American Songwriter Celebrates 40th Anniversary

From uncovering the meaning behind your favorite songs to chatting with your favorite artists, American Songwriter has been a leading source for all things music since 1984. As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we thought it fitting to reflect on our highlight reel celebrating the craft of music.

Videos by American Songwriter

American Songwriter debuted with a cover featuring Merle Haggard. Writer Vernell Hackett took a deep dive into the country legend’s catalog. From “Mama Tried” to “If We Make It Through December,” Haggard talked about his love of music and how his songwriting reflects that love.

"All my life I’ve been interested in not just the music, but where the music came from, how it came to be, and where those who found it actually found it," Haggard said in the 1984 American Songwriter cover story. "During the last 20 years, when I get into music myself, it got to be a natural thing for me to research it all even further."

Elsewhere in that first issue were articles about the American Songwriter Song and Lyric Contests, which still seek to showcase rising talent in the world of songwriting today. With the help of established artists operating as judges, American Songwriter props up the next generation of hitmakers with a prestigious competition. The winner not only gets recognized by the publication but also receives a host of other prizes.

[READ MORE about the American Songwriter Song, Talent, and Lyric Contests HERE]

That issue was enough to cement American Songwriter's place in the world of country music. Since that time, American Songwriter has diversified its genres, expanding its reach. Many equally as prestigious artists as Haggard have graced the American Songwriter cover. Highlights include Taylor Swift (2011), Tom Petty (2022), Kiss (2023), and Jelly Roll (2024). Each cover artist (among many more names) has taken our readers inside their writers' rooms, providing a roadmap to musical success.

American Songwriter has been owned by Savage Ventures since 2019. The Nashville-based venture operator opened a whole new door for the brand, building up American Songwriter's online presence. On AmericanSongwriter.com, readers are kept up to date with the latest music news and feature stories they have come to know and love.

[READ MORE about the latest issue of American Songwriter sees Keith Urban as its cover star. Elsewhere are conversations with Lainey Wilson, Tenille Arts, and more.]

American Songwriter is constantly evolving alongside the ever-changing music industry. The unifying factor over the last 40 years has been our commitment to shining a light on the integral and almost mystifying craft of songwriting.

Featured Image via American Songwriter