Challenge Champion: Simon Glossop

At Talent Is Timeless, we host monthly songwriting challenges to help keep our members motivated, inspired, and connected. This month, we’re proud to spotlight Simon Glossop, a 60-year-old songwriter from Tavistock, Devon, whose winning entry is as honest as it is inspiring.

Simon’s songwriting journey didn’t start in a studio or with a grand plan. “I wrote a few little pop songs with a band when I was 17,” he says. “Then nothing… until my 50s, when my wife bought me a ukulele to help with stress from work.” That one small gesture sparked a whole new phase in his creative life. “From there, I started a ukulele group, joined a covers band, and gradually began writing original songs again. It’s been a gradual progression — one that’s been massively bolstered by Talent Is Timeless.”

His winning song grew out of his years as an art teacher. “The lyrics are about being brave enough to get things wrong on the way to getting them right. I’ve taught art for almost 40 years, and I really believe the next thing you do could be the best thing you’ve ever done. The only way to get it wrong is to stop trying.” The song has a simple arrangement but a powerful message.

Simon is no stranger to setbacks. “I’ve always carried the burden of anxiety and depression. It comes and goes, but I know it’ll never disappear completely. I decided long ago to just ignore it as best I can and do stuff anyway.” Songwriting has become a lifeline. “It has kept the darkest days at bay. My mental health has definitely improved because of writing music.”

One recent milestone stands out. “I did an open mic last Sunday — the host had injured his hand and could only play a few songs, so I ended up playing way more than expected. It was a rural pub, which can be daunting, but for the first time I felt the audience really listening. There was a connection. That was my biggest achievement so far.”

Simon’s relationship with Talent Is Timeless has been transformative. “Without it, I would’ve started hundreds of songs and never finished them. I wouldn’t have felt strong enough to perform or book gigs. Music would have been something I dabbled in — and probably felt worse about in the long run. Instead, I’ve learned so much, gone further than I could’ve imagined, and I know there’s still more to come.”

One surprising twist in his journey? Songwriting has brought him full circle — back to literature. “I always wrote stories as a child, but school and exams pushed me away from that. Now, lyric writing has reawakened my love for words. I’ve even joined a local poetry group!”

His advice to other over-50s who want to write songs? It’s simple:
“Just get on with it. The only thing stopping you is yourself.”

Listen to Simon’s winning song here: https://www.talentistimeless.com/june-25-mistakes-new/?contest=video-detail&video_id=65119

And Connect with Simon on Talent Is Timeless here: https://www.talentistimeless.com/members/simon_sometimes/