Catching up with JAMIE O'NEAL
I’ve had the pleasure of writing with Jamie O’Neal several times over the years, and I’m always excited to hear the final product. She is a hit maker for a reason. Recently she was gracious enough to answer a few questions that aspiring writers and fans may want to hear. I’m very grateful for the wisdom she freely shares. - Corey Lee Barker Do you typically begin with the lyrical idea, title, or melody when you write? Usually a title or idea, then melody, then lyrics. What was the first song you ever wrote that made it to radio? LeAnn Rimes Surrender Song you didn’t write, but wish you did…. and why? Either I Hope You Dance or I Will Always Love You… because those songs will live forever and continue to move generations of people forever. Hit song that took you the longest to write? Somebody’s Hero because we wanted to get it exactly right through the course of a mother’s life. What current artist would you like to write a song for? I’d say Lainey Wilson because she is such a favorite of mine. Is there a singer/songwriter that inspires you at the moment? I’d have to say Hardy because he’s so passionate, unique and full of new ideas, I love him! Did you ever pass on a song that became a hit for someone else? No.
Corey Lee Barker
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In your experience, what do publishing companies look for in a writer? I think companies obviously love it if you’re already getting cuts, also usually if you write songs alone so there’s no shared publishing. I also think they look for a little distinctive flair or sound they haven’t heard before. I think it’s so important to not focus on what other people are doing or what you’re hearing on the radio but to know that you’re putting something different out there. That said it’s important to know the fundamentals of how to write a song.
