Dear Songwriter...

Connor Frost

A podcast to help you confidently and regularly write and release your music.

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Episodes

118. 2 Experiences that Changed My Music Career
2d ago
118. 2 Experiences that Changed My Music Career
Episode Summary:Are you focused on making money from your music? Who isn't? In this episode, host Connor Frost takes a step back from the usual "how to make it big" advice to explore the real value of being a musician—experiencing meaningful, life-changing moments that money can’t buy. Connor shares two powerful stories from his own journey as an independent artist and gives you practical steps for embracing your music as a vehicle to connect with the world and others in ways that will last a lifetime.Key Points Discussed:Why Experiences Matter More Than Money:Our society often fixates on financial success, but as a musician, the journey is full of experiences that are worth far more than a paycheck.Story #1: The Best Show I Ever Played in Taipei, TaiwanConnor shares the story of an unforgettable night performing in Taipei—an experience made possible not by a hefty budget, but by taking a chance and putting his music out there.Story #2: A 25th Birthday InvitationAfter a quiet show in Pennsylvania, Connor's band gained a loyal fan, Amanda, who later invited him to perform at her birthday party—a unique opportunity that reinforced the value of genuine connections with listeners.Two Major Reframes for Artists:Planning is Overrated: Sometimes, the best moments happen when you let your music guide you instead of trying to control every outcome.Seek Experiences First, Money Second: Focusing on genuine connections can often lead to unexpected opportunities, including paid ones.Actionable Steps to Create Your Own Memorable Experiences:Put Yourself Out ThereAttend an open mic, reach out to other artists, or release a song you’ve been holding back.Nurture ConnectionsKeep in touch with the people you meet—building relationships can lead to lifelong supporters and surprising opportunities.Embrace the JourneyRepeat steps one and two and let go of rigid planning. Embrace every unique, unexpected, or even strange opportunity that comes your way.Follow Along with Connor’s Music Journey:Connor is documenting his single release process in his newsletter, with his upcoming single dropping on December 13th. Get unfiltered insights by subscribing at connorfrost.com/vaultpodcast.Listener Invitation:If this episode resonated with you, Connor would love to hear from you! Leave a review, or shoot him a DM on Instagram at @ConnorLFrost to share your thoughts or your own experiences in music.
117. Noah Kahan's Storytelling Strategies
Nov 5 2024
117. Noah Kahan's Storytelling Strategies
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:The Detailed Two-Part ChorusNoah 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.WordplayThe 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.The Dialogue BridgeLyrics 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 HomesickMachine Gun Kelly’s song: Emo GirlThank You for Listening!Make sure to subscribe to Dear Songwriter for more songwriting tips, and as always, happy writing!
116. 4 Hard Lessons I Learned From Recording Vocals at Home
Oct 22 2024
116. 4 Hard Lessons I Learned From Recording Vocals at Home
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: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.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.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.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/startcallConnect with Me:Website: connorfrost.comInstagram: @connorlfrostIf you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and subscribe!Until next week, happy writing! 🎶
115. 36 Brutal Lessons I've Learned in 36 Years of Life
Oct 8 2024
115. 36 Brutal Lessons I've Learned in 36 Years of Life
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:Embrace imperfection in your songwriting.The role of demos as a tool for growth, not perfection.Understanding that rejection is part of the journey to success.The necessity of routine in harnessing creativity.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/startcallFollow 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!
