SONGWRITERS NOTES ISSUE #221 AUGUST 2020

Hello Songwriter,
           Still in lockdown here! But thanks to Harry we are still having most of our events virtually. Please join us. Two weekly events and 3 monthly events. Join our online community weekly for the Wednesday Open Mic and get in line for the Saturday Showcase. Check out our details below in #5.

 Check out the new blog for DSA website. There are eight categories: Songwriting Tips, General, Humor, My Lyrics, Music Business, Music Promotion, Music Technology and Inspirational. Don Wall has a new blog post entitled My COVID Road Trip in the Inspirational section. https://blog.dallassongwriters.org/my-covid-road-trip/

Please check out the blog site and read the new articles: https://blog.dallassongwriters.org

Our Annual International Songwriting Contest is open with a deadline of Sept 30th. The contest which offers more than $5,000 in prizes with winners in 9 categories which includes the new category of Young Songwriters Song Contest for 18 and under. We now have the proper link to enter through our Song Contest Submission Partner, https://broadjam.com  https://dsasongcontest.blogspot.com  Entries can also be submitted through the DSA website https://dallassongwriters.org/dsa-annual-song-contest/.   In 2019, we had entries and winners from Iceland, Sweden, the UK, and all over the United States. A complete breakdown of the rules, and details about the 2019 winners can be found at https://dsasongcontest.blogspot.com/

We've added a new category to our contest so spread the word to your young friends.

DSA Young Songwriters Contest - for youth 18 and under.   June 1 - Sept 30

https://youngsongwriterscontest.blogspot.com

In addition to our International Songwriting Contest, members can enter the Quarterly Lyric Contest https://www.facebook.com/DSALyricContest/, and monthly song critiques. 

Monthly Events 

 The new “DSA Global” initiative is a way to connect the international music community to the Texas music scene. Live performances and camaraderie with fellow songwriters make up the soul of DSA. The DSA currently offers members 2 virtual workshops each month, 4 virtual showcases, 4 virtual open mics, plus a live open mic streamed to Facebook and other special events.Watch a live stream on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/dallassongwriters/
 Wanna join us online for our events via Zoom? It's easier than you think ! Here is a how to video: ZOOM’S JOIN A MEETING VIDEO (Watch this video first!)

https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362193-How-Do-I-Join-A-Meeting-?zcid=1588

SPECIAL EVENT THIS MONTH- Instead of our monthly meeting, we will be having a Virtual Party this Saturday, Aug 8, 2-5 - See number 5 below for details 

https://zoom.us/j/907852000

Our regular DSA MONTHLY EVENTS have gone virtual
* First Thursday Monthly Meeting, with guest speaker and song critiques resumes next month
   https://zoom.us/j/907852000
* Songwriter Meetup, 1st Monday, virtual
   https://zoom.us/j/881960764
* Every Wednesday Virtual Open Mic 
   https://www.facebook.com/events/717703665629658/
ZOOM: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86341155881*  

* 4th Thursday Showcase at Love and War in Texas in Plano
   will be live at Love and War and streamed live to FB

   https://www.facebook.com/events/2592301734332269/
•  DSA Global Virtual Showcase - every Saturday 12 - 2 CT
  https://www.facebook.com/events/385918485667970/

SPECIAL EVENTS DOWN THE LINE

CITYLINE COURTYARD – Aug 29th 6 - 9, Sept 10 6-9 , Oct 8, 6-9

DSA Hall of Fame - call for Rising Star performers

This year, our annual DSA Hall of Fame Event, which honors outstanding songwriters with North Texas ties, has been postponed until April 19, 2021.  

Deep Ellum Festival Cancelled

Here's a list of monthly events and the Facebook event links. Mark it in your browser for easy access to the Zoom links to participate  https://dallassongwriters.blogspot.com

Also, to watch go to our Facebook page and click on LIVE button at the top. https://www.facebook.com/dallassongwriters

SAVE THE DATE

FALL SONGWRITING CLASSES at Collin College

If you are interested in taking a class but want to do it as Continuing Ed, let me know and I will direct you to the right person.

Songwriting I - MUSC 1321 001
CRN:	15854

Duration: Aug 24, 2020 - Dec 13, 2020

6:00 pm - 8:45 pm.   Monday

Plano Campus-Spring Creek B154

View Catalog Entry

Songwriting I - MUSC 1321 000
CRN:	11681

Duration:

Aug 24, 2020 - Dec 13, 2020

11:30 am - 12:45 pm.   TR

Plano Campus-Spring Creek B154

View Catalog Entry 

We are migrating our member forum from yahoo to google groups. Here is the new google group. https://groups.google.com/d/forum/dallas-songwriters-members

We still count on you for support with your membership and donations. But most of all we want you to take advantage of the educational opportunities and participate. 
There is still a chance to donate for the new year. Your generosity keeps our organization going. Just go to www.dallassongwriters.org and click on the donation link. 

