Interview with Songwriters on Songwriting

Welcome to the Songwriters on Songwriting Section of HowToWriteASongHQ.com

Each week a different songwriter will have a chance to answer 5 questions - sharing insights into the different aspects of songwriting, creativity, inspiration and motivation as well as sharing advice for those just getting started.

5 Questions | R.L. Evans

Who are you? Tell us a little bit about yourself. What kind of music are you writing? Where can we check out your music? How long have you been writing etc?

I am R.L. Evans, but my full name is Roderick L. Evans. I write music intended for praise and worship in both corporate and personal settings. I began to teach myself the acoustic guitar in 2001 and started writing songs and sheet music in the same year. I am in full time ministry (teaching/preaching) and am also an author, having written numerous books on various topics for the Christian community. I have written three books in particular on praise and worship and also 3 music books of sheet music. My music can be found on Amazon, Facebook, Myspace, Reverbnation, and any of the major music sites across the web.

What is your typical songwriting process?

I don’t know if I have any set songwriting process. Usually songs come to me at various times, especially during times of prayer and while in a worship service. Other times, I may see a verse of scripture that really inspires me and will sit down and consider how to set the verses to music. Depending on the intended purpose of a song, I determine the tempo and feel of the song.

How to know your song is a good one? Give us an example of your best song. Why does it work?

One of the ways that I determine if a song is a good one is if it meets two criteria: 1) Is there a clear affirmation of faith and exaltation of the Lord? and 2) Does it truly move me personally? A subsequent test is that I usually will run it by someone else involved in music ministry. Here are the lyrics to one song that I think is one of my best:

Title: Behind the Veil

There is a place beyond the gates
There is a place beyond the courts
Where the angels cry “Holy”
To the One who dwells there
Far above the heavens and the earth
Beyond the gates
Beyond the courts
Behind the veil

Behind the veil
There is love
Behind the veil
There is hope
There is joy unspeakable
Beyond the gates
Beyond the courts
Behind the veil.

What inspires you to write?

My inspiration for writing is my love for God and my passion for music. I love music and appreciate its role in my Christian experience. Songs with scripture verses set to them are my “calling” if you will. The word of God is the foundation for my inspiration in the writing of most of my songs.

What advice would you give to someone just starting out in songwriting

My advice to anyone who is starting to write music is RELAX. Inspiration and a “flow” to create and write should come from a place of rest and peace. In addition, I would encourage anyone who writes to always remain teachable. Always have an ear open to learn and try new things. Staying connected with others who write music or who are involved in music in some way will keep you excited. Others can challenge you to bring out the best in you.