Writing Better Lyrics

RIP: English lyricist Barry Mason

The news that lyricist Barry Mason died in April 2021 at the age of 86 came as a surprise. It was also a reminder...
Chit-Chat on Hollywood Boulevard

They know everything we do

Ever get the feeling you’re being watched? Well what do you expect when you splash all your life, loves and political opinions across social...
Chinese flag

Chinese anthem law sparks protest in Hong Kong

The ongoing struggle between China and protesters in Hong Kong took a new turn when thousands of protesters shouted pro-democracy slogans and insults at...
GoldieBlox Beastie Boys

Social media, music and the coronavirus lockdown

I don’t sing (much). I don’t play an instrument. But all my co-writers do. So I’m feeling their pain, to a degree. What happens...

No Time to Die: what do the words mean?

As I’m writing this, Billie Eilish’s theme song for the new James Bond movie has been out all of 14 hours. So I had a...
Scott Walker

RIP: Scott Walker

From Walker Brothers star to creative powerhouse The American singer Scott Walker has died at the age of 76 according to 4AD, the British...

Ukraine’s Eurovision entry “Siren Song” is not going to Tel Aviv

Is politics or cash behind Ukraine’s Eurovision decision? Pop phenomenon Maruv will not represent Ukraine at the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv....

Ravel’s Bolero back from the dead?

Although no lyrics are involved, I can’t resist talking about this classic case of copyright shenanigans 😉 Maurice Ravel’s “Bolero” is one of classical...
Charles Aznavour

RIP: Charles Aznavour

The death of Charles Aznavour in late September 2018 is not a tragedy because of his age; it is a tragedy because he was...

Spotify: How do you make it work

If you're like me, you've been hearing everything and the opposite about Spotify. In particular, the very low per-stream payments but also very bullish...
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14.09.14

RIP: Bob Crewe

Another incredible “man-behind-the-songs” died recently. After years of ill-health, veteran songwriter...
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album cover "Music to Watch Birds By"