The Songwriter's Notebook

The Songwriter's Notebook

An All-Levels Workbook for Inspired Lyric Writing

About the Book

An all-levels songwriting workbook featuring prompts, activities, and guidance for unlocking creativity in a new generation of songwriters inspired by Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Noah Kahan, and more

Everyone has a song in them; because everyone has a story to tell. Your don't need to play an instrument, you don't need formal training. All you need is an idea—and the right guidance to help bring it to life. 

The Songwriter’s Notebook is the definitive resource for anyone who wants to turn their thoughts into meaningful, memorable lyrics. Whether you're dreaming of filling stadiums, or writing songs in your bedroom, or just looking for a new way to express yourself, this book is all about getting your words onto the page.

In this fun, inspiring workbook, you will:
  • Discover the building blocks of great songs, from structure, to lyrical language, to lyric concepts that captivate.
  • Tap into your senses, experiences, and emotions to craft noteworthy lyrics—just like your favorite artists.
  • Practice with imaginative prompts that explore your personal writing style.
  • Develop a creative process for yourself, so putting pen to paper becomes so intuitive you’ll be filling notebooks in no time.
  • And more!

Packed with examples, exercises, prompts, and guidance, with a new adventure on every page, The Songwriter’s Notebook is the missing key to your creativity practice and an essential workbook for unlocking your songwriting genius.
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About the Author

Courtney Fortune
Courtney Fortune is a singer-songwriter, touring artist, songwriting coach, and music mentor. She has worked with hundreds of songwriters on their craft. She has a bachelor’s in music industry and master’s degree in arts leadership from the University of Southern California. She had been recognized by the John Legend Foundation, Glamour Magazine, and Mix With The Masters, and has received the Brian Wilson Award for Musical Achievement. Courtney is the founder of Songmaker Sessions (a songwriting and mentorship program) and co-founder/co-director of the High School Songwriters Summit and Showcase at the GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles. She is also the co-creator of the Commercial Music Program at the Los Angeles County High School for the Arts and a 2024 Artist in Residence at the prestigious Lucas Artists Residency Program at Montalvo Arts Center. More by Courtney Fortune
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