In Mastering Melody Writing by Clay Mills and Bill O’Hanlon, active listening is promoted as a way to develop your skills as a songwriter. And it makes a lot of sense.
There’s a difference between listening to a song because you enjoy it and listening to figure out why it works.
What makes that chorus stick in your head? Why does that melody feel so natural? What makes a particular hook memorable? How does the tempo affect the mood? What role do the instruments play in creating the feel of the song?
Sometimes it’s a clever turn of phrase. Sometimes it’s a melody that seems to get under your skin. Sometimes it’s the way a singer delivers a single line that makes you feel something you didn’t expect.
I’m not listening to steal someone else’s song. I’m listening to understand the choices that make a song work and to gather ideas I can use in my own writing.
And the great thing is, you can do this anywhere. In the car. At home. While listening to the radio or checking out a new artist.
So, when you see me driving around with the music turned up, I might look like I’m just enjoying the ride.
But I’m working on my songwriting.
At least, that’s what I’m telling myself. 😂