Meet Jon and find what it's like to be a songwriter for artists including Kylie Minogue. Part of our Bitesize world of work series.
Jon Green - songwriter and producer
I was playing in bands a lot growing up with my brother and my best friend… and ever since that I just kept going, I was just working, I was a session musician for a long time. It’s just something that I had to be doing and it was something I naturally did as a kid; I would go upstairs and just shut the door and just write, listening to the radio, hearing why songs work and why they connect.
I did some work on Kylie’s last record and we’ve been writing a bit recently as well for hopefully some new stuff, up and coming, and she’s really cool and I’m really excited to see how the show and for her because it’s quite a momentous occasion for her on many levels.
Songwriting is a tough gig, and production as well, and there’s so much competition. And to cut through that noise, you’ve just got to stick with it. I like kind of being a bit more in the shadows, as it were, I find it a bit easier and I love the feeling of writing and connecting with someone and seeing them bring to life, I just prefer that feeling more. And for people looking to get into it, I think get out there, go to gigs, meet managers, push yourself and go up to people and introduce yourself. And the opportunities will come, it’s about putting yourself out there.
Songwriting and production is a tough gig - you've got to stick with it.
Jon is a songwriter, which involves connecting with artists, writing and producing songs. Recently he has been working with Kylie on songs for her upcoming album
From childhood Jon has had a love for music. Growing up he was always in bands or writing in his bedroom, listening to songs on the radio and trying to work out what made them work
His favourite part of the job is making a connection with the artist he is working with and creating a song with them
Jon's main advice is to get out there, attend gigs, approach people in the industry, introduce yourself to artists' managers and make connections.
What to expect if you want to be a singer-songwriter
What will I get paid? Your income will depend on how successful you become and how much paid work you secure. Remember, a record deal doesn't necessarily guarantee success and success doesn't necessarily mean fame.Where will I work? Initially, you'll probably work a lot from home or the recording studio. You will need to travel nationally or internationally to perform.What are the working hours like? You'll choose your writing hours. Gigs are normally at night and can end very late. On tour, there will be a lot of early mornings and travel.
What qualifications do you need to be singer-songwriter?
What qualifications do I need? None in particular – passion, experience and dedication is more important, although musical knowledge and performance skills could be beneficial.
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