Songwriting and the Guitar

Before you write another song, make this book your guide. One of the most powerful mediums of self-expression is the song, conveying thoughts and feelings through carefully crafted words and music. And for today's musicians, the most powerful and versatile songwriting partner is a guitar.

Whether you want to write your first song or improve your existing skills, Songwriting and the Guitar is your complete guide to the art of writing great lyrics, melodies, and chord progressions. Renowned singer-songwriters Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, Gillian Welch, the Indigo Girls, and others offer invaluable advice, techniques, encouragement, and inspiration through their reflections and personal experiences. Expertly designed workshops on expanding your chord vocabulary, using alternate tunings, editing your lyrics, and other subjects will have you well on the way to putting your own ideas into song.