Write on Track: A Songwriting Podcast

Demi Michelle Schwartz

Welcome to Write on Track: A Songwriting Podcast. Host and songwriter Demi Michelle Schwartz invites you on a journey like no other. Demi explores all aspects of being a songwriter, from the craft of songwriting to the music business and beyond. Catch new episodes every other Sunday and tune into all of the unforgettable conversations Demi has with songwriters, artists, radio presenters, music industry professionals, and more. So, what are you waiting for? Kick back and relax, don’t fall flat, and remember, stay “write on track!” read less

Episode 136 - Songwriting and Interpretation with Andy Pritchard
Sep 17 2023
Episode 136 - Songwriting and Interpretation with Andy Pritchard
One of the most beautiful things about music is how it’s interpreted in many different ways. From an artist’s inspiration for a song to the meaning listeners find through the lyrics and musical elements, music has the power to evoke emotion, create deep understanding, and widen perspectives. I’m honored to share a fantastic conversation with Andy Pritchard about songwriting and interpretation. The quote for this episode is by Riff Raff: “There’s no right or wrong answer in an interpretation. It’s all in the person who’s interpreting, and how you feel about something.” During our conversation, Andy and I chat about giving listeners the chance to interpret our music, interpretations being unique based on someone’s personal life experiences, writing from a place of authenticity and genuine emotion, exploring the artist’s intent and inspiration for their songs, respecting the songwriter’s and listeners’ interpretations, writing poetic lyrics, choosing whether to make lyrics more direct or poetic and metaphorical, making sure every lyric matters because each has the potential to pull in a listener, the idea that what isn’t said says much more than what is said, the musical elements of a song opening the door for interpretation, creating a meaningful combination of lyrics and music with emotional resonance, evoking emotion through the song’s instrumentation, and much more. We also chat about Andy’s song, “Silence of Your Love,” and my song, “Halfway Outta This Town,” through the lens of interpretation. I truly loved having Andy on the show for such a wonderful conversation, so I hope it opens your ears and heart to songwriting and interpretation. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”
Episode 135 - Writing an Album with a Theme with Laura Mustard and Her Pup Stella
Sep 17 2023
Episode 135 - Writing an Album with a Theme with Laura Mustard and Her Pup Stella
As songwriters, a primary goal is to tell our stories authentically and creatively. One way we do this is by sharing albums centering themes rooted in our emotions and experiences. I’m delighted to welcome Laura Mustard back to the show to chat about writing an album with a theme and overarching story. Also, Laura’s adorable pup, Stella, makes an appearance. The quote for this episode is by Pablo Picasso: “If there were only one truth, you couldn’t paint a hundred canvases on the same theme.” During our conversation, Laura and I talk about universal themes being approached from different angles, personal experiences shaping perspectives, themes we gravitate toward as listeners, themes resonating over time, focusing on themes in our music, taking a thematic approach during the songwriting process, writing an album with a theme, being intentional with the writing process, including several lyrical themes that tie into the album’s main theme, organizing the tracklist in a way that tells an overarching story, the themes and overarching stories of our upcoming albums, comparing themes in our earlier projects and new albums, life experiences shaping what we write about, writing songs fueled by deep emotions, and much more. Laura also shares details about her single, “Promise Me.” I loved having Laura back on the show for such a unique chat. I hope it gives you a fascinating glimpse into writing albums with themes. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”
Episode 133 - The Josie Music Association and Awards with Josie Passantino-Boone and Tina Passantino
Sep 3 2023
Episode 133 - The Josie Music Association and Awards with Josie Passantino-Boone and Tina Passantino
I’m honored to share an outstanding conversation with two of the biggest champions for the independent music industry, Josie Passantino-Boone and Tina Passantino, ahead of the 9th Annual Josie Music Awards in October. During our chat, we talk about the various brands of the Josie Music Association and how artists can get involved, supporting artists who create all genres of music, how the Josie Music Awards started and the event’s evolution over the past nine years, the family-like aspect of the awards show, the nomination and selection process, what attendees can expect at the 9th Annual Josie Music Awards weekend in Nashville, starting plans for the awards’ tenth anniversary next year, the magic at the Grand Ole Opry House, future dreams for the Josie Music Association, and much more. I’m so grateful I got the opportunity to have Josie and Tina on the show, so I hope you love our conversation. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”
