Songwriting Speakers

A songwriting speaker is someone who shares their expertise in songwriting through public speaking, workshops, panels, or virtual events. They're not just songwriters - they're communicators who can break down the creative process and make it accessible to a broader audience.

These speakers often come from varied backgrounds: some are professional musicians, others are educators, producers, or even music therapists. What unites them is their ability to articulate how songs are written, why certain lyrics resonate, and how musical structure supports storytelling.

Unlike a performer who sings or plays music, a songwriting speaker focuses on the 'how' and 'why' behind the music. They might explain how a hit song was crafted, dissect a famous lyric, or walk an audience through the emotional arc of a melody. Think of them as translators between the creative mind and the curious listener.

Some songwriting speakers specialize in specific genres - like hip-hop, folk, or K-pop - while others take a cross-genre approach. Many also incorporate live demonstrations, audience participation, or real-time songwriting exercises to keep things interactive.

In short, a songwriting speaker is a guide into the world of musical storytelling. Whether you're a musician, a fan, or someone looking to boost creativity, they help you understand what makes a song work - and why it sticks in your head long after it ends.

When it comes to understanding creativity, few roles are as uniquely positioned as the songwriting speaker. They don't just talk about music - they decode the emotional and technical layers that make songs powerful.

For emerging artists, a songwriting speaker can be a game-changer. They offer insights that go beyond YouTube tutorials or music theory textbooks. By hearing directly from someone who's been in the trenches - writing, revising, and performing - aspiring songwriters gain real-world strategies and inspiration.

In educational settings, songwriting speakers help bridge the gap between theory and practice. A university music program might bring in a speaker to complement classroom instruction with industry context. Suddenly, students aren't just learning about chord progressions - they're hearing how those chords shaped a Grammy-winning track.

Even outside the music world, songwriting speakers bring value. In corporate events or creative summits, they offer fresh perspectives on storytelling, emotional intelligence, and innovation. A talk on how a songwriter builds a narrative can spark ideas for marketers, designers, or entrepreneurs.

So whether you're hosting a music festival, running a team offsite, or organizing a virtual summit, a songwriting speaker adds depth, authenticity, and creative spark. They're not just talking about songs - they're showing us how to think differently.

Songwriting speakers wear multiple hats - not just as musicians, but as educators, storytellers, and creative catalysts. Here's a breakdown of what they actually do:

- Deliver Keynotes and Talks. They speak at conferences, festivals, and virtual events, sharing insights into the songwriting process. These talks often blend personal stories, technical breakdowns, and live examples.

- Lead Workshops and Masterclasses. Many songwriting speakers offer hands-on sessions where participants write lyrics, build melodies, or collaborate in real time. These are especially popular in music schools, retreats, and online bootcamps.

- Consult and Mentor. Some speakers work one-on-one or in small groups, guiding emerging songwriters through creative blocks, project planning, or portfolio development.

- Engage in Cross-Industry Events. You'll find songwriting speakers at unexpected places - like tech summits or wellness retreats - where they talk about creativity, emotional expression, and innovation through music.

- Collaborate with Hosts and Platforms. On platforms like Talks.co, songwriting speakers connect with event hosts to tailor their content, promote their sessions, and build long-term partnerships.

In essence, songwriting speakers don't just talk about music - they use music as a lens to explore creativity, connection, and communication. Whether they're on stage or on Zoom, their job is to make the art of songwriting feel accessible, exciting, and deeply human.

Ready to share your songwriting journey on stage? Here's a step-by-step guide to becoming a songwriting speaker who captivates audiences and lands gigs:

1. Define Your Niche.
- Are you a lyricist, composer, or performer? Narrow your focus.
- Example: If you specialize in writing pop hooks, your talks could center on melody writing for commercial success.

2. Craft Your Signature Talk.
- Build a compelling presentation around your expertise.
- Include stories, songwriting demos, and audience interaction.
- Tip: Use storytelling to connect emotionally. Share the 'why' behind your most powerful songs.

3. Build Your Speaker Page.
- Create a professional speaker profile on platforms like Talks.co.
- Include your bio, topics, testimonials, and a video reel.
- Pro tip: Highlight both your songwriting credentials and speaking experience.

