gillies is a hit songwriter and artist living in Norway.In this conversation we talk about finding the sweet spot of tempo for your songThe 2 rules to start every cowrite withWorking with Charlie PuthHis fav microphone for home recordingHow our road to success can feel like a guided experienceHow to be in service of the workOpening for Andy GrammerTo Pre-order Robert's
Kieran Rhodes on being on America's Got Talent, the two chords he won't leave home without and what he learned from Randy Newman
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I am talking with someone at the start of it all, Berklee student Kieran Rhodes.He shares his favorite songwriting tools that he learned from Billy Joel and Randy Newman, why his friends nick named him the V/V, his experience on being on America's Got Talent and the two chords he won't leave home without.He plays a song he wrote in his songwriting 1 class
Vance Gilbert on how to be a great opening act, two great chords and his favorite vocal hack
Send us Fan MailIn today's episode, I talk with Folk artist Vance Gilbert on How to be a great opening act.Some show takeaways:Be yourself, you can be shy and confident, but be sure about what you’re doingWood shed the music and rehearse so you are comfortable with your performanceWork on your timing and all the things that go into a great performancePracticing your relative pitchWhen singing
Prince Charles Alexander: The Evolution of Hip hop
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I am talking to Prince Charles Alexander about the evolution of hip hop music, production and rap.Prince Charles is a sought-after recording and mixing engineer whose clients include Mary J. Blige, Destiny's Child, Faith Evans, P. Diddy, the Notorious B.I.G., Usher, Boyz II Men, Brandy, Babyface, Sting, Aretha Franklin, Usher, Brian McKnight, and others. Alexa
Singer Songwriter and Berklee Prof George Woods: ADHD as a songwriting super power and the emotion of music
Send us Fan MailGeorge Woods is an amazing guitarist, singer and songwriter and Berklee Professor.In this episode George shares how ADHD is a superpower for songwriters, what chords and melody bring emotionally.He writes a song on the spot and talks about what theory really is and plays his new single.http://www.georgewoodsmusic.comScarlet's website: https://www.scarletkeys.comScarlet's
Kenny Werner Part 2: A meditation, more great insight and a live performance
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I talk with Grammy nominated composer and award winning pianist, educator and author of the best selling book “Effortless Mastery” and “Becoming the Instrument” in part two of a great conversation.Find a place to sit and listen towards the end of the podcast for the meditation and then enjoy a live performance from Kenny.https://kennywerner.comScarlet's websi
Kenny Werner on Effortless mastery and being the instrument
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I talk with Grammy nominated composer and award winning pianist, educator and author of the best selling book “Effortless Mastery” and “Becoming the Instrument”.Here are some episode takeaways:You don’t move forward unless you practice Let your arms defy gravitySate of presence of mindThe body is the instrument that plays the instrumentBE the instrumentGet your mi
Eric Roberson: Finding ideas all around you, Saying no to doubt
Send us Fan MailOn today's show, Eric Roberson is back!!Eric is a 2x Grammy Nominated Singer/Songwriter/Producer/Artist/Entrepreneur. Winner of the 2012 Soul Train Music Award For Independent Artist Of The Year. Widely regarded as the "King Of Independent Soul/R&B". He was on Jimmy Fallon's show "That's my Jam" and has a new book out "Lessons".