Thanks to Paul Zander, John Jaggers, Bobby Montgomery, David Lewis, Michael Brandenberger, Phillip Casteel, Alexis Tapp, Don Wall, Harry Hewlett, Kery Maddox, Ginger Stanoia, Kenneth Shoemaker, and Kristi Myers for their recent contributions to our fall fundraiser. Other contributors include Ireland, John Jaggers, Bill Kapac, Rio King, Mimi Balkey, Suzi Morse, and Jared LoStrato. Go to this link: https://squareup.com/store/dallas-songwriters-association

Thanks to Harry Hewlett you can view some of our open mics and guest speakers in a live stream on Facebook? See guest our guest speakers, and past Angela's showcases. Can't make it? Then tune into Facebook/dallassongwriters. Want to be on our facebook streams? Show up and perform.

Stay at home and stay safe.

Songcerely,
Barbe

___________________________________________

1. DSA SONG CONTEST -   NOW OPEN  June 1 - Sept 30th

We've added a new category to our contest so spread the word to your young friends.

DSA Young Songwriters Contest - for youth 18 and under.   June 1 - Sept 30

https://youngsongwriterscontest.blogspot.com

http://dsasongcontest.blogspot.com      Cash Prizes +

DSA is proud to announce that this years Grand Prize Casio Privia Keyboard is the new PX-S1000. This new electronic keyboard sounds and feels like a real piano and it is lighter weight than other keyboards with the same features. This “world’s slimmest digital piano” weighs in at just 24.7 pounds. The back panel includes a USB port, an audio (stereo mini-jack) port,  and two 1/4 inch outputs, (stereo and mono). The Privia PX-S1000 contains 18 different "bread and butter" sounds, including numerous acoustic pianos, Rhodes and Wurlitzer-type electric pianos, vibes, string patches, organs, harpsichord, and acoustic bass. You can also layer and split these sounds.

Every working pianist in a metropolitan area where space and portability are paramount should try Casio's Privia PX-S1000 for themselves. From its realistic piano sound and touch, to its extreme portability and modern connectivity it’s truly a marvel.

Read full review at Keyboard Magazine.

https://www.keyboardmag.com/gear/review-casio-privia-px-s1000

THANKS TO OUR SONG CONTEST SPONSORS

GRAND PRIZE  -   A Casio Privia Piano

https://www.casio.com/products/electronic-musical-instruments/stage-pianos/px-360

1st, 2nd and 3rd place 

wins recording time at 

Grand Prize winners receive:

1 Yr. Broadjam Primo MoB Membership

($199.95 Value) 

Includes Artist Website, 1 Yr. Hosting

Category winners get cash prizes

Winners announced at our Awards Banquet.

2019 Winner

Mesus and Dam Stasi with grand. prize Casio Privia PX-S1000 keyboard 

Dam Stasi and Kickbend with Mesus is Grand Prize Winner with song "UNLESS". Runner up Comrad (Arthur Revechkis) wins with "A THOUSAND LIVES" and Debra Gussin is second runner up with 'LOVE IS NOT". Read about these winners and the interviews with these artists here on our press page.  MORE: https://dsapress.blogspot.com/2020/04/dsa-2019-song-contest-grand-prize.html

Hear the winning song, "UNLESS".
 https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=444966422937309

Hear the grand prize runner up, "A THOUSAND LIVES". https://www.broadjam.com/songs/comrad/a-thousand-lives

Hear second grand prize runner up "LOVE IS NOT".  https://www.broadjam.com/songs/debragussin/love-is-not

Here is a link to a complete list of the winners: https://dsasongcontest.blogspot.com

The DSA Song Contest Awards Dinner that was held on Saturday, January 18, at Sons of Hermann Hall was well attended with 70+. Awards were presented for the Song Contest, Lyric Contest, Song of the Year and Songwriter of the Year. Semi-finalists  Eddie Bowers, Charles Carter, Addison Havens, David Lewis, Bill Martin, Kyle Short and Stephanie Sammons will be performing, as well as, young songwriters Jade Nichol and TK Brown, who received 18 and under Rising Star Awards, plus Harry Hewlett and Barbara McMillen.
Robert Ehlert won the Fall lyric Contest.

Sorry you were not able to appear in person. Here is a link to a video of the event: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=69Ov2xo-Acs

And there are oodles of photos on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pg/dallassongwriters/photos/?tab=album&album_id=2883673535018186
Here is a link to the pdf of the Awards Program: https://drive.google.com/file/d/12U21eMdAYS13sS4Z5smSL3AD059xYUVt/view?usp=sharing

JOHN LATINI WINS GRAND PRIZE IN THE 2018 DALLAS SONGWRITERS SONG CONTEST 
http://dsapress.blogspot.com/2019/03/john-latini-wins-grand-prize-in-2018.html

_________________________________

2. DSA MEETINGS - http://dsameetings.blogspot.com

Instead of our monthly meeting, we will be having a 

Virtual Party this Saturday, Aug 8, 2-5 - 

An invitation from our Prez

Well the corona is making us moan-a (poetic license) because our annual summer party and jam on August 8 won't be a live event.  But the show must go, on so we are having a Zoom Party on Saturday afternoon August 8 from 2:00 to 5:00 pm!  This will be a chance for everyone to jump in from anywhere in the world and play their favorite songs, originals, covers or requests, tell jokes, tell new/old stories, wear funny hats and have some virtual fun! Since it's a party everyone can be munching or sipping on their favorite libation and share recipes of what they are enjoying.  