4. Start Small, Then Scale.
- Offer to speak at local music schools, songwriting meetups, or online summits.
- Record every talk to build your portfolio.
- Once you've got a few under your belt, pitch to larger conferences like ASCAP Expo or TEDx events.

5. Connect with Hosts and Event Organizers.
- Use Talks.co to match with event hosts looking for songwriting experts.
- Network on LinkedIn, join songwriting communities, and attend industry mixers.
- Always follow up with a thank-you and ask for referrals.

6. Keep Evolving.
- Update your talk based on feedback.
- Stay current with songwriting trends and incorporate new insights.
- Consider hosting your own virtual summit to boost visibility.

Becoming a songwriting speaker isn't just about having talent. It's about packaging your story, showing up consistently, and building relationships that open doors.

Being a songwriting speaker means blending creativity with communication. You're not just writing songs, you're teaching others how to do it, why it matters, and how it changes lives. So what do you actually need to step into this role?

First, you need songwriting credibility. That doesn't mean you need a Grammy, but you should have a track record. Maybe you've written for indie artists, scored sync deals, or released your own albums. The key is to have real-world experience you can speak from.

Second, you need public speaking skills. You don't have to be a Tony Robbins-level orator, but you do need to engage an audience. Practice storytelling, use visuals, and learn how to read a room. Platforms like Toastmasters or even Instagram Lives can help you build confidence.

Third, you need a platform. This is where Talks.co comes in. Having a speaker page that showcases your topics, testimonials, and past talks makes it easier for event hosts to find and book you. It also gives you credibility when pitching yourself.

Lastly, you need a message. What makes your songwriting journey unique? Maybe you overcame writer's block, built a career without a label, or use songwriting as therapy. Your message is what makes your talk memorable.

In short, to be a songwriting speaker, you need:
- Proven songwriting experience.
- Solid speaking skills.
- A professional speaker platform (like Talks.co).
- A clear, compelling message.

Combine those, and you're ready to inspire rooms full of aspiring songwriters.

Yes, songwriting speakers do get paid, but how much and how often depends on several factors. Let's break it down.

First, the demand for songwriting speakers is growing. With the rise of independent music production and online learning, more conferences, summits, and schools are looking for experts who can teach songwriting in an engaging way. That means more opportunities to get paid.

However, payment varies widely based on experience, audience size, and event type. Here's a quick breakdown:

- Beginner speakers: Often start with free gigs or honorariums ($50-$200) to build experience.
- Mid-level speakers: Can earn $500-$2,000 per talk, especially at music schools or niche conferences.
- Top-tier speakers: Those with hit songs or industry fame can command $5,000-$20,000+ per keynote.

Pros:
- Paid travel and accommodations for in-person events.
- Opportunities to sell products or services (courses, books).
- Exposure that leads to more bookings.

Cons:
- Not all events pay, especially virtual or grassroots ones.
- Payment timelines can vary (some pay 30-60 days after the event).

In short, yes, songwriting speakers get paid. But like any speaking career, it starts small and grows with your reputation and reach. Platforms like Talks.co can help you connect with paid gigs faster by showcasing your expertise to the right hosts.

Songwriting speakers don't just rely on speaking fees. They diversify their income streams by combining their creative and business skills. Here's how they make money:

1. Speaking Engagements
- Paid keynotes at music conferences, schools, and festivals.
- Workshop facilitation for songwriting retreats or industry bootcamps.

2. Online Courses and Masterclasses
- Platforms like Teachable or Udemy allow speakers to monetize their knowledge.
- Example: A songwriting speaker might sell a course on 'Writing Lyrics That Sell' for $97.

3. Books and eBooks
- Publishing a book on songwriting techniques or creativity can generate passive income.
- These also serve as authority builders that increase speaking fees.

4. Consulting and Coaching
- One-on-one or group coaching for aspiring songwriters.
- Corporate gigs teaching creativity through songwriting.

5. Merchandise and Music Sales
- Selling original music, lyric journals, or branded gear at events.

6. Affiliate Marketing and Sponsorships
- Partnering with gear companies, DAW software, or music platforms.
- Example: Promoting a songwriting app during a talk and earning commission.