Grammy winning Writer and producer Cliff Goldmacher: The purpose of the chorus, saying less with more and bringing everything you can to the table
Send us Fan MailToday I have Grammy winner and producer Cliff Goldmacher. Cliff has a catalog of over 1,000 songs and writes with and for artists across multiple genres. He has written a #1 single on the jazz charts, a song on a GRAMMY-winning album and multiple songs featured in major movie releases and national advertising campaigns. Some of his songs have been recorded by Kesha, Keb Mo, and L
Alliteration, internal rhyme and a deep dive into craft with Hit writers Monty Powell and Anna Wilson
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I talk with award winning singer/songwriter Anna Wilson and Golden Globe and Country Music Hall of Fame nominee, hit songwriter and producer Monty Powell. This power duo have written songs for Keith Urban, Lady A., Reba McEntire, Rascal Flatts and too many more to mention.This is a master class in lyric technique!Take aways from today's episode:Song mapsLyric
Award winning artist and Berklee Professor Susan Cattaneo on the power of Metaphor
Send us Fan MailIn this episode Berklee Professor and artist Susan Cattaneo shares the magic of songwriting and breaks it down offering some wonderful ideas on how to use metaphor.With her powerful voice, captivating melodies and finely-crafted lyrics, Susan Cattaneo is one of Boston’s most respected singer/songwriters and educators. Susan won the CT Folk Festival and is nominated for Singer Songw
Grammy winning writer, drummer and producer Tom Hambridge on avoiding cliches and the power of rhythm in your writing
Send us Fan MailTom Hambridge is an American rock, country, and blues, producer, songwriter, musician and vocalist. Hambridge has received two Grammy Awards, an ASCAP award, seven Grammy nominations, seven Boston Music Awards, and has been inducted into the Buffalo Hall of Fame.In this episode, Tom talks about his influences, how being a drummer informs his writing, working with vocalists, what he
Matt Rollings: Grammy winning producer, arranger and piano player extraordinaire on being a master player
Send us Fan MailMaster piano player Matt RollingsMatt has played on countless records for artists such as: Wynonna Judd, Lyle Lovett, Shania Twain, Trisha Yearwood, Leonard Cohen, Mark Knofler, Dixie Chicks, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Billy Joel, Steve Martin, Bruce springsteen, Toy Story 4 Randy Newman and Christ Stapleton. Matt has produced many artists such as: Keith Urban and Mellissa Manchester H
Hit Maker Justin Tranter - on writing with and for Imagine Dragons, Dua Lipa, Kelly Clarkson, Justing Bieber, and Lady Gaga, shares writing tips, technique and all the things!!
Send us Fan MailJustin Tranter is one of the most successful pop songwriters of our time.Tranter has co-written with Julia Michaels, and written songs for artists such as Britney Spears, Gwen Stefani, Linkin Park, Kelly Clarkson, Selena Gomez, Justin Bieber, DNCE, Kesha, Imagine Dragons, Fifth Harmony, 5 Seconds of Summer, Ariana Grande, Lady Gaga, Bea Miller, Demi Lovato, Dua Lipa, Måneskin, and
Guitar teacher to the stars Ellen Britton on How not to suck
Send us Fan MailEllen Britton is an amazing guitarist and songwriter who has toured with many huge acts and appeared on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Night with Conan O’Brien, The View, The Rosie O’Donnell Show, and The Today Show. As a teacher, she has worked with Brandi Clark, Pam Tillis, Mickey Guyton, Carly Pearce, Little Big Town and so many more.On this episode, Ellen talks about the
Chris DuBois: Hit songwriter and publisher shares writing strategies, Song outlines, inspiration and music biz
Send us Fan Mail Chris DuBois is a songwriter and music publisher based out of Nashville. He is co-owner of Sea Gayle Music with business partners Brad Paisley and Frank Rogers. Sea Gayle is one of the most successful independent publishing companies in all of music. In 2010 and 2011, Sea Gayle was named ASCAP Country Publisher of the Year. It was the first time since 1982 that an independent pu
Charlie Worsham: Writing great lyrics, playing your best guitar and being vulnerable and saying yes!!
