Ways You Can Take Inspiration From Older Artists When You Write Your Own Music

All new musical talent owes a great deal of gratitude to the artists who paved the way. In honor of our favorites, many of us take inspiration from our favorite bands in an attempt to pay homage to them. Imitation may be the best form of flattery, but this is true when it’s done correctly. Here are some great ways you can take inspiration from older artists when you write your music.

Expand Your Musical Horizons

No matter what genre of music you create, you can find inspiration in several places.

For example, a metal guitarist can learn a lot from past Motown record producers and funk artists, such as Marvin Gaye, Freddie Perren, Prince, Stevie Wonder, Freddy Stone, or Tony Maiden, to learn specific techniques not often found in metal music.

Similarly, a hip-hop artist can find inspiration from musicals, like Jay Z’s “It’s a Hard Knock Life.”

Mimic Processes Not Specifics

While you may love an artist’s lyrics or a specific guitar rift, it’s important not to use samples from previous artists and call it your own.

Instead, you can learn about different methods your favorite musicians used and apply them to your unique work. For example, you can appreciate the opera style applied to Bohemian Rhapsody and use that style in your song without using the same opera music but something wildly different yet still operettic.

Practice

Most artists become so influential in the music industry thanks to their years of hard work to hone their talent. Learn as much as you can, soaking in knowledge about your craft like a sponge. However, you can still respect your favorite artists by studying in similar fashions.

While one of the greats, Jimi Hendrix, was self-taught, getting professional classes can speed up your progress. You should also live with your instrument close at hand, whether that’s your guitar, violin, or pen.

Respect Jimi Hendrix’s progress by practicing and experimenting outside of your classes. Consider Jimmy Page, who used a violin bow to play his Gibson guitar. Musicians are experimenters, so keep that mindset alive.

Give Credit Appropriately

Most importantly, you should always give credit when you take inspiration from older artists. You can give credit by paying for rights to sample a song. You can also pay tribute by including lyrics about your inspiration in the song they inspired.

It’s perfectly normal to get inspiration from your favorite people in the music industry. However, proper respect means paying homage correctly.