When we hear someone talk what we normally do is think a few steps ahead and therefore miss out on the whole conversation. However, if we as songwriters practise the art of actively listening we wont miss out on anything and therefore we gain more opportunity for gathering song ideas.
Ordinary people say the most extraordinary things.
There have been times where I have been speaking to a friend and all of a sudden something they say jumps out and grabs me. When this happens I stop the conversation and get out my notebook and write it down. As all of my friends know that I am a songwriter they dont take any offence by that, they just see it as me being me.
Many songwriters cite everyday conversation as sources of inspiration (Bob Dylan, Paul Simon) and because the art of conversation happens on a day to day basis there is always an opportunity to gather new song ideas from what other people say.
Active listening requires us to be fully in the moment. It requires to be give 100% of ourselves to the world.
For example, if you were in a conversation you would be giving your full attention to what the other person is saying. There is no thinking about what you are going to say next, what colour their shirt is today or what you are going to have for tea that night in active listening.
It's another form of meditation I suppose. What you are doing is trying to empty your mind so it can be filled with the conversation and the conversation only.
With active listening there is no doubt, no having to have things repeated because you didn't hear it the first time. Being in this headspace leaves you open for being hit with flashes of inspiration. Once you become more proficiant at this skill you will realise that everyone has something important to say.
There are other spinoffs in gaining the skill of active listening. As a person, friend, lover, spouse (or what your relationship is to other people) you will be greatly appreciated because you will be seen as really understanding others. We live in a world where we are told time and time again that we have no time for ourselves, anything or anyone. This means that we dont take the time out to listen to people because 'we are too busy'. Very sad isn't it?
When you get down to it people want to be happy, loved, validated, acknowledged, appreciated and listened to. Imagine (with your new found skills) how much of a breath of fresh air you will be? You will know yourself and others a whole lot more and you will have a constant stream of song titles, chorus lines and hooks at your disposal.
Remember the world is an infinite ideas machine and you already have the tools to use it (your eyes, ears, mouth, brain and heart). Start really listening to people and the world around you today.
Until next time, happy writing,
Corey Stewart
Songwriter/Musician
