b'FEATURESUCCESSFUL SONGWRITINGON THE RECORDWhats your top tip for aspiring songwriters to become successful?Every songwriter wants to know what they should be doing to advance their careers.asked two members of BMIs Creative team and Rita Campbell for their top tips. Heres what they said:Mary Nelly Russe, NY Creative (Latin), bmi.comI think it really comes down to: dont copyand fuse styles, twist, experiment. Also, others, dont imitate. Look for your ownlisten to other peoples feedback to help voice, your own words, your own story,you grow. Know the difference between your own sound. Its ok to have influencesnegative and positive criticism and from admiring other songs, but so manydedicate time into creating something that songwriters want to be like one artistmoves you, that represents you, that you or another and they end up being justare proud to call your own. Dont settle, a copy of the original. There is nothingbe meticulous and trust in you. When you more refreshing than to hear a song thatbelieve in your work, those energies are is different and crafted with soul. Dont becaptured in recordings and transmitted afraid to get together with other writerswhen played. Spread the right ones.Tim Pattison, NY Creative (Pop), bmi.comThe thing I stress the most for aspiring songwriters is to have patience, which isnt what they wantRita Campbell, UK,Songwriterto hear. But it really is taking the time to hone your craft and evolve as aMy best advice to anyone who wants songwriter. Work with other peopleto become a successful songwriter and figure out what your strengths areis to co-write. Write with as many in writing sessions and work outsidedifferent people, in as many different your comfort zone to allow for growth. genres as you can. Dont be precious Also, keep in mind that this is a job.with your songs because you need to Yes, while its exciting and creative,let people hear your work. The more it is still a job and you have to putyou do it and the more people you in hard work and be professionalwrite with, the better you become. in order to be successful. BeingIf youre insular and you write alone a songwriter is owning your ownbecause you want to keep everything business, and I believe that meansto yourself, you dont grow.learning about the things that make up the business of songwriting. TheWhen youre co-writing with other more informed you are about PROs,people, you share their experiences publishers, record labels and howand their knowledge, just by chatting they relate to you as a songwriter -about life.the better.34 SEPTEMBER 2019 HEYMUSIC.COM 35'