Thank you!

Thanks so much to everyone who created new songs this past month! We had an awesome journey and hope you all did as well. If you are interested in writing a little bit about your experience participating in NaSoWriMo this year please comment below and we will be in touch.

Day #26 (and Beyond!)

Things are starting to wind down, but the songwriting is still going strong!  We've been a bit preoccupied over here with gigs and other obligations, so blog posting has been sporadic (sorry).

In the interest of practicality, here are the final half dozen writing prompts.  Rather than assign each one to a particular day, we're serving them up a la carte. You can pick and choose any or all that you'd like to take on.

Write a song about the year you were born

Write a song about something you fear

Write a song that's less than a minute long

Write a song a capella

Pick a color,  any color -- That's the title of your song

Write a song in double time

Let's meet back here on June 1st for a wrap-up of sorts, okay?  Now breathe, create, and enjoy what's left of the challenge.

Day #23

Our writing prompt for today asks you to challenge yourself (as if the entire month isn't challenging enough!):

Write a song using an instrument that's new to you.  

Excited to see what you'll come up with!  And we'll be restarting our featured song/artist soon, so stay tuned!

Day #22

Today's writing prompt:

Hometown blues?  Hometown joy?  Write a song about or inspired by your place of birth.

Things are starting to wind down.  Enjoy!

Day #20

Okay, we're a little late on today's prompt, but hopefully there's still time for you to find some inspiration with this:

Write a song that incorporates some kind of spoken word element.  It could be your own voice speaking, or you could sample a voice.  Anything goes!

Happy songwriting!

Day #19

Here's something to keep in mind as we're now in the last two weeks of NaSoWriMo:

At the end of the month, we'd like our participants to share their thoughts and feelings about the challenge.  Sort of like testimonials.  Something we can use to document the first year of NaSoWriMo. 

So please start thinking about what you might want to contribute to this diary of sorts.  We'll give you more details as we get closer to the end of the month.

Here's today's songwriting prompt:

There have been many songs written about cars.  Love songs, sad songs, funny songs (Piece of Sh*t Car by Adam Sandler comes to mind).  Now it's your turn.  Write a song inspired by something on four wheels.

Have fun!

Day #18

Is anyone hitting a creative wall out there?  It's okay, we all feel your pain.

We're more than halfway there, so don't be too hard on yourself if you miss a day here or there (or if you're feeling less than inspired).

In the spirit of freedom, we're not going to post a prompt today.  Leap and the net will appear!

Have a great day.

Day #17

Today's songwriting prompt involves a bit of research:

Pick a news headline from any news source -- an online magazine, your local paper, AP wire, etc.  Make that headline the first line of your song.

Thanks again for playing along with NaSoWriMo!

Day #16

And now for something completely different....here's today's songwriting prompt:

Write a song in a different genre/style than you normally do.  Are you a folk artist?  Write a hip-hop song.  Are you into punk rock?  Let's hear your take on a country ballad.  Be bold with this -- experiment, try something new, have fun!

After today, we can officially say we're halfway through National Songwriting Month.  Awesome!  And if you've missed a few days, no worries -- just jump right in!

Have a great day!

Day #15

Hey, it's Day #15 already!  Here's today's songwriting prompt:

Write a song influenced by one of your favorite artists.  If you have always wanted to emulate the style of a beloved songwriter, this is your chance.

We are going to take one week off from features to give everyone a chance to catch up (us included).  This week, we'll continue to post writing prompts, and we'll resume daily featured songs on May 21st.

Have a creative day!!

Day #14

Two weeks in -- we're almost to the halfway point of NaSoWriMo.  Won't it be a great feeling when we get there?

As usual, our participants are making beautiful music.  It's difficult to chose just one song to feature each day, but there goes.  Our Day #13 selection is...
Mosquito Menace by Twin Compasses
We just love the idea behind this song, but what's also cool is that there is double meaning all over the place.  It's a bug-smashing anthem.

Now, our prompt for Day #14:
Write a song with exactly 14 unique words in it.  You can repeat any of those words throughout the song, if you want. 

Have a creative day!

Day #13

 Hi everyone -- how's the music these days?  Humming right along, I hope.

Here's our feature for Day #12:
Electric Zoo by Robyert0
He's primarily a flute player, but he's branching out with keyboard and synth, thanks to NaSoWriMo.  This track has a vibe you'll want to groove along to.

Today's songwriting prompt:
Write a song dedicated to someone.  It could be your mom (given the holiday) or it could be your cat or that guy who keyed your car. 

Who says #13 is unlucky?  I predict you will all have a lucky day of songwriting today.

Day #12

Hey there!  Great job free-styling yesterday.  Lots of creative songs out there!

Here's our featured song from Day #11:
May 11 (Happy Birthday Mom, Here's a Bowling Pin) by Bob Pokrzywa
Don't worry if you can't pronounce Bob's last name.  Just call him Bob P.  And please check out his amazing guitar skills.  I'm not sure this guy could write a boring song if he tried.  Love the energy and the intricate dynamics.

Now, for today's writing prompt -- try this one on for size, if you dare:
Write a song that ends abruptly/feels unfinished.  A "cliffhanger" if you will.

