Meet Scotty Combs

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Scotty Combs. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Scotty, thank you so much for making time for us today. Let’s jump right into a question so many in our community are looking for answers to – how to overcome creativity blocks, writer’s block, etc. We’d love to hear your thoughts or any advice you might have.

When I first started writing (and I believe everyone goes through this in the beginning) I experienced Writers Block often. It just comes with being a new writer. Then you start to think “I’m just not creative, I have nothing to write about”. This is not a good feeling and very discouraging but every writer has been there. I’ve learned the only way to overcome Writers Block is to keep writing. Even if you don’t know what to write about just start writing. It doesn’t have to be a song, just start writing about your day. Writing is a muscle just like anything else and if you don’t use it you will loose it. So if you’re espreiencing writers block it’s because you’re not writing enough. Again, it doesn’t have to be a song. Start keeping a journal and write in it every day to get that muscle built up and the songs will start flowing. Eventually, there will be no such thing as writers block so just keep writing.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

My name is Scotty Combs and I’m a Singer/Songwriter here in Nashville Tn. I’m originally from Alabama but have called Music City my home for almost 30 years. I wrote my first three songs when I was in my early 20’s. Since then I have recorded and released multiple singles, gotten cuts on albums from independent artist, played in the Historic Palace Theaters, heard my songs play on independent radio and have done multiple interviews. I have to say, I love this music life and so thankful to have a small part in it. Anyone interested in following my musical journey can find me on all the media platforms @scottycombsmusic. Also, I’ve recently started a YouTube channel dedicated to helping new, up & coming songwriters. I talk about things I’ve learned along the way, tips and tricks, do and don’ts, interviews with other singer/songwriter/artist in the area giving their insights on the songwriting world. Nashville is a magical musical place but it can be hard at times so if I can give back, even in a small way to help someone starting out, then I will. I believe we all need a helping hand in this business, I know I wouldn’t have even gotten a foot in the door without the help of others. So let’s all share the love.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

First, People skills are so important. If you’re wanting to be a writer/artist you have to go out and meet people. You can’t do this alone. Every person you meet is an opportunity you did’t have before. It might be a new co-writer or someone that wants to record your music etc. The point is, you will never meet these potential opportunity’s if you don’t put yourself out there. So get out there, smile, shake hands and seize the opportunity.
Second, know your instrument. If you’re a singer/songwriter you have to know your instrument. Take lessons early on and don’t just play the same three or four chord’s in every song. As a songwriter you want your music to stand out. Taking lessons and learning more than just your basic chord progressions will have you and your songs a step above the norm. Always keep learning.
Third, find a mentor. Fine that special person that is willing to help and show you the ropes. Most of the time they will find you. Having a mentor when you’re starting out is like having someone in your corner, someone that has your back. For me, I got really lucky and had an amazing mentor, Hit Writer Jan Buckingham. She saw something in me that I did not see. She saw (and still does) what I could and can be. She showed me how to structure a song, got me on stage for the first time and also got me in a recording studio to record my first co-write. Having a mentor will not only help you in your career but you will also get a life long friendship out of it.

Awesome, really appreciate you opening up with us today and before we close maybe you can share a book recommendation with us. Has there been a book that’s been impactful in your growth and development?

A couple of book that I highly recommend are “Mastering Melody Writing” by Clay Mills & Bill O’Hanlon and “The Songwriter’s Guide to Mastering Co-Writing: Real Pros Sharing Real Techniques” by Bill O’Hanlon, Clay Mills & Marty Dodson. I love to read and I read a lot on the art of songwriting. These two books stand out to me because they are simple and straightforward. I believe any songwriter would benefit from the insight in these pages. They have helped me on how I structure melody’s for my songs along with helpful tips and trick I never thought of before. The Mastering Co-Writing is a must read for anyone venturing out into the world of co-writing. All the dos and don’ts, how to be prepared, what to expect and what is expected out of you. Learning is knowledge and the more knowledge you have under your belt the better equippted you will be in any situation. So keep reading, keep writing and keep learning.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @scottycombsmusic
• Facebook: Scotty Combs Music
• Linkedin: linktr.ee/scottycombsmusic
• Youtube: @scottycombsmusic
• Other: https://reverbnation.com/scottycombs