POINTERS FOR THE JOB SEARCH
Without being overly pushy, try to get your
songs heard by other writers and pub-
lishers. Remember though, while you might have
great potential, it is more likely you
still need to hone your craft. There are many
writers who have success in getting
songs recorded who are without publishing
deals. Signing an unproven writer is a big
risk. Be humble and grateful for any meeting,
criticism, or help you receive. These are
people you potentially want to work with. Ask
writers you admire if they would like
to co-write with you. This is a great way to
get to know people in the business and
improve your writing skills. Do not be
discouraged if you are turned down, because it
may simply mean the writer has his schedule
filled, or that he doesn't want to start
with a new writer. Find someone else to ask
until you get a "yes."
WILL JENNINGS, SONGWRITER,
COMPOSER
East Texas native Will Jennings' lifelong love
of music began in his childhood
through the traditional musical forms of the
South: blues, country, and gospel. His
first instrument was the trombone, but after
being exposed to jazz in his teen years,
he switched to the guitar. The guitar meshed
naturally with Jennings' gift for writing
poetry, forming the beginning of his
songwriting career. Eventually, he earned a
CASE STUDY:
THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT THIS
JOB:
"You never know what's going to
happen."--WJ
"Rejection--we get many more songs not cut,
than cut. Many of them
are as dear to us as the ones that do get cut,
so it's hard to stay positive
and excited. The gap between the creation and
your reward; you have
to take your pleasure in the creation because
it may be years and years
and years before the song gets recorded--it may
never get recorded."--
JK
THE BEST THING ABOUT THIS JOB:
"You never know what's going to
happen."--WJ
"The joy of creation is definitely the best
part of this job. It's a great
job that allows you an incredible lifestyle to
work when you want
to."--JK
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