Send us Fan MailCharlie Worsham won the ACM award for best acoustic guitar payer in 2022, is signed to Warner Bros. and is a master session player, multi instrumentalist, songwriter and tours with Dierks Bently.In this episode, Charlie shares his journey of moving to Nashville, getting a record deal, and being a side man for major acts. He shares the power of asking for help, and following the ne
Hit songwriter Jason Blume on Writing unforgettable melodies, techniques from the hits and creating your own luck
Send us Fan MailMy guest today is hit songwriter Jason Blume. He was Brittany Spear's first co-writer and has gone on to have more than 50 million album sales with singles on Billboard’s pop , country and R&B charts with songs recorded by Britney Spears, the backstreet boys, the oak ridge boys, K-pop and J-pop artists and many more. His songs have appeared on Emmy winning shows and you
Ruby Rose Fox: Performance anxiety, how to handle it and how to connect with your audience
Send us Fan MailMulti award winning singer/songwriter Ruby Rose Fox shares her new app for musicians called Muscle music . Ruby has taught at Yale and Emerson and shares her techniques to help you understand the mechanisms that drive anxiety so you can learn to live in a dynamic body that unconsciously dysregulates for our safety and survival. Instead of pushing away anxiety we accept it, unders
Sam Robbins: Finding your unique sound as a singer, how to hit that high note, making a great living as a singer/songwriter
Send us Fan MailSam Robbins is an award winning singer/songwriter who recently won the Kerville Folk festival and appeared on "The Voice". Today, Sam plays three of his original songs and breaks down the process.Episode take aways:Great advice on finding your unique sounds as a singer: sing like you talk How to hit that high note: Yell the note, then blend it with your singing voice Cho
The Healing power of songwriting and the power of vulnerability with music therapists Suzanne Hanser and Heather Woods
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I talk with Dr. Suzanne Hanser. Founding Chair Emerita and Professor of Music Therapy at Berklee College of Music. Suzanne is President of the International Association for Music & Medicine and Past President of the World Federation for Music Therapy and the American Music Therapy Association. She teaches a course for Berklee Online, Music Therapy Techniques f
Singer Songwriter Jesse Ruben: Performance technique, his favorite chords and Creative PR
Send us Fan MailJesse Ruben is a Singer songwriter and a master performer. In this episode, he shares performance techniques, how to connect with your audience, his favorite chords and advocating for yourself and finding innovative ways to get your music out there and so much more:Writing songs that people reach for, that effect their lives.What happens when your music is in service of the world.
Swedish artist Matilda Gratte (Elma) on touring with Ed Sheeran and Zara Larson, writing great songs with common chords and being true to yourself
Send us Fan MailMatilda Gratte is one of my unforgettable former students from Sweden. She tours with Zara Larson and Ed Sheeran as a back ground singer and is an emerging singer/songwriter herself.In this episode, we talk about writing great melodies over common chords, adding tensions to those chords, touring with artists, and being true to yourself as an artist.She is an amazing artist.Matild
N.Y.U. Professor and artist Mike Errico on his new book, writers block, the power of "we" in a song, being yourself and so much more
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I talk with singer songwriter and Tisch Professor Mike Errico on:Writers blockThe power of “We” for songwriters and how it makes your listen feel seenMission songsSongwriting promptsThe importance of journalingDaily writing practiceRewritingFinding the sweet spot for the best key for your songBeing yourselfMike Errico is a New York-based recording artist, writer, a
Ken Yates Part 2: Breaking down his guitar secrets
Send us Fan MailBack for more in part 2:Ken Yates has gained a reputation as one of his country’s brightest rising singer-songwriters. The winner of two Canadian Folk Music Awards for Songwriter of the Year and New Artist of the Year. Yates supported Passenger on their tour across North America and in Europe in 2020, and has shared stages with Ryan McMullan, Jenn Grant, and many others.He doesn’t
Lewberger member and Emmy winning songwriter Hughie Stonefish on how Improv can help your songwriting
Send us Fan MailOn this week’s episode, I have Hughie Stonefish on the show. Hughie is a member of the comedy act Lewberger and won an Emmy for best song written with Jason Alexander from Seinfeld. Hughie talks about how he using music theory, rhyme and improv in his songwriting.Here's the link to join my membership:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/scarlet.keys/membershiphttps://www.scarletkeys.c
Award winning folk artist Ken Yates shares the song he wrote that John Mayer wished he had written and writing great guitar parts
Send us Fan MailKen Yates has gained a reputation as one of his country’s brightest rising singer-songwriters. The winner of two Canadian Folk Music Awards for Songwriter of the Year and New Artist of the Year. Yates supported Passenger on their tour across North America and in Europe in 2020, and has shared stages with Ryan McMullan, Jenn Grant, and many others.He doesn’t like bar chordsIn this
Hugh Prestwood - Three time Grammy nominated hit writer on not cowriting, the power of the truth, perfect rhymes and so much more
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, I talk with legendary master songwriter Hugh Prestwood about his craft and break down two of his masterpiece songs "The Song Remembers When" and "Ghost in this House".Show highlights: Writing alone and how for some writers, co-writing causes anxiety and doesn't allow you to do your best work. He likens cowriting to a painter handing anothe
Lori McKenna: Grammy winning songwriter and Americana folk artist on the power of mumbling as lyric process and making your last chorus the firework finale of your song!
