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Write on Track: A Songwriting Podcast

Music Podcasts

Welcome to Write on Track: A Songwriting Podcast. Host and songwriter Demi Michelle Schwartz invites you on a journey like no other. Demi explores all aspects of being a songwriter, from the craft of songwriting to the music business and beyond. Catch new episodes every other Sunday and tune into all of the unforgettable conversations Demi has with songwriters, artists, radio presenters, music industry professionals, and more. So, what are you waiting for? Kick back and relax, don’t fall flat, and remember, stay “write on track!”

Location:

United States

Description:

Welcome to Write on Track: A Songwriting Podcast. Host and songwriter Demi Michelle Schwartz invites you on a journey like no other. Demi explores all aspects of being a songwriter, from the craft of songwriting to the music business and beyond. Catch new episodes every other Sunday and tune into all of the unforgettable conversations Demi has with songwriters, artists, radio presenters, music industry professionals, and more. So, what are you waiting for? Kick back and relax, don’t fall flat, and remember, stay “write on track!”

Language:

English


Episodes

Announcement - Josie Music Awards Nomination for Write on Track

5/30/2023
Happy Birthday Write on Track! I may have released the trailer on May 19, but since the first episode dropped on May 30, which is also my birthday, I’m considering today its official birthday. I can’t believe the show is two years old. This journey has been magical, and I’m forever grateful for everyone I’ve met so far. To celebrate the show turning two years old, I thought this was the perfect time to share a special announcement on the feed. Earlier this month, I found out Write on Track received a nomination for Media Company of the Year at the Josie Music Awards taking place this October at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville. When I started the podcast, never in my wildest dreams did I think it’d one day be an award-nominated show. I’m so honored, and my heart is full of gratitude. Thank you so much to the JMAs for this recognition and to every single person who was part of Write on Track during its first two years. This is just the beginning! Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:04:52

Episode 118 - Exploring Real Topics Through Songwriting with Robbie Harte

5/28/2023
Choosing to write songs with real topics exploring raw and personal truths takes courage. Finding the strength to share vulnerable messages leads to healing, peace, and self-discovery, and it also shows listeners they’re not alone. I’m honored to invite Robbie Hearte onto the show for an open conversation about exploring real topics through songwriting. The quote for this episode is by Brené Brown: “Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weakness.” During our fantastic conversation, Robbie and I chat about chasing dreams despite personal challenges and barriers, overcoming societal expectations placed on the music industry, writing about raw experiences, sharing a message of hope through songs touching on deeply vulnerable topics, the courage required to write about real and personal truths, empowering ourselves and others through sharing truthful messages, exploring subjects not commonly heard in songs, the comfort that comes with sharing stories in song form, bringing a sense of peace to ourselves and listeners, receiving recognition from music awards, the reality that songs with deeper topics may not be accepted by radio stations, the creative freedom that comes with being independent artists, focusing on the positives and self-discovery while writing vulnerable songs, giving our songs wings and a voice through releasing them, sharing positivity and supporting others chasing their dreams in the music industry, and much more. We also talk about Robbie’s single, “Sticks and Stones.” I’m so grateful Robbie joined me on the show for such an honest conversation I hope inspires you. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:32:10

Episode 117 - Healing from Toxic Situations in Music with Amber Nadine

5/28/2023
The music industry is a magical place where dreams come true, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a darker side. Songwriters experience much more than what’s out in the public for all to see, and sometimes, we face situations that knock us down. I’m honored to welcome Amber Nadine onto the show for a vulnerable conversation about healing from toxic situations in music. The quote for this episode is by Tori Amos: “Healing takes courage, and we all have courage, even if we have to dig a little to find it.” During our honest conversation, Amber and I talk about turning to songwriting to heal and cope, growing from difficult situations, finding the courage to move forward and follow our hearts, embracing our defiance, recognizing when someone has good intentions and when there are red flags, receiving friendly feedback, writing multiple genres of music, holding on to creative freedom, coping from personal attacks beyond a critique of our music, being put down by people whose opinions we value, the vulnerability that comes with being in a creative industry, using our voices as female artists and standing our ground, and so much more. We also explore Amber’s EP, Lilac, which is a finalist for Album of the Year in the ISSA Awards. I’m beyond glad I had Amber on the show for such an open chat, so I hope our conversation gives you a glimpse into a very real aspect of the music industry. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:37:40