Happy songwriting and we'll see you tomorrow!

Day #11

Hello again, NaSoWriMo friends and lovers.

Beautiful work yesterday with the lullaby prompt.  I was nearly lulled to sleep listening to the many offerings (that's a good thing, hehe). 

For our feature, please check out this link:
The Cardinal Waits by Skulls Across America
This track has a blissful, yet haunting feel to it.  Really loving the vocals, too -- beautiful tones.  The whistling is a nice touch, too.  Give it a listen!

We're going to make today a free space -- no songwriting prompt -- so go be free and create!

Day #10

We're into double digits -- Day 10 -- yay!

Let's start with today's prompt:

Write a lullaby.  There are plenty of videos of sleeping babies and kittens on YouTube if you need some inspiration.  :)

Okay, we need to catch up with our featured songs.

Here's our pick from Day #8:
Day 8 by Jeremy Flynn
Jeremy's done some really nice finger work on this track -- it's driving and intense.

And now, our pick for Day #9:
Going Coastal by Kirsty Anne Pollock
We're so happy this artist has jumped into the fray!  You will love her offering for Day #9 -- it's "chap hop" as she calls it.  We'll call it brilliant.

Okay everyone, get out there and write!  Keep the great music coming! 

Day #9

Chug, chug, chugging along.  Here's today's writing prompt:

Write a protest song.  What are you protesting?  Anything you feel passionate about, that's what!  Serious, funny, or sad, write about something that makes you want to pump your fists and take to the streets!

Welcome to our new followers -- we're up to almost 100 likes on Facebook!

I'm going to make another post later in the day with our featured artist, so I can be sure to listen to all you late night songwriters out there.

Have a musical day, y'all! 

Day #8

We're officially one week in!  Just think -- we're about a quarter of the way through this challenge!

Our featured track/artist today is....

SOL and JWF by Charlie Bad Timing

Love the unique phrasing in this song and this guy is pretty brilliant with lyrics  --  make sure you pay attention to him throughout the month.  I'm sure we'll be hearing more great stuff from him!

Okay, here's today's prompt, or really it's more of an assignment:

Write a song outside!  If you are able to record in the wild, too, that's great.  But you can always come indoors for that part if you need to.  Is it raining where you are today?  Sit on the porch or under an umbrella.  Maybe the weather will end up becoming part of your song.

Have fun and happy songwriting! 

Day #7

Almost a week in!  How is everyone feeling so far?  Ready to press on?  I thought so!

Here's today's prompt, if you're up for it:

Write a song from the point of view of an animal (real or imaginary).

We're not going to feature a song today -- but it's not because the songs don't continue to delight and amaze us.  We just thought we'd give you all a chance to listen to participant music today.  So please, take some time today (if you can) to catch up on what's been happening during this first week of NaSoWriMo.

Have a great day!

Day #6

We had such a great time listening to all of the tracks from Day #5.  Many of you took the household items prompt and ran with it!  Lots of fun!

It was hard to choose just one song to feature, but this one really stood out:

Soda Pop by Sean Barill

We already know Sean knows his way around a banjo, but it turns out he's also pretty good with a soda can, some pennies, and a pair of scissors.  Make sure you give his track a listen and send some good vibes his way!

Here's the prompt for Day #5:

Write a song that has a dramatic change in tempo (or several dramatic changes in tempo, if that's what you're into).

Thanks again for participating in the first NaSoWriMo!  Keep on keeping on!

Day #5

Moving right along, welcome to Day #5 of NaSoWriMo!  Give yourself some kudos for making it this far.

Here's today's prompt:

Write a song featuring a household item as an instrument.  A blender? A stapler?  Look around you -- the world is full of musical objects.

Now, for today's featured song -- check the link below:

There is No Try by Little Birikiti

Haunting, soothing melodies, and a sweet message.  Yoda would surely dig this groove!

Keep up the great work, everyone!  And don't fret if you miss a day.  Just jump back in and keep going.  You can do it!

Day #4

Let's celebrate Star Wars Day with a special themed prompt!

Write a song inspired by Star Wars in some way.  Maybe you want to write a love song to Princess Leia.  Maybe you'd like to write something you'd hear in Mos Eisley Cantina.  Go for it!

Our featured song today is....


Ignore Me All You Want, I'll Still Be Here Tomorrow by Frazer Lowrie

Wow, this is an ambitious track, and he pulls it off beautifully.  Make sure to give it an extra listen!

We're really thrilled with the way things are going for this first ever National Songwriting Month.  It's very cool to watch people connecting through shared music and comments.  What a great community you've started!

Thanks again and keep the music coming.

Oh yeah, and May the 4th be with you!!!!

Day #3

Hello again!  Day #3 of NaSoWriMo is here.  We're happy to report we now have twenty-three official participants.  Amazing!

First up, here's today's prompt:

Open a book (any book of your choice) to a random page.  Find a word or phrase (or even a whole sentence) that interests you.  That's the title of your song.

Now, click the link below to check out our pick for featured song and artist from Day #2:


May 2 by Tim Krupar

With amazing harmonies and a super cool vibe, this song is where it's at!

