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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Songwriters Playground summary
Barbara L. Jordan
Brief summary
Songwriters Playground by Barbara L. Jordan is a practical guide that offers tips and exercises to help songwriters develop their craft. It provides valuable insights into the art of songwriting and inspires creativity.
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Table of Contents
Songwriters Playground
Summary of key ideas
Exploring the Creative Process
In Songwriters Playground, Barbara L. Jordan invites us to embark on a journey through the creative process of songwriting. She begins by emphasizing the importance of playfulness and curiosity in the creative process, encouraging us to let go of our inhibitions and embrace our inner child. Jordan believes that the best songs are born from a place of authenticity, and her exercises are designed to help us tap into our unique perspectives and experiences.
Jordan introduces us to the concept of the 'Songwriter's Playground', a metaphorical space where we can freely explore our creativity. Within this space, we are encouraged to experiment with different songwriting tools and techniques, such as free writing, word association, and mind mapping. By doing so, we can uncover new lyrical ideas, melodies, and song structures that we might not have thought of otherwise.
Unleashing Creativity
As we dive deeper into Songwriters Playground, Jordan presents us with a series of exercises aimed at unleashing our creative potential. These exercises are designed to help us break free from creative blocks, challenge our assumptions, and think outside the box. For example, she encourages us to write a song using only one-syllable words, or to compose a melody based on a random sequence of numbers.
Jordan also emphasizes the importance of observation and introspection in the songwriting process. She prompts us to pay attention to the world around us, mining our everyday experiences and emotions for lyrical inspiration. By doing so, we can infuse our songs with a sense of authenticity and relatability, making them more compelling to our audience.
Developing Songwriting Skills
In the latter part of the book, Jordan focuses on more technical aspects of songwriting, such as melody, harmony, rhythm, and form. She provides us with exercises and prompts to help us develop our skills in each of these areas. For example, she suggests experimenting with different chord progressions, or creating a melody based on a specific emotional theme.
Jordan also discusses the importance of collaboration in songwriting. She encourages us to seek out other musicians and songwriters to share our ideas and perspectives, recognizing that the creative process can be greatly enriched by working with others. She provides exercises to help us navigate the collaborative process, such as co-writing a song with a partner or giving and receiving constructive feedback.
Cultivating a Songwriter's Mindset
In conclusion, Songwriters Playground is not just a book of exercises, but a guide to cultivating a songwriter's mindset. Jordan encourages us to approach songwriting with a sense of curiosity, openness, and resilience. She reminds us that creativity is a journey, not a destination, and that every song we write is an opportunity for growth and self-expression.
By the end of the book, we are equipped with a toolbox of songwriting techniques, a deeper understanding of the creative process, and a newfound sense of confidence in our abilities as songwriters. Whether we are beginners or seasoned professionals, Songwriters Playground inspires us to approach our craft with a sense of playfulness and joy, unlocking our full creative potential along the way.
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What is Songwriters Playground about?
Songwriters Playground by Barbara L. Jordan is a hands-on guide for aspiring songwriters. It provides exercises, prompts, and insights to help you tap into your creativity and develop your songwriting skills. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned songwriter, this book offers a fun and practical approach to crafting compelling songs.
Songwriters Playground Review
Songwriters Playground by Barbara L. Jordan (2012) is a delightful dive into the world of music creation, making it a worthwhile read for anyone interested in songwriting. Here’s why this book stands out:
- Featuring insights from renowned songwriters, it offers valuable lessons and techniques to inspire and improve your songwriting skills.
- The book explores the creative process of songwriting in a way that is both informative and engaging, allowing readers to learn and be entertained simultaneously.
- With its emphasis on creativity and expression, it captivates readers by showcasing the magic and artistry behind crafting memorable songs.
Who should read Songwriters Playground?
Aspiring songwriters looking to enhance their creativity and skillset
Experienced musicians seeking new techniques and inspiration for songwriting
Individuals interested in exploring the art and craft of songwriting
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Book summaries like Songwriters Playground
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Songwriters Playground FAQs
What is the main message of Songwriters Playground?
The book conveys the joy and creativity found in songwriting.
How long does it take to read Songwriters Playground?
Reading time varies, but you can enjoy the Blinkist summary in a short time.
Is Songwriters Playground a good book? Is it worth reading?
Songwriters Playground is a must-read for music enthusiasts, offering insights and inspiration in a concise format.
Who is the author of Songwriters Playground?
Barbara L. Jordan is the author of Songwriters Playground.
What to read after Songwriters Playground?
If you're wondering what to read next after Songwriters Playground, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- Where Good Ideas Come From by Steven Johnson
- The Art Of Non-Conformity by Chris Guillebeau
- A Whole New Mind by Daniel H. Pink
- Theory U by C. Otto Scharmer
- The Design of Everyday Things by Donald A. Norman
- The Innovator ’s Dilemma# by Clayton M. Christensen
- The War of Art by Steven Pressfield
- Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
- Think Like a Freak by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
- The Laws of Simplicity by John Maeda