7. Hosting Events or Summits
- Running your own songwriting summit via Zoom.
- Charging for tickets, VIP access, or replays.

The most successful songwriting speakers treat their career like a business. They build multiple revenue streams and use their talks as a funnel to deeper offerings.

The income of songwriting speakers can vary dramatically based on experience, audience, and how diversified their revenue streams are. Let's look at some numbers and scenarios.
Entry-Level Speakers
- Typically earn $0 to $500 per talk.
- Often speak at local events, schools, or online panels.
- May receive perks like free tickets, meals, or exposure.
Mid-Tier Speakers
- Earn between $500 and $2,500 per event.
- Speak at regional conferences, songwriting camps, or music colleges.
- Often supplement income with course sales or coaching.
Top-Tier Speakers
- Can command $5,000 to $20,000+ per keynote.
- Speak at global events like SXSW, TEDx, or Berklee College events.
- Typically have hit songs, books, or a large online following.
Additional Income Streams
- Online courses: $1,000 to $10,000/month depending on traffic.
- Coaching: $100 to $500/hour.
- Book royalties: Varies, but often $1 to $5 per copy sold.
Here's a quick table:

Level	Per Talk Fee	Other Monthly Income
Beginner	$0 - $500	$0 - $1,000 (courses, merch)
Mid-Level	$500 - $2,500	$1,000 - $5,000
Top-Tier	$5,000 - $20,000	$5,000 - $50,000+

So, how much you make as a songwriting speaker depends on how you position yourself, how many talks you do, and how well you monetize beyond the stage.

If you're looking to hire a songwriting speaker, the cost can range widely depending on their experience, audience appeal, and what you want them to deliver. Here's a breakdown to help you budget smartly.

Cost by Experience Level
- Emerging Speakers: $250 to $750 per event. Great for local workshops or virtual panels.
- Professional Speakers: $1,000 to $5,000. These folks have a track record and often include Q&A or custom content.
- Celebrity-Level Speakers: $10,000 to $30,000+. Think Grammy winners or viral songwriting influencers.

Factors That Influence Cost
- Event Type: Keynotes cost more than panels. In-person events may include travel and lodging.
- Customization: Tailored talks or workshops often come with a premium.
- Audience Size: Larger audiences usually mean higher fees.
- Add-ons: Want them to perform a song, run a breakout session, or do a meet-and-greet? Expect to pay more.

Sample Budget Scenarios
- Small Music School Workshop: $500 + travel.
- Online Summit via Talks.co: $1,000 flat fee or revenue share.
- Major Conference Keynote: $7,500 + expenses.

Hiring a songwriting speaker isn't just about cost. It's about value. The right speaker can inspire your audience, teach practical skills, and elevate your entire event.

Here's a curated list of some of the best songwriting speakers ever. These are individuals who've not only written iconic songs but also inspired thousands through their talks, workshops, and masterclasses.

- Diane Warren
- With hits like 'Because You Loved Me' and 'I Don't Want to Miss a Thing', Warren is a powerhouse. Her masterclasses are known for their no-fluff, real-world advice.

- Paul Williams
- Oscar-winning songwriter and former ASCAP president. His talks blend creativity, recovery, and the emotional power of songwriting.

- Carole King
- The 'Tapestry' legend has spoken at Berklee and other institutions, sharing insights on melody, emotion, and longevity in music.

- Smokey Robinson
- A Motown legend who's given keynotes on storytelling through lyrics and building a timeless catalog.

- Linda Perry
- Known for hits like 'Beautiful' (Christina Aguilera), she's a raw, honest speaker who dives deep into the songwriting process.

- Benny Blanco
- A modern hitmaker who's spoken at music tech events and universities about collaboration and innovation.

- Max Martin
- Rarely speaks publicly, but when he does (like at Swedish music summits), it's packed with gold.

- John Legend
- Combines songwriting, activism, and storytelling in his talks. A favorite at universities and global forums.

These speakers have shaped the industry and inspired generations. Their talks are a masterclass in both craft and career.

Looking for the best songwriting speakers active today? These global voices are not only writing chart-toppers but also educating and inspiring audiences around the world.

