Editor’s note: This is the latest in an occasional series on songs to write by, be inspired by, or that capture the freelance spirit. – Michelle
When I get an unexpected or unsolicited offer of work, or have a week where several out-of-the-blue opportunities present themselves, this old Billy Squier song that pops into my head: everybody want you.
It’s the antidote to the times when the response to every pitch is no, when every story is kicked back for a rewrite, when sources don’t want to talk, editors don’t answer their emails, and even the dog would rather play with someone else.
But those days when the phone rings, the check arrives, the invoice payment gets deposited directly into my bank account, the copy desk slides my story through with no questions, the proposal I spent half a day working on is accepted for the exact fee I asked for, this is my soundtrack.
You crave attention, you can never say “no”
Throw your affections any way the wind blows
You always make it, you’re on top of the scene
You sell the copy like the cover of a magazine.
I’m collecting freelance-related songs to feature on a regular basis. If there’s something that inspires you, let me know so I can share it.
[Flickr photo courtesy John Voorhees]