The Handwritten Chord Chart Rafferty Made For A Producer — With Drawings

April 1, 2025

Rafferty sat on the edge of his bed, strumming his guitar absentmindedly while tapping a pencil against a notebook. The afternoon sun streamed through the window, casting a warm glow on the pages filled with lyrics and musical notes. He had a big meeting tomorrow with a well-known producer who could help launch his career to new heights. But deep down, he felt a knot of anxiety in his stomach. This wasn’t just about getting a record deal; it was about proving to himself and everyone around him that his passion for music was worth pursuing.

As he prepared for the meeting, he decided to create something special: a handwritten chord chart for one of his songs. The chord chart would be more than just notes; it would be a personal representation of his journey, featuring doodles that reflected his emotions and experiences. He carefully selected the chords, making sure each one felt right, just like each note felt in his heart. He sketched little drawings of clouds for dreams, a sun for hope, and even a tiny guitar to symbolize the love he had for his craft. With each stroke of the pencil, he poured his soul into the paper, feeling the weight of his aspirations lift a little each time he added a new detail.

The next day, as Rafferty stood in the producer’s office, his heart raced. He handed over the chord chart, hoping the personal touch would make an impression. The producer took a moment to examine the chart, his eyes scanning the vibrant doodles and the handwritten notes. At that moment, Rafferty felt exposed, like a bird standing naked before an open sky. He remembered the countless hours he had spent writing songs in his small room, dreaming of being heard and understood. This was his chance to show who he truly was, and he couldn’t let fear take that away from him.

To his surprise, the producer smiled as he looked up from the chart. “This is fantastic,” he said, his voice warm and encouraging. “Your passion shines through every ink stroke.” Rafferty felt a rush of relief and excitement. The discussion that followed was filled with enthusiasm as they talked about the song, its potential, and how they could bring it to life. The chord chart had not only captured Rafferty’s music but had also opened a door to a world he had dared to dream of.

Days turned into weeks, and soon Rafferty found himself in a recording studio for the first time. The journey had not been easy; he faced rejections and doubts along the way. But that handwritten chord chart had become a symbol of his perseverance and commitment to his art. As he listened to the producer and the musicians bring his song to life, he realized that the doodles weren’t just decorations; they represented every tear and every triumph. They embodied the resilience that had driven him forward.

Looking back, Rafferty understood that this moment was a turning point in his life. The handwritten chord chart didn’t just help him get noticed; it reminded him that music was not only his passion but also his voice. It was a testament to his belief that being true to oneself could lead to incredible opportunities. As the final notes echoed in the studio, he smiled, knowing that he was on the right path. The journey was just beginning, but he was ready to face whatever came next, guitar in hand and dreams in his heart.