- Emily Warren (USA)
- Co-writer of hits for Dua Lipa and The Chainsmokers. She's spoken at NYU and Spotify events about modern pop writing.

- Ali Tamposi (USA)
- Known for 'Havana' and 'It Ain't Me', Tamposi regularly appears on panels and songwriting camps, offering insights on collaboration.

- Fraser T Smith (UK)
- Grammy-winning producer and writer for Adele and Stormzy. Speaks on songwriting as social commentary.

- Timbaland (USA)
- A beat-making legend who's now teaching via MasterClass and speaking at tech-music crossovers like SXSW.

- Troy Laureta (Philippines/USA)
- A Filipino-American songwriter and musical director who speaks about cultural fusion in songwriting.

- Stella Mwangi (Kenya/Norway)
- Blends African rhythms with pop. She's spoken at global music conferences about identity and songwriting.

- Sarah Aarons (Australia)
- Behind hits like 'The Middle' and 'Stay'. She's spoken on mental health and creativity in songwriting.

- Finneas (USA)
- Billie Eilish's brother and co-writer. Known for his TEDx talk and interviews on minimalist songwriting.

- Ankur Tewari (India)
- A Bollywood lyricist and indie artist who speaks at Indian music summits about storytelling in Hindi music.

These songwriting speakers are shaping the global music conversation. Whether it's through TEDx, Berklee, or Talks.co, they're making waves far beyond the studio.

Myth 1: Songwriting speakers are just failed musicians.
This one floats around a lot, especially in music circles. The assumption is that if someone is speaking about songwriting instead of performing, it's because they couldn't make it as an artist. But that's like saying a tech founder who becomes a startup coach failed at startups. In reality, many songwriting speakers are seasoned professionals who've written chart-topping hits or coached Grammy-winning artists. Take Bonnie McKee, for example. She's penned hits for Katy Perry and Britney Spears, and now shares her insights at conferences and workshops. Her transition into speaking isn't a fallback - it's a strategic move to share knowledge and scale impact.

Myth 2: You need to be famous to be a songwriting speaker.
Fame helps, sure. But it's not the ticket in. What matters more is your ability to communicate ideas clearly, offer real value, and connect with your audience. Some of the most booked songwriting speakers are behind-the-scenes producers, educators, or indie artists with cult followings. Think of people like Rick Barker, Taylor Swift's former manager, who speaks at music business events globally. He's not a household name, but his insights are gold.

Myth 3: Songwriting speakers only talk to musicians.
Not even close. Songwriting is storytelling, structure, emotion - all things that resonate beyond music. Songwriting speakers are increasingly invited to speak at marketing summits, creative writing retreats, even corporate innovation events. Why? Because the principles of songwriting - clarity, rhythm, emotional arc - apply to branding, leadership, and communication. It's not just about music anymore.

Myth 4: You have to be a natural performer to succeed.
Public speaking and performing music are related, but not identical. Some of the best songwriting speakers are introverts who thrive in structured environments like workshops or panels. They prepare deeply, use visuals or demos, and lean into their expertise rather than charisma. If you're not a stage-hog, don't worry. There's space for all styles in this field.

Myth 5: There's no real demand for songwriting speakers.
This one's just outdated. With the explosion of online summits, music education platforms, and hybrid events, the demand for niche speakers has never been higher. Platforms like Talks.co are actively matching songwriting speakers with podcasts and virtual events. And with sync licensing, indie production, and content creation booming, everyone from YouTubers to ad agencies wants to learn the craft. The market is real, and it's growing.

When you think of songwriting speakers, you might imagine someone strumming a guitar and sharing a few tips. But the reality is far more dynamic. Let's look at a few standout examples that show how diverse and strategic this path can be.

Take Andrea Stolpe. A Berklee College of Music graduate, she spent years writing for major labels before transitioning into education and speaking. Her workshops are now staples at songwriting retreats across the U.S. and Europe. What sets her apart? She blends technical songwriting frameworks with personal storytelling, making her sessions resonate with both beginners and pros. Her book, 'Popular Lyric Writing,' is often cited in music programs worldwide.

