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Legends of Songwriting

There are a million (rough estimate) wonderful, accomplished, next-level songwriters out there. And they’re all worthy of our next-level attention and support. But then there are the true masters. Writers who define entire eras and genres with their craftsmanship. They are the legends of songwriting, and they’re quite often legendary performing artists as well. Bob Dylan and Paul Simon. Carole King and Joni Mitchell. Dolly Parton, Hank Williams, Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson. Stevie Wonder, Chuck Berry, Little Richard, Prince. And of course songwriting teams like Lennon/McCartney, Holland-Dozier-Holland, and Jagger/Richards. Perhaps it’s time to start considering Babyface, Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Pharrell Williams, and Jay-Z for inclusion into this group of legends as well.

These are the tunesmiths who have contributed the most to popular music and popular culture. It’s not hyperbole to suggest they changed the way we live our lives and the way we view the world.

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  • Features
    • Behind The Song
    • Digital Cover Exclusives
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    • The List
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      • Album Reviews
    • Subscribe to Newsletter
      • Sign up for The Daily Co-Write
      • Sign up for the Sunday Soundbite
      • Sign Up for In The Round
  • Latest News
  • Contests
    • Song Contest
      • Enter Song Contest
      • Song Contest Winners
      • Rules and Deadlines
      • Meet the Judges
    • Lyric Contest
      • Enter Lyric Contest
      • Dream Day on Music Row
      • Lyric Contest Winners
      • 2026 Lyric Contest Judges
      • Rules and Deadlines
    • Road Ready Talent Contest
      • Enter Road Ready
      • Road Ready Winners
      • The Public’s Pick
      • Road Ready Rules and Deadlines
    • Hip Hop Contest
      • Enter The Beat4Beat Contest
    • Contest Promotions
  • Song Contest
  • Community
    • Subscribe to Magazine
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    • Foundations Songwriting Course
    • Apply To Songwriting Camps
    • Become Songwriter Member
    • Access Membership Hub
    • Manage My Subscription/Membership
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