Mandy Vinson – The Winner of the 2020 Songbay Lyric Writing Competition
Feautured Songbay Artist: Mandy Vinson
This week we take a look at the work of the winner of the 2020 Songbay Lyric Writing Competition – Mandy Vinson.
Mandy Vinson
“How did you get in to songwriting?”
I started writing at a young age, my first song I ever wrote is called “Roses”. I remember asking my brother to give me a topic, any topic to write about. He gave me the title Roses. I remember sitting up in my room that night, trying to find the correct words and melody that would be perfect. Then it came to me, word by word just flowed from my thoughts, through my pencil, and onto my paper. I had never been more proud of myself.
Years later, I taught myself how to play guitar and entered myself into the writing world. I was nervous about putting myself and my lyrics out into the world, fearful of rejection, but took the jump anyway.
” What are your musical influences?”
I was brought up listening to many genres of music, along with different time frames. From country to rock and 50’s to today, I have had a lot of musical influences. From the brilliance of Prince to Patsy Cline’s twang, seeing Journey in concert to seeing Destiny’s Child. I have always loved music, and music has always been a part of my life.
My favorite artists would have to be Dolly Parton, Prince, Willie Nelson and Jewel. Jewel, because I have always loved her writing style and voice. She is unique and that is something rare to find. Dolly Parton is an inspiration; she appears focused and determined and doesn’t let anyone stand in the way of her destination. Prince because he is such a talented composer and performer And Willie Nelson, there’s no specific rhyme or reason, but I have always loved him and his story. Through theses amazing artists I’ve learned a great deal. After reading a section in Willie Nelson’s book, “It’s a Long Story”, I was influenced to write a song called “Behind Closed Doors.” The song is about a woman who is portrayed as living the perfect life, but behind closed doors her life is not so perfect. The song had nothing to do with my life at all. I had wanted to write it for some time, but was afraid that my family would think I was writing about my life. After I wrote the song and posted it on YouTube, I remember getting a couple text messages from family and friends asking if everything is ok! I just chuckled about it
” What would you say are your achievements as a songwriter?”
Since finally opening up my lyrics to the world, I have two songs published with Diamond Garden Music.
Winning a songwriting competition has been a goal and dream of mine for some time, and I am proud to say that I have accomplished/achieved that goal being the winner of SongBay’s 2020 Lyric Writing Competition.
I am currently working on some new projects, and I can’t wait to release them to the world as well. I am hoping to be starting on my first EP very soon. To stay informed of what’s coming next, you can visit my website at www.mandyvinson.com , YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzkM_5kbWwd0BaeTc1cWmTQ ,
” Who inspires you creatively”
My biggest inspirations are my husband and two children. My husband has been my biggest supporter and encourages me to chase my dreams. I wouldn’t be who I am today if it wasn’t for him. My children inspire me to work hard and never give up. They are always “Watching” and I want them to know that it’s never impossible and it’s important to follow what is in your heart.
‘Watching’ is the title of Mandy’s winning lyric of the Songbay Lyric Writing Competition 2020.
Its poeticism and sentiment resonated strongly with the Songbay competition judges.
WATCHING
BY MANDY VINSON
Verse 1:
I watch her with her paper and pen
Jotting notes and doodling
She looks at me with her flamboyant eyes
Points at her book with a big ole smile
Says, hey mom, I’m just like you
I’m doing this, just like you do
Chorus:
There are times when I feel like giving up
I get let down and times get tough
When I feel I can’t reach my calling
I’m reminded, there’s someone watching
Verse 2:
I watch him as he tightens his strings
Strums down slow to find the perfect ring
I ask him what he’s trying to play
He says not sure yet, but someday
I hope, to play just like you
Hes watching, everything I do
Chorus:
There are times when I feel like giving up
I get let down and times get tough
When I feel I can’t reach my calling
I’m reminded, there’s someone watching
Bridge:
Even when my mind starts to ramble
And all my strings become untangled
I’ll work hard, fight and push through
Because my loves, live life as I do
Chorus:
There are times when I feel like giving up
I get let down and times get tough
When I feel I can’t reach my calling
I’m reminded, there’s someone watching
There’s someone watching
My kids are watching
If you would like to learn more about Mandy’s work or wish to contact her regarding songwriting collaboration or lyric writing work, please use the link below:
