The Evolving Art of Songwriting: Rewriting and Refining Classics
As a songwriter, the creation of a song often marks the beginning of a journey towards its maturity. Grettch, a seasoned musician and songwriter, shares insights into the ongoing process of rewriting and refining songs. This continuous evolution is not limited to lesser-known pieces but can also transform hit material into something new and unique.
Understanding the Creative Process: When is a Song Good Enough?
One of the most significant aspects of songwriting is knowing when to let a piece breathe and when to push it further. Artist decisions often dictate when a composition is ready to be shown. Grettch emphasizes that he leaves his completed songs untouched, but revisits unfinished projects to refine them. The key is not to force the process but to allow the song to evolve naturally.
When to Let Go: It is essential to recognize the right time to let a song mature. Grettch advises that constantly refining a piece without closure can lead to stagnation. Instead, there should be a balance between striving to move forward and not dismissing any idea, as it might make sense later.
The Continuous Evolution of a Song
Once a song is completed, it does not necessarily mean the process ends. In fact, many songs continue to evolve and improve over time. Take, for instance, the case of Amazing Grace. Grettch notes that he has continued to tweak arrangements and melodies of this hymn as recently as 4-5 years ago. Even minor changes, such as adding a new word, note, or instrument, can enhance the song's overall impact.
For Grettch, there is no definitive endpoint to the tweaking process. The song continues to grow and change as new ideas emerge. This mindset reflects the dynamic nature of songwriting and the belief that there is always room for improvement.
The Redefinition of a Song: From Demo to Final Product
While the song is still evolving, the songwriter often revisits the piece multiple times, agonizing over every word and note. However, a line must eventually be drawn. This is often achieved once the song is recorded as a demo. At this point, the majority of the improvisation and fine-tuning come to a halt, as the demo serves as an official record of the song's current state.
The decision to move on to the next project can also play a role in closing a chapter. However, the underlying principle is to ensure that the song has reached a stage where it can stand on its own, even if there might be room for further refinement.
Revisiting Hit Material: The Journey Beyond Success
Even songs that are already considered hit material can benefit from further refinement. Grettch uses the example of working with a new band, where each collaboration brings new ideas and perspectives. This process can be likened to an author revisiting and improving a novel. The same applies to songs, where a new bridge or a minor tweak can transform a piece into something entirely new and intriguing.
The flexibility to adapt and refine a song, even after initial success, showcases the songwriter's dedication to perfecting their craft. This ongoing process is what truly defines the art of songwriting as a living, growing entity.
Conclusion
Songwriting is not a one-time event but a continuous journey of discovery and refinement. Grettch's approach to rewriting and retooling songs highlights the dynamic and evolving nature of this art form. The key takeaway is that no song is truly complete until the songwriter decides it is ready to be shown, even if that means revisiting it years later. This flexibility and openness to improvement set the stage for creating timeless and evocative music.