Episode 5: Exploring The Journeys of Songwriting with Award Winning Songwriter Tony Wood

What goes into writing a truly impactful song? That's exactly the question we answer on today's episode with our friend, Dove Award Winning songwriter, Tony Wood. Tony breaks down his history of writing over 900 songs in the Contemparary Christian Music Market and which songs have had the greatest impact on him. Tony also shares stories and lessons from his journey, including how the uniqueness of one's voice is so important when it comes to creating a song, as well as the wisdom he's sustained throughout his 30+ years of experience.  Tony also explains how music is a connection straight to our hearts and that, often times, each of our lives has a soundtrack. For those that are interested in training and honing their craft of songwriting, Tony believes that there has never been a better time. He shares tips and tricks for budding songwriters on what they can do to find their voice and write songs that will give voice to the Love and Majesty of God to those who need it most. If you have been curious about what goes into writing a deep, meaningful song, including those featured on Music For The Soul, or if you have wanted to learn how to get started songwriting yourself, this is an episode you will want to listen through.  Who is Tony Wood? Tony Wood is a Dove Award nominee for "Songwriter of the Year" and is a five time Dove Award winner. He is the writer of 30 #1 songs at Christian radio. He began writing songs in high school for friends to sing at various churches in the community. He continued writing for the local church while a student at Averett College. After graduation, Tony and his wife Terri moved to Nashville in order to pursue songwriting professionally. In 1991, he signed his first publishing deal with Michael Puryear at Lorenz Creative Services/BMG Music Publishing. He has since written for Brentwood-Benson Music Publishing and Essential Music Publishing. To date, over 900 of Tony's songs have been recorded and released in the Contemporary Christian Music Market.  Some of the artists who have given life to his lyrics include: Michael W. Smith, Francesca Battistelli, Matt Redman, Zach Williams, Mandisa, We Are Messengers, Big Daddy Weave, Jason Crabb, Sandi Patty, Gaither Vocal Band, Reba McEntire, Ricky Skaggs and many more.  Tony is currently a staff writer for Curb Word Music Publishing. Resources: Our listeners can learn more about Tony Wood, his book A Parent's Book of Prayers, and much more by visiting www.tonywoodonline.com Our listeners can also follow Tony on his Instagram: @tonywood_exit71 Thank you so much for listening to this episode of the Music for the Soul Podcast! If you haven't already, please leave us a five star rating and review wherever you get this podcast. We are so grateful to bring you this powerful story and many more like it in the future.