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Songwriter Interview Questions

Top 5 songwriter interview questions with detailed tips for both hiring managers and candidates.
By Paul Peters, Updated May 11, 2021
songwriter working in a studio with a guitar and laptop

Sometimes called composers or lyricists, songwriters work for other artists or music publishers, or create songs that they themselves perform. They write lyrics and create melodies for songs in many different genres. Songwriters can be employed full-time, but they usually do freelance jobs and have flexible schedules.

When interviewing songwriters, the best candidates will have excellent creative writing skills and a good ear for melody. Be wary of those who lack discipline, struggle to identify a good song, and respond inappropriately to criticism.

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Interview Questions for Songwriters:

1. Can you describe how you would compose a song?

Tests the ability to write lyrics and to produce the accompanying instrumentals.

2. What was the most challenging project you have completed to date?

Reveals candidates’ interests, passions, as well as their strengths.

3. Describe a time you worked with a difficult client. What did you learn?

Tests customer service, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills. Also reveals candidates’ ability to learn from past experiences.

4. Tell me about your process. How do you find inspiration when working to a deadline?

Reveals candidates’ ability to generate fresh ideas when working under pressure.

5. It terms of the overall composition, what is your favorite song and why?

Demonstrates the ability to identify and analyze quality songs.

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