In this feature, country songwriter Brent Baxter shares his "Map to Writing Competitive Lyrics" and tips for cow-writing and handling feedback. Brent Baxter is a hit songwriter who helps other songwriters turn pro. He teaches the art, craft and business of songwriting through two main avenues: his website, SongwritingPro.com and his cohosted podcast, The C.L.I.M.B. Baxter's first cut came in early 2004, as “Monday Morning Church” which was recorded by Alan Jackson. The song went on to become a top five hit, honored as one of NSAI’s ten “Songs I Wish I’d Written.” It also received an ASCAP airplay award. In early 2005, he signed his first publishing deal, becoming a staff songwriter for Major Bob Music. That deal yielded cuts by Lady Antebellum, Randy Travis, and Lonestar, among others. In 2009 and 2010, Baxter wrote for a joint venture of Peer Music and RPM Music. That deal yielded cuts by Joe Nichols, Ray Stevens, Charles Billingsley, Randy Kohrs and others. From 2010 through 2012, Brent was the flagship writer for Infinity Music Group. This deal yielded cuts by Canadian star Gord Bamford (the #1 hit and CCMA Single of the Year "When Your Lips Are So Close"), as well as comedy legend Ray Stevens, blues guitar legend Steve Cropper, Andy Griggs, Buddy Jewell, and Curb artist, Ruthie Collins, among others. Baxter currently writes for his own publishing company, Cowboy Chords Music. He lives just outside of Nashville with his wife, Emily, and their four children, Ozzy, Ruby Jean, Wren and Quill.
VIDEO:Map to Writing Competitive Lyrics with Brent Baxter
