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Gwendolyn

The Songwriting Series and The Songwriting Series Lounge

About Me


"All the water in the ocean cannot sink a ship unless it gets inside." Suzanne de Passe
"Stop tripping up the prom Queen" Bishop Vashti Murphy McKenzie
The Songwriting Series
Our Mission
Songwriters give voice to the full range of human expression and emotions. Their art is the keystone of the music and entertainment industries, and it enriches a broader array of media arts. The creator of The Songwriting Series knows that our gifted songwriters need support, encouragement and guidance in order to thrive and sustain the superstructure of the recording industry and other media arts. The Series is committed to creating an environment that provides songwriters with the artistic development, mentorship, and business acumen needed to achieve professional as well as artistic success.
The Songwriting Series Presents Session to Seventh Graders in South Africa
The Songwriting Series, presented an abbreviated version of its program to a private primary class of seventh graders in Eldorado Park in Johannesburg, South Africa, located in a township outside of Soweto. Melody Davis, Anthony Wesley-Watson and Gwendolyn Quinn, founder and creative director of the Songwriting Series, were all part of various service projects along with others from Emmanuel Baptist Church of Brooklyn, New York.
Quinn, Davis and Wesley-Watson taught songwriting and creative writing sessions over a four-day period to a group of fifth, sixth and seventh graders. The seventh graders were taught the basic mechanics of songwriting. The students learned the popular ABAB songwriting format (verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus). The class of 38 students broke out into two groups. Each group was asked to come up with an overall theme that they had to all agree on and then create the song from there. Within each group, smaller groups were formed and group one was responsible for writing the first verse, group two had the charge of writing the chorus, group three presented the second verse, group four came up with a bridge and group five was responsible for creating a medley. The members of group five were hand picked to create the medley because of their ability to play instruments (i.e. piano, guitar and drums). During class students listened to and reviewed several songs to teach and reinforce the ABAB songwriting form. We used Kirk Franklin’s “Looking for You,” and “Imagine Me” along with Sister Sledge’s “We Are Family” and celebrity ensemble anthem, “We Are the World.” In addition, they were given a homework assignment to bring in two of their favorite songs (on CD) and write out the lyrics to each song. In the assignment they had to demonstrate that they understood and knew the difference between the introduction of a song, the verse, pre-chorus, chorus, bridge, etc. "Throughout the songwriting process with the students, it was very clear to us that often times, most young people don’t always know the lyrics to the songs they are listening to, but they do know the hook and the beat," say Quinn. "We challenged them to not only listen to the lyrics, but to carefully examine and be more mindful and selective of their musical choices." Like most kids their age, they love all the hip-hop/R&B/pop artists such as Ne-Yo, Chris Brown, Beyonce, Rihanna, Ciara, Dr. Dre and one of the students brought in songs of the 70s R&B classic group, Stylistics. Their musical tastes were very diverse.
At the end of the session that week, each group had to perform their song in front of the class. Both songs were well-written and performed. “We were totally impressed with their musical abilities and their skills as writers,” says Gwendolyn Quinn. “When we started the class, I asked ‘how many students felt that they could write a song.’ Practically the entire class did not feel that they could write a song. After they presented both songs to the class, I asked ‘how many students wanted to be songwriters’ and the entire class raised their hands in agreement. Melody, Anthony and I were completely blown away,” says Quinn. “For me, to witness the transformation that had taken place in their lives over a four-day period was so awesome to me. The confidence they had exhibited and the creative talents they had demonstrated that some did not realize they had was indeed another confirmation for me to pursue this program to more primary and secondary students in both the United States and aboard. I could not have done this class without the skilled and masterful genius of Melody Davis and the commitment and dedication of Anthony Wesley-Watson. The three of us made a brilliant team.”
In addition, creative writing courses were taught to the fifth and sixth graders. They were given written assignments on journaling and were encouraged to keep dairies and to write daily. They were also asked to present an oral and written report on one of their favorite South African or African leaders. They gave their presentations on various community, national and international leaders such as Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, Trevor Andrew Manuel, Walter Sisulu, Robert Gabriel Mugabe, Thabo Mbeki and many others. At the end of the session, Davis, Wesley-Watson and Quinn presented nearly 200 students with journals and various books to further their growth and development in songwriting and creative writing. Also, lifestyle music label Putumayo World Music gave the students in the songwriting course three CDs each. The students were so thankful, grateful and appreciative.
