One of my students recently approached me with a set of thoughtful questions about the songwriting process. She was eager to learn more about how songs come together, from the first spark of an idea to the final product. I’m incredibly proud of the depth and care she put into crafting this interview, filled with valuable songwriting tips and insights. While much of it is based on my responses, she took the time to shape it into something really special. After we wrapped up, I asked if I could share the final draft on the Descant Music resources page, and she graciously agreed, though she preferred to stay anonymous. This article is a result of her dedication and curiosity, and I couldn’t be prouder of the work she’s done. Thank you for inspiring such a meaningful conversation.
Q: How do you usually start writing a song?
A: Over the years, every possible way a song could emerge has probably happened to me. Being a pianist, I often start by sitting at the keyboard, letting my hands move freely. My improvisational skills have been honed since before I could even speak, creating this effortless connection between my brain and the keys. I’d describe the process as "stream of consciousness," where something resonates, and I capture it. This part is key: recalling improvisations. Practice playing freely, and then try to recreate parts of what you played. Even if it’s not exact, this practice builds a strong foundation.
Another approach I take is starting with a grand idea. Sometimes, I ruminate for days, gathering lyrics and snippets of themes in my head. And then, all at once, everything clicks and the song reveals itself. Whether it’s through playing or mulling over concepts, the magic is in being receptive to inspiration as it comes.
Q: What’s your go-to strategy for overcoming writer’s block?
A: I’ve been fortunate in that I’ve never really experienced writer's block. In fact, I have the opposite problem! My band, Padded Waltz, has an album's worth of music that we still need to learn and perfect. By the time we finish that, I’ll likely have another album’s worth waiting in the wings. I think a key part of avoiding writer's block is staying inspired by not just music, but life itself. Living through experiences keeps the creative well full.
For those who struggle, my advice is to never wait for inspiration—start with small ideas, build habits, and remember that not everything has to be perfect immediately. Progress often comes when you allow yourself to create, even when it doesn’t feel easy.
Q: Do lyrics or melody come first for you?
A: It really depends on the project. With Padded Waltz, I usually come up with lyrics first, and then Jess Breite, our singer, creates her own melodies. Her voice and brain are the best guides for what works melodically, so I let her take the reins on that part. If I do have melody ideas or movement thoughts, I’ll share them, but ultimately, her connection with the melody shapes the song. So, in my case, lyrics come first most of the time.
Q: Can you share an example of how a life experience turned into a song?
A: Absolutely. In my old band, The Love It Band, we had a song called "The Man on the Plane," and it’s based on a real-life experience. I was seated next to a man who was clearly lost in grief over his mother. He talked about his childhood and adulthood as if it was all part of the same moment—this blending of time that told me he had never stopped mourning her. It was impossible to tell whether her passing was recent or decades ago. During the flight, he drank heavily, and his emotions only became more intense.
I was struck by how much this stranger's pain mirrored something universal—how we all carry loss with us, sometimes without ever fully knowing how to cope with it. When he finally fell asleep, I wrote down his words almost verbatim. In the production of the song, we even made the music sound like a plane taking off and landing, framing the experience from start to finish. It was an emotional moment that transformed directly into music.
Q: How do you know when a song is ‘finished’?
A: It’s all about acceptance. I often use the phrase "great enough." If you’re releasing an album that defines your sound as a band, then it should be your best work—within the resources you have, of course. But if you’re recording for personal fulfillment or internal use, then you get to decide where ‘good enough’ is. The key is understanding what your end goal is.
Songs often come out fully formed for me, or at least mostly there. Some, though, might start with just a verse or a chorus, and it could be a long time before the other pieces fall into place. I’ve found that once those missing parts arrive, the rest of the song often writes itself. There are also songs that change and grow after being played live a few times. A live audience shows you what works and what doesn’t, and sometimes you take the song back into the studio for a little revision.
Q: What role does collaboration play in your songwriting process?
A: Collaboration is central, especially between me and Jess. I typically write the music and come up with some lyrics or themes, but then she takes those elements and makes them her own. Her melodies and delivery add a whole new layer to the songs. Our process is very much a partnership, where both of us bring our strengths to the table.
Q: What are some common mistakes new songwriters make?
A: First off, I think it’s important to say that there aren’t really "mistakes" in songwriting. Some new writers create hits straight away, while seasoned musicians might write songs that never see the light of day. There’s room for all approaches.
That being said, one mistake I’ve noticed is that some musicians get stuck in a purist mindset. They want to record their voice and guitar on the first take, with no effects or edits, and call it done. But I believe a recording should last longer than we do as musicians. Make it the best it can be. Even if you want a raw sound, put thought into how that rawness is presented.
Q: How has your songwriting evolved over the years?
A: Over time, I’ve grown more comfortable in my own musical voice. I’ve learned to trust my instincts and focus less on external validation. Now, my approach is more about connecting with emotions on a deeper level, rather than seeking attention or approval. I feel like my ability to convey complex feelings through music has strengthened naturally, simply by being more in tune with myself and the message I want to share.
Q: Can you recommend any tools or apps that assist in songwriting?
A: The simplest but most important tool is the recording app on your phone. Capture everything. You might think you’ll remember that melody or lyric idea after a long day, but it will likely disappear in the chaos of life. Record everything—big ideas, small snippets, whatever comes to mind. It’s crucial to get it down before the distractions of the day take over.
Q: Do you have a specific environment that helps you write better?
A: Honestly, the best environment for me is in my head. If I can be in a space that allows me to stay there—mentally present and unbothered by external demands—that’s where I write best. It’s not so much about the physical environment as it is about being able to get lost in the music and ideas without interruption.
If you're interested in piano, guitar, bass guitar, voice, or songwriting lessons, visit descant-music.com to learn more. At Descant Music, we believe that music is more than just learning notes, it’s about discovering your voice, expressing creativity, and becoming part of a vibrant and supportive community. Our dedicated instructors are passionate about guiding each student through their unique musical journey, helping them connect with their talents and grow as artists. Whether you're just starting or looking to hone your skills, Descant Music offers a welcoming environment where music and creativity thrive.
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