books on song writing

[big jimmy]

.can anyone recommend a good book on song writing?

[Chris S.]

Yes, as a matter of fact. It's called "You Can Write Great Lyrics" (catchy title, huh? Hee...) ;-) Here's a link:

http://www.amazon.com/You-Can-Write-.../dp/0898793637

It's good at helping you focus in on the story inherent in the song. Hope it helps, CS

[mindbender]

"How to write songs on guitar" by Rikky rooksby, pub. by "backbeat books", $20.00
I looked for two to three years to find a books this concise and informative, Tells when and why to use chords. Good luck!

[big jimmy]

I should say that this book would be for my 16yr old son who is progressing along well in his playing of other peoples music. he has been taking lessons 1 or 2 times a week for about 4 years. I will look into these above and any more suggestions would be welcomed.

[Mickey]

A long time ago I got myself in trouble with this thread, which starts with a quote from Jimmy Webb's Tunesmith. I still like his book though, and I've read a bunch.

[6V6man]

Originally Posted by Chris S.

Yes, as a matter of fact. It's called "You Can Write Great Lyrics" (catchy title, huh? Hee...) ;-) Here's a link:

http://www.amazon.com/You-Can-Write-.../dp/0898793637

It's good at helping you focus in on the story inherent in the song. Hope it helps, CS

I second this book, but as its title implies, it's only about lyrics. The first two years that I was writing, "You Can Write Great Lyrics" was my songwriting bible!