Why Do Some Musicians Write Their Own Music While Others Do Not?

The music industry is a diverse and multifaceted field with numerous career paths and opportunities. From songwriting, performing, and production to marketing, legal affairs, and even catering, more than 100 jobs contribute to its success. Among these roles, however, two stand out: songwriting and performing. These art forms, though intimately related, require distinct skills and expertise. In this article, we will explore why some musicians opt to write and perform their own music, while others may choose to cover other artists' songs.

Skills Required in the Music Industry

Unlike other industries, the music sector demands a unique blend of skills and talents. One person rarely possesses all the necessary qualifications to succeed. In order to make a living from music, many musicians need to develop a range of abilities. For example, a performer might lack the technical skills required to write songs and may rely on songwriters. Conversely, a songwriter with a keen ear for melodies might not have the same passion for performing live.

Some musicians, however, are versatile and possess both the ability to write and perform their music. This is often seen in genres like rock and pop, where singers and songwriters are crucial. Many successful bands from the 1970s to the 1990s, such as Led Zeppelin, The Beach Boys, and Fleetwood Mac, created and recorded songs they wrote themselves. Their hit tunes were primarily their intellectual property, reflecting their artistic vision.

Architects and Contractors in the Music Industry

A useful analogy to illustrate the difference between writing and performing is the construction industry. A songwriter is akin to an architect, who designs a structure and provides detailed plans on how to build it. Musicians, figuratively speaking, are carpenters, plumbers, and painters who bring the architect's blueprint to life. Both roles are essential, but they serve different purposes.

In the context of the music industry, songwriters provide the conceptual framework and the emotional and creative content that form the core of a song. Performers, on the other hand, bring this content to life, often imprinting their unique style and interpretation on the work. While these roles are distinct, they are not mutually exclusive. Many artists are proficient in both aspects, contributing both to the creation and performance of their music.

The Role of Outside Songwriters in Modern Music

Despite the importance of internal songwriting, modern hit songs primarily come from outside songwriters. These independent artists, who are not part of the bands themselves, contribute to the financial success and fame of many musicians. In the current music landscape, new songs are often collaborations between established artists and hit songwriters. This trend has led to the emergence of a robust market for songwriting services, with many Grammy-winning songwriters having hit records that dominate the charts.

For instance, hit songs by artists like Adele, Taylor Swift, and Ed Sheeran often come from the work of external songwriters such as Benny Blanco, Max Martin, and Ryan Tedder. These songwriters, while not performing themselves, are the backbone of the contemporary music industry, providing hit songs that resonate with audiences and help to define and popularize new musical styles.

Conclusion

The decision to write and perform one's own music or to cover other artists' songs depends on an individual musician's skills, preferences, and career goals. Both approaches have their merits and can lead to successful and fulfilling music careers. Understanding the roles and requirements of musicians is crucial for those looking to navigate the complex and dynamic world of the music industry.