Author Description

Contemporary Songwriting teaches the reader how to compose and produce popular music. Specifically, it illustrates a process of songwriting integrated with music production that is common in the music industry today. Part I of the book consists of a version of this process using GarageBand, by Apple, and is oriented around the use of loops, which GarageBand is well suited to. Part II of the book consists of a version of this process using Live, by Ableton, that also involves the use of loops but is oriented somewhat around chord progressions as well. One needs no experience with music to use this book, though any background one does have will be useful. Note that many famous songwriters and producers began with no prior music background, and a significant number continued in their careers with little or no formal music training. To the extent that the reader does have music experience, this book can serve to fill gaps in knowledge, ensuring the most solid overall foundation in songwriting and music production. A song created with this book can include the recording of a singer, but this is not necessary. Some songs have no vocals, and that option is provided as well. This book was written in consultation with, and has been vetted, edited, and contributed to by, charting popular music industry insiders, with credits including writing, producing, and mixing for Elton John, Steve Aoki, Desiigner, Backstreet Boys, 24kGoldn, Krewella, Chelsea Cutler, Grace VanderWaal, Monsta X, Connor Matthews, French Montana and many more. The book is based on cutting edge industry practices, its introductory nature notwithstanding. Please visit https://tobykoenigsberg.com for more information about the author, Toby Koenigsberg, and his work.