114. The Songwriter's MCC Prioritization Method – Focusing on What Matters
Sep 24 2024
114. The Songwriter's MCC Prioritization Method – Focusing on What Matters
Welcome to Dear Songwriter, the podcast to help you confidently and consistently write and release your songs. In this episode, we're diving into something all too familiar for many songwriters: being stretched too thin. With the pressures of social media, content creation, and maintaining connections, it’s easy to lose focus on the main thing—writing your music.Episode Highlights:Shiny Object Syndrome: We often feel pressured to follow every new trend, post daily on social media, or try new things in hopes of getting discovered. This can lead to burnout.My Solution: I introduce the MCC Prioritization Method, focusing on three areas: Music, Content, and Conversations. By honing in on these categories, you can focus your efforts and reduce overwhelm.The MCC Prioritization Method:Music:My Struggle: I felt the need to constantly reinvent my sound, purchasing countless tools and feeling overwhelmed.Solution: Stick to what works and improve. Build on the sound you're happy with, and focus on finishing your songs rather than chasing new ideas.Next Steps:Inventory your current skills and tools.Create outcomes based on those tools.Identify the next steps and new skills you'll need to grow.Content:My Struggle: I was posting across too many platforms and experimenting too much, which led to burnout.Solution: Focus on content creation that feels natural to you, and choose one platform to start with.Next Steps:Pick a content type (writing, video, or audio).Choose 1-2 platforms to focus on.Determine a sustainable posting schedule.Conversations:My Struggle: I was engaging with too many people, from clients to collaborators, and it drained my energy.Solution: Get clear on who you want to engage with and prioritize meaningful connections.Next Steps:Identify three groups of people you want to regularly engage with.Set monthly conversation goals (e.g., reaching out to local artists).Track your conversations to stay organized.Call to Action:If you feel overwhelmed with your music journey, I’m here to help! Book a free Just Start Call to get clarity on your goals and create a personalized plan. Visit connorfrost.com/startcall to schedule a time.Closing Thoughts:When in doubt, refer to one of the MCC buckets—Music, Content, or Conversations. By focusing on these areas, you'll always have something to work on, and you'll never feel stuck. Take a step today and start building toward your songwriting goals.Sincerely, ConnorHappy writing!Episode Resources:Free Just Start Calls: connorfrost.com/startcallJoin the Newsletter: connorfrost.com/vaultBe sure to follow the podcast for more songwriting tips and actionable advice!
113. $980 Spent on the Production of My Single - a breakdown
Sep 10 2024
113. $980 Spent on the Production of My Single - a breakdown
Episode Title: Breaking Down the Costs of Producing Your SongEpisode Description: Dear songwriter, you've written a song and are ready to take it to the next stage—production and release. But when it comes to investing in your music, you're unsure where to start. What should you spend on? Who should you hire? How much is fair? These are common questions that every songwriter faces, including me.In this episode, I share my recent experience producing a single, breaking down the exact costs involved. From hiring instrumentalists to mixing and mastering, I'll walk you through the investments I made to help you get a better sense of what to expect for your own projects. Whether you're thinking, "Wow, that's a lot," or "That’s not too bad," this episode will give you the clarity you need to make informed decisions about your music production budget.Key Investments Discussed:Hiring a Violin/Viola Player:Investment: $255 (85/hr for 3 hours)Why: I wanted a secondary voice in the production to complement the vocal melodies. Initially considering trumpet, I realized strings would better suit the song's overall vibe.How: I worked with Godfrey, a past acquaintance, who provided remote live recordings.Hiring a Cello Player:Investment: $150 (flat rate)Why: The song needed more "body" in the arrangement, particularly in the low/mid-range frequencies, which the cello provided.How: Godfrey connected me with Tiger, a Brooklyn-based cellist who also recorded remotely.Hiring a Drum Programmer:Investment: $150 (flat rate)Why: The song called for programmed electronic drums instead of acoustic ones. Despite attempting it myself, I recognized someone else could do it better.How: I reached out to my friend Sam, who brought his expertise to the project.Hiring a Mixing Engineer:Investment: $350 (flat rate)Why: Mixing is crucial to create the best blend of all recorded tracks. Given Sam's success with the drums, I entrusted him with the mixing as well.How: We agreed on the rate, and I provided isolated tracks for each song element to begin the process.Hiring a Mastering Engineer:Investment: $150 (flat rate)Why: Mastering is the final stage of production. I prefer to work with a separate engineer from the mixer to get a fresh perspective on the song.How: I reconnected with Jason Livermore from The Blasting Room, whom I'd worked with before, and arranged for mastering.Sneak Peek at Upcoming Investments: In the next episode, I'll detail the costs involved in promoting and releasing the single, including hiring a PR agency, creating album art, and running ads.Conclusion: Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to how much you should invest in your music. I could have spent less or more, but I’m satisfied with the decisions I made and thrilled with how the song sounds. If you’re navigating these decisions and want to discuss your goals further, consider booking a free call with me to see if my mentorship could help you reach your goals.How to Stay Connected:Free Call Booking: connorfrost.com/startcallEmail: info@connorfrost.comWebsite: connorfrost.comClosing: Thank you for tuning in! I hope this episode provided value and insight into the real costs of producing a song. Stay tuned for more in the next episode, and until then, happy writing!