Episode 116 - Writing Authentic and Story-Driven Songs with Mary Heather Hickman

5/14/2023
Writing authentically leads to the most genuine and relatable music. Whether a song is rooted in a personal experience or crafted from an imaginary situation, the goal is to write something that feels true and natural. Storytelling is a technique that allows songwriters to draw listeners into the song in an engaging way while expressing a core message and emotion. I couldn’t be more excited to share my conversation with Mary Heather Hickman focusing on writing authentic and story-driven songs. We talk about being songwriters first, writing edgier and story-driven songs, storytelling in both personal and fictional songs, stepping into the shoes of a song’s character while writing, tapping into our imaginations when writing story songs or ones not inspired by personal experiences, achieving authenticity while performing story songs, sharing the inspiration and story behind songs at shows, getting into the character’s mindset while recording story songs, funny studio memories, the beauty of collaboration in the studio, and much more. We also explore Mary Heather’s experience on the Voice, her single, “Small Town Saturday Night,” and genres in the country music industry. I had a blast chatting with Mary Heather, so I hope you love our conversation. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:29:13

Episode 115 - Songwriting and Inspiration with Grace Parry

5/14/2023
Inspiration is a special aspect of songwriters’ lives. From feeling inspired to write songs to maintaining a creative mindset, songwriting and inspiration truly go hand in hand. I’m delighted to welcome Grace Parry onto the show for a conversation centered around this fascinating topic. The quote for this episode is by Thomas Merton: “Art enables us to find ourselves and lose ourselves at the same time.” During our conversation, Grace and I talk about finding and losing ourselves through music, expressing ourselves through songwriting, the origin and beliefs of inspiration, inspiration coming from different places depending on the songwriter, inspiration being rooted in personal experiences and emotions, the relatability of songs to connect with and inspire others, ways to find inspiration, the importance of having an imagination, the benefits of inspiration, inspiration hitting at random moments, and more. We also chat about Grace’s single, “Silly Girl.” I loved having Grace on the show, so I hope our conversation gives you a glimpse into songwriting and inspiration. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:31:22

Episode 114 - Live Music and Touring with Tupelo Lime

4/30/2023
For artists, performing live brings a special energy and unforgettable moments on the stage. So much goes into live music and touring, and I couldn’t be more excited to share my highly entertaining and informative conversation with Gram Phillips, who is known as Tupelo Lime. The quote for this episode is by Dhani Jones: “There’s nothing better than live music. It’s raw energy, and raw energy feeds the soul.” During our fun conversation, Gram and I talk about choosing a stage name, feeling the energy from live music, emotion and the expression of the human experience in all art forms, expressing emotions during shows, making strategic choices to contrast studio recordings with live performances, creating an engaging experience for the audience, rehearsing with a band, the bond between musicians, valuable live music advice and truths, and much more. Having Gram on the show to chat all things live music and touring was a total blast, so I hope you love our conversation. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:31:45

Episode 113 - Vulnerability with Yana

4/30/2023
Vulnerability may be scary, but it’s a key part of an artist’s journey. Being vulnerable requires courage and strength, and embracing this quality leads to authentic music and growth as both an artist and human being. I’m delighted to welcome Yana back to the show for an open and honest conversation about vulnerability. The quote for this episode is by Brené Brown: “Vulnerability is about showing up and being seen. It’s tough to do that when we’re terrified about what people might see or think.” During our conversation, Yana and I talk about being vulnerable as creatives, human emotion at the heart of creativity, the importance of vulnerability as artists and people in general, the subjectivity of the music industry and not worrying about what others may think, releasing relatable music, the power in opening up and sharing vulnerable stories, themes in music showing an artist’s vulnerability through what they choose to write and sing about, writing and releasing music outside our comfort zones, pushing boundaries and taking chances to grow both artistically and on a personal level, vulnerability taking courage, imagery and metaphors in songs, lyrical choices reflecting vulnerability through the way a songwriter decides to write about an emotion or experience, and much more. We also chat about Yana’s debut album, Journey of the Soul. I’m so glad I had Yana back on the show for such an authentic conversation about vulnerability, so I hope you love it. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:31:19