Episode 132 - All About Pedal Steel Guitar with Jason Dunkle
Sep 3 2023
Episode 132 - All About Pedal Steel Guitar with Jason Dunkle
The pedal steel guitar is a unique instrument that isn’t widely known. I’m hoping to increase its familiarity by sharing a fabulous conversation with my pedal steel player, Jason Dunkle. Sit back and relax, because you’re in for a wonderful episode, full of amazing information about the steel guitar, entertaining stories, and special pedal steel demonstrations. The quote for this episode is by Curly Chalker: “Steel guitar is the illegitimate child of music.” During our conversation, Jason shares how he got started with pedal steel, his journey making the shift from playing guitar to pedal steel and the challenges he faced during this time, the steel guitar not being very well-known, getting mentored by some of the biggest names in the pedal steel community, playing live, his recording process, recording at the studio versus from home, getting recording work, the importance of practicing slowly, various pedal steel techniques, lots of advice, and much more. I loved having Jason on the show for such a fun and informative conversation, and I hope you learned a ton about pedal steel along the way. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”
Episode 129 - Songwriting and Consistency with Marcus Reeves
Aug 20 2023
Episode 129 - Songwriting and Consistency with Marcus Reeves
Consistency is essential to becoming successful at anything in life, especially for songwriters. I’m so excited to share an outstanding conversation with Marcus Reeves about songwriting and consistency. The quote for this episode is by Dwayne Johnson: “Success isn’t always about greatness. It’s about consistency. Consistent hard work leads to success. Greatness will come.” During our unforgettable conversation, Marcus and I talk about celebrating career highlights and achievements, practicing music skills, showing up and working on the songwriting craft, longevity and long-term goals, committing to a songwriting challenge, developing confidence with creativity, writing multiple genres, recognizing how not every song will be amazing, having the freedom to revisit and revise old songs, the balance between writing under pressure with a deadline and taking off pressure by not expecting the song to be perfect right away, freewriting in the morning, getting into a creative flow, making time for songwriting, building a dependable reputation, trying a challenge and seeing if it’s a fit, and so much more. Also, Marcus shares details about his project, Ten Day Tunes. I truly loved my chat with Marcus, so I hope it inspires you to embrace consistency as a songwriter. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”
Episode 126 - The Life of a Multi-Genre Artist with Caruso
Jul 23 2023
Episode 126 - The Life of a Multi-Genre Artist with Caruso
As a multi-genre artist myself, I know how creatively fulfilling this path is. Writing and recording different styles of music leads to growth, evolution, and rewarding moments. I couldn’t be more honored to share my incredible conversation with Caruso about being a multi-genre artist. The quote for this episode is by Taylor Swift: “I leave the genre labeling to other people. I really do. If I were to think too hard about it, that would stifle you creatively. If you think too hard about who other people want you to be as an artist, it stops you from being who you want to be as an artist.” During our conversation, Caruso and I chat about writing multiple genres of music, staying true to ourselves as artists, doing what’s best for each song, evolving as a musician through exploring various genres both while writing and recording, listening to more than one genre, capturing emotions and experiences through various sonic landscapes, crafting songs based on feelings and moods, writing songs in a dream state, pitching music as a multi-genre artist, building a wider network, reaching listeners who enjoy certain genres, expanding a fanbase, following our creativity and embracing evolution, finding people in the industry who are accepting and supportive, being genuine, and so much more. I loved having Caruso on the show for such an outstanding conversation. I hope it gives you a glimpse into the life of a multi-genre artist. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”
Episode 124 - The Reality of Networking in the Music Industry with Daniel Nesci
Jul 9 2023
