2 MONTHS AGO • 2 MIN READ

Future Youth Records: This is how Charlie Puth writes a hit song

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Your Weekly Guide to Artist and Business Development

One Music Production Idea…

Want to know how hit songs are made? Watch Charlie Puth (the hitmaker behind We Don’t Talk Anymore and Attention) break down how he writes and produces his music step by step. You’ll get easy tips and see how small ideas turn into catchy songs.

Try it out: Check out Charlie’s video and take notes while you watch. Choose one or two tips and try them out on your next project.

One Performance Quote…

I’d just gotten a pickup system installed in my acoustic guitar and accidentally drained the battery by leaving it plugged in overnight... I ended up having to run across town in the middle of soundcheck to find a store with the right size battery… Never made that mistake again!” — Tausha Hanna

Try it out: Always check your gig bag the night before a show to make sure you have everything you need, plus extra essential items. We asked Tausha for a few of her must-haves and here’s what she said:

  1. Extra cables, guitar strings, and extension cords
  2. A roll of duct tape (one time my mic clip broke and I had to tape my mic to the stand!)
  3. Extra copies of sheet music
  4. A phone charger with a long cord
  5. And of course, extra batteries…

One Business Idea...

Last week, we talked about setting some career goals for yourself. Now it’s time to take a step back and think long-term. Where do you see yourself as a musician in three years? Going full-time, hitting streaming goals, or touring is easier when you have a clear vision to keep you focused and guide your decisions along the way.

Try it out: We’ve created a free goal planner template in Canva just for you. Whether you want to focus on your 2025 goals or start mapping out a bigger 3-year vision, this template will help you stay on track!

One Songwriting Prompt…

Sometimes a song gets stuck in your head and just won’t let go. Instead of fighting it, use that catchy tune as a creative spark. Think about what the song is saying, and consider how you might answer it, continue its story, or offer a new perspective.

Try it out: Choose a song that’s been on repeat in your mind. Write a few lines or a verse as if you’re responding directly to the original artist. You might answer their questions, challenge their point of view, or simply tell your side of the story. Don’t worry about making it perfect, just let your imagination lead the way.

One Marketing Tip...

It’s tempting to always chase new fans, but sometimes your biggest wins come from deepening connections with the audience you already have. Just look at artists like Taylor Swift and Kacey Musgraves—both started with small, loyal fanbases who stuck with them through thick and thin. Their secret? They make fans feel like insiders, sharing private jokes and going the extra mile to show their appreciation.

Try it out: Start conversations with your followers by asking questions in your stories. Invite their feedback, and share what’s genuinely on your mind. Take time to reply to comments and DMs, and look for small ways to make your fans feel like they’re part of something special.

Want to learn more?

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See you next week!

Future Youth Records is a non-profit record label that helps youth create and distribute music promoting social justice.

Future Youth Records Inc.
P.O. Box 1866
Morgan Hill, CA 95038

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FYR360°

Subscribe to receive empowering tips, tools, and exclusive opportunities designed just for youth musicians like you, delivered straight to your inbox.