The Songwriting Series offers songwriters at every stage of their careers a not-to-be-missed opportunity to learn the art and business of songwriting from multi-platinum-selling songwriters and producers. The program focuses on R&B, pop, gospel, rap/hip-hop, movie soundtracks, television theme songs and cast music from Broadway and off-Broadway productions. The series was launched on June 5, 2005 during Black Music Month and was headlined by acclaimed songwriters, producers and artists, Gordon Chambers (www.gordonchambers.com) and Eric Roberson (www.ericrobersonmusic.com). Chambers and Roberson led a powerful discussion on the art of songwriting. During one of the evening’s highlights, R&B recording star Musiq Soulchild stopped by to offer participants support and encouragement. The November 19, 2005 session was headlined by veteran producer and remixer, label owner and former record executive, Brian Michel Bacchus www.soulfeastmusic.com) along with vocalist, award-winning songwriter and arranger J. Phoenix and industry executive Rashidi Hendrix of Rhythmbank Music Publishing. The final workshop of 2005 was headlined by rapper and producer Kwame. On February 19, 2006, the series presented music legend Nona Hendryx and veteran multi-platinum songwriter and producer Barry Eastmond. And on Sunday, March 19, 2206 the series was headlined by gospel music recording artist/songwriter and worship leader, Micah Stampley and Max. L. Siegel, President of Zomba Gospel and Senior Vice President of Zomba Label Group. In addition, Yolanda Wyns, premiere vocal coach and 15-year music industry veteran presented a vocal session titled, “Finding Your Voice.” The series focused on music and ministry, songwriting, producing, production, longevity and branding. Since its inception, all workshop leaders provided a wealth of knowledge and experience in songwriting, producing, production and publishing.
“Nurturing songwriters is important for both the industry and for aspiring writers –– songwriting is the foundation of the music business,” says Gwendolyn Quinn, founder of the series and a music industry veteran. “For both more experienced writers and ingénues who are serious about their craft, this will be a rare opportunity to get practical, hands-on guidance straight from the source –– from top songwriters and producers. Because so many industry professionals are willing to come out and share what they know, this series promises to be to songwriting what Robert McKee is to screenwriting.”
In 2008, the series will introduce an educational, community and arts and culture component to its program. This newest component is an effort to bring this program to elementary, middle and high schools, colleges and universities and other educational institutions, community outreach programs as well as arts and culture institutions nationwide. The outreach program will offer an abbreviated version of The Songwriting Series,,. “We would like to have the opportunity to explore this program at every level. To offer aspiring songwriters and producers in other cities and areas who would not ordinarily have the opportunity or the access to this unique program -- this experience is priceless,” says Quinn.
About Gwendolyn Quinn
Founder and creative director of the Songwriting Series, Gwendolyn Quinn holds tenure in the music industry that includes extensive professional contact with the producers, songwriters and executives who will participate in the workshop series. Her career encompasses stints as vice president of publicity at Capitol Records (two tenures at the label), senior director of publicity at Arista Records –– during legendary executive Clive Davis’ tenure –– and senior director of publicity at Island Records –– then headed by Rock -N Roll Hall of Famer Chris Blackwell. She has also held positions at Mercury Records, Flavor Unit Entertainment and ASCAP. Her work has paired her with some of the industry’s brightest stars, including Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Prince, Queen Latifah, Sean "P. Diddy" Combs, the Isley Brothers, Monica, Deborah Cox, CeCe Winans, Rachelle Ferrell, Lisa Stansfield, Faith Evans, Notorious B.I.G., Vanessa Williams, Oleta Adams, Brian McKnight and countless others. In 2002, Quinn founded GQ Media & Public Relations, Inc. a full-service publicity firm whose client roster include Aretha Franklin, Kirk Franklin, Smokie Norful and various other projects in the music business as well as clients in the performing arts (theatre), sports, corporate, not-for-profit, faith-based, and the visual/fine arts. Quinn is also the founder of the African-American Public Relations Collective (AAPRC), a national organization of African-American public relations professionals. She is the publisher and editorial director of the collective’s monthly e-publication, "Global Communicator." She founded A Queen Production, a multi-media production unit in 2001.