     Another fun thing about Zoom is that you can have a virtual background, so you can put up photos of places of where you've been, or would like to be, like swimming pools, beaches, mountains, tourist spots or anything, and tell a little story about the experience! If any family or friends are around from where you are zooming, they can join in too! 

    For anyone that's not familiar with Zoom, Check out instructions here:   ZOOM’S JOIN A MEETING VIDEO (Watch this video first!)

https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362193-How-Do-I-Join-A-Meeting-?zcid=1588 it's very easy to do but you can email Harry  and he can give you a quick lesson on how to set it up.  Hope to be partying (virtually) with you soon! Michael Brandenberger, DSA President

    In September, we will be back to music industry guests and song critiques at our monthly meetings.  To fulfill our mission, the Dallas Songwriters Association invites guest speakers to address our virtual audience for now, and to join our monthly workshops in the future.  These workshops offer educational information from accomplished songwriters and industry professionals, everything from jingle writing, to do it yourself videos, to the new economics of the music industry.  If you would like to conduct a workshop, please contact us. 

MONTHLY MEETING RESUMES IN SEPT- Thursday, SEPT 3, 6:30

Critiques will follow:

As usual, for members we will also have song critiques by industry pros Barbe McMillen and Joe Milton.  Play your song live, from your computer, or your phone or email an MP3 to Harry Hewlett at hhhewlett@gmail.com, and also you can display your lyrics from your computer so the members can give comments as well.  You will also be entered into the DSA Song of the Year and Songwriter of the Year contest. The cost is $10 per song.

Location: Your home
6:00 pm: Doors Open/Networking and visiting
7:00 pm: Program followed by song critiques for members only
Pay online for critique. https://squareup.com/store/dallas-songwriters-association or

https://dallassongwriters.org/shop/dsa-meeting-song-critique-entry/
Each song is entered into the Song of The Year and Songwriter of the Year Competition which is awarded at our December Awards Banquet. 

DOWN THE LINE:

SEPT 3 -  Brianna Ruelas  https://www.briannaruelasmusic.com/

Empowering Indie Performing Artists With Online Business Strategies and A Clear Plan for Their Personal Music Career Success.

OCT 1 - Kathy Baldwin, publisher

NOV 5 - Annual Membership Meeting and Elections

DEC 3 DSA Christmas Party 

---------------

VIDEO OF PAST MEETINGS
Don Wall about DIY Music videos, Feb 6, 2020
https://www.facebook.com/dallassongwriters/videos/564837404103111/

John Jaggers about the Colorado capo, January 6, 2020. https://www.facebook.com/dallassongwriters/videos/615703919198867/

JANA STANDFIELD: JUNE 6, 2019 Half Price Books

https://www.facebook.com/dallassongwriters/videos/2413755892187746/ 

ED BURNET:  May 2, 2019 Half Price Books
https://www.facebook.com/groups/242191552781160/permalink/839986039668372/

BRUCE CHANNEL : https://www.facebook.com/dallassongwriters/videos/1820749174645104/

Thanks to Harry Hewlett we have a video of the Sept 6th 2018 meeting with Bruce Channel. Bruce received an award from BMI for two million radio performances of Hey! Baby. His original record of Hey! Baby is featured in the hit movie, Dirty Dancing, and on the international sound track album, listed in BILLBOARD’s Pop Album for over three months with sales of over twelve + million units.

___________________________________________ 

3. BEST SONGS of the Meeting -  2020

https://bestsongsofthemeeting.blogspot.com

There is a comprehensive list on this website of all submitted. Also, past winners can be located at the above url.

2020

JAN
Take Another Chance by  David Lewis
Must Be Present to Win by  John Jaggers

Light On The Sand by  Beau McDermott

FEB

Full Moon by  Barbe McMillen

Red White and Blue by  Don Wall

The Forgotten Vet by  Don Wall
Another Whiskey by  David Case

MARCH
I Can't Breathe by Allen Larson
I Could Never by  Bill Martin
Humble Refugee by  Kerry Maddox
Home in My Dreams by  Don Wall

APRIL
Don't Sweat Tomorrow by Don Wall

I Don't Know Much About Love by Bill Martin
That Summer Song by Bill Martin
Old Lubbock Lover 2 by Harry Hewlett

Two Bald Heads by John Jaggers

MAY
Cape Cod by Don Wall
Keanu Reeves by Beau McDermott

JUNE
Dusty Devil by Harry Hewlett
Gun For Hire by Michael Roth
Lipstick and Bullets by Allen Larson
Winds of Change by Kerry Maddox

JULY
With These Hands by Alexis Tapp

From The Mountain by Alexis Tapp

2019 SONG OF THE YEAR WINNERS

1. THE STORY OF BONNIE and CLYDE - Barbe McMillen

2. WATERING HOLE - Harry Hewlett

3. MONAHANS by Randy Overton

SONGWRITER OF THE YEAR - Harry Hewlett

Jack Allday, Judge, Barbe McMillen, Harry hewlett

_____________________

4. WORKSHOPS and CONFERENCES

DSA MEETUP - 1st Monday - Zoom - Monday, June 1, 7PM, hosted by Harry Hewlett 

https://zoom.us/j/881960764
DSA MONTHLY GUEST SPEAKER AND SONG CRITIQUES -  on Thursday, June 4 at  6:30pm - Zooming into DSA Events

Various workshops are coming up weekly during the lockdown. I Will share them by forwarding the emails through the member google group.

