Songwriting is often regarded as a mystical art form, a calling that few are truly equipped to answer.
It is a discipline that combines creativity, emotion, and technical skill, allowing individuals to express their innermost thoughts and feelings through the universal language of music.
However, in a world saturated with digital content and shifting cultural paradigms, the songwriting landscape is evolving.
Ghanaian musician and songwriter, William Kojo Johnson known by the stage name Stay Jay, expressed his concern about the current standard of songwriting in Ghana’s music industry.
Stay Jay said the art of songwriting is an arduous task, arguing that what most songwriters do currently doesn’t fit the proper description of songwriting.
He opined that just like being in God’s ministry is a calling, songwriting is the same and one must be talented with God’s gift before perfectly excelling in it.
In an exclusive interview with the Vaultz News, Ghanaian artist, Bismark Paapa Amponsah, popularly known as MIB in the entertainment industry has added his voice to Stay Jay’s description of songwriting as a “calling” akin to being in God’s ministry.
In his view, he revealed that songwriting is a combination of both inherent gifts and skills that can be honed.
“While some people may naturally have a talent for songwriting, it still requires dedication, practice, and a willingness to learn and improve.”
MIB
At its core, songwriting is a deeply personal journey. It requires introspection and a willingness to be vulnerable.
Many songwriters draw inspiration from their own experiences, emotions, and observations, crafting lyrics that resonate with listeners on a profound level. While inspiration is essential, the craft of songwriting also demands skill and discipline.
Songwriting requires vulnerability and deep introspection. How do you navigate that emotional depth in your writing, especially in the face of external pressures or expectations?
According to MIB, to navigate emotional depth in songwriting, he prioritizes honesty and authenticity.
“I try to tap into my personal experiences and emotions, and I’m not afraid to be vulnerable. I also remind myself that songwriting is a form of self-expression, and it’s essential to stay true to myself and my artistic vision.”
MIB
With the rise of digital content and social media, songwriting seems to have undergone significant changes.
MIB disclosed that the most notable shifts he has seen in songwriting in Ghana’s music scene include the increased focus on commercial appeal, the rise of Afrobeats and Highlife fusion, and the growing importance of social media presence. “Additionally, there’s been a shift towards more collaborative efforts between artists and producers,” he said.
In the pursuit of commercial success, Bismark narrated that it can significantly influence the quality and depth of songwriting.
He also mentioned that to balance artistic integrity with market demands, artists should stay true to their vision, be authentic, and focus on creating meaningful connections with their audience.
Importance of Nurturing Songwriting
The future of songwriting lies in embracing diverse voices and perspectives. Music has the power to bridge cultural divides and foster understanding among different communities.
By promoting inclusivity in songwriting, artists enrich the musical landscape with a multitude of stories and experiences, ultimately leading to a more vibrant and authentic art form.
MIB commended that to balance technical skill with emotional connection in songwriting, he prioritizes the creative and emotional aspects of songwriting first.
“I focus on crafting meaningful lyrics, melodies, and chord progressions that resonate with me. Then, I refine my work using technical skills like production and editing.”
MIB
As the music industry continues to evolve, supporting independent artists has become increasingly important.
Independent musicians often face significant challenges in gaining visibility and recognition.
By championing their work, whether through social media, local performances, or crowdfunding platforms, it help create a more equitable environment for songwriters to flourish.
According to the musician, in overcoming creative blocks, he tries to change his environment, engage in other creative activities, or collaborate with fellow artists. “I also prioritize self-care, exercise, and meditation to stimulate my creativity,” he added.
He established that songwriting has adapted to the rise of streaming platforms by becoming more focused on creating catchy, memorable hooks and melodies.
While this shift has led to more accessible and commercially successful music, MIB mentioned that “it has also resulted in a homogenization of sound and a lack of depth in some contemporary songs.”
He advised young aspiring songwriters to stay true to themselves, be authentic, and focus on developing their unique voice and style.
“They should also prioritize learning from the greats, studying the craft, and continuously challenging themselves to grow and improve.”
MIB
Songwriting is indeed a calling, one that requires passion, dedication, and a willingness to explore the depths of human experience.
While the landscape of songwriting has changed dramatically in recent years, the essence of this art form remains vital.
In a world where many do not see themselves as songwriters, it is crucial to recognize that anyone taps into their creativity and contributes to the rich tapestry of music that connects all.
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