Based on the Podcast Episode: “Life Insurance, Goldilocks & Indie Rock: The Imaginative World of Songwriter Joel Riley“ – Episode 63, The Magic of Songwriting with Francesca de Valence

When songwriter and producer Joel Riley joined I Heart Songwriting Club, he never imagined that writing a song a week would lead to his debut album The Fruits of Labour. But that’s exactly what happened. Over 100 weeks of consistent songwriting later, Joel not only grew his craft, but also found his artistic voice, built confidence, and even shaped his first full-length record — all from showing up week after week.

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 some of the gems we can learn from Joel’s imaginative practice:

1. Consistency Builds Creative Momentum

Joel wrote more than 100 songs in the Club. That’s one song every week, no matter what. He shared that even when it seemed impossible, he still found a way to submit a song. That consistency created not just songs, but a deep habit of creativity.

Try this: Choose one non-negotiable creative action each week. Don’t worry about perfection — just keep showing up.

2. Feedback Helps You Hear Your Songs Differently

Some of the songs Joel didn’t think much of were the very songs his group encouraged him to put on his album. Having other songwriters listen with fresh ears gave him insights he couldn’t find alone.

Try this: Share your songs with a trusted circle and listen to their reactions. Notice which songs resonate with others, even if they surprise you.

3. Play Leads to Discovery

Joel’s songs often began in playful, unexpected ways — singing into his phone with a mouth full of toothpaste, or discovering hooks while washing the dishes. He leaned into curiosity and let the ideas unfold without overthinking.

Try this: Next time you’re doing something routine — walking, cooking, driving — record any little melody or lyric that pops into your head. Don’t judge it, just capture it.

4. Songs Teach You What They Mean Later

Joel often didn’t know what his songs were about when he first wrote them. The meaning revealed itself over time, sometimes even after performing them live. This gave his music layers of depth he couldn’t plan.

Try this: Let go of needing to know “what your song is about” before writing. Trust that meaning will emerge in its own time.

5. Embrace Limitations as Creative Opportunities

Even living in the regional New South Wales town of Dubbo, Joel didn’t see limitations — he saw new ways to create. Whether it was using drum loops instead of live drums, or building an ambient one-chord improvisation concert in Dubbo, Joel turned what he had into art.

Try this: Instead of wishing for different circumstances, ask: What can I make with what I have right now?

Joel’s story is a reminder that songwriting doesn’t have to be complicated or strategic. By showing up, playing with ideas, listening to feedback, and embracing limitations, he turned a weekly songwriting habit into an album he loves. And that’s the real magic of songwriting.

Looking for help to write your next album?

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