=============================================== 28TH CUTTING EDGE ENTERTAINMENT LAW SEMINAR - AUGUST 20 - 22, 2020

Event to be held at the following time, date, and location: Thursday, August 20, 2020 at 8:00 AM - to - Saturday, August 22, 2020 at 12:30 PM (CDT) InterContinental Hotel 444 St Charles Avenue New Orleans, LA 70130 View Map Attend Event Share this event: ------------------------------------- ASCAP EXPERIENCE Enjoy easy access to the past four weeks of live-session learnings and inspirational conversations. Watch full videos featuring indispensable songwriting and composing advice, deep dives on the creative process and provocative discussions about the importance of diversity in the music business. Hear from music superstars like T.I., Hans Zimmer, Finneas O'Connell, mxmtoon, Glen Hansard, Erica Campbell and Shaggy. Get up close and personal with the hitmakers behind Ariana Grande and Justin Bieber’s “Stuck with U” and Shawn Mendes’s “If I Can’t Have You” as they share personal stories of discovery, inspiration and collaboration, and much more! Scroll down to view all of our past panelists. All recordings are right HERE. Our next Home Edition live broadcast is on July 9. Sign up for real time access and stay tuned for programming details next week. Until then, binge away! Register Now  ------------------------------------

5. SHOWCASES AND OPEN MICS

You can view our open mics and showcases LIVE via our facebook page
https://www.facebook.com/dallassongwriters/ or Zoom to perform.

 SHOWCASES: DSA SPOTLIGHT

We offer the opportunity for our members from all over the world. Please join our fun community via zoom and showcase. Harry offers one on one instructions to get your sound right. Zoom in with us on the Wednesday open mic and let us know you are interested in showcasing or email Harry. 

Don't know how to Zoom? It's easy! You can Zoom on computer, tablet or phone. Check out instructions here:   ZOOM’S JOIN A MEETING VIDEO (Watch this video first!)

https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/201362193-How-Do-I-Join-A-Meeting-?zcid=1588

DSA GLOBAL VIRTUAL SHOWCASE - every Saturday 12 - 2 except Aug 8.

   https://www.facebook.com/events/385918485667970/

    https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87932958559

Wanna perform on our virtual showcases?  Here’s how: 

1. Join Dallas Songwriters Association here: https://dallassongwriters.org/join-dsa/

2. Contact Harry Hewlett hhhewlett@gmail.com to have a free private session to help you understand how to get the best sound on Zoom. 

3. Join us for the Wednesday night open mic to get your feet wet.

4. Once you got the virtual performance under your belt, schedule a showcase with Harry.

 Love and War - 4th Thursday, 7-10, July 23
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/626978661

DSA CITYLINE COURTYARD SHOWCASE – Aug 29th 6 - 9, Sept 10 6-9 , Oct 8, 6-9

DSA FESTIVAL SPOTLIGHT STAGES

Deep Ellum Arts Festival cancelled 
State Fair Stage in Oct 2020 cancelled

OPEN MICS - these events will be on Zoom.

SONGSWAP MEETUP OPEN MIC and co-writes - VIRTUAL

EVERY 1ST MONDAY - 7:00pm to 9:00pm hosted by Harry Hewlett. June 1
  https://zoom.us/j/881960764
Open mic has changed to an old fashion guitar pull and group discussion about creation to biz. Bring your guitar or pull one from Harry. Play your recorded songs from your phone. 

If you want peer feedback on a song bring a few lyric sheets 

 DSA VIRTUAL OPEN MIC every Wednesday, 7-9
Harry will be hosting these events as an open mic on Zoom. We will perform in the round in the order that you come into the meeting.

Hosted by Harry Hewlett - streamed live to Facebook

       https://www.facebook.com/events/717703665629658/

ZOOM: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86341155881

DUNN BROTHERS COFFEE HOUSE - Addison. 

Has been discontinued in June 2020 and beyond until further notice

In November 2019, DSA celebrated 15 years at Dunn Brothers. Check out our facebook page for performance videos

see review of
11th Anniversary DSA 3rd Thursday Open Mic at Dunn Bros.

Renew your membership online.