112. How to Optimize Your Songwriting Process
Sep 3 2024
112. How to Optimize Your Songwriting Process
Episode Description: Dear songwriter, ever told yourself you'd work on your music after work or school, only to find yourself too drained to start? You're not alone. Many of us struggle with finding the time and energy to focus on our craft. In this episode, I share insights from the second Green Mountain Songwriting Retreat, which took place from August 21st to August 25th, 2024. Attendees discovered how to tune out distractions and immerse themselves in the songwriting process, leading to not only the creation of great songs but also a truly transformative experience.Join me, Conor Frost—a songwriter, artist, and professional songwriting mentor—as I break down the three key elements that made the retreat an optimal environment for creativity. I'll also give you tips on how to recreate this environment at home, so you can continue to grow as a songwriter.Key Takeaways:Create a Distraction-Free Environment:At the retreat, participants were encouraged to unplug from technology, allowing them to focus solely on their music.Consider finding a new, dedicated space for your songwriting at home. Temporarily abandon your phone, and immerse yourself in your creative process.Use Writing Challenges to Spark Creativity:We incorporated various songwriting prompts and challenges during the retreat, which helped attendees overcome writer's block and generate new ideas.Try Googling songwriting prompts and pick the first one that catches your eye. Don’t overthink it—just go with what feels right.Build a Community:The power of community was evident during the retreat. Accountability and the presence of other talented creatives pushed everyone to elevate their game.At home, find a friend to write with or join an online community. Set up regular check-ins to share your progress and stay motivated.How to Stay Connected:If you’re interested in attending a future Green Mountain Songwriting Retreat and want to qualify for early bird pricing, send me an email at info@connorfrost.com with the word “retreat.”Join my Facebook group, “The Songwriters Vault,” at connorfrost.com/enterthebatcave for more tips and to connect with like-minded songwriters.Conclusion: Remember, while we can’t always attend songwriting retreats or devote entire days to our music, implementing just one of these strategies can make a significant difference in your songwriting journey. Create that space, find that time, and channel your energy into your music—you deserve it.Closing: Thanks for tuning in. I hope you found value in today’s episode. Happy writing, and talk to you soon!Contact Information:Email: info@connorfrost.comWebsite: connorfrost.comFacebook Group: The Songwriters Vault - Join Here
111. The 4 Wheels of the Self-Reliant Songwriter
Aug 20 2024
111. The 4 Wheels of the Self-Reliant Songwriter
Show Notes for Episode: "Creating Your Own Opportunities: The Four Wheels of the Self-Reliant Songwriter"Episode Summary: In this episode, Connor Frost, a seasoned songwriter, musician, and songwriting coach, shares valuable insights on how songwriters can stop chasing external opportunities and start creating their own. Drawing from personal experiences and hard-learned lessons, Connor breaks down a strategy for using your music as a vehicle for success by focusing on self-reliance and proactive steps.Key Takeaways:The Reality of Music Opportunities:Many songwriters spend significant time searching for opportunities like contests, record labels, or festivals, but often find these paths elusive or out of reach.While engaging in these activities can be beneficial, relying solely on them may not be the most effective use of your time and energy.Connor’s Personal Journey:Connor reflects on his experience with Sloth Trap Records and the realization that he needed to take control of his music career.The lesson learned: It’s not about finding opportunities but creating them through your own efforts and initiatives.The Four Wheels of the Self-Reliant Songwriter:Wheel 1: The Accountable ArtistTake full responsibility for your success and failures.Avoid blaming external factors and focus on what you can control and improve.Wheel 2: The Songwriting SpyBreak down larger goals into smaller, manageable