Key Of Grey

Photo courtesy of rawkblog4

September 16th, 2009 – Lifehacker has a post (linked below) that discusses creative productivity. They give an example of a recent cover album that Beck put together with other artists. Covering The Velvet Underground’s “The Velvet Underground & Nico” album in 24 hours, without previous arrangements or practice, the artists felt free. Because they weren’t tasked with writing new songs, nor were they to come in with their own arrangements, they were able to relax and just create.

Sometimes we have big ideas. These ideas are so big that we don’t think we can ever do them. It’s because we have too many options and we feel overwhelmed with the possibilities. I enjoy working within constraints because it makes the task seem smaller. This in turn makes the task seem more manageable.

For example, instead of saying “I’m going to write a song a day”, one might try writing 3 song ideas a day. This ultimately will give you more variety in your writing, and you don’t have to worry about finishing the whole song. You’ll be able to choose which song is the best to continue work on in the context of the others without the pressure of completing every one.

I find that breaking down tasks in this way helps the creativity flow instead of having it blocked by anxiety. This may not be the problem that blocks everyone from getting side projects done, but since it affects me, I suspect that it affects others as well.

If you’re stuck for song ideas, try remixing or covering someone else’s song. It will give you a starting point, and keep you working on music. Who knows, it may even help you come up with new song ideas.

“How Weekend Projects Can Free Your Inner Rock Star” on Lifehacker