Episode 124 - The Reality of Networking in the Music Industry with Daniel Nesci
Networking is essential for success in the music industry. So much goes into developing best networking practices, and I’m excited to welcome Daniel Nesci back onto the show to explore this topic. The quote for this episode is by Adam Grant: “If we create networks with the sole intention of getting something, we won’t succeed. We can’t pursue the benefits of networks; the benefits ensue from investments in meaningful activities and relationships.” During our conversation, Daniel and I talk about building relationships with people rather than focusing on what they supply, looking at the mutual benefits of networking, knowing the intent for reaching out to someone, why networking is a core part of the music industry, refraining from treating someone based on what they have or haven’t done because there’s no way of knowing what the future holds, being aware of red flags and avoiding people with bad intentions, having contracts looked over by a lawyer who understands the music industry, recognizing strengths and not being afraid to ask for help in other areas, having at least a little knowledge about other aspects of the music business to enhance professionalism and the quality of communications, tips for successful networking, and so much more. We also chat about Daniel’s music. I loved inviting Daniel back for another informative conversation, so I hope it gives you a realistic glimpse into networking in the music industry. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”
Episode 123 - Balancing a Music Career and Personal Life with Matteson Gregory
Jul 9 2023
Episode 123 - Balancing a Music Career and Personal Life with Matteson Gregory
As artists, we’re constantly finding ways to create a healthy balance between our music careers and personal lives, though this isn’t always easy. I’m delighted to welcome Matteson Gregory back to the show for an outstanding conversation about this complex topic. The quote for this episode is by Jana Kingsford: “Balance is not something you find; it’s something you create.” During our conversation, Matteson and I talk about creating a healthy balance and how this is different for everyone, making changes when things are out of balance, taking breaks for self care and mental health, setting ourselves up for maximum creativity and productivity, the unique reality artists have when it comes to separating our personal and professional lives, having a balanced schedule, setting boundaries, not crossing personal lives in professional situations, building a social media presence based on a comfort level with what to share, being mindful with business relationships and industry friends, and much more. We also chat about Matteson’s single, “Have You Seen My Friends?” I loved having Matteson back on the show, so I hope it inspires you to create a stronger balance in your life. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”
Episode 122 - Songwriting and Standing Out with Bryan Ruby
Jun 25 2023
Episode 122 - Songwriting and Standing Out with Bryan Ruby
Songwriting is a gift that’s a special part of our lives. Still, standing out from the crowd in both the music industry and our personal lives may be challenging. No matter how you define standing out in your life, we should all feel empowered to be who we are. I couldn’t feel more excited to share a truly inspiring conversation with Bryan Ruby about songwriting and standing out. The quote for this episode is by Matshona Dhliwayo: “A star does not compete with other stars around it; it just shines.” During our incredible conversation, Bryan and I chat about loving songwriting, searching for inspiration and recognizing there will always be more songs to write, evolving as songwriters, parallels between being a songwriter and baseball player, learning how to live with failure, dealing with emotional attachment to songs, the reality that nothing is guaranteed in the music industry, being personally invested in songs, balancing the personal and universal while writing to allow others to relate, growing up as musicians and not quite fitting in, standing out from the crowd, being who you are, taking a songwriting approach to cover songs, enjoying the songwriting journey, and much more. We also talk about Bryan’s single, “The Standouts,” featuring Ty Herndon. It was a true honor having Bryan on the show, so I hope you love our conversation and feel inspired to embrace who you are and be a standout. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”
Episode 120 - The Songwriter-Producer Relationship with Bob McCutcheon
Jun 11 2023
Episode 120 - The Songwriter-Producer Relationship with Bob McCutcheon
