Today, we’d like to introduce you to Tom Bender.
Hi Tom, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today.
I have been involved in music since playing the saxophone in 3rd grade. So, music has always been a passion of mine, especially songwriting. Music has helped me get through some of my darkest times, and in turn, I wanted to be able to use the songs I write to bring others some of the same hope that music gave me. The songs I write are inspired by years of personal life experiences, mentoring, counseling, general storytelling, and poetic writing.
I have used music as a way to connect with others, and the lyrics of the songs can also become a pathway to share their story to inspire others. So, I continue looking for ways to bring hope and encouragement through the songs I write and the stories behind the songs. I also want to be open and honest with my personal life experiences in the lyrics of the songs to allow listeners to hear the authenticness and vulnerability I am sharing.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The biggest hurdle is getting airplay. As a non-performing artist and independent songwriter, I knew getting the songs out to listeners would be an uphill challenge. Because of legal repercussions, some platforms need multiple permissions or waivers to play the songs.
Digital streaming platforms are great, like YouTube, Apple Music, Spotify, Facebook, etc., as well as many other DSPs that allow listeners to find music. There are some online independent music stations that are willing to play your music as well.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe you can tell us more about your work next?
The main thing I am most proud of is that I am staying true to what I want the songs to become: songs of inspiration, hope, and encouragement.
As a songwriter, my vision and mission are to write songs relatable to areas of life that are sometimes hard to discuss. One of the most rewarding, if not the best, aspects of being a songwriter is receiving email responses, comments, and posts from listeners. Usually, it is important to express how the song lyrics came at the right time and how they could feel a connection to the song’s story. Almost as if, somehow, I knew their personal stories.
I started 2024 with my songs going over 100K in streams. I thought this was way out of sight, especially knowing that I was not going to be a performing artist and that I would not get major radio play! But you gotta dream big, believe, and don’t give up on those dreams no matter what!!!
Also, in 2023, I was nominated for both an “ISSA” (International Singer/Songwriter Association) and “Josie Music Awards” for my songwriting. I became a member of the Country Music Association, I was in Billboard’s 2023 Grammy Preview magazine’s for consideration of a Grammy nomination for the Album “Girl Singing the Blues” by Justine Blazer. This album introduced my first song released by an artist – “Bad Love,” which Justine and I co-wrote. I also have had the privilege of being featured in numerous online magazines and write-ups.
Where do you see things going in the next 5-10 years?
I think “AI” will have the biggest significant impact, both negative and positive, on the music industry as a whole. What now takes hours, days, months, and even years will take just a few minutes.
As with any new and upcoming technology only time will tell what will be the true impact on Songwriters, Musicians, Artists, Producers, and Music Industry. But it’s coming and I think everyone in the music industry will need to get prepared, learn, and figure out how to use and incorporate the future change to how music is written and produced.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tombendersongwriter.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tom.bender.5099/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBtuJx-t_AGrTY9rRZr4Cng