missions.Focus on achievable tasks that you can accomplish now, rather than getting overwhelmed by the big picture.Wheel 3: The CEO of CreativityOptimize your time by making smart investments in your career, whether it’s paying for services or hiring help.Understand that you either invest time or money, and make decisions that lead to quicker and more efficient results.Wheel 4: The Forever StudentEmbrace continuous learning and remain humble about your craft.Be open to feedback, learn from mistakes, and constantly seek to improve your songwriting skills.How These Principles Create Opportunities:Being the accountable artist means taking control of your career trajectory.The songwriting spy encourages daily progress through small, achievable tasks.The CEO of creativity helps you efficiently manage resources and generate results.The forever student ensures that you’re always evolving and learning from your experiences.Call to Action:Free Song Consult: Take a step towards your songwriting goals today by sending Connor an unfinished voice memo of your song. Receive feedback on what’s working, what needs improvement, and next steps. Visit http://www.connorfrost.com/freesongconsult for more details.Closing Thoughts: Connor Frost encourages listeners to realize that they are in control of their songwriting journey. By adopting these four principles, you can create your own opportunities and drive your music career forward.Thank you for tuning in, and happy writing!
110. 3 Things I Listen For in a First Mix
Aug 13 2024
110. 3 Things I Listen For in a First Mix
Intro:I received the first mix for my new song, from a Mixing Engineer the other day.And after doing this for almost two decades now, I have a much better understanding of what to listen for in a first mix.But that wasn’t always the case…Back in 2009, I received the first draft of my band’s first album, and thought to myself…“I think this sounds good?”It was a weird feeling…I felt like I should have said more, but I just didn’t know what I didn’t know.And I didn’t know how to communicate any thoughts that I did have.It wasn’t until I racked up these experiences that I realized…I lacked important knowledge and skillsets to listen, analyze, and communicate.So I’m going to break down the lessons I’ve learned, by sharing the three main elements I listen for, in a first mix…#1 - volume level of the vocalsSongwriters and singers, myself included, have a tendency to want loud, (or at least “louder”) vocals.It’s only natural - you work hard on writing meaningful lyrics; you want those words to come through, you want people to relate to the message of your song.But proceed with caution…Because the relationship of vocals to instrumentals in a mix, is like salad dressing to greens.If your dressing simply sits on top of your salad, when you take that first bite, you may only taste the dressing…Instead of tasting the combination of dressing with greens that makes a salad delicious.And your vocals are no different.So when I get that first mix back, I pay special, close attention to this relationship between vocals and instrumental -AKA are the vocals “sitting on top of” the instrumental? Or are they blended in?And you’ll see my note in the below email I sent to my mixing engineer, that I felt that the vocals were a little “hot” (“loud”)…AKA I felt like the blend I was looking for, wasn’t there yet.#2 - volume level and presence of the kick drum, snare drum, and basslineA conventional rhythm section is made up of the drums and bass.And more specifically, the kick drum and snare drum, or whatever sounds are being used to represent that, provide the pulse.So the relationship between the kick drum, snare, and bass, is crucial.If those parts aren’t working with each other…(for example, if one of those pieces is drowning out the other two)…Then that may need to be addressed.