You'll find the link to the store on the panel to the right

Or paste this link in your browser: https://squareup.com/store/dallas-songwriters-association

DSA Hall of Fame - postponed to April 2021

This year, our annual DSA Hall of Fame Event, which honors outstanding songwriters with North Texas ties, has been postponed until April 19, 2021.  Live performances of the inductees songs by DSA Rising Star Students, DSA Members, and the BYO Musicians Network will be broadcast LIVE to a global audience.  We've opened up the audition process again because we have more planning time for the event. If you are interested go to the Hall of Fame website for audition procedures. Rising Stars who would like to perform can send audition videos to DSA HOF Audition Video.
2021 Hall of Fame inductees: John Denver, England Dan Seals, John Ford Coley, Steve Wiseberg, Janie Fricke, and Gregg Smith. Last year, DSA initiated a new Rising Star program to encourage young aspiring musicians to celebrate our legends with performances of songs by our inductees. DSA is reaching out to the local music schools and asking for auditions at each school for the honor to perform. These students will be backed up by the BYO Hall of Fame band consisting of highly respected local musicians. The band members and special guests will also perform songs by our inductees.

________________________________

6. EVENTS - Featuring local and worldwide events of the songwriting community including, seminars, conferences, and showcases. A List of DSA events only can be found at https://dallassongwriters.blogspot.com

2020
All DSA events are via Zoom except Love and War

AUG
1 - DSA Virtual Global Showcase
3 - DSA 1st Monday Meetup at Half Price Books
5 - Harry's DSA Virtual Open Mic
6 - No Monthly Meeting - instead - part on 8th
8 -    DSA Virtual Party
12 - Harry's DSA Virtual Open Mic
15 - DSA Virtual Global Showcase
19 - Harry's DSA Virtual Open Mic
20 - 22 Cutting Edge Seminar - NOLA
22 - DSA Virtual Global Showcase
26 - Harry's DSA Virtual Open Mic
27 - DSA Showcase at Love N War
28-30 DIY Musician Conference, Austin, TX
29 - DSA Virtual Global Showcase

See Texas Music Office events calendar https://gov.texas.gov/music/events
Moses Avalon's List of Top Ranked Music Conferences.
See house concerts and coffee houses here: http://unclecalvins.org/
Local Blues events: Bluelisablues.blogspot.com
Local Jazz events: https://www.kntu.com/live-wire/

_________________________________

7. DSA LYRIC CONTEST 

- Next deadline SUMMER CONTEST postmarked Sept 30
https://dallassongwriters.blogspot.com/p/lyric-contest.html
Enter online https://dallassongwriters.org/dsa-lyric-contest/ 
or https://squareup.com/store/dallas-songwriters-association
or by mail

Dallas Songwriters Lyric Contest,
Sammons Center For The Arts
3630 Harry Hines Blvd #20 Dallas, Tx 75219

WINTER 2020 - WINNERS ANNOUNCED

Thanks to Lyric Contest Director, Alexis for these comments.

DETAILS and COMMENTS ON THE WINNERS  - https://dallassongwriterslyriccontest.blogspot.com

SEMIFINALISTS

Strawberry Moon by Ynana Rose, San Lius Obispo, CA

Dying In The Distance by Michael R. J. Roth, Rio Rancho, NM

Blue Sea by Bill Kapac, Wildwood, NJ

Your Prints in the Sand by Ben Halim, McKinney, Tx

Where You Belong by Ben Halim, McKinney, Tx

WINNER

First Place

Strawberry Moon by Ynana Rose, San Lius Obispo, CA

See lyrics and Comments here. 

LYRICISTS GAIN RECOGNITION THROUGH COMPETITION
Next Lyric Contest Deadline is June 30th for Spring Lyric Contest
Entry fee is $10
Please see lyric contest webpage for details.
http://dallassongwriters.blogspot.com/p/lyric-contest.html

_________________________________

8.  MEMBER NEWS -

Wanna get involved? Become a committee member. It's fun! Be apart of the inner workings of the DSA. We have committee positions open. Let us know if you'd like to be on the board. Just show up a our membership meeting.

2020 Directors elected at our Nov 4 2019 Annual Membership Meeting were:
Michael Brandenberger, Bobby Montgomery, Phillip Casteel, Barbe McMillen, Ben Halim, Joe Milton, Rene Sullivan, Ken Duren, Jessica Ewy, Alexis Tapp, Harry Hewlett, Buck Morgan, Jack Allday, Don Wall and Ricky Gene Wright. New 2020 officers were elected at the planning meeting on Jan 4th.

Officers 2020
Michael Brandenberger - Prez
Bobby Montgomery - VP Programs
Phil Casteel - Treasurer
Jessica Ewy - Secretary
Alexis Tapp - Lyric Contest Director
Renee Sullivan, VP Membership
Barbe McMillen - Administration, Newsletter
Harry Hewlett - VP of A/R, showcases
Ben Halim - VP of Technology, Marketing
Rickey Gene Wright - Showcase Co-Director,
Don Wall - PR Communications
James Pappas, Joe Milton, Ken Duren, Buck Morgan, Jack Allday - At Large

If you are not a DSA Member, you missed these tips sent out through our yahoo group:
* Publisher looking for songs
* Artists/Producers looking for original material for recording artists
* Major Brand X (To be disclosed at a later time) Seeks Independent artist for music campaign.
* Where to get your cd reviewed
* Music related job listing
* Film Licensing Co. seeking instrumental music
* Cheap and free tickets - Free tickets to selected Workshops

Lyricists are invited to co-write with music writers by submitting your lyric through the member forum group. We are currently migrating the yahoo group to a google group. 

https://groups.google.com/d/forum/dallas-songwriters-members

Members have a chance to play in local venues and festival stages.

