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Jody Freedman's avatar

What I love most about this is how universal the process feels. Every art form has its version of choosing a key, finding a motif and building it out with intention. I can easily apply that to my painting too. Seeing music broken down this way is a reminder that creativity isn’t some mysterious lightning strike. It’s a series of choices, patterns and rhythms you can rely on. It’s such an encouraging message for anyone juggling multiple creative identities and trying to find their way back into the work. Another informative and insightful read Idris Elijah!

Idris Elijah's avatar

Wow, couldn’t have said it better! So glad you enjoyed this issue 😋

Brooke Carver's avatar

Love the songwriting content! There’s something so validating in seeing someone admit that inspiration eventually stops being enough and you need a real method. The clarity of your 7 steps makes the whole process feel approachable. Not mystical, not intimidating. Just a craft you can return to even when you’re tired, unsure, or coming back after years away. It’s really validating to see that structure doesn’t kill the creativity. It actually protects it. I needed to read this to know I’m on the right path with my music so thank you Idris Elijah and have a happy holiday!

Idris Elijah's avatar

Wonderful insights here, Brooke. And you are absolutely right. Thank you for your comment and happy holidays to you too 🤩🙌🏾

Brian Robert's avatar

What struck me most is how compassionate this whole approach feels. You’re not trying to force inspiration. Instead you’re giving yourself a gentle and reliable pathway back into creativity. For people who feel deeply but don’t always feel consistently this is such a gift. It reminds me that it’s okay to create even when the emotional spark isn’t there. Sometimes the act of just showing up is what brings the feeling back. Thank you Idris for this valuable and fascinating read today!

Idris Elijah's avatar

Absolutely! Love these takeaways. You’re most welcome Brian and thank you so much for your thoughtful comment 🙂

Chloe Lawson's avatar

This resonates with me as a writer. So many great pieces come from sitting down and working the muscle, even on days when the words feel flat or distant. Your breakdown mirrors the writing process. Start simple, expand with intention, shape the structure and finally let the work breathe. It’s encouraging to see songwriting approached with the kind of discipline and gentleness that creative work really needs. Thank you for this fascinating breakdown of songwriting Idris Elijah!

Idris Elijah's avatar

You’re most welcome! Glad you were able to draw parallels between music and writing. Everything is connected!