When an artist begins writing songs, they accumulate a collection of creative ideas that serve as a reservoir for future projects. This accumulation makes the process of creating new music easier over time because the writer has access to a wealth of past experiences and concepts.
At its core, this statement speaks to the cumulative nature of creativity and how building on past successes can foster innovation and efficiency in artistic endeavors. As musicians gather more ideas and techniques through consistent practice, they develop a deeper understanding of their craft and gain confidence in their ability to express themselves creatively. This quote also implies that persistence is key to developing one's creative abilities; the more songs an artist writes, the richer their repertoire of themes and styles becomes. Consequently, each new project benefits from the lessons learned during previous compositions.
James Mercer is best known as the frontman and primary songwriter for The Shins, an American indie rock band formed in 1996. He has been influential in shaping the band's distinctive sound over several acclaimed albums, including "Chutes Too Narrow" and "Wincing the Night Away." Through his work with The Shins and as a solo artist, Mercer has demonstrated a keen understanding of melody and lyrical depth that resonates with fans around the world.