MEMBER NEWS

Allen Larson released a video of his song, I Can't Breath" on Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/search/top/?q=allen%20larson&epa=SEARCH_BOX

NEW MEMBERS: Have you joined our member only google group where you can talk with the group and get special offers and last minute updates on events? subscribe: https://groups.google.com/d/forum/dallas-songwriters-members

PATRON SAINTS: PAUL ZANDER, BOBBY MONTGOMERY, JOHN JAGGERS, BEN HALIM

Patron Sponsor L3: Michael Brandenberger, Bill Honker, John Stone, David Lewis
Patron Sponsor L1: Cliff Monroe, Suzi Morse, Rio King, Ginger Stanoio
Patron Sponsor: Mimi Balkey, Kristi Myers

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS:  Francile McCottry. Brook Buchanan, David Dix, John Pronk, Prudence Huskey, Sam Moore, Stephen Tran, Kevin Brennan, Allison Becker, Morgan Bennett, Denny Mackey, Kyle Short, Trisha James, Carl Roberts, Greg Hinds, Richard Kirby, William Lee, Adam Rekerdres, William Wheeler, TK Brown,

THANK YOU FOR RENEWING YOUR MEMBERSHIP: Jeff Groce, Bradley Banning, Chris Albert, Ian Dickson, Cat McGee, Ken Duren. John Mason  Raquel Linderman, Gene Schillaci, Stephen Houpt,  Beau McDermott, Minnie Murray, Don Wall, Gene Schillaci, Julie and Jeff Cater, Johnny Cromer, Kerry Maddox, Cara Thornton, Ron Young, Ben Halim, Keith Dodson, Stephanie Sammons, David Lewis

TIME TO RENEW: The following members owe dues:

YOU HAVE A TWO MONTH GRACE PERIOD TO RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP OR YOU WILL BE DROPPED FROM THE MEMBER GROUP

EXPIRED IN AUG:Michael Richards, Trevor Dahlen
EXPIRED IN SEPT: Katie Dundas, Teresa Ann Turner, Jane Fallon, Scott Mendenhall
EXPIRED IN OCT: Nitanie Paris
EXPIRED IN NOV: Ryan Galloway, Anna Xiong
EXPIRED IN DEC: none
EXPIRED IN JAN:Ginger Stanoiu, Bobby McCormick, Ted Vahovious, Steve Lowden, Randy Bell, Andre Kerek, Stephen Valenzuela, Terry Bloss, Denise Roster, David Claerr, Renee Saffier, Scott Thorn, Clark Ford, Stephanie Johnson, Mark Patterson
EXPIRED IN FEB: Josh Goode, Mathew Carroll, Ashley Sounds
EXPIRED IN MARCH: James Foster, Lance French, Jessica Ewy, Chris Kuhn
EXPIRED IN APRIL:  Suzi Morse, Nichol Daniels, Amanda Banks, Pam Musgrove, Phillip Casteel, 
EXPIRED IN MAY:  John Nelson, Randy Overton, Robert Ehlert, Anthony Groom
EXPIRED IN JUNE: Dorinda Weaver, Joanna Endsley, Hugh Lehman, Todd Cotham
EXPIRED IN JULY: Mary Logan

TIME TO RENEW: Liza Mesiah, Natasha Blanton

Renew your membership online.

You'll find the link to the store on the panel to the right
https://dallassongwriters.org/join-dsa/

Or https://squareup.com/store/dallas-songwriters-association
_________________________________

9. Featured Articles:  Visit the new DSA blog site at: https://blog.dallassongwriters.org

What Is Royalty Free Music? What Does It Mean Exactly?

By Gilles Arbour (The Beat)

There are a lot of inaccurate ideas circulating about “Royalty Free Music” This article will attempt to explain exactly what Royalty Free Music is and dismiss some of the most common misinterpretations.

How To Win A Songwriting Competition [Or Give Yourself The Best Chance]

By Liam Duncan (Music Industry How To)

Songwriting contest are a great way to extend the potential of your song.  (But) don’t enter a songwriting contest thinking you’re going to win. You may have the best song of the entire group, but that doesn’t mean the judges will hear it that way. … you should always give yourself a fighting chance to stand up against the other songs. Here is our guide on winning songwriting competitions and setting yourself up for success.

MUSIC BUSINESS

6 Things to Consider When Choosing a Digital Distributor for Your Music

By Emőke Csoma (FlyPaper) 

Once you’re finished with a track or a whole album you’ve been working on for weeks, months, or perhaps even years, what’s next? You’ve reached a point of no return — it’s release time. 

