It’s Not Just A Song

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**Finalist in the Outstanding Music Education Print Resource Category for the 2026 Music & Drama Education Awards**

It’s Not Just A Song by GRAMMY and BRIT nominated Irish singer-songwriter RuthAnne Cunningham is the must-have guide to writing hit songs. The book serves as an essential guide for aspiring songwriters, featuring insights from industry heavyweights and candid discussions on navigating the music business and sustaining a career.

RuthAnne explores the psychology of the writing room, building relationships, production, what makes a good (or bad) deal, royalties and revenue, and the art of staying inspired. Her experience navigating the traditional music industry “Boys’ Club” offers young female artists, in particular, some invaluable tools to get a step ahead in their early career and be wary of the hidden pitfalls.

Featuring high-profile interviews with the likes of GRAMMY-winner Amy Wadge (co-writer with Ed Sheeran), multi-platinum songwriter/producer Julian Bunetta (co-writer with Sabrina Carpenter), co-writer on Dua Lipa’s ‘New Rules’, Emily Warren, and Adele co-writer Dan Wilson. Discover the stories behind Adele’s anthemic ‘Someone Like You’ and Ed Sheeran’s ‘Thinking Out Loud’ and delve into case studies for songs such as Harry Styles' ‘As It Was’. This is the book that hit songwriters wish they had!

RuthAnne Cunningham has written for global superstars including Britney Spears, John Legend, Diana Ross, One Direction, and Niall Horan, earning her a reputation as one of the most talented and sought-after songwriters of her generation. Her own single ‘The Vow’ broke into the UK Top 40, hit #1 in Ireland twice, and continues to chart globally.