- I look great in this underwear.
- I'm a nice guy.
- I know what I am talking about
- I know what I am doing when I song write.
You name it. We as human beings can say anything: so it is important to cite our sources from time to time. So, as shown above: straight from the horse's mouth:
Paul Simon on Subconscious Writing: 29:44
Additionally, it is a different thing altogether though to be a student: and to not just be a student, but to realize that we are never a master. We are always the student. We have much to learn: always.
I have much to learn about songwriting, so I do research and I study. I have for years. I continue to.
I am a student. I love to learn.
We should treat each other as someone worth listening to—because I can guarantee you: no matter the individual, if you remain open, you will learn something from them: profound to the mundane.
I have a friend who's wife tells him that he is a shark.
What she means by that is, he must keep moving so that water flows through his creative gills, so that he may breath and stay alive. I understand what she means.
I too must constantly be moving, whether it is intellectually, creatively, physically, or any other type of movement you can think of, whether in the abstract sense or in the real real true true.
In one of the more poignant spots in this interview that took place in 1986, Mr. Simon talks about marketing—and how musicians primarily should be busy making music. It is unfortunate that in 2021, the trend of musicians is very much tilted towards marketing themselves. While there is nothing wrong with marketing per se, there is when it is 80% marketing and 20% self-reflection, creating, study, craft, practice, history, reading, poetry, listening, and so forth. We as artists must be mindful of this. If we do not remain mindful, we become out of balance—perhaps with ratios just described—but in other matters as well—some of which are far more detrimental, or any number of degrees proceeding such.
FOR SONGWRITERS, A FEW (but not exclusive) USEFUL TIMESTAMPS:
- 22:00 - Technique
- 22:38 - Interests and Technique
- 26:45 - 12 Notes of the Chromatic Scale
- 27:45 - Instruments and their Importance in Creativity
- 28:00 - Rhythmic Writing vs. Melodic Writing
- 29:44 - Subconscious Writing
Another book that I own that has been invaluable to me is "Songwriters on Songwriting" by Paul Zollo.
This whole interview is a blessing to watch, as is that book just mentioned. We learn from the kindness of those who share.
Lots of love y'all!
I'm heading to the store to pick up some gardening supplies.
- Mike
WHO IS MIKE VITALE?
I am a storyteller, singer, songwriter, music producer, traveling musician, Jungian dream analyst, all-around curious fellow (Spiritual, Mathematical Historical, Scientific), Taoist, and much much more, based out of Los Angeles, California. I’m constantly releasing new music, in all sorts of different genres. You can listen to me below, on Spotify:
