If you are reading this post, it means you’re at the very least interested in the guitar and music. This is good.

Music is a mystery. The deliberate organization of sound waves into something that can stir your soul is one of the things that’s great about being alive. Taking that music and adding lyrics is one of the highest art forms possible as a human. Mozart, Beethoven, Bach… all of those guys understood the marriage of music and words.

Think about your favorite songs, what is it that you like the most about them? The lyrics? The vibe? The music? The combination?

I challenge all of you to start writing your own songs using simple chords. All you have to do is strum a steady beat and start singing. Write down the words that come out. Then re-write them and change them, then change the chords that you play. You’ll discover a way to express how you feel, and someone just might be moved by it.

It’s not really enough to just sit around and practice playing the guitar. You gotta make music your own, learn from the artists that have touched you, and then try to do them one better. You can. So can I.

Warning: it’s addicting, takes an insane amount of work, dedication, persistence, and the ability to handle harsh criticism.

But that’s how you know it’s worth doing. Your soul needs exercise. Go write a song.

Much Respect,
The Musician’s Toolbox