How to Get on Spotify Playlists: Algorithmic vs Editorial

By Alper Tuzcu (Sonicbids)

In order to grow your streaming revenue and increase your fanbase, getting onto Algorithmic and Editorial playlists is crucial. But getting onto either type of playlist can be tricky, and requires hard work. In this post, we explore both algorithmic and editorial playlists to explain what they are and how to get on them. 

How I Sold 1000 CDs in 10 Weeks

By Brian Hazard (Passive Promotion)

Why would anyone buy a CD in 2020? Let me count the ways: 

PERFORMANCE 

3 Things To Never Talk About On Stage or Your Live Stream

By Patrick McGuire (Reverbnation)

Making great music often requires uninhibited self expression. As musicians, we create some of our best work by removing filters on our thoughts and actions. If we come up with ideas that don’t fit the larger context of our work, we easily discard them later. But when it comes to the things we talk about on stage, that same unchecked expressiveness many of us use to write, record, and produce music could end up alienating our audiences and potentially damaging our careers in more serious ways.

Playing Music Together Online Is Not As Simple As It Seems

By Nickolai Hammar and Colin Marshall (NPR)

Across ubiquitous video conferencing tools like Zoom, FaceTime and Skype, it takes time for audio data to travel from person to person. That small delay, called latency, is mostly tolerable in conversation — save for a few overlapping stutters — but when it comes to playing music online with any kind of rhythmic integrity, latency quickly becomes a total deal breaker.

RECORDING

The Hard Truth: Mixing Is Lonely

By Michael Hahn (Flypaper)

It’s easy to daydream about doing nothing but mixing music all day every day. You want to spend as much time as possible doing what you love most right? Mixing all the time is awesome, but there are some unexpected realities when it’s your main activity. Here’s my hard truth for today — mixing is solitary work that can feel pretty lonely at times. That may sound discouraging, but my flip side to this hard truth is that seeking out alone time is an important strategy for good mental health. Mixing is one of the most productive, satisfying, and refreshing activities to do during that time.

How To Choose Which Songs To Record For Your Next Project

By Bree Noble (Bandzoogle)

Recording an album or EP is an expensive undertaking. To add to whatever pressure that creates in you, the songs you decide to include can make or break the success of the project. It’s a very important decision that can’t only be based on emotions, attachments, and preferences—some facts and data must be taken into account.

How to Turn Your Voice Into a Background Chorus in Your DAW

By Caleb J. Murphy (Flypaper)

Don’t have a professional 100-piece choir on hand? Well, I’m sorry to hear that but luckily, we’ve got a way around that: You can have an entire chorus made up of your voice instead!

LISTEN 

John Denver- Greatest Hits 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1vrEljMfXYo&list=PLfDF7WcaaE8-6fo_0X7vnGN7OvNMIB7b3

England Dan - John Ford Coley

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIdQeSis4vw

John Ford Coley - You Almost Loved Me

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxTfYkBU9Cc

Danny Seals - It's Gonna Be Easy Now

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qSr3GiGAuPM

Steve Wiseberg - John Denver singing Christmas For Cowboys

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ejLQSpVBxBE

Gregg Smith - Don't Cry No More

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IxTfYkBU9Cc

Janie Fricke - Greatest Hits

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zz2volLD_98&list=PLfqMV5g63sBlb7PDjRWmdA_21Bzapf4sa

IN MEMORIAM

https://www.ihopeidiebeforeigetold.com/dead-rock-stars.php

https://weheartmusic.typepad.com/blog/musicians-who-died-in-2020.html

Blues Guitarist Peter Green, A Co-Founder Of The Band Fleetwood Mac, Has Died At The Age Of 73

By Wynne Davis (NPR)

Green was known for his blues guitar sound even prior to the forming of Fleetwood Mac. He replaced Eric Clapton in John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers in 1965. Just a couple years later in 1967, Green and fellow Bluesbreakers members, drummer Mick Fleetwood and bassist John McVie, formed Fleetwood Mac, along with guitarist Jeremy Spencer.

Country And Southern Rock Star Charlie Daniels Has Died At ...

www.npr.org › 2020/07/06 › charlie-daniels-who-sang-of-the-devil-in-g...

One of country's most familiar artists has died. Charlie Daniels — a singer, songwriter, bandleader and player ...

 VIDEO

The Charlie Daniels Band - The Devil Went Down to Georgia

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wBjPAqmnvGA

 BOOK REVIEW - looking for book reviews

We have a book review by Allan Larson of the Terry Jennings book about his father Waylon Jennings. Read it here: https://dsabookstore.blogspot.com

CRAFT OF SONGWRITING

How The DNA Of A Hit Has Changed Over 20 Years

By Mark Mulligan (Music Industry Blog)

It takes more songwriters and more producers now than 20 years ago to make a hit. In the heyday of the album, the focus would be both on what makes a great album and what tracks would work on radio, and later MTV. Now all the considerations are rolled into the song itself, the central currency of the streaming era.

