james brooks's List: IMPORTANCE OF SONG WRITIN

WRITING

It seems like my whole life has been a series of songs I just finished or just started writing. I'm writing one today. Chickenfoot is back in the studio and I'm writing with Joe Satriani. I love working with Joe; he is a great collaborator. I also loved some of the writing I did with Eddie as much as anything I've ever done. But most of the time, I just write by myself.

Words and music. Actually, it is usually music and then words. The music comes first, and then hopefully I'm inspired to write a good lyric. Inspiration is the bottom line. I can't emphasize that enough. Inspiration. The thing that makes it come easy. That feeling of satisfaction when it all fits together. The words sing well.

Not all words are lyrical. You can't force a phrase to work in a song. When the writing is forced, it is probably not that great anyway. If you get stuck and can't finish, can't think of another verse, suddenly realize you have subconsciously rewritten a Stones song, just start over. There are many dead end streets in the songwriting world. But keep going. Be brave. Be personal. When you are embarrassed because you feel you are revealing too much about yourself, your own secrets, you are probably really speaking for everyone and saying things that the listener can relate to. That is great songwriting -- when you are speaking for those who can't express themselves. That's what music does.