Music Licensing Costs for Physical Releases: Covers, Samples, and Artwork
You’ve finished recording. The mixes are approved, the album art looks great, and you’re ready to press your first batch of CDs or vinyl. Then someone asks, “Did you clear […]
Songwriting
A collection of articles from the Disc Makers blog that relate to songwriting, including tips on the craft of songwriting as well as publishing and licensing advice.
How to Copyright Music: The Smartest Strategy for Singles, Albums, and Unreleased Songs
Most independent artists don’t register copyrights for their music — not because they’re careless, but because they simply don’t know when or how to do it correctly. And that gap […]
How to Finally Get Organized and Write More Songs
As a songwriter myself who has amassed a backlog of over 2,000 songs — both finished and incomplete — I longed for a way to organize my lyric snippets, title […]
7 Tips to Break Through Creative Blocks
As a music teacher who’s worked with hundreds of students over the years, I’ve noticed something fascinating: It’s not always your technique that holds you back! Sometimes, it’s your mindset. […]
How to Write a Song for Beginners: 7 Tips
Have you got the music in you and want to start writing songs? Here’s a no-nonsense primer to getting your songwriting career started. Read the post.
How To Tell Stories Through Songs
Everybody loves a good story, and music is no exception. Stories in human society have been shared since we were prehistoric hunters huddled around campfires, and for almost just as […]
How to Find Musical Inspiration for Your Next Song
What do you do when your music inspiration has dried up? Here are tips to help you find motivation and inspiration to write your next song. Read the post.
Finding Chord Progressions Using the Circle of Fifths
The Circle of Fifths can unlock the basics of music theory and help you find the chords in any key, build chord progressions, and so much more. Read the post.
Lean Into Your Musical Strength
Do you have to be great at all areas of songwriting and performing, or can you find success leaning into one musical strength? Read the post.
How to Build a Melody from Chord Tones
An easy way to write a new song is to start with chords that go together. Here are some steps to build a melody from the chord tones. Read the post.
How to Write a Song (and Arrange and Record It)
Ready to unleash your inner musician? Here are tips on how to write a song and embark on the creative journey to becoming a music-making machine. Read the post.
How to Write a Bass Line for Your Song
From rhythm to mood, bass lines serve many purposes. Learn how to write a bass line to perfectly pair with and serve your song. Read the post.
Obtaining the Rights to Sample Music
Music sampling is a widely used technique in modern music production, though there are legal requirements to adhere to to sample music legally. Read the post.
How to Make Music: From Songwriting to Album Production
Get started on your musical journey with guidance on songwriting, melody, and music production. Read the post.
What is a Concept Album and How Do You Make One?
A concept album includes a body of songs centered around a specific theme, story, or character you create. Ready to make a concept album? Read the post.