MTV debuted 28 years ago this summer, amplifying the impact of what we see on the pop music we hear, and creating obvious commercial reasons for record labels and performers alike to keep potential video visual hooks in mind when making and marketing songs.

When choosing an HD camera to purchase, one of the most important decisions is determining the correct file format to utilize, since a camera’s file format will determine how footage is captured, transferred to a computer, edited, and finally exported.

For songwriters looking to take their video to the next level without putting too much of a dent in their bank accounts, Pinnacle Studio provides a quality, affordable option.

When it comes to the world of video, iMovie HD could be considered the GarageBand of video-editing software.

The Shure SM7 is a dynamic moving coil microphone with a cardioid polar pattern that, despite its modest price tag and original intention as a speech microphone, has found its way onto many modern rock and r&b recordings.

Digidesign’s new Pro Tools LE 8 is a huge improvement on previous versions, especially for the songwriter.

The Extraordinaires do something I can’t imagine many other bands with punk mentalities doing.

Ableton has made yet another successful upgrade to Live. The new version updates some existing features, and launches some new instruments, new effects, and some mastering tools.

Found you wrecked out on the floor Deep, dark dagger in your back Why was I shifting so quietly? Matchstick murder who is to blame? From “Matchstick Murder” —Written by Tristen Gaspadarek Find out what happens next in Tristen’s “Matchstick Murder” video on AmericanSongwriter.com. The video was shot in Nashville, Tennessee by Jeff Wyatt Wilson [...]

Do It Yourself Video Contest

Allen Thompson, the look of a troubadour. Earlier this month, Virginia native Allen Thompson released his album 26 Years, an acoustic record that follows in the tradition of his musical heroes. American Songwriter chatted with Thompson about his experiences as a songwriter and the new disc. When did you start writing songs? I started writing [...]

The songs found on our Top Ten Drinking Songs list speak to our collective love affair with Lady Liquor. Prohibition or not, through good times and bad, at home or across the sea, red or white, shaken or stirred – these songs are the audio equivalent of a drinking buddy for all of us. Choosing [...]