Songwriter/producer/character/storyteller “Cowboy” Jack Clement has ten tips for songwriters posted in the kitchen of his studio.
Jack produced records for Waylon Jennings, Townes Van Zandt, U2 and wrote songs recorded by George Jones, Johnny Cash, and Elvis Presley.
He passed away in 2013, but Cowboy Jack’s influence lives on in the songs, the recordings, and in this list of tips for songwriters.
Me and the band will be playing songs we wrote at Love and War in Texas in Plano on Friday night. A lot of songs have been performed at L&W, so here’s the advice for songwriters from the legendary Cowboy Jack Clement that I have taken to heart:
Pineapple Jack Clement’s Ten Tips For Songwriters:
- Remember that experts are often wrong.
- Experts tend to be narrow and overly opinionated.
- Experts don’t buy records.
- There’s nothing wrong with waltzes if they’re played right.
- A good song gets better with age.
- Reveal some of yourself with most of your songs.
- Don’t get stuck on one song too long. Work on other songs as you go.
- Learn to grow from setbacks, delays, and getting your feelings hurt.
- Write the worst song you can think of.
- Write the best song you can think of.