I've often wondered how creativity works, and how it is channeled. Why it is not like our other traits such as knowledge and skill? Both knowledge and skill can be applied as needed , like turning on a tap. Creativity is not the same. It seems that when we try to plan for creativity we often fail to produce those moments. Inspiration can often seem like this holy grail that teases us with aparitions only to lead us in the wrong direction.

Amy Tan gave a speech at the TED conference that delivered that moment where the coin dropped in my mind. Creativity is more related to tragedy, grief, fear and hardship, and much less related to knowledge, skill and even talent. Creativity is our response to change, danger and our hunger. It is unleashed when we are forced to do things differently or we realise that the normal way of doing things, simply doesn't work anymore.

Producing singer/songwriters can be a double edged sword for the producer. A singer songwriter will have very firm ideas as to the sound of a song, when it comes to laying down the tracks and developing that final mix. In Tracy Chapman’s case, David Kershenbaum was the magic ingredients needed. David’s early experience with producing the legendary album “Diamonds & Rust” (1975) for 60’s/70’s singer songwriter Joan Baez, gave David the edge in producing what would be grammy winning and mulitplatinum songs & albums. “Building the music around Tracy’s vocals” was key. I spoke with David recently and explored his craft with him.