How I became a Successful Songwriter
By Godspower Eyakwaire
You see, my journey as a songwriter didn’t start with glitz and glamour. It began in the small, crowded living room of my family home in Lagos, where the air was filled with the aroma of jollof rice and the sound of my mother singing old Highlife classics. This was my first taste of music, and trust me, it was everything.
Growing up, I was just a regular kid with big dreams. I remember sneaking into my older brother’s room to borrow his guitar. It was a beat-up old thing, but to me, it was a treasure. I would spend hours strumming away, trying to mimic the tunes I heard on the radio. I was fascinated by how a simple melody could tell stories, evoke laughter, or even bring tears to one’s eyes. That was my first lesson: music is powerful.
The Early Days: Struggles and Small Victories
As a teenager, I started writing my own lyrics. I would scribble them in my school notebook, using whatever inspiration I could find. Sometimes it was heartbreak, other times it was joy, and often it was just the hustle of everyday life. But let me tell you, getting noticed was tough.
I remember a particular day in secondary school when I gathered the courage to perform my first song at a talent show. I was shaking like a leaf, but when I finished, the applause was like sweet honey on my ears. It didn’t matter that I didn’t win; what mattered was the feeling of sharing my heart with others. That day, I learned that every small step counts.
Finding My Voice
After secondary school, I knew I had to sharpen my skills. I enrolled in a music production course at a local college. The moment I stepped into that classroom, I felt like I was in my element. I learned about songwriting structures, melodies, and the art of storytelling. It was a game-changer.
But you know how it is in Nigeria – talent alone doesn’t cut it. You need to hustle. I started going to every open mic night I could find, from Surulere to Ikoyi. I networked with producers, other artists, and even those who had nothing to do with music but were passionate about it. I was often met with rejections, but each ‘no’ motivated me to work harder. I learned the value of resilience.
The Breakthrough Moment
Then came the day that changed everything. It was a sunny afternoon, and I was hanging out with my brother, Wilson, who just so happened to be friends with a popular musician. She casually mentioned me, and before I knew it, I was invited to write a song for an upcoming album. My heart raced!
The studio was a whirlwind of excitement. I wrote a heartfelt piece about love and belonging, pouring every ounce of my experience into the lyrics. The artist loved it, and it became a hit. From that moment, it was as if a door had been flung wide open. I realized that opportunities are often disguised as hard work.
The Journey Continues
Now, with a few hits under my belt, I had to navigate this new world. The industry isn’t all glitz and glam; it comes with its fair share of challenges. There were days when I questioned my abilities, wondering if I could keep up with the demands. I faced creative blocks and the pressure of meeting expectations. But I remembered why I started writing in the first place: to express, to connect, to share.
So, I found inspiration in the simplest things. A conversation with a friend, a scene from a movie, or a trip to the market could spark an idea. I learned to embrace my Nigerian roots, blending Afrobeat rhythms with contemporary sounds. My unique style started to catch the attention of even bigger names in the industry.
Building My Brand
As my reputation grew, I understood that being a songwriter meant more than just writing lyrics. It was about building a brand and a community. I started sharing my journey on social media, connecting with fans and aspiring musicians. I offered tips, shared my struggles, and celebrated the wins – big and small.
I can’t stress enough how important it is to be authentic. People can feel when you’re genuine, and they rally behind you. I received countless messages from young songwriters inspired by my journey. That kept me motivated to keep pushing forward, to show them that their dreams are valid.
Lessons Learned
Looking back, I’ve learned so many invaluable lessons. First, never underestimate the power of hard work and persistence. Talent is essential, but without dedication, it can fade away. Second, always stay true to your voice. Your unique experiences are what make your music special.
Lastly, surround yourself with people who uplift you. I can't stress this enough. The music industry can be cutthroat, and having a solid support system is crucial. My family, friends, and mentors have been my backbone, encouraging me on days when I felt like giving up.
The Future Awaits
As I sit here reflecting on my journey, I’m filled with gratitude. I’ve had the privilege to work with incredible artists and to be part of a vibrant community. But I know this is just the beginning. There’s so much more music to create, stories to tell, and lives to touch.
So, if you’re out there dreaming of becoming a songwriter, remember: your voice matters. Keep writing, keep hustling, and don’t let anyone dim your shine. Your breakthrough could be just around the corner.
What do you think? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!