If I stand out for anything as a songwriter, it is that I am a fair trader for inclusion and have no interest in the service or services of any who isn't. The rest is in the interview :)
Expression. Respite. A medium for framing little stories that happen to all of us, really. Assurance that everything will be OK because I, or you, or a total stranger, got this far.
I have two: first, to record my songs among other members' (see how in Story) with a standing band; second, to perform the works of my influences in like proportion and setting.
Global and reciprocal anti-supremacism. Too many well-intended movements get commandeered by people with an axe to grind. Musically, disallowing tax breaks for music publishers who write off the cost of having their moneymakers recycled over and over again in those TV talent shows.
"Something Better Beginning" by The Kinks.
Kinks, British Invasion at-large; Buddy Holly, Bo Diddley, Everly Brothers, Miracles, Four Tops, Four Seasons... most anyone whose 45s played in a singles jukebox.
Usually a recurring trigger event that I can either extol or target, sometimes but not always coupled with love, acknowledgment, or both.
That it's OK to sing your song, and therefore mine. Favorite topic: It isn't just God who notices your merits.
Engaged and included to the level of my contribution to the mix. Within reasonable proportions, I don't have to sing the lead if my harmony makes both sound better; nor does it have to me my song if I can help another's of comparable caliber get more exposure.
Access access access.
Just got here.
Hoarding of visibility on the most ridiculous of premises. If you can't please your own hosts or bandmates on insight, you won't please your audiences on wattage.
I used to when it was mutual.
Better proficiency on their instrument, which in all fairness is my weak suit. On the same token, starting too late is a poor excuse to quit, even for a hobbyist like me. My songs are lyrics set to music.
Most anyone who has created awesome art.