In this series, I ask other songwriters about their quest for inspiration and how they tackle the day-to-day tasks of writing quality, engaging songs. Behind every good song is a hard-worker. I want to know how songwriters work and how they fill their well so it never goes dry.
JONNY FRITZ is an outlaw country artist who has spent a decade on the road, charming folks with his funny observations about everyday life. Finding inspiration at a quiet booth in the back of a Waffle House, Jonny looks for songs in whatever we swept under the rug. He has shared the stage with big names (Alabama Shakes, Dawes, Deer Tick) and mastered the perfect live show, but what inspires him when he’s off the road?
1. What is your typical work day?
Work day? I’m a professional musician. I haven’t “worked” in over ten years. I also can’t remember a typical day in the past 6 months.
2. What tools do you use to keep you organized and productive?
Sheesh, I wish I had something like that. I always just sing into my phone and listen back later to whatever fragmented melody, verse or chorus I thought was worth recording and try to turn it into a song.
3. Do you have any habits, exercises or activities that jumpstart your creativity?
Running helps a lot. Sex helps a lot. Riding a motorcycle or driving late at night help. When I’m doing any of those things regularly, I really feel most creative.
4. Are there any specific (or favorite) books, films, lectures, etc. that continue to inspire you?
Definitely. I’ve been reading this nicholson baker book for a while now. It’s called The Fermata. I love it so much that I can never read more than a page or two at a time without becoming so inspired that I can’t sit still. I read a page and it feels like drinking a cup of coffee. In fact, one of my biggest fears in life is finishing that book.
5. Where do you get ideas for songs? How do you catalog them?
I really get my ideas from everyday type stuff. It’s usually from people-watching. I love sitting in a Waffle House alone and eavesdropping on the wait staff. Their problems are usually pretty priceless and decision making skills running on primal instinct rather than logic or reason. I love hearing other people’s problems but only when they don’t know I’m listening.
6. How do you combat writer’s block?
It sucks. I have no way to battle writers block. Right now is the driest spell I’ve ever had. I have several ideas but that’s it. My number one rule is to never ever force a song. It’ll come when it’s damn well ready! It’s like a troubled teen. Push on him and he’ll push so hard back you wish you never had, but play it cool and he might just not mind being seen in public with you.
7. Who is your songwriting hero?
Tom T. Hall
8. Do you have any advice to offer a new songwriter?
Don’t be afraid of writing something stupid.