13 Best Songwriting Books 2020 That Will Improve Your Lyricism

By Liam Duncan (Music Industry How To)

Songwriting is a skill that can be improved. Like any other skill, there are techniques to learn, skills to develop, talents to hone. Because songwriting is so personal, people tend to be unwilling to accept the idea of ‘practicing’ songwriting or working on your chops. This is holding you back. In 2020, I urge you to pick one of these songwriting books and read it.

Composition: Finding A Workflow That Works For You

By Carla Malrowe (Bandzoogle)

Creativity should not equate to chaos in practice. A well-organized plan of execution is crucial for any creative project, as well as allowing oneself the freedom to brainstorm openly. Let’s learn a bit more about what to consider when designing such a workflow—unique to your own preferences, skills, and goals.

Strategies for Songwriting: The Anti-Artist Way

By John Merigliano (Music Think Tank)

Are your songs starting to sound the same? If you’d like to develop your creative work, it helps to get to a place of excitement and danger again. One way to do this is to oppose, modify, or destroy previous habits or strategies, or as I like to call it, become an anti-artist.

5 Songwriting Challenges To Keep You Motivated And Creative

By Sammy Hakim (Bandzoogle)

As a working songwriter, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been asked how I come up with new ideas or bring high-quality work to the table when I just wasn’t feeling it. I know you’ve felt the same. But, before defaulting to that infamous myth of “Writer’s Block” as an excuse to skip routine writing, here are some challenges to keep you motivated to write, and help you burst through that blockade before it ever gets raised. 

Barbe McMillen's blog, The Craft of Songwriting

http://craftofsongwriting.blogspot.com/

Online Thesaurus and Rhyming Dictionary

http://www.rhymezone.com//

http://thesaurus.reference.com/

Great web tool for lyric writing

http://www.visualthesaurus.com/

Music Theory Resource

http://www.hooktheory.com/

________________________________

 10. Song and Talent Contests

 DSA Song Contest JUNE 1 - Sept 30
http://dsasongcontest.blogspot.com

DSA Quarterly Lyric Contest https://dallassongwriters.org/dsa-lyric-contest/

Next deadline - Sept 30

Best Songs of the Meeting - for DSA Members only - submit your song for critique on the 1st Thursday,  at the Monthly Meeting at Half Price Books.
Location: Half Price Books/Northwest Highway in Dallas
6:00 pm: Doors Open/Networking and visiting
7:00 pm: Program followed by song critiques for members only
Pay online for critique. https://squareup.com/store/dallas-songwriters-association or https://dallassongwriters.org/song-critique/

DSA Young Songwriters Contest - for youth 18 and under.   June 1 - Sept 30

https://youngsongwriterscontest.blogspot.com

____________________________________________________
BW STEVENSON SONG CONTEST - poordavidspub.com
POSTPHONED

TO ENTER, SEND MP3 OR CD OF TWO ORIGINAL SONGS
ALONG WITH A $25 ENTRY FEE TO:

POOR DAVID'S PUB
1313 S. LAMAR ST.
DALLAS, TX 75215

BE SURE TO INCLUDE YOUR CONTACT INFORMATION AND SONG TITLES
__________________________________________

FAI's Regional and International Events and Deadlines

FARM | Folk Alliance Region Midwest
Official Showcase applications due June 10
October 22 - 26, 2020
Grand Rapids, Michigan
*Look for FAI staff at this event!

NERFA | Northeast Regional Folk Alliance
Semi-Formal Showcase applications due July 9
November 12-15, 2020
Stamford, Connecticut
*Look for FAI staff at this event!

SWRFA | Southwest Regional Folk Alliance
Official Showcase application due July 15
September 23 - 27, 2020
Austin, Texas
*Look for FAI staff at this event!

FAR-West | Folk Alliance Region West
Summer Registration Rate ends August 31
October 8 - 11, 2020
Woodland Hills, California
*Look for FAI staff at this event!

SERFA | Southeast Regional Folk Alliance
More Info Here
cancelled
Chattanooga, Tennessee
*Look for FAI staff at this event!

https://www.folk.org/page/Regions

A comprehensive list of Song Contests
https://www.ghostswelcome.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/12/Songwriting-Competitions-2019.png

http://www.musesmuse.com/muselinks/Songwriting/Contests/index.html

DSA depends on your support.

Giving Rocks! While it never hurts to remind you that DSA is a non-profit organization (and so your contributions are tax-deductible) -  this year it means so much more. We're proud to be celebrating our 25th Anniversary as a non-profit. DSA has been an organized songwriter group since 1985 and became a non-profit in 1990.

Your gift enables us to meet our mission.

Our programs created to meet our mission goals are: a monthly newsletter, workshops, critique sessions, showcases, contests, networking opportunities and community service.

If you like what we do, and want to help us keep doing it, please make a contribution today. Gifts of all sizes are meaningful and appreciated.
Donations are welcome year round. 

 **************

Thanks for reading this far. If you have any suggestions for the newsletter, please let me know. Follow me on Twitter @barbemcmillen. Give me a tweet.

Songcerely,

  Barbara McMillen, Editor

  Songwriter Notes

  Founding President Emeritus,

  Songwriting Consulting Services

  Online Songwriting Workshop