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In The Studio
Composer Feature: Amy Ward
To better connect you with the brilliant talent behind our music, we're proudly spotlighting various artists, composers & producers on the Megatrax roster. Singer-songwriter, pianist, and producer Amy Ward has a sound influenced by the greatest songwriters in pop, soul, & rock and the ability to write in virtually any musical genre that best serves the project she's creating for, whether in film, television, or advertising.
Hi Amy! Please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Music has always been a big part of my life, as I started writing songs at age 11. Growing up in Indiana, there weren't many musical outlets, so I created my own environment of writing and performing. After attending Berklee College of Music, I moved to NYC and the real world set in. It was definitely challenging at times, juggling various musical jobs, but once I landed my first non-exclusive song contract for a spot on CBS, I learned a lot about sync and things changed. Writing and singing various styles molded me into who I am today.
How do you think the music industry will change over the next decade?
I feel that AI is and will continue to change the music industry. Many people are afraid of AI and new technology, but I'm a firm believer that we have to embrace change and go with the flow.
Has there been a particular challenge that you’ve faced over the years?
I took a break from the music business when I moved to Kansas City in 2016 to raise my kids. Children are the future and I feel blessed to have had this time with them while they were little. However, it was a challenge to not write, as this is such a big part of me. Music is something you can't deny if you have the bug. I am happy to be back at it.
Any advice for fellow composers out there?
As cliche as it is, never give up and never stop networking. Work on your craft daily and have a positive attitude. People WILL remember you more if you smile and are flexible in life.
What can you tell us about your composition and production process?
My preferred method: Write the old-fashioned way--at my Yamaha piano with a pencil, paper, and iPhone to record Voice memos. From there, I typically record demos in my home midi studio. Of course, I've done my share of topliner work, since I sing all leads/backgrounds. Something I do miss is collaborating in person. The remote world has squashed that a lot, but I truly feel you get the best results in person to bounce ideas off one another.
How do you see the music you created being used?
I definitely write for picture. There is always a story in my head, which is probably from all those years of writing for Daytime TV/Primetime TV shows. I am very visual with lyrics and I feel it translates well for TV/Film/Ads.
What are your biggest musical influences?
As a soulful singer, my influences are definitely the greats: Whitney, Stevie, Prince, Mariah, Ella, etc.
As a writer, I am heavily influenced by the genius pop writers of the 80s, and beyond: David Foster, Diane Warren, Desmond Child, Glen Ballard, Billy Joel, Journey, Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis, Babyface, Burt Bacharach, Mutt Lang, Kristen Anderson-Lopez & Robert Lopez, Benj Pasek & Justin Paul, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Max Martin.
As a singer/songwriter, I am also influenced by Sara Bareilles, Paul McCartney, John Lennon, Carol King, and Sia.
Tell us a bit about the work you’ve done in film/TV/advertising. What are some placements you're most proud of?:
I am definitely proud of the end credits placement in the movie Always at the Carlyle. It was so great to be listed as a singer and a writer--and to hear the entire song play. Living in the NYC area for almost two decades, it was a proud moment to be a part of a film about New York City and the hotel.
[See a list of Amy's credits here.]
Tell us about your upcoming projects! What does the rest of this year have in store for you?
I can't say much yet, but there are a couple of movies in 2024 that I am excited about (one or both going straight to theaters). End credits songs seem to be my niche, so keep your ears peeled for more by Amy Ward. :)
Hear Amy Ward's tracks for Megatrax here.