Episode Summary: In this episode of Dear Songwriter, we dive into the art of storytelling in songwriting. Host Connor Lin Frost explores how Noah Kahan, a popular folk-influenced pop artist, uses three key songwriting techniques to elevate his music. You'll learn how to incorporate these tools into your own songs to create stronger, more compelling lyrics.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Detailed Two-Part Chorus
   Noah Kahan breaks from the norm by creating choruses that are more intricate and story-driven. This method helps progress the narrative without sacrificing the listener's ability to sing along. Conor analyzes the chorus from Kahan's song Dial Drunk to illustrate this point.
2. Wordplay
   The clever use of language—whether through alliteration or reinterpreting meanings—can add depth and catchiness to your lyrics. Conor uses examples from Kahan's songs Homesick and Dial Drunk to show how wordplay can advance a story in just a few concise lines.
3. The Dialogue Bridge
   Lyrics that mimic real-life conversation help immerse the listener into the song's world. Conor highlights how Kahan employs direct address in Dial Drunk's bridge to create a genuine dialogue between two characters, enhancing the emotional impact of the song.

Actionable Challenge: Try incorporating one of these techniques into your next song. Choose between a detailed two-part chorus, clever wordplay, or a dialogue bridge to elevate your storytelling.

Listener Engagement: We’d love your feedback! Do you enjoy these episodes? Are they too detailed, or not detailed enough? Shoot Connor a DM on Instagram @ConnorLFrost and share your thoughts in 3-5 sentences.

Resources Mentioned:

• Noah Kahan's songs: Dial Drunk, Stick Season, and Homesick
• Machine Gun Kelly’s song: Emo Girl

Thank You for Listening!
Make sure to subscribe to Dear Songwriter for more songwriting tips, and as always, happy writing!

Feeling frustrated with your home vocal recordings? You're not alone! In this episode, I share my personal journey and the biggest lessons I learned while recording vocals at home for the first time. From overcoming perfectionism to fine-tuning your process, these insights will help you produce better-sounding vocals and make your home recording experience more fulfilling. Whether you're struggling with dry, flat vocals or just looking for tips on vocal production, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways:

1. Record Section by Section:
   • Forget the idea of nailing the vocal in one take. Recording vocals piece by piece, starting with the verses, allows for better control and consistency. Don’t be afraid to copy and paste choruses if needed.
2. Edit as You Go:
   • Save time and avoid perfectionism by editing while recording. This method keeps your digital workspace tidy and encourages quick decision-making.
3. Imperfections Can Be a Strength:
   • Don't obsess over hitting every note perfectly. Slight imperfections in your voice add character to the performance, and pitch correction can be done during editing.
4. You’re Your Harshest Critic:
   • It’s easy to be overly critical of your voice, but remember, listeners might love the unique qualities that you’re so critical of. Trust yourself, make decisions, and know when to call it done.

Free Resource:
Need help turning your voice memo ideas into finished tracks? Book a Just Start Call with me! Let’s discuss your goals and see if we’re a good fit to work together.
🔗 connorfrost.com/startcall

Connect with Me:

• Website: connorfrost.com
• Instagram: @connorlfrost

If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe!

Until next week, happy writing! 🎶

Episode Summary: In this special birthday episode, host Connor Frost reflects on turning 36 and shares 36 hard-earned lessons from his journey as a songwriter and musician. These insights are intended to inspire and provoke thought, whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out.

Episode Highlights:

• Connor shares personal anecdotes about his music career, including the time and energy invested and the mistakes made along the way.
• The first 12 lessons cover themes of perfectionism, self-permission, and the value of failure.
• Lessons 13-24 discuss the importance of taking action, the nature of relationships, and redefining success.
• The final set of lessons tackles creativity, routine, and the courage to share your work without seeking permission.

Call to Action: Connor invites listeners to book a free "Start Call" to discuss songwriting goals and explore potential collaboration. Spots are limited as he plans to close enrollment soon for the year.

Key Lessons Discussed:

1. Embrace imperfection in your songwriting.
2. The role of demos as a tool for growth, not perfection.
3. Understanding that rejection is part of the journey to success.
4. The necessity of routine in harnessing creativity.
5. The importance of investing in yourself as an artist.

Final Thoughts: Connor reflects on the challenges faced this year and the continued support from listeners that keeps him motivated. He expresses gratitude for the songwriting community and encourages everyone to keep creating.

Resources:

• Book your free Start Call: ConnorFrost.com/startcall
• Follow Connor on social media for more insights and updates.

Closing: Thank you for tuning in! Remember, you don’t need permission to write songs or share them with the world. Happy writing!