Episode 112 - Accessibility and Disability in the Music Industry with Holly Tuke

4/16/2023
Accessibility and disability in the music industry is a topic close to my heart, so I’m delighted to welcome my friend and fellow pop music fan, Holly Tuke, onto the show for an open and honest chat. I truly hope you walk away from this conversation with a greater understanding of why accessibility is important and a fresh perspective on disability in the music industry. The quote for this episode is by Stevie Wonder: “We need to make every single thing accessible to every single person with a disability.” During our honest conversation, Holly and I talk about the importance of accessibility for everyone, the hard reality that accessibility isn’t the norm, feelings of exclusion, the perception that the entertainment industries should appear picture perfect, creating a space in entertainment for talented individuals with disabilities, the media’s tendency to make a big deal out of someone who’s disabled, the music industry not embracing disability, the lack of disability representation, seeing ability not just disability, refraining from viewing a disabled musician as an inspiration, the absence of songs and stories that’d mean a lot to the disabled community, accessibility in the music industry from the fan standpoint, ways of making music experiences more accessible, artists and their teams taking accessibility into account, the importance of listening to those who are disabled instead of making assumptions or uninformed decisions, accessibility being everyone’s responsibility, and so much more. My conversation with Holly is a vulnerable one, so I hope it gives you a glimpse into accessibility and disability in the music industry and encourages you to play your role in making this wonderful industry inclusive for everyone. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:33:59

Episode 111 - Running a Music Blog with Jess Cambridge

4/16/2023
Music blogs play a massive role in the industry, from giving artists a platform to creating a space for listeners to discover new music. I’m so honored to invite one of my first music industry friends, Jess Cambridge from Fierce & Fabulous Revolution, onto the show for an informative and lighthearted chat about running a music blog. Our conversation covers both the blogger and artist perspectives, so you’re in for a real treat. The quote for this episode is by Lee Odden: “A blog is only as interesting as the interest shown in others.” During our conversation, Jess and I talk about showing interest in others and their work, choosing what content to share on a blog, giving independent artists a platform, pitch emails and what to do and not to do, press releases and EPKs, the artist sharing the story and inspiration behind their song for accuracy purposes while being reviewed, the process of running a music blog, submitting materials to bloggers in advance, remembering to be respectful, the importance of artists sharing their opportunities when someone gives them a platform, consistency and quality, target audience, and more. My conversation with Jess gives such an authentic glimpse into music blogs, and it’s full of priceless gems when it comes to pitching bloggers and other industry professionals. I had the best time having Jess on the show, so I hope you love listening. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:34:06

Episode 110 - The Music Production Process with Bob McCutcheon

4/2/2023
The music production process from songwriting to mastering is a magical one. I couldn’t feel more delighted to welcome my producer, Bob McCutcheon, onto the show for a fantastic conversation all about music production. We always have a blast in the studio, so expect our chat to be fun, lighthearted, and insightful. The quote for this episode is by Scott Borchetta: “The reality of recording, it’s one of the most intimate things that an artist ever does because if you do it right, you’re exposing yourself, and you’re expressing your emotions, and those are the key attributes to a big record that really connect with people.” During our amazing conversation, Bob and I talk about authentic music expressing the artist’s emotions, the producer’s job to interpret what the artist feels and their vision for the song, taking a collaborative approach to production, the songwriting process and key aspects to solidify before recording, the producer’s possible roles during the songwriting stage, choosing chords that support the melody and reflect the song’s emotion, giving attention to key and tempo, arranging a song from structure to instrumentation, determining the genre and feel of the song, bringing out emotion through instrumentation choices, the importance of reference tracks, the individual roles in the recording studio, tracking digital and live instruments, planning and understanding the song’s arc to determine where to add instruments or pull back, focusing on transitions, comping vocals and other instruments, layering vocals, the mixing process, understanding the role each aspect of the song plays in the arrangement and mixing accordingly, finding a balance and a place for everything in the song, doing tuning and timing edits to clean up the tracks, the artist sharing mix notes with the producer, the final polish with mastering and what this step entails, and much more. I’m so glad Bob joined me on the show for such an outstanding discussion about the music production process, so I hope you find it interesting and informative. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:34:44

Episode 109 - The Life of an Outlaw Country Artist with James Dunne

4/2/2023
Outlaw country explores raw truths through the power of authenticity and storytelling and gives a voice to those not living the American dream. This subgenre is growing, and there’s no better way to chat about it than with UK-based outlaw country artist James Dunne. The quote for this episode is by Willie Nelson: “We are the same. There is no difference anywhere in the world. People are people. They laugh, cry, feel, and love, and music seems to be the common denomination that brings us all together. Music cuts through all boundaries and goes right to the soul.” During my conversation with James, we talk about the outlaw country genre, storytelling in music, writing authentically, music defying boundaries, emotions being at the heart of music, songwriters and artists writing and singing songs they relate to and believe in, the importance of realism, embracing moments of authentic inspiration, writing metaphorical lyrics, and more. We also chat about James’ single, “Black Train,” and his upcoming EP with the same title. My conversation with James is inspiring and enlightening, so I hope you love it. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:29:03

