American music Quote by Ketch Secor
“I enjoy writing songs that could have been written before [my time]. When I feel like I'm tapping into a deep vein in the body of American music, it gives me strength as a writer, like I'm dipping my pen into a deep ink well. That's the folk music tradition. Like Pete Seeger said, 'Everyone's a link in the chain.' It's a strong chain, so rely on it. ... I believe it takes all those great songs in the past to make your song even a little bit good.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Folk Music Podcast, Ketch Secor, 2022
Drawing on past folk traditions connects writers to a deep cultural well, strengthening their work through shared heritage.
In simple terms: Use old songs to inspire new writing.
Tap into musical heritage for creative strength.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- songwriting sessions
- music education
- collaborative workshops
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you blend tradition with innovation?
- What does “link in the chain” mean for you?
Relying too heavily on past styles may limit originality.