[QUOTE=Jake48]i'm new to songwriting, but have been writing short fiction for years ... one of the things you can do to write ..."is to start writing" ... just take paper and pen -- paper and pen, not pc and keyboard -- and just start writing whatever is in your head ... keep writing until an idea starts to form ... or your current idea starts to gel ... make it rhyme, or fly, or whatever! just get to writing --- that's what matters.QUOTE]

This is good, but I use my computer a lot. I have a lot of sticky notes all over my desk at work, but I then put them on the computer at home later.

I keep a running log of rhymes and lines that I think up on the spur of the moment. I also record guitar licks I come up with. I collect common things people say or something I overheard that I think I might use. Then when I get inspired, I use my log to build on my lyrics or if I'm stuck for a line, I go to log.

I like using the computer because it's so easy to switch things around or change completely while keep the orginal thought.

I would be careful using other songs to create your own. You maybe violating some copyright laws. It probably won't be a problem, unless your song makes it big time. Then everyone and his brother will be after a piece of the action.

I had a problem years ago when my song resembled the song "Snow Bird". I wasn't fined or anything, but it cost a lot of moola for attorneys and time away from work. I didn't even use the song, it just had similiaries.

Just some friendly advice.