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For more information on the Songwriting Series, please email [email protected] and/or [email protected] or call 212-765-7874.

My Interests

Music:

Quotes from “A Conversation with Donald Lawrence”
“I felt honored to be in the presence of such great musical giants. It feels good when you can come across people of such stature who are willing to share. That in itself is such a blessing. I left with a renewed vision and purpose in direct proportion to my ministry and music. Thank you to the Songwriting Series staff along with BMI for such a great opportunity. Looking forward to more of its kind in the future.”
~Kevin Wheatley
"This night of stormy rain was another lesson about how God blesses us in the midst of a storm. This session was a light in darkness. I received so many confirmations from both the inspiring speakers Max and Donald that as an independent singer-songwriter-producer, I am following the right path, "Outside of the box," -- The road less traveled," the road that leads back to the creative source, the divine connection. Thank you Gwendolyn for the excellent stand that you have taken for us on this creative journey. Thank you for creating this wonderful support system that is truly divinely inspired. Sincerely and with my deepest appreciation."
~Wilma Matthews
“An experience saturated with valuable information. I left the event feeling better informed, better equipped, and more focused than when I arrived!”
~Rob Murat
"It was life changing, life giving, and a personal experience I'll never forget, thank you Donald, BMI and A Queen Production!"
~Rochelle “Shelly” Taylor
“This was a very interesting gathering of forward-thinking, talented people. I especially appreciated the insights Max Siegel and Donald Lawrence shared from their experiences in the industry. It's rare for up-and-coming artists like myself to get opportunities like this one, and I am so thankful to Ms. Gwendolyn Quinn for her thoughtful consideration towards me when she invited me to come. It was well worth the effort, and after coming out of a combat situation [Iraq war] only a few days before, there was nowhere I would rather have been than surrounded by the influential people of music and fellow aspiring artists…Wednesday, 8 November was also my birthday, and it was certainly memorable. I plan on making it count! Thank you ALL again!”
~Lindsey K. Ham
”I really really cannot express how much this particular event meant to me. First of all I've always believed that music writers shouldn’t box themselves into a genre and when Donald Lawrence said if it wasn’t for producing music for Stephanie Mills, that he never would have learned to produce his albums. He said music is music. I loved how Donald Lawrence said that it’s about the content of a song and not exactly the music category that the song may be categorized in. I really needed to hear that. For someone like me who longs to have a theatrical career acting/writing, but who is based out of the church, I needed to know that their should be no conflict. Now I can move on with confidence.”
~Jerome Brooks
”Thank you for your most generous invitation to attend ’A Conversation with Donald Lawrence.’ The entire evening was informative and inspiring. I have had the pleasure to work with Donald as a choreographer on Bible Stories and he has not changed - he has grown. I brought an aspiring model and dancer to the event someone who did not know of Donald's greatness. He was motivated by Donald's positive, knowledgeable and people friendly approach.”
~Walter Rutledge
“‘A Conversation with Donald Lawrence’ was an evening filled with information and inspiration! Max Siegel and Donald Lawrence both shared selflessly of their talents, knowledge, and experiences in the music industry. For all in the room, this was truly an incomparable opportunity to glean from two of the industries finest!”
~Damon Williams
“‘A Conversation with Donald Lawrence’ was like spending an evening with an uncle who works in the music business. It was intimate, informative and inspiring. To have the opportunity to receive insight from successful music power brokers such as Donald Lawrence and Max Siegel in such a relaxed setting is invaluable. I would recommend this series to anyone interested in the business of songwriting, singing or producing. Keep up the great work!"
~Robyn Ryland-Sanders
“The experience was exceptional…At times we feel we've learned enough in life, but as time passes, they're always ways to learn more and more....if not each and every day, it should be every minute, second and so forth.....That what makes life and our true fulfillment/desire real”
~Pais Donovan
“The evening with Donald Lawrence was such an inspirational and moving session. It is so refreshing to meet children of God who can exemplify God's grace in their daily work. I now have an even better appreciation for him after hearing him speak and to know that everything he sings about is in his daily walk with God.”
~Derrick Marable
“The conversation with Donald Lawrence was uplifting and very informative; Max Siegel in his own right was amazingly inspiring!! Thanks for all you do Gwendolyn, you are truly appreciated.”