Then there's Cliff Goldmacher. He's a Nashville-based songwriter who's written with Grammy winners and now speaks at music business conferences and corporate creativity events. Cliff's unique angle? He uses songwriting as a metaphor for innovation. In one keynote, he broke down how co-writing mirrors effective team collaboration. That talk got picked up by Fortune 500 companies looking to boost creative thinking.

In Australia, Helen Shanahan has carved out a niche as a speaker focused on mental health and songwriting. After winning the national Telstra Road to Discovery competition, she began speaking at schools and youth events, using songwriting as a tool for emotional expression. Her talks are especially popular in rural communities where access to mental health resources is limited.

And don't overlook the indie scene. Ari Herstand, author of 'How to Make It in the New Music Business,' regularly speaks at DIY music summits and on podcasts. His talks are tactical, data-driven, and brutally honest - a hit with emerging artists who want real-world strategies, not fluff.

These stories show that successful songwriting speakers aren't cut from one mold. Some come from academia, others from the stage, and many from the trenches of the industry. What they all share is a commitment to teaching, a clear message, and the ability to adapt their craft to different audiences.

The landscape for songwriting speakers is shifting in fascinating ways. As more industries recognize the value of creative communication, the opportunities for these speakers are expanding beyond traditional music circles.

First, expect to see more cross-industry speaking gigs. Songwriting speakers are being invited to tech conferences, branding summits, and even HR leadership retreats. Why? Because the storytelling techniques used in songwriting are being applied to UX design, brand voice, and employee engagement. Think of how Spotify's Wrapped campaign uses narrative arcs - that's songwriting logic applied to data.

Second, hybrid and virtual formats are becoming the norm. With platforms like Clubhouse, YouTube Live, and virtual summits hosted on tools like Hopin, songwriting speakers can now reach global audiences without leaving their home studios. This also means more niche topics are viable. A talk on 'Songwriting for TikTok hooks' might not fill a room in one city, but it can attract thousands online.

Third, there's a growing demand for culturally diverse perspectives. As global music consumption diversifies, so does the appetite for voices from different songwriting traditions. Speakers who can bring in Afrobeat structures, K-pop lyric strategies, or Latin American rhythm theory are getting booked by international schools and cross-cultural marketing teams.

Here are a few key trends to watch:
- Micro-niche talks: Topics like 'Writing for sync licensing' or 'Lyricism in AI-generated music' are gaining traction.
- Educational content monetization: More speakers are launching online courses, Patreon communities, and paid newsletters.
- AI collaboration: Tools like ChatGPT and Boomy are changing how songs are written. Speakers who can teach how to co-write with AI are ahead of the curve.
- Podcast guesting as a lead funnel: With tools like Talks.co, songwriting speakers are using podcast appearances to build authority and drive traffic to their offerings.

The future is wide open for songwriting speakers who are willing to adapt, specialize, and speak to audiences beyond the music industry itself.

Talks.co. A smart podcast guest matching tool. If you're just starting out or looking to expand your reach, this is a goldmine. Create a profile, highlight your songwriting expertise, and get matched with podcast hosts looking for guests in the music and creativity space.

Soundfly. This platform offers advanced songwriting and music theory courses, but it also includes modules on teaching and presenting. Great for refining your content before you take it to a stage or webinar.

Teachable. Want to turn your songwriting knowledge into a course? Teachable is a user-friendly way to package your material and start generating passive income while building your speaker brand.

Canva. Use it to build slide decks, social media promos, or downloadable worksheets for your talks. Their templates make it easy to look polished even if you're not a designer.

Songwriting Pro. Run by hit songwriter Brent Baxter, this site includes a blog, podcast, and community focused on the craft and business of songwriting. Great for staying sharp and finding speaking angles that resonate with working songwriters.

Eventbrite. Not just for finding events - you can host your own virtual songwriting workshops or talks here. It's a great way to test your material and build a following.

Zoom. Still the go-to for virtual workshops and keynotes. Use breakout rooms for co-writing exercises or lyric feedback sessions to make your talks interactive.

LinkedIn Creator Mode. Turn on Creator Mode to showcase your speaking clips, articles, and upcoming events. It's a surprisingly effective way to get noticed by event organizers and podcast hosts in the business and education sectors.