Remember to keep checking in here on the blog for more writing prompts and featured songs.

Thanks to everyone for jumping into the challenge so wholeheartedly!  It's inspiring to listen to all your creativity.

Peace,
Karen and RJ

Day #2

NaSoWriMo is off to an amazing start!  Have you checked out the songs our participants have created?  We've really enjoyed listening to each and every track.  Congrats to you all for getting things started with a bang!  Folks are bringing their best to this challenge and that's what matters!  It's all about fostering creativity.

Okay, down to today's business.  First, let's check out the songwriting prompt for Day #2, if you're so inclined:

Write a song that includes whistling and/or hand clapping.

Now, on to our very first featured NaSoWriMo song of the day:


Tapioca Village by Twin Compasses

You've got to check out their track from Day #1 -- with great instrumentation and an interesting combo of percussion elements, it's all kinds of groovy!

If you still want to jump in and join the challenge, no worries!  Just hit us up and we can still add you to the participant list.  It's never too late to get started.

Have a great day and merry music making!!!

Day #1

Grab some coffee or strike your best yoga pose -- it's time to wake up!  It's Day #1 of NaSoWriMo!

Here's a songwriting prompt to get you started today: 

Write a song in which the chorus is one verb repeated as many times as you like. 

Click HERE for a list of verbs you can browse for even more inspiration.

The prompt is optional.  Feel free to use it or ignore it.

And remember -- it's not too late to send us a link to your Sound Cloud or YouTube page so we can add you to our list of participants.

We'll be back tomorrow with another prompt AND our very first featured participant song.

See you then!

NaSoWriMo Begins Tomorrow

So...this is it -- tomorrow is the official launch of the first ever National Songwriting Month!  Are you excited?  Nervous?  A little of both?  Yes, we are, too.

Your challenge (should you choose to accept it) is to write and record a song a day in the month of May.  You can share your songs via Sound Cloud or YouTube.  You can send us your info and we'll add you to our participant link list.

We'll be posting one songwriting prompt a day here on the NaSoWriMo blog.  These prompts are not required.  They're just there for inspiration or for those days when you're feeling a little stuck.  Feel free to use them for song ideas or just do your own thing!

Also, RJ and I will be checking out the official participant links daily so we can see what everyone is creating.  We'll feature one participant song a day here on the blog, so make sure you check in from time to time because it just might be you one day!

Thanks again for taking part in the first ever NaSoWriMo challenge!

Good luck and happy music making!

New Participants

Hey all -- check out our list of official NaSoWriMo 2012 participants over there on the right side of the page.

The list is growing and we're so excited to see how many people have signed up for the challenge so far.  But remember, it's not too late to jump in!

Send us an email, hit us up on Twitter or Facebook, comment here on the blog -- there are many ways to get in touch with us and share your link so we can add you to the fun.

We're only a few days away from kickoff so get ready!

Wow (An Update)

Some exciting stuff has happened since we announced our idea for National Songwriting Month.

First of all, we've teamed up with Independent Music News (which is all kinds of amazing) and they've helped put together a Facebook page for NaSoWriMo. Make sure you click on over and give us a "like."

Secondly, we've received lots of feedback from people all over the U.S. and abroad. We're thrilled to hear from you! May 2012 is going to be a month to remember.

Remember to leave a comment on the blog with a link to your SoundCloud or YouTube page so we can add you to our participant list. You can also email us at NaSoWriMo@yahoo.com.

Please stay tuned. We'll be putting out more updates in the coming weeks.

Thanks!

Introducing NaSoWriMo!

You've probably heard about the different month-long writing challenges out there -- there's National Novel Writing Month, National Poetry Writing Month, there's even National Album Writing Month. But there hasn't been a month-long challenge devoted to writing individual songs, so we decided to start one, and that's how National Songwriting Month was born!

In keeping with the naming conventions adopted by the other challenges, we'll be calling this endeavor NaSoWriMo. Yes, we know "songwriting" is really one word, but NaSoMo just sounds weird. We've chosen the merry month of May for NaSoWriMo -- it's the gateway to summer, and it's a great time to get inspired and make music!

Here are the instructions:

Write one song every day in May. That's 31 songs in total.

Each day, make a recording of your song and upload it to SoundCloud or YouTube. You can also comment on this blog with your URL and we'll add you to our list of NaSoWriMo participants.

If you have questions about how to record, please hit us up. We can link you to some resources and such to make it easier on you.

Songs can be any length you desire. They can be instrumental or they can have vocals, but they must be your original work!

That's it. You don't have to be a professional musician or a recording engineer. You don't have to be in a band. You don't need anything but an instrument (voices included) and a computer.

Make sure you share this site with your friends so they can follow along. Then, take some time to gear up for the challenge. Set up your SoundCloud or YouTube account (if you don't already have one), change your guitar strings, oil your banjo, dust off that keyboard, gargle with some salt water (or take a shot of whiskey) and let's make music in May!

Check back here for updates leading up to May 1, 2012, when NaSoWriMo officially begins! Be a part of Internet history. See you soon!

~RJ and Karen of Essential Machine