~Nakeesha M. Witherspoon
“The event was excellent!! Both Donald and Max were eloquent, informative and humble. I learned a lot!”
~Melaine Rochford
"’A Conversation with Donald Lawrence’ left me intoxicated with hope and aspirations to move forward in my quest of God's gifts.”
~Theresa Payne
"Gwendolyn, I really thought the Songwriting Series was amazing. There was so much information given to the audience. Donald Lawrence is so down to earth. I loved the choir that he created on the spot. I was one of the singer! He has a great business attitude. I was introduced to another side of the business that night. Please forward information to my email address regarding future events of the Songwriting Series."
~Perthea Saunders
“You got my vote as PR person of the year. The Songwriting Series with Max Siegel and Donald Lawrence was excellent. I feel it was very informative and I got great information from it. On a scale of one to ten, I give it an 11. Can’t wait for the next one. Thanks for inviting me.”
~Richard Blair
The Songwriting Series
Quotes from Participants
“What I have received here is worth more than a music college course from Harvard. Gwen this was first class.”
~Basil Gibbs
“The best $50.00 you’ll spend on a career in music. The most worthwhile gift ever. How generous? That there are folks in this industry that care enough to share, and not charge you the money you’d make off your first hit record. Thanks Gwen!!”
~Kristance Coates
“An excellent series with very knowledgeable and accessible people. This was an uplifting and inspiring experience. I am completely encouraged to continue and develop my songwriting to completion.”
~Mano Kashef
“I believe the workshop was amazing. Eric Roberson and Gordon Chambers are two blessed individuals. God lives within them. The entire workshop was so helpful. I learned so much about the industry and the business side. Very informative.”
~Dahha Anderson
“This songwriting series is a huge boost and learning experience for me as a young and emerging writer/entertainer. I recommend it to all singers, producers and songwriters because there is so much information learned at this workshop. Gordon Chambers, Eric Roberson and Keith Johnson helped me with my confidence and my technique. Thank you so very much!”
~Markita Y. Prescott
“Beautiful, brilliant, ‘funominal’ this songwriting series was truly a learning experience.”
~S. Toussaint
“Eric and Gordon are master teachers and great writers. I would recommend this series to anyone that is willing and able to master their craft.”
~Nicole Rachea
“I loved the songwriters seminar. I give it 4 G Clefs. I look forward to the next session. Thanks Gwendolyn.”
~James Kearney
“Encouragement from musicians of this caliber have changed my life.”
~John Williams II
“Knowledge is power! Power is strength from knowing the craft.”
~Michelle McLeod
“This was an extremely informative workshop on the business of music. It is a must for any aspiring songwriter.”
~Bette Vargas
“This seminar was excellent. I didn’t know it was going to be this informative. I left inspired to write, network and get involved in this industry.”
~Gabriella Cudjoe
“The Songwriting Series not only inspired me, but showed me how to hone my craft of writing. Thank you to A Queen Production for putting on this series.”
~Elsa Lathan
“Thank you for making the business of music available to the masses, it was priceless.”
~Amille Harris
“I’ve been lifted spiritually, creatively, and expressively. I can’t wait until the next session.”
~Deepa Soul
“This workshop was very informative and helpful. Keith Johnson, Eric Roberson and Gordon Chambers were delightful, funny and helpful. It was a positive experience. Thank you.”
~Deidre Harston Dennis
“Powerful, the workshop was an extreme blessing. I can’t wait for the next one.”
~Nakeesha M. Witherspoon
“Love the series. Want to come to more. I loved the critique, it opened my eyes and it drives me to work harder. Gordon, Eric and Keith really presented us with challenging dialogue and advice that hits home. I thank Ms. Quinn very much.”
~Darius F. Talley
“I love the songwriting series.”
~Andre McDonnell
“This was a blessed day for me as a musician. The business is an eye opener. Thank you and God Bless.”
~Jerry McLeod
“As a songwriter this was a note to add to my creations!
~Jerome Brooks
“This event was not attended in vain, it is an event worth attending again.”
