Custom Life Songs
About Custom Life Songs
I write personalized songs that turn stories, wishes, and love into a piece of music that can be treasured for a lifetime.
Many families come to me to welcome a new baby — capturing the hopes, wishes, and wisdom of parents, grandparents, and friends in a song a child can grow up with and cherish for life. I also write legacy songs that tell the story of a life well-lived, often as a gift for older adults or loved ones facing illness, as well as songs for any other occasion — the sky is the limit as to topics.
I will collect what is most important to you through interviews and questionnaires, and weave your words together to create the lyrics of the song. You will choose the mood of music that resonates with you, whether it's joyful, reflective, nostalgic, etc. My mission is to create a lasting musical tribute, preserving memories and wishes in a beautiful and meaningful way. You can choose to add a live performance if my schedule allows, as well as a fully produced, multi-instrumental recording (a basic recording is included with each song).
About Me
Welcome to my world of custom songwriting. My name is Jen, and I am a passionate songwriter and mental health professional based in the Pacific Northwest (although I can write a song for anyone, anywhere). I have 30 years of experience playing guitar and writing songs, including over 15 years dedicated to custom songwriting. Because of my mental health background I am able to ask questions that spark vibrant content from participants for the songs I write. My approach is both heartfelt and engaging, as I strive to learn about the unique stories of each individual I work with. Whether you are a family wanting to commemorate your parent's life, someone wanting to leave a legacy song for your children, or new parents wanting to capture wishes for your child, I'd love to help. Let's create a soundtrack to your story together.
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Baby Wishes
Every parent has wishes for their child, and I will help you put these into song. I will interview you about the types of things you would like to say to your child, and will synthesize what you say into melody and lyrics for them to hear as they grow older, and for you all to share together as a family. We can include as many people from your family and friends as you like in this process.
These songs make a truly one-of-a-kind gift — whether for a baby shower, a birth announcement, or simply a way to capture the love surrounding a new little life. I can write a song before baby arrives, weaving in your hopes and dreams for who they will become, or after they are born, wrapping in all the joy and wonder they have already brought into the world.
Imagine your child, years from now, hearing a song written just for them — full of the voices and wishes of the people who loved them from the very beginning. That is the kind of lasting gift a baby wishes song can be.
Bennett's Song
Bennett's parents asked for a "bluesy lullaby", and we got input from everyone at the baby shower as well to make this song for her.
Studio Recording
Legacy Projects
A legacy project celebrates a life — the moments, dreams, and people that shaped it. Depending on how many voices you want involved, we can gather stories through live interviews, written questionnaires, or a mix of both.
From there, I listen for the details and themes that matter most, and weave them into a song that is unmistakably theirs. Legacy songs make especially meaningful group gifts, whether it's children honoring a parent, a whole family coming together, or friends celebrating someone they love. Every song comes with a simple recording, and you can add on a fully produced studio recording or a live performance — I'm happy to teach it to your family so we can perform it together.
Here's an example of that in action: a song about Patrick, his dreams, and his family, which I taught to his relatives so we could perform it for him at his nursing home on his birthday.
Patrick's Song
Studio recording
Live performance
Any type of song you wish
Not every song fits neatly into a category — and that is perfectly fine. Whether you have a specific vision or just a feeling you want to capture, I would love to help you bring it to life. The process is the same as always: I will ask you thoughtful questions, listen carefully, and turn what matters most to you into something you can hold onto forever. A professionally produced recording and live performance are both available options. Here are just a few of the occasions I have written songs for — but truly, the sky is the limit.
- Legacy Projects Listen
- Baby Wishes Listen
- Weddings Listen
- Birthdays
- Anniversaries Listen
- Kids Songs Listen
- Graduations
- Memorials
- Pet Theme Songs Listen
- Life Milestones
- Coming of Age
- Achievements
- Parenthood
- Roasts & Pranks
- Family Milestones
- Recognition
- Journeys & Arrivals
- Cheering Up
- Connections
- And more!
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the interviews entail?
Individual interviews usually last one to two hours. I will ask thoughtful, open-ended questions designed to draw out what makes you or your loved one truly unique — the memories, values, quirks, and moments that define a life. I will also play a few different musical styles so you can point me toward the sound and mood that feels right. In some cases I will follow up with a short written questionnaire to make sure I have everything I need.
For group projects, I typically combine interviews and questionnaires depending on how many people are involved. A point person helps coordinate — they share the questionnaire with participants and serve as my main contact for any follow-up questions.
How long does the process take?
Every song is different, but most projects take two to four weeks from interview to finished song. More complex group projects or fully produced recordings may take a little longer. If you have a deadline — a birthday, an anniversary, a special event — just let me know upfront and I will do my best to make it work.
Can I add a live performance?
Yes! I would love to come and perform your song in person — there is nothing quite like hearing it live for the first time surrounded by the people you love. Live performances are available for an additional fee, subject to my schedule. Just mention it when you reach out and we will plan something special.
What does the recording include?
Every song comes with a basic recording — a clear, heartfelt version you can listen to and share right away. From there, you can choose to upgrade to a fully produced studio recording with additional instruments, vocal harmonies, and professional mixing. You pick the instrumentation and the level of production that fits your vision and budget.
What does it cost?
Projects are customized based on the number of participants and the level of production, but typical pricing is:
- Basic Baby Wishes Song — $695
Includes contributions from parents and community of friends, includes a basic recording. - Professionally Produced Song — $1,195–$1,995
Includes professional musicians, production, recording and mixing. - Live Performance — $300–$700, varies depending on location
For families who would like the song performed at a baby shower or other gathering.
Most projects take about 3–4 weeks, depending on the scope and my availability. Please get in touch and I will be happy to give you an estimate.
"Working with Jen was a joy. My sibling group hired Jen to create a song for our dad, who is living with dementia and bed bound. She was very kind and sweet and gentle with my dad. She surprisingly coaxed some gems out of him and he really enjoyed the interview process. We shared a lot of laughs. Jen also interviewed each of the siblings to get a holistic perspective on what might go into the song. Jen crafted the perfect song for our dad! It is sweet, tender, funny and catchy. Jen sent out the words and the recorded song to the family so we could learn it and we surprised him by singing it to him (with Jen!) on his 83rd birthday. He was tapping his toes and smiling. I play the recorded song for him just about every time I visit and he loves it every time. What a way to connect with him, even as his communication is very limited these days. My whole family is filled with gratitude for this priceless legacy song for dad. Thanks Jen! You're the best. So fun to collaborate with and made the whole process deep and meaningful."
Get in Touch
Have a question or want to discuss a custom song? Feel free to reach out at any time!