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Randy Newman, Laura Marling, Lily Allen, Noel Gallagher, David Albarn [The