Episode 108 - Hope and Faith with Jennifer Alvarado

3/19/2023
I couldn’t feel more honored and blessed to welcome Jennifer Alvarado onto the show. Our powerful conversation surrounding hope and faith speaks for itself, so sit back, relax, and open your heart and mind while you listen. No matter who you are or where you are in the world, this conversation has something that’ll resonate with you in the way you need it most. The quote for this episode is by Christine Caine: “It’s only people willing to look foolish that have ever achieved anything for the Kingdom of God.” During our inspiring conversation, Jennifer and I chat about writing contemporary Christian music, interpreting contemporary Christian music and the belief the songs are conversations and prayers, the theme of hope, using our songwriting gift to give others hope and comfort that they’re not alone, blending genres in our music and reasons for doing so, the magic of co-writing, putting ourselves in others’ shoes and connecting through music, giving a voice to the voiceless, overcoming the idea of perfectionism, the beauty in flaws, and much more. I’m so blessed I had the opportunity to have Jennifer on the show. Our conversation inspired and moved me, so I truly hope you love it. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:32:44

Episode 107 - Creating and Embracing Opportunities with Savannah Jaine

3/19/2023
Creating and embracing opportunities is essential for an artist’s success. Keeping an open mind leads to new experiences and chances to grow and evolve. I’m delighted to welcome Savannah Jaine onto the show for a fantastic conversation surrounding opportunities. The quote for this episode is by Milton Berle: “If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.” During our conversation, Savannah and I talk about creating opportunities rather than waiting around, putting in the work, the life of a contract vocalist, the reality of being a performer and the physical side of singing, developing problem solving skills and adapting when necessary, stress under pressure, the journey of a traveling musician, taking chances and reaching out for opportunities, finding ways of developing mutually-beneficial relationships, recognizing that music is a service being offered, and much more. Also, we chat about Savannah’s single, “I Win Again” and her wild pandemic cruise story. My conversation with Savannah is both informational and entertaining, so I hope you love it. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:25:02

Episode 106 - All About Instrumental Music with David Rosen

3/5/2023
The life of an instrumental music composer is a fascinating one. From capturing emotions and concepts without words to collaborating with filmmakers, there’s so much to explore. I’m honored to share an outstanding conversation with David Rosen all about instrumental music. The quote for this episode is by Aubertine Woodward Moore: “Wonderful is the power of instrumental music, absolute music without words, that may convey impressions, deep and lasting, no words could give.” During our conversation, David and I chat about the life of an instrumental composer, painting a picture and telling a story through instrumental music, conveying emotions without using words, scoring instrumental music for film and TV, collaborating with filmmakers, composing instrumental albums, focusing on concepts for instrumental projects, giving thought to the emotion and colors of the musical landscape in commercial genres, titling instrumental music, the point that instrumental music leaves room for interpretation, the importance of loving our own music, the desire to see our music grow, producing music videos for instrumental music, and much more. I loved having David on the show for such a fascinating conversation, so I hope you enjoy getting a glimpse into the world of instrumental music. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:29:07

Episode 105 - Celebrating the Journey of Women in Music with Tamara Stewart

3/5/2023
March is Women’s History Month, so there’s no better time to share an inspiring conversation with Tamara Stewart all about celebrating the journey of women in music. The quote for this episode is by Serena Williams: “The success of every woman should be the inspiration to another. We should raise each other up. Make sure you’re very courageous, be strong, be extremely kind, and above all, be humble.” During our conversation, Tamara and I talk about women supporting women in the music industry, being inspired by other women’s successes, spreading love and helping others, the courage required to be songwriters and women in music, writing authentically, the connection through stories in music, healing through the creative arts, the idea that nothing is wasted, finding the strength to use our voices and make choices that honor what we believe, and much more. Also, we chat about Tamara’s single, “Mean Girl,” and her podcast series, Heal My Story. My conversation with Tamara is truly powerful, and I hope you love it. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:33:07

Episode 104 - Music and Well-Being with Gareth Lewis

2/19/2023
As songwriters, maintaining good mental health is key for both our personal and professional lives. Though our craft can allow us to heal and process emotions, we face challenges from anxiety, doubts, music industry pressures, and more. I’m honored to share an inspiring conversation with Gareth Lewis about music and well-being. The quote for this episode is by Dan Millman: “You don’t have to control your thoughts. You just have to stop letting them control you.” During our genuine conversation, Gareth and I chat about music expressing emotions and the human condition, not letting negative thoughts take control, anxiety and doubts restricting creativity, writing songs when in the best place to do so, songwriting and healing, writing from an authentic place, the pressure from music industry expectations, and more. Also, we wrap up by talking about Gareth’s music. Our conversation is open and honest, so I hope it inspires you and shines a light on songwriting and mentle health. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:27:00