~Michael Noel
“Thank you, thank you, thank you! I cannot thank you enough for this seminar. It helped me so much for what I need to know when dealing with this music industry. I realized how ignorant I was to the business aspect of music. It’s not all about singing and writing anymore! Eric and Gordon were so warm, while open about their experiences. They basically kept it real and just told you how it is! (Smile!) I even got to sing one of my songs, networked and received positive criticism on how to bring out the best in me. It’s deep because I can do that for anybody else but rarely try to do it for myself! So last night I vowed to learn my craft and master it to the best of my ability. I was so grateful for the opportunity…thanks again…”
~Keyonda Reid
“My spirit’s found a home tonight. I am so inspired to pursue my songwriting. I felt my creativity rise up and soar. I felt like each creative person was a kindred soul. I was with like minds and cheering for everyone.”
~Jennifer P. Chrismas
“The Songwriting Series is a resource gem. Professionals sharing and passing their torch to God’s newly anointed. A wonderful support source. Thank you Gwendolyn!”
~Wilma Matthews
“God’s given talents -- nurture the soul of music.”
~Shirley Turner
“What a great musical experience! Who knew that not only does a tree grow in Brooklyn, but great songwriters are thriving in Brooklyn.”
~Lara Stingley
“If you want helpful feedback, inspiration, networking and advice come to this workshop.”
~Robert Wright
“I just see the Songwriting Series as a place where blessings flow and dreams come true.”
~Andrew Belletty
“Each time I attend the Songwriting Series workshop I leave more inspired to create.”
~Terry Spivey
“Thanks for sharing your gift of knowledge and life experiences. I learned a lot.”
~Mary Aulston
“This is the moment…Raymond [Angry] playing piano, Joss Stone’s music director playing and…Barry [Eastmond] and Gordon [Chambers] singing their composed hits…Polished and unpolished presentations is what makes the series true, raw and different…The feeling is very personal and you are not a number.”
~Unnamed participant
“On a cold, cold winter day, when all I longed to do was stay in. This was worth coming out for and then some.”
~Traciana Graves
“The guests were so great – approachable and addressed each songwriter with attention.”
~Michele Earl
“Barry Eastmond brings a joy and love for music that reminds you why you write and why you sing. The type of person that makes you feel warm like the sun. Many kudos to Barry Eastmond!
~Nicole Rachea
“Inspirational, encouraging and refreshing. A wealth of information.”
~Monet
“I have no idea of how I got on the mailing list, but I am glad that God let it happen. I thought today’s series was so valuable. I have learned so much, and have been inspired by the presenters, as well as the audience. I got here on a wing and a prayer, but it was worth it.”
~Kenny Pitt
“Thank you so much for the opportunity to be here and meet, network and hear other songwriters, as well as industry professionals. The environment was intimate and nurturing.”
~Zahmu Sankofa
“The Songwriting Series is onto something and they are getting it right. These workshops bring the information to you straight.”
~Unnamed Participant
“As a songwriter, I was again given the opportunity to be in a small surrounding with big name professionals who took time with each person and question. Thanks Gwendolyn for looking out for those with dreams. The information is intense and it makes you say, ‘Hey do I really want this?’ You learn the truth. J. Phoenix was very raw and a blessing.”
~Jerome Brooks
“Each speaker spoke to me where I’m at. Even as a neophyte to these aspects of the business you can take away something that will inspire you, even in other aspects of life.”
~Wylene Jackson
“The Songwriting Series features renowned industry professionals who share invaluable insight and experiences. Participants have an unique opportunity to learn and grow in a relaxed, open and encouraging setting.”
~Unnamed Participant
“Thank you Gwen for not ‘Leaning unto your own understanding’ but to what the Lord has placed in your heart…This is a tremendous program.”
~Unnamed Participant
“It’s a blessing to be blessed by somebody who is blessed. The Songwriting Series will make its mark.”
~Harper Desmond
”I enjoyed myself. I got a lot of valuable information from it”
~Darleen Owens
“Very comprehensive.”
~Unnamed Participant
“Don’t plan for God…Let God plan for you.”
~Basil Gibbs
“Never give up on your dreams.”
~Sheila R. Johnson
“That ye would walk worthy of God.” 1 Thessalonians 2:12
~Ann Rivers
“The series is so rich! The VIP guests were so helpful and sincere in their comments – they move us along as songwriters. Thanks.”
~Michele Earls
“Like a sponge, I absorbed knowledge from everyone in the room. I count it a privilege to be among so much talent, from industry professionals to rising artists. Thank you for sharing.”
~Yvonne Farley