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  • How to Write One Song

  • Loving the Things We Create and How They Love Us Back
  • Written by: Jeff Tweedy
  • Narrated by: Jeff Tweedy
  • Length: 3 hrs and 8 mins
  • 4.8 out of 5 stars (49 ratings)

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How to Write One Song

Written by: Jeff Tweedy
Narrated by: Jeff Tweedy
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Publisher's Summary

There are few creative acts more mysterious and magical than writing a song. But what if the goal wasn't so mysterious and was actually achievable for anyone who wants to experience more magic and creativity in their life? That's something that anyone will be inspired to do after listening to Jeff Tweedy's How to Write One Song.

Why one song? Because the difference between one song and many songs isn't a cute semantic trick - it's an important distinction that can simplify a notoriously confusing art form. The idea of becoming a capital-S songwriter can seem daunting, but approached as a focused, self-contained event, the mystery and fear subsides, and songwriting becomes an exciting pursuit.

And then there is the energizing, nourishing creativity that can open up. How to Write One Song brings listeners into the intimate process of writing one song - lyrics, music, and putting it all together - and accesses the deep sense of wonder that remains at the heart of this curious yet incredibly fulfilling artistic act. But it’s equally about the importance of making creativity part of your life every day and of experiencing the hope, inspiration, and joy available to anyone who’s willing to get started.

©2020 Jeff Tweedy (P)2020 Penguin Audio

What the critics say

“[A] guide to rediscovering the joys of creating that we all felt as children ... The main premise of Tweedy’s latest book is in the title, but many of his points could be applied equally to a variety of creative endeavors: namely, how to stop giving yourself excuses and start just doing the thing.” (The New York Times)

"Jeff Tweedy is the perfect example of the consummate songwriter...Given his decades of success as an artist, the veteran musician has a lot of insight and advice to offer about writing a song. Offering tips and advice along the way, Tweedy guides readers on such things as starting a song and handling writer's block, a dreaded moment for any writer." (Forbes)

"In four carefully crafted sections, renowned songwriter, musician, and performer Tweedy explains the mysteries of the 'ephemeral' process of a writing a song, from inspiration to process, suppressing one's annoying ego, and disappearing in the work .... Observing Tweedy's glowingly creative mind at work throughout this seriously fun book is truly illuminating.” (Booklist)

What listeners say about How to Write One Song

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I have listened to this three times already

I love the practical, the process, and the personal nature of Tweedy's approach to art (creating it, playing with it, thinking about it). It translates to narrative writing and I'm sure to other creative processes very easily.

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I could listen over and over but I would take something different away each time

Tweedy makes the idea of writing a song approachable. I have always been a huge fan of his music so when this came out I jumped on it. He creates hope and creativity. I am already listening to this book again.

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  • jam
  • 2021-08-22

great ideas

This guide to writing songs is well considered, written and read. It's a great length with a great flow. the ideas and effective, creative and deep. I would recommend this book. It even features compelling examples to guide listeners along.

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So inspiring!

Cool. Chill. Humility. Loved it. And concrete solutions to writing. Listened to it while taking walks oin the forest, will listen to it again.

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