Episode 103 - Artistic Talent vs Craft with Lyle Oliver

2/19/2023
When it comes to any kind of art, there’s a blurred line between talent and craft. Both go hand in hand, but they’re also different in many ways. Artistic talent and developing craft play massive roles in the life of a songwriter and artist. I’m delighted to share an outstanding conversation with Lyle Oliver that explores this fascinating topic. The quote for this episode is by Chris Martin: “For people who write songs, it’s a gift you’re given. You become good at the craft, but you’re given the gift.” During our insightful conversation, Lyle and I talk about being born with an artistic talent, developing skills that enhance the natural talent, the difference between artistic talent and technical skill, the importance of tapping into the imagination and connecting to music emotionally, improving key songwriting skills, remaining authentic while only using the tools and techniques needed for each individual song, the philosophy that less is more in songwriting, being unique as a songwriter, the difference between talent and craft in terms of songwriters and cover artists, the meaning of artistry, embracing moments of inspiration, advice for finding an artist voice, and more. Also, we wrap up by chatting about Lyle’s new music. This conversation is super unique and interesting, and I hope it gives you a glimpse into the difference between artistic talent and craft. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:26:51

Episode 102 - Appreciation with Emma Svensson

2/5/2023
Appreciation is truly beautiful. As artists, we have so much to appreciate both in our music careers and personal lives. I’m so honored to share an honest and vulnerable conversation with Emma Svensson all about appreciation. The quote for this episode is by Amelia Earhart: “The more one does and sees and feels, the more one is able to do, and the more genuine may be one’s appreciation of fundamental things like home, and love, and understanding companionship.” Emma and I explore appreciation like never before. We talk about the importance of appreciation in the music industry, saying thank you, building genuine connections and mutual appreciation, being appreciative of friends, family, and supporters, appreciating the gift of music, and more. We also chat about Emma’s single, “Runs in the Family.” I’m so glad Emma joined me on the show for such an authentic conversation, and I hope it inspires you to show more appreciation in your life. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:27:49

Episode 101 - Taking Songs to the Finish Line with Mitchell Dyer

2/5/2023
Taking songs to the finish line may be one of the most common challenges for songwriters. Thankfully, there are many tips and tricks to turn sparks of inspiration and song fragments into completed and polished gems of music. I’m so excited to welcome Mitchell Dyer onto the show to explore how to take songs to the finish line. Mitchell and I discuss the key point that everything starts with a great song, focusing on authenticity, taking fresh spins on old ideas, the emotional hook and heart of the song, crafting lyrics that are both personal and universal, ways to eliminate songwriter’s block, benefits of story boarding before writing lyrics, the beauty of prosody, getting feedback from both musicians and listeners, analyzing favorite and popular songs to discover what techniques work and resonate, writing a little each day, creating a playlist of inspiring songs, taking the pressure off, enjoying the songwriting process, and much more. My conversation with Mitchell inspired me, so I hope it inspires you and gives you golden advice for finishing fantastic songs. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:32:41

Episode 100 - Celebrating 100 Episodes of Write on Track with My Friends from Around the World

2/5/2023
Wow, 100 episodes of Write on Track! I’m so grateful for my journey hosting this show so far. All of my guests have been fabulous and inspiring. This show has given me the chance to make new friends in all areas of the music industry. I’ve connected with such kind and talented people behind the scenes while booking episodes, and the network this show has given me is truly special. I’m delighted to celebrate 100 episodes of the show with many of my friends from around the world who have all been guests during the first 100 episodes. The quote for this episode is by Nelson Mandela: “Remember to celebrate milestones as you prepare for the road ahead.” Hitting 100 episodes is a huge milestone, so I’m blessed so many previous guests joined me to celebrate. Get ready to hear lovely messages from Allison Leah, Daniel Nesci, Celine Ellis, Rachel Sellick from Scarlet River PR, Emilia Quinn, Linda Conway from Voice of A Woman, Eddie Davis from Heart of Indie Radio, Chris West from the Tripwire, Ronnie and Brian from Outside the Circle, Cody Murphy from Weekdays with Murph, Jess Minneci, Lindsey Farrow, Matteson Gregory, Yana, and Gilad Paz. This episode is very special to me, so I hope you have fun celebrating 100 episodes of Write on Track. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”

Duration:00:24:19