Finding Inspiration: A Guide for New Musicians on Telling Your Story Through Music
As a new musician, one of the most important things you can do is find your unique voice and learn how to tell your story. Your music is an expression of who you are, your experiences, your passions, and your struggles. But how do you transform these raw emotions into songs that connect with listeners? And how do you use that story to grab the attention of Spotify curators and playlist gatekeepers?
In this blog, we’ll explore how to find inspiration as a new artist, how to craft a compelling narrative, and how to use that story to pitch your music effectively to curators.
1. Start With Your Own Story
One of the easiest ways to find inspiration is to look inward. Your own life experiences are rich with stories, emotions, and moments that can translate into powerful music. Whether it’s a specific event, a relationship, or a personal struggle, these elements can form the foundation of a song that resonates with listeners.
For example, I often draw from my experiences growing up in Falmouth, Cornwall, and the deep connection I’ve always had with the sea. In writing my song Falmouth, I used the feelings of nostalgia and longing that I had when I left Cornwall to create a piece that reflects the emotions of returning to a place that has shaped who I am. The song isn’t just about the town, but about the sense of belonging and the pull of home that I believe anyone can relate to.
Think about key moments in your life:
When did you feel the most alive?
When did you feel lost, confused, or uncertain?
What inspires you to keep going, even when things get tough?
The most authentic music often comes from those real, raw experiences. It’s important to be honest and vulnerable in your songwriting, as listeners connect with emotion in a genuine way. Don’t be afraid to put your heart into your music.
2. Expand Your Inspiration Beyond Your Own Life
While personal experiences are powerful, don’t limit yourself only to your own story. Inspiration can come from many places—books, movies, other songs, or even conversations with people around you. Keep an open mind and be curious about the world. This is especially important when crafting songs with universal themes that can speak to a wider audience.
For instance, my time working on a vegan farm near Mount Fuji at the age of 18 had a significant impact on me, and it’s something that inspired my song 18名（在日イギリス人）. That experience of living abroad, being immersed in a culture so different from my own, shaped my perspective on life and love. These experiences provide a wealth of material that can enrich your music and make it resonate with others who may have had similar encounters, even if the specifics differ.
For example, if you’ve been inspired by a movie that made you reflect on love or loss, or by a book that shifted your perspective on life, try translating those feelings into your music. The key is to make sure your storytelling is relatable and authentic, even if the inspiration comes from something external.
3. Craft a Compelling Narrative in Your Music
Once you’ve found inspiration, it’s time to translate that story into a song. Here’s how you can create a narrative that stands out:
Identify the core emotion or message: What is the main feeling or theme of your song? Whether it’s love, resilience, nostalgia, or empowerment, ensure your song conveys a clear message that resonates with the listener.
Structure your story: A good song has a clear beginning, middle, and end. Think of your song as a short story. Introduce the conflict or emotion in the verses, build on it in the chorus, and resolve it (or leave it open-ended) in the bridge or outro.
Use vivid imagery: Make your lyrics paint a picture. Instead of simply saying “I’m sad,” describe the feeling in a way that makes the listener feel it with you. Use metaphors, similes, and descriptive language to evoke emotion.
Keep it authentic: Your unique perspective is what sets you apart as an artist. Don’t try to fit into a mould. If your story is about overcoming personal challenges or celebrating your individuality, embrace that narrative fully and unapologetically.
For example, in my song Healing for You, I explore the themes of time, healing, and introspection. The inspiration came from my own experiences of struggling with personal growth and the need for emotional healing. By sharing that vulnerability in the song, I believe listeners can relate to the desire to heal, move forward, and reflect on past experiences.
4. Translating Your Story into a Pitch for Playlist Curators
Once your song is crafted and you’ve honed your story, the next step is to share that story with playlist curators. Getting your music featured on playlists can make a huge difference in gaining exposure, but the competition is fierce. Here’s how you can effectively pitch your music:
Craft a Personal, Story-Driven Pitch: Curators want to know what your music is about. Instead of simply listing genre tags, describe the emotions, themes, and journey of your song. Explain why it matters and how it fits with their playlist. Be concise but personal.
For example, instead of saying, “This is an indie pop song,” try something like:
"This song was inspired by my experience growing up in a small coastal town, and it’s about navigating the highs and lows of life while trying to find my place in the world. The song captures a sense of nostalgia, but also a hope for the future. I believe it would resonate with your listeners who appreciate reflective, introspective music with a touch of uplifting energy."
Connect Your Story to the Playlist: Research the playlist you’re submitting to and make sure your song fits with its vibe and theme. Mention this connection in your pitch. For instance, if you’re pitching a song about overcoming adversity to a playlist focused on motivational music, highlight how your song reflects perseverance and strength.
Be Professional and Polite: While it’s important to be authentic, you also need to be professional when reaching out to curators. Keep your pitch polite, respectful, and to the point. Curators receive hundreds of submissions, so make sure your message stands out by being clear and thoughtful.
Include Key Details: Don’t forget to include links to your music on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, or SoundCloud, as well as any relevant press or promotional materials. This makes it easier for curators to listen to your song and consider it for their playlist.
5. Keep the Story Going with Your Brand
Your music story doesn’t end with a single song. Build a narrative around your entire brand as an artist. Share behind-the-scenes stories, personal reflections, and creative insights with your fans. Curators are often more likely to feature an artist who has a consistent, engaging story across their music and social media presence. Let your audience get to know you as an artist and a person.
Conclusion
As a new musician, finding inspiration and crafting a compelling story is key to standing out in the crowded music landscape. Your story can be the bridge between you and your listeners, helping them connect with your music on a deeper level. Once you’ve found that story, pitch it effectively to playlist curators by sharing the emotions, themes, and personal experiences behind your songs. With a strong narrative and a well-crafted pitch, your music is more likely to gain the attention it deserves.
Keep writing, keep creating, and most importantly, keep telling your story.
