Noted Song Swap Returns for a Second Installment

Lindsay White. PHoto by Sydney Valiente.

Hey San Diego, it’s your favorite anxiety-ridden, toddler-totin’, lyric-lovin’ songwriter friend Lindsay White, diving back into the songwriting community full force with my very own column in the San Diego Troubadour. (Thanks, Liz!) Let’s call it Talkin’ Craft, shall we?

In this column, I’ll be interviewing (mostly) local songwriters and highlighting upcoming listening-room style events that provide these talented artists and their fans a musical experience where you can actually, you know, listen.

Typically, my primary focus will center on the monthly Songwriter Sanctuary Series at the Normal Heights United’s beautiful historic sanctuary, but since NHU is taking a programming break this month (returning September 29), allow me to direct your attention to another songwriting event that word nerds like me will LOVE!

Noted Song Swap
On Sunday, August 6, from 3-5pm, at the Ould Sod (back room), 13 local lyricists will come together to resurrect each other’s long lost lyrics at the Noted Songwriter Challenge. This is the second installment of the series, which features a variety of performers and songwriting styles. Participating artists include:

• Astra Kelly
• Ernie Garcia
• Faith Hwang
• Lady July
• Lindsay White
• Mark Montijo
• Michelle Lu
• Miro Imani
• Lizzie Wann (spoken word)
• Rachel Hall
• Rob Deez
• Story & Tune
• Josh Weinstein

Some common questions about the “Noted” song swap:

What is this event all about?

Mark Montijo at the inaugural Noted Song Swap at Twiggs on Park Blvd. last April.

It’s basically like the Secret Santa of songwriting. A group of artists submit lyric fragments that have been lying dormant in their phone apps, journals, napkin scraps, etc. Those “notes” (get it!?) are assigned randomly and anonymously as prompts, and each participant is tasked with the challenge of writing a full song, essentially resurrecting lyrics that may never have seen the light of day.

What makes Noted such a unique event?
Where else can you witness a concert where every single tune is a debut? Where else can you witness a concert where every single tune is an anonymous co-write? Where else can you witness a concert where every single tune is both gifted and received amongst performers?

In addition to building a mystery (*cue Sarah McLachlan voice), we’re also building a community! Whether you come away with new friends, fans, faves, or collaborators, there will be no shortage of warm and fuzzies to go around.

May I come to watch?

Joy Fuliga

How much does it cost? Yes, please come out to behold the magic of songwriting and collaboration! Just remember, this is a listening-room setting. If you want to chat it up during performances, please head to the back patio! There is no cover charge per se, but we will pass a hat to help cover event expenses (or you can RSVP/contribute ahead of time if you wish).

I’m a songwriter…How do I participate?
We’re all booked up this time, but if you’re a songwriter (or spoken word artist) and this concept is up your alley, please come out and say hi or send a message via the event website so we can get you on our radar for next time! (All experience levels and styles are welcome!)

Thanks for Talkin’ Craft with me! If I don’t see you on August 6, I’ll meet you back here next month with more from San Diego’s vibrant songwriting community.