Sodajerker On Songwriting Bonus: Jamie Cullum and Billy Bragg (Live)
Jan 13, 2026
Jamie Cullum, an award-winning singer-songwriter and pianist, shares insights on writing for the Royal Shakespeare Company and the importance of collaboration in songwriting. He emphasizes the role of the piano in his creative process and discusses his journey through music theory. Billy Bragg, a political activist and folk-punk musician, reflects on songwriting as a means of connection, arguing for empathy and honest perspectives in his work. Both artists explore how music can inspire change and foster community, showcasing the art of songwriting from their unique perspectives.
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Be Unafraid To Share Wild Ideas
- Throw out ideas freely in songwriting sessions and expect to learn from every contribution.
- Be willing to propose things you think are stupid because the “stupid” idea can become the thing.
Creative Freedom Through A Brief
- Writing to a brief gives you a clear entry point and creative constraints that can unlock ideas.
- Jamie found reading a film script and writing to it taught him how prompts can focus songwriting.
Use Theory As A Practical Tool
- Study music theory when stuck to gain practical tools, not to replace honest songwriting.
- Jamie found theory during COVID opened options like chord movements to fix structural problems.
