" I love to write songs, but they don’t come easy to me – I spend a lot of time writing really dumb stuff that I have to look at the next day and think, ‘God, what was I thinking?’ That’s my process, is just to go through a lot of dumb stuff and hope that, after a lot of hard work, I’ll find a good idea. "
- Michael McDonald

The quote reflects Michael McDonald's personal experience with songwriting as a challenging yet rewarding process. He describes how he often spends significant time creating material that, upon reflection, seems inadequate or unsatisfactory. This admission highlights the difficulty many artists face when crafting their work.

This statement goes beyond describing mere frustration; it encapsulates the essence of creative perseverance and self-critique. McDonald's approach involves embracing failure as part of his routine, recognizing that each attempt to create something valuable is a step toward success. By allowing himself room for error and continuous refinement, he demonstrates an understanding that creativity often requires patience and resilience. This perspective underscores the importance of dedication and persistence in artistic endeavors.

Michael McDonald is a renowned American singer-songwriter known for his soulful voice and contributions to popular music genres such as pop, R&B, and soft rock. His career spans several decades, with notable hits like "I Keep Forgettin' (How To Be Lonely)" and collaborations with bands like the Doobie Brothers. Known for his emotive performances and lyrical depth, McDonald's insights into songwriting resonate deeply with both professionals and enthusiasts in the music industry.