At Talent Is Timeless, we spotlight some of the incredible songwriters who are part of our community — inviting them to share a bit more about their lives, their creative journeys, and the stories behind their songs. This month, we’re spotlighting 68-year-old songwriter Catherine Harney from Oakworth, West Yorkshire.
A member since November 2020, Catherine got an Honourable Mention in the 2025 Annual Contest – Lyrics Only category with her heartfelt song I Need Some Comfort Now. The song began as an entry for a monthly challenge on the theme of “Comfort/Discomfort” but grew into something more personal.
“The lyrics reflect life as a working mother of four children. It’s a seemingly never-ending cycle — crazy, sometimes torturous, and always filled with love and joy too!” Catherine explains.
When she discovered she had placed in the Talent Is Timeless 2025 contest, she recalls:
“I was bowled over! Absolutely thrilled.”
Catherine’s songwriting journey began during a difficult time — the breakup of her first marriage. But as life grew busier, especially raising four children, she lost confidence and doubted whether she would ever return to writing. Everything changed when she joined Talent Is Timeless.
“I got through to the long list in the first competition and that gave me a big boost in confidence. The monthly challenges and the workshops have been a massive help in getting me back up and running as a songwriter.”
Since then, Catherine has celebrated some remarkable achievements — most notably releasing her debut solo single at the age of 66.
“The mutual support in the various groups I engage with in TisT is so valuable,” she says. “The workshops, especially the Premium workshops with guest leaders, played a huge part in my development. The monthly challenges and all the feedback are all so very helpful.”
As for advice to fellow songwriters over 50, Catherine offers heartfelt encouragement:
“It really is never too late. If it’s what you want, grab it with both hands. Join Talent Is Timeless!”
You can read Cath’s winning lyrics here: https://www.talentistimeless.com/25-comp-lyrics/i-need-some-comfort-now-by-catherineharney/
You can Connect with Cath on Talent Is Timeless here: https://www.talentistimeless.com/members/catherine-harney/
Talent Is Timeless is a global community of 29,000+ songwriters aged 50 and over, proving that creativity doesn’t come with an expiry date. Our members connect with like-minded artists, participate in monthly songwriting challenges, attend expert-led masterclasses, and compete in our annual contest—with winners recording at iconic studios like Abbey Road. Whether you’re returning to music after years away or writing the best songs of your life, you’ll find encouragement, feedback, and genuine connection here.