Do you want to write songs and perform and present them to a live audience or record them? If so, the path of a singer songwriter may be a perfect fit for you.

Singer Songwriters are multi-talented artists that are able to combine the skill of composing songs and lyrics with personal singing talent. While some artists choose to only craft songs or only perform songs others have crafted, the most gifted artists are able to do both. Popular artists such as Bono, Jewel, Missy Higgins, Shakira

Harkening back to the days of bards who would traverse the countryside entertaining for towns people and even kings in exchange for meals and rewards, one of the most original forms of musical performances included many songs composed by the individuals singing them. Some of the songs were for comedic effect, some were for relaying news or history while others were to express common emotions.http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-a-bard.htm

Being a Singer Songwriters can allow you to be a better artist because you can write songs that suit your singing style and are personally relevant. When you sing songs where you have a built in emotional connection, it is easier to express the emotion and connect with and audience or listeners.http://www.becomeasingeronline.com/what-makes-a-good-singer-songwriter-.php There is a power in expression that comes from telling stories that touch you through song. You can choose to express yourself through various musical styles including the blues, country, or even rock.

Writing and composing songs can be a natural gift, but it takes time and practice to fully develop. Practice your craft through daily writing sessions. To help develop your poetic style in your songs, consider taking English literature classes that focus on poetry. Additionally, work to expand your vocabulary so that you have a deeper well of knowledge to draw from when composing your songs.

Part of the songwriting skill is composing the musical soundtrack to each song. At times, this can be a more complicated skill than writing the lyrics. Study music theory and songwriting basics including how to write musical scores. In order to be a successful singer songwriter, you must be able to show your songs to other artists who provide background vocals, guitar backup or play other instruments. Writing down your songs also helps you in the creation process by allowing you to remember the notes and easily make adjustments.

Listen to music constantly from a variety of musical genres to help you learn musical patterns and get ideas to enhance your songwriting. Part of knowing how to make great songs is knowing the history and sounds of other great songs.

Vocal Skills

Developing your singing voice can take time to expand your vocal range and create your own sound. Work with a vocal coach that can help you learn vocal techniques and exercises that will help strengthen your voice and expand the range of notes you can hit. http://www.voice-training-source.com/stars-use-singing-success/ You should also look for singing performance opportunities. Join a choir to help you learn how to harmonize with other voices, enter talent shows to learn how to perform under pressure and even attend weekly Karaoke events to give you the chance to perfect your singing talent.

Musical Skills

Many signer songwriters also know how to play multiple musical instruments such as the guitar and piano. Having a solid foundation on these instruments helps you when composing songs and can be included in your live performances and recording sessions. Consider taking formal lessons or use Internet resources to help you learn to play musical instruments.

While you may be a highly talented singer songwriter, without being noticed by a record executive, music scout or developing a strong indie fan base, your talent will be limited to local performances. Cut a professional sounding demo that highlights your best songs and voice.

With your demo in hand, make connections in the music industry. Consider working with established musical groups by being a roadie, or by working or performing at local music festivals. Hand out your demo to anyone with good connections. Send your demo to some of the top music labels for your genre of music.

While you make connections, be sure to keep performing. Start developing an ‘’image’’ that can help you stand out from the crowd. If you are able to combine a well established image with great lyrics and powerful songs, music scouts will find you and you will be on your way to singer songwriter stardom before you know it.