Things I Say “No” To

Brent is a hit songwriter with cuts by Alan Jackson, Randy Travis, Lady Antebellum, Joe Nichols, Gord Bamford, Ray Stevens, and more.  He’s written a top 5 hit in the US and a #1 in Canada… so far.

Two weeks ago, I discussed where I say “yes” to putting my time.  You can read it by clicking <HERE.>  Here’s the flip side of that coin – the things that maybe I used to say yes to, but now I usually can’t.  And none of these things are bad in and of themselves.  I just can’t say “yes” to everything.  This list might be useful when you’re deciding where to spend YOUR time.

1. Unsigned artists.

So few artists ever get signed, and I have so little time, that I just can’t invest for a few years on something with so little chance of success – especially when it would mean taking up time I could be spending with a signed artist.  I wish I could write when more unsigned artists (I know some great ones), but I just can’t right now.  A few exceptions are a couple of close friends (who rock, work their backsides off and cut our songs).

2. Random cowrites.

I’ve had to put off writing with several of my regular cowriters because of time constraints- friends with whom I expect to get good results.  So it sure doesn’t make sense to sit down with a stranger- unless I have good reason to think they fit one of the things that make me say “yes.”

3. Non-commercial songwriting.

I’m trying to earn enough in royalties to “buy” my way back into full-time writing.  I have to focus on where I have the best chance to make the most money.

It’s not easy to say “no.”  There are times I feel like a jerk, and there are probably people who think I AM a jerk for saying “no.”  But I can’t let that determine my decisions.  I have to do what’s best for me and my family in the long-term.  And let me be clear- what you might want to say “no” to is not necessarily going to be the same things I say “no” to.  Each situation is different.   If you’re going to be successful (and as you become more successful), you’re going to have to say, “no,” too.  Just try and be honest and graceful when you have to turn down an opportunity.

God Bless,

Brent

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Brent’s Twitter: @Razorbaxter

Brent Baxter Music:  http://www.brentbaxtermusic.com