Based on the Podcast Episode: “An Album A Year for Four Years – Creating Sonic Worlds with First Born Sun “ – Episode 69, The Magic of Songwriting with Francesca de Valence

In this podcast episode, we celebrate Canberra songwriter and producer Dave Cina, also known as First Born Sun, an artist who has quietly created four albums in four years inside I Heart Songwriting Club. Each project is its own world, its own atmosphere, its own story. His latest album, Monkey Paw, offers a reflective Spaghetti Western-tinged journey through midlife.

What stands out most about Dave’s story is his commitment to showing up creatively, even when visibility feels uncomfortable. A producer at heart, he prefers to let the work speak for itself. And yet, he’s also leaning into the vulnerable process of letting his singing voice be heard – even when it feels confronting.

Listen below for the full sonic experience, or read below for the key takeaways from our conversation that might spark something for you.

Here are a few reflections inspired by Dave’s prolific practice that any songwriter can bring into their own creative practice:

1. Build worlds, not just songs

Let each song be part of something bigger – its own atmosphere, character, landscape. World-building invites can build depth and be creatively cohesive.

2. Create consistently, not perfectly

Four albums in four years didn’t happen through waiting for inspiration. Momentum comes from regular practice, showing up and simply trusting the process.

3. Use your voice (even if you don’t like it)

Sharing your voice can feel uncomfortable. You may hold a belief that you can’t sing, or that your singing is not very good. There’s growth in allowing yourself to be heard, to be vulnerable, to communicate your song in your own voice.

4. Lean into your strengths

If producing, arranging, or building sonic worlds lights you up, follow that. Let your strengths guide your creative identity rather than forcing yourself into roles that don’t fit.

5. Embrace midlife (or whatever phase of life you’re in) as creative fuel

Life’s transitions – whether midlife or otherwise – can make for powerful creative material. Use your reflections on life to shape meaningful art that resonates with others.


Dave’s journey is an encouraging reminder that creativity doesn’t need to be loud to be powerful. Worlds can be built quietly. Breakthroughs can happen slowly, and even the most understated artists can create extraordinary bodies of work through consistency and courage.

If you’d like to grow your creative practice alongside supportive peers, and perhaps discover your own unexpected album, come and join us in our  Songwriting Club and Courses.