Dave Gillespie

It is hard to understand how songs come into existence. Sometimes it takes a long time - ideas will sit around for years and then something changes in the way you look at the idea and it starts to develop. Sometimes (rarely) complete songs seem to appear fully fleshed out - words, melody and chords. 

It's rewarding both ways - the sudden appearance is exhilarating, but I've also been really happy when an idea emerges from the past, triggered by a lyrical phrase or a song concept, and finds a way to completion.

I've studied music (I have a degree in Theory and Composition) but I try not to let theory or technical capability get in the way of a song's message.

At any rate, at this time in my life (I'm 68) it is absolutely critical to retain a sense of aspiration - to become a better songwriter, producer, mixer in music, and beyond that, to aspire to become a more considerate, honest and fully developed individual. We can only (and we must) aspire.