Send us Fan MailMulti grammy award winning songwriter Lori McKenna. Lori is an American folk, Americana, and country music singer-songwriter. In 2016, she won a grammy for Best Country Song "Girl Crush" performed by Little Big Town. In 2017, she won a grammy for her song “Humble and Kind” recorded by Tim McGraw and most recently was nominated for a grammy for best song “Beautiful No
Wendy Moten and David Santos: Vocal technique and being a master musician
Send us Fan MailWendy Moten Is known affectionately in various industry circles as “The Voice,” the multi-talented Memphis born performer launched her career with a self-titled album that included the ballad “Come In Out Of The Rain,” which reached the Top 5 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and later hit the Top Ten on the UK singles chart. Wendy opened for Michael Bolton and then record
VP and A&R of Warner Nashville B.J. Hill on getting a publishing deal, what he looks for in a writer and a hit song
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, VP and A&R of Warner Bros. Nashville B.J. Hill, shared music biz gold! He talked about what he looks for in a writer he signs to a publishing deal, what he looks for in a song and nuances in lyric writing that he feels takes a song over the edge and onto the radio.He plays two of his favorite songs and talks about why he loves them. He shares a number 1 song
Artist Rob Giles: Playing with Andy Summers,The freedom of the boundaries of craft, dreaming the right dream....
Send us Fan MailRob Giles is a singer-songwriter known for his solo work, along with working with Andy Summers of the Police and the band The Rescues. He pivoted to film and television writing in 2015 when he sold two spec scripts to Warner Bros. Warner Bros also developed two shows with the CW in 2016 and 2017.This was such an inspiring and honest conversation touching on sobriety, therapy and wo
Jeff Franzel: Sinatra's piano player turned hit writer on Making your melody empathize with your lyrics, new chords for bridges
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Jeff walks us through one of his songs and how he makes melodic decisions.Show take aways:How to evolve your melodyFocus to the relationship between chords and melodySecondary Dominant can be great chords for the bridgeCreate hooks both in the melody and piano partFocus on the song, not the businesshttp://jefffranzel.comhttps://www.scarletkeys.comThe show's t
Singer Songwriter Liz Longley on how to build super fans, your mailing list, book yourself in venues and the prosody of vocal dynamics and how she writes a song.
Send us Fan MailLiz Longley is a singer/songwriter who became the #4 most funded solo female musician in Kickstarter history - a story covered by Billboard Magazine. We talk about the power of a devoted fan base, building super fans, how important an email list is, booking venues and she performs her song "Fine" off of her new album "Funeral for my Past" and walks us through he
This is your brain on songwriting with Neuroscientist and author Dr. Daniel Levitin
Send us Fan MailThis week, I talk with Neuroscientist and best selling author of the book "This is your Brain on Music". Why we feel better when we hear sad songs, how certain compositional decisions affect the brain of the listener and so much more.https://www.scarletkeys.comhttp://daniellevitin.comThis episode was mixed by Peter Sykes:https://www.petersykesmusic.com"The Craft of
Songwriter/producer Bendik Møller: Finding your sound, working with Salem Ilese, and Creative Bravery
Send us Fan MailThis week, I talk with Norwegian born L.A. based hit songwriter and producer about how he found his unique voice as a writer and a producer. Creative Bravery and being yourself in a wold that wants you to follow the trend and writing with and producing artist Salem Ilese.https://www.scarletkeys.comhttp://www.bendikmoller.comThis episode was mixed by Peter Sykes:https://www.peters
Professor Pat Pattison: The power of phrasing
Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Pat walks us through several songs demonstrating the powerful effect of melodic phrasing and how it can transform your songwriting. He also breaks down one of his original songs to demonstrate the before and after he changes the phrasing.https://www.patpattison.comhttps://www.scarletkeys.comThe final version of "Pieces" was arranged by: David Bawiec htt
Sally Taylor: Growing up in a house with James Taylor and Carly Simon and the power of Metaphor and collaborating with the muse
Send us Fan MailIn this episode I talk with singer/songwriter Sally Taylor about writing the music first, what she learned about writing from growing up with two of the most popular artists of our time and the power of metaphor. She shares her unbelievably inspiring brain child Consenses and how it can be so helpful to songwriters.Find Sally Taylor:https://consenses.orgScarlet's book on song
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