I’m Nashville songwriter Becky Warren. For years I tried to look like a success, but I felt like a failure.
I spent decades chasing validation—winning song contests, opening for my heroes, getting press mentions. But behind all of that, I was consumed by self-doubt and loneliness. Each achievement felt like a mask I was wearing, a way to prove my worth so people would want to hear my songs. The harder I tried to succeed, the more isolated I felt. I was stuck in a cycle, grinding away to add things to my songwriting resume, but feeling less happy every time I did.
I was ready to give up—until one night in New York changed everything.
Burnt out and on the verge of quitting, I flew to New York in January to meet some songwriter friends I hadn’t seen in years. We’d met through a program I’d initially joined for the credential, but that night, I realized I hadn’t flown to New York for recognition—I’d done it for connection.
No one asked about my achievements—they asked how I was. Surrounded by songwriters who understood me, I realized: the program had left a lasting impact, not because of its prestige, but because of the creative journey we participants had taken together. For a week, we wrote songs daily—some days struggling, others celebrating. We grew together, pushed each other, and supported one another when the writing got tough. It wasn’t about proving myself, but being myself.
That was the key: a space where the work mattered more than the résumé. But where could I find that back in Nashville, a town where credentials seem to mean everything?
I couldn’t find what I needed, so I decided to build it.
Back home, it became clear: I needed a space where songwriting felt joyful again. The creative spark from New York was fading, and without a community like that, I worried I’d give up on songwriting.
So, I took a leap: I invited a few songwriters I’d been coaching to join a weekly song circle where we could share our new work, learn from each other, and grow—no competition, no credentials required. With no clear plan, I threw myself into creating SongSidekick, a space where songs and connection come first.
What happened next surprised me.
Our little community grew—fast. In just a few months, our Friday song circle expanded to dozens of attendees, many sharing brand-new songs they’d written for the group. In the last three months alone, we’ve created at least 60 songs—that’s enough material for six albums! To keep up, I’ve introduced master classes and I’m planning even more, like a song listening club.
People tell me it’s changing their lives. I believe them because it’s changed mine. I’m writing more songs than ever, and for the first time in years, songwriting feels fun again—like it did when I was a kid.
Most importantly, I’m surrounded by new friends whose songwriting journeys I get to share. We geek out over songs we love, and it nourishes my creativity in a way no magazine mention or songwriting contest ever could.
Stop struggling, start growing—your songwriting support system is here.
The real joy of songwriting isn’t about competing for recognition; it’s about creating alongside others who inspire and challenge you. That’s what SongSidekick is all about—a community where your songs truly matter. Join a space that believes in your creativity. Transform your songwriting journey by signing up for our Friday song circles. I can’t wait to hear what you’re working on!