Our 2023 songwriting challenge is to write a song using an unusual mode, or a mode you don’t normally use. For our first episode on this subject, composer and songwriter Jeff Alan Greenway joined us to talk about two specific modes – Dorian and Lydian. Jeff Alan Greenway is a film composer, singer-songwriter, and pianist …
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Organic songwriting with Bill Bartholomew
Bill Bartholomew is a singer/songwriter, musician, podcast and radio host and television journalist based in Providence, RI. He cut his teeth in Brooklyn’s DIY scene, NYC clubs like Mercury Lounge and The Knitting Factory and touring internationally as a solo artist and member of the band silverteeth, before relocating to Providence, RI. It is there that …
Writing in a blues band with Bywater Call
Filled with incredible vocals and musicianship often compared to the Tedeschi Trucks Band, Canadian Americana/Roots band Bywater Call has made their unprecedented mark on the Canadian and international Blues/Roots scene with their brand-new album, “Remain”. From explosive television performances to radio play across the country, their distinctive sound blending Rock, Americana, and Soul is highlighted …
Jerry Sereda on collaborating with Nashville songwriters
Canadian musician Jerry Sereda is a decorated Country artist who can’t help but capture music fans everywhere he goes. With his gripping and energetic live performances, Jerry celebrates his Indigenous heritage by weaving personal stories and experiences into his delightfully catchy songs. Beginning his music career as the winner of a local music contest who …
Angela Saini on developing songs past their initial ideas
Indian-Austrian Canadian country folk-pop artist Angela Saini is all about second chances and empowering others. She uplifts and inspires audiences with sing-alongs and storytelling about courage and finding joy in surprising places. BBC Radio has called the positive and upbeat songstress “massively talented”. Angela is most known for her sunshine-soaked song “Living on the Bright …
Chord Progression Tips with Matt Zaddy
With a sound that seamlessly blends folk-rock and modern soul, there’s something for every music fan to love about singer/songwriter Matt Zaddy. A storyteller at heart, his music is filled with tales of life, love, hardship and redemption. As someone who has shared stages with a diverse array of artists including K’Naan, Francesco Yates, and …
Songwriting Challenge 2022: Listener Songs Volume 4
We continue to receive submissions from our listeners to our songwriting challenge. Thanks to everyone for their contributions! On this bonus listener episode, we feature songs by Andy Vann, Mira Chorik, and Sunny Zaman. We talked about: The Song Talk Meetup Why do you write songs? Send us a message and let us know! Rhythmic …
Alicia Toner: Songwriting with Emotion and Craft
PEI-based artist Alicia Toner has had an explosive year since the release of her sophomore album “Joan”. Alicia brought home a 2022 Canadian Folk Music Award, became the most nominated artist at the Music PEI Awards this year for the project, and received multiple nominations at the East Coast Music Awards as well. Her album …