How did you write that song Fred Smith?

from How did you write that song? · host Paul Marsh

Award-winning folk singer/songwriter Fred Smith has seen many things, written many songs and the world is a better place for it. In this episode Fred talks about how he started off in music playing covers in a restaurant for 20 bucks and a bowl of spaghetti and spent years writing comedy songs. Then his songwriting and work as a diplomat came together as his songs documented the trials, humorous moments and tragedies of the Afghanistan conflict. We discuss and play a recording of his song Derapet which tells the story of the death of an Australian soldier told from the perspective of another soldier. Fred believes you have to see the story you are writing songs about or observe it through the eyes of someone who was there. The stories in Fred's songs are interesting, funny, sad, terrifying - you name it - and it was great to gain a bit of an understanding of how he captures these moments and makes them accessible to others through song. Hear Fred's music at https://fredsmith.com.au/ His new album, "Look" can be found at https://fredsmith.com.au/album/2516534/look