Songwriting Magazine Issue 44

Songwriting Magazine Autumn 2026

David Porter, Michelle Branch, Lukas Graham, Carly Pearce, Jim James, Janet Devlin, Arthur Brown, Everlast, Halloween Song Starters, and more

As the nights draw in, it’s a good time to pick up your guitar, sit down at the piano or simply start putting ideas on paper. Our latest issue is packed with inspiration for your next song, alongside stories from the legendary hitmakers and modern talents who continue to shape the songs we hear and love.

We’re honoured to have David Porter on our cover. A central figure in the story of Stax Records, he helped shape the sound of Memphis soul through his extraordinary songwriting partnership with Isaac Hayes. From classics like Soul Man and Hold On, I’m Comin’ to the creative chemistry that made their collaboration so special, Porter takes us back to the people, places and experiences that shaped his remarkable career.

We also catch up with Michelle Branch, reflecting on the songs and experiences that have defined her journey, while Lukas Graham looks back on the global success of 7 Years and explores the personal roots behind his latest work. Elsewhere, Grammy-winning country star Carly Pearce joins us for a five-minute chat, and My Morning Jacket’s Jim James takes us through his solo album, song by song.

If you love getting inside the stories behind classic tracks, we’ve got three very different songs to explore… Laura Veltz reveals how a whirlwind writing session led to Jessie Murph’s Blue Strips, Arthur Brown revisits the creation of his extraordinary psychedelic classic Fire, and Everlast recalls how he created What It’s Like.

As always, there’s practical inspiration for your own writing, too. Our 10-page Technique section features advice from ISQ’s Irene Serra on using improvisation to find fresh melodies and hooks, Shane Cooley on making the most of the recording process, James Linderman on creating greater harmonic movement, and Makena Hartlin on developing stronger melodies. Tallulah Rendall also shares a thoughtful seven-step approach to turning emotion and personal experience into songs.

Elsewhere, Janet Devlin reveals her songwriting survival kit, and Lawrence Rothman shares the lessons learned through a life of creativity, collaboration and reinvention. We also explore the Riot Grrrl movement and the artists who used music, community and DIY spirit to challenge the status quo. Plus, with Halloween just around the corner, our Song Starters are devoted to conjuring up your own spooky anthems.

With all the latest news and opportunities, new gear and music reviews, emerging artists and more, we’ve got another issue packed with ideas and inspiration to take into your next writing session.

Find out how you can get this brand new edition of Songwriting Magazine, along with over 40 back issues, by subscribing at steady.page/songwriting

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