#3 - energy level of key transitionsSongs are made up of “big moments”.And how you transition into and out of those moments, is crucial.Now, it’s important to note that these transitions and “big moments”, and how they work with each other, should be addressed during the actual songwriting process.You can’t fix a songwriting issue with a production or mixing solution, after all.However, it’s important that the mixing engineer enhance, and outline those transitions.So you’ll see in the below email, I include a note about the second chorus “losing energy”.This will be an important adjustment - as there is a feeling of energy building in that section that I want the listeners to feel.What You Can Do with this:There are other elements to listen for when you get that first mix back from your producer/engineer.But these are the three I would suggest honing in on, at the very least.Especially if you are new to this experience.I would encourage you to practice “active listening”, not only to your songs, but to other artists’ tunes.Start to pay attention to these relationships between vocals and instrumentals, and start to identify “big moments” in these songs.Conclusion:As always, I hope you found value from this episode.Happy Writing,ConnorBook a free call - http://www.connorfrost.com/startcall
109. Four Questions I Ask During the Demo Production Process
May 7 2024
109. Four Questions I Ask During the Demo Production Process
Dear songwriter,Are you overwhelmed by the plethora of sounds and instruments you have at your disposal once you open up your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)? I've been there too, and this episode is designed to be your friendly guide through the seemingly daunting terrain of music production. We're diving into the art of creating purposeful music with insights from my own journey from creating sounds to forging music with intention and precision.You will be guided through a step-by-step process aimed at helping you make decisions about which instruments to use in your tracks and which ones to boot. Learn how to externalize and implement a mental checklist that brings clarity as you write, arrange, and produce your new songs. Four Questions I Ask During the Demo Production Process:What is the role of the instrument I’m adding?What is the context for this instrument (AKA why is it even there?)What is its relationship with the other instruments and voices?Do I even need this instrument? Take this chance to transform your DAW session from a daunting challenge into a playground of limitless potential!Like what your hearing in the Dear Songwriter... podcast? Leave us quick review or 5 star rating on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!Mentions and Links:Social Media:Instagram: @connorlfrostSongs/Artists:While My Guitar Gently Weeps - The BeatlesDigital Audio Workstations(DAWs):GarageBandPro ToolsLogic ProPodcasts:108. Analyzing the Songwriting of The Beatles' George Harrison
108. Analyzing the Songwriting of The Beatles' George Harrison
Apr 30 2024
108. Analyzing the Songwriting of The Beatles' George Harrison
Dear Songwriter,Are you ready to dive into the songwriting secrets belonging to The Beatles' quiet genius, George Harrison? Today, we'll be breaking down the timeless tracks "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" and "Something" to see what makes them so great. We'll uncover the mystery of why these songs chose to forego the comforts of a traditional chorus, and instead, follow a jazz-like structure.With George Harrison's deep understanding of musical storytelling, we'll delineate the characteristics that set his creations apart from the typical pop song. You will also unearth the underlying similarities that are subtly woven into these two distinct songs. Ultimately, the goal of this episode is not just to marvel at Harrison's extraordinary talent, but to extract and introduce his unique techniques into your songwriting universe.What You'll Learn in This Episode:The distinct role of the guitar in Harrison's songsThe transition between minor and major keysThe power of subtle lyrical repetitionsUnderstanding the absence of a traditional chorus.The unique, jazz-like structure of these compositionsAre you ready to resonate your own songs with some of this Beatles magic? Let's get into it with today's episode!Ever wanted to connect with like-minded songwriters, embarking on the same journey as you? Join our free group, Songwriter's Vault, for exclusive trainings and a chance to connect: https://connorfrost.com/vaultpodcastMentions and Links:Songs/Artists:While My Guitar Gently Weeps - The BeatlesSomething - The BeatlesMusicians/Songwriters:Paul McCartney John LennonGeorge HarrisonMovies/Books:Star WarsHarry Potter