The songwriter-producer relationship is a special one. It’s also complex, from finding someone who’s a good fit to building trust and open communication. I couldn’t be more delighted to welcome my producer, Bob McCutcheon, back onto the show to draw back the curtain on our experiences working together and to give an entertaining and informative glimpse into what the songwriter-producer relationship is all about. The quote for this episode is by Quincy Jones: “For every hour of recording, have two hours of laughter in the studio.” During our fantastic conversation, Bob and I talk about the magic that happens in the studio, finding a balance between having fun and getting work done, the producer’s role of making an artist feel comfortable, determining if a songwriter or producer is a good fit from both perspectives, the artist’s desire to have a hands-on approach to the production of their music, production being a learning process for artists, rates for music production and how they vary depending on the producer and project, expectations from both perspectives, preparing for sessions, sharing ideas while producing a song, being open to experimentation, having healthy and comfortable communication, course correcting when a song isn’t going in the right direction, building trust, music distribution and release strategies, and much more. I’m so glad Bob joined me for another amazing conversation, and I hope it gives you a glimpse into the songwriter-producer relationship. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”
Announcement - Josie Music Awards Nomination for Write on Track
May 30 2023
Announcement - Josie Music Awards Nomination for Write on Track
Happy Birthday Write on Track! I may have released the trailer on May 19, but since the first episode dropped on May 30, which is also my birthday, I’m considering today its official birthday. I can’t believe the show is two years old. This journey has been magical, and I’m forever grateful for everyone I’ve met so far. To celebrate the show turning two years old, I thought this was the perfect time to share a special announcement on the feed. Earlier this month, I found out Write on Track received a nomination for Media Company of the Year at the Josie Music Awards taking place this October at the Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville. When I started the podcast, never in my wildest dreams did I think it’d one day be an award-nominated show. I’m so honored, and my heart is full of gratitude. Thank you so much to the JMAs for this recognition and to every single person who was part of Write on Track during its first two years. This is just the beginning! Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”
Episode 118 - Exploring Real Topics Through Songwriting with Robbie Harte
May 28 2023
Episode 118 - Exploring Real Topics Through Songwriting with Robbie Harte
Choosing to write songs with real topics exploring raw and personal truths takes courage. Finding the strength to share vulnerable messages leads to healing, peace, and self-discovery, and it also shows listeners they’re not alone. I’m honored to invite Robbie Hearte onto the show for an open conversation about exploring real topics through songwriting. The quote for this episode is by Brené Brown: “Vulnerability sounds like truth and feels like courage. Truth and courage aren’t always comfortable, but they’re never weakness.” During our fantastic conversation, Robbie and I chat about chasing dreams despite personal challenges and barriers, overcoming societal expectations placed on the music industry, writing about raw experiences, sharing a message of hope through songs touching on deeply vulnerable topics, the courage required to write about real and personal truths, empowering ourselves and others through sharing truthful messages, exploring subjects not commonly heard in songs, the comfort that comes with sharing stories in song form, bringing a sense of peace to ourselves and listeners, receiving recognition from music awards, the reality that songs with deeper topics may not be accepted by radio stations, the creative freedom that comes with being independent artists, focusing on the positives and self-discovery while writing vulnerable songs, giving our songs wings and a voice through releasing them, sharing positivity and supporting others chasing their dreams in the music industry, and much more. We also talk about Robbie’s single, “Sticks and Stones.” I’m so grateful Robbie joined me on the show for such an honest conversation I hope inspires you. Are you enjoying Write on Track? Do you have a topic suggestion for an episode? Would you like to be a guest? Email me at writeontrackpodcast@gmail.com. Also, I’d love to connect with you. My official website is http://demimschwartz.com, and you can find me on Twitter at http://twitter.com/demimschwartz, Instagram at http://instagram.com/demimschwartz, and Facebook at http://facebook.com/demimschwartz. Thank you so much for listening. Until next time, stay “write on track!”