Intro

SONA Awards X TikTok X Behind The Wall

I had the honor of hosting the red carpet at the SONA Awards in partnership with TikTok, where we celebrated and spoke with the songwriters, advocates, and leaders who shape the music we all live with

.SONA, the Songwriters of North America, exists to protect, empower, and fight for the people behind the songs. This night was not about charts or headlines. It was about craft, conviction, and voices that too often go unheard.I am incredibly grateful to TikTok for having me be part of this moment. I started on TikTok six or seven years ago, and being able to host this conversation with them felt full circle in the most meaningful way.

These conversations go deep into what it truly means to be a songwriter today, the responsibility that comes with creating culture, and the ongoing fight for fairness, ownership, and respect in the music industry.I spoke with an incredible group of artists and leaders, including Paul Anka, Shane Stevens, Bonnie McKee, Lauren Christy, Ross Golan, Jason Evigan, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis, Bonnie McKee, JHart, Sarah Hudson, Annie Schindel, Michelle Williams, Salem Ilese, 220Kid, Dinah LaPolt, Crispin Hunt, and Lawrence Pastel.

Together, they shared stories about writing songs that outlive moments, navigating an industry that does not always favor creators, and why community matters just as much as creativity. From legendary careers to the next generation of hitmakers, every voice reflected the same truth. Songwriters are the foundation of everything.

This conversation is for you if

- You care about the people behind the music

- You believe creators deserve ownership, protection, and a seat at the table

- You want to understand how songs shape culture long after release day

- You want to make Songwriting your full time thing.

Grateful to SONA, TikTok, and all the Songwriters for trusting me with this and for the work they continue to do on behalf of songwriters everywhere.

⬇️ More of SONA

Website: https://www.songwritersofnorthamerica.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/songwritersofnorthamerica

X: https://x.com/SONAunited

Learn more about songwriter advocacy, education, and community

⬇️ More of Daniel

📺 YouTube: / @danielswall

📸 Instagram: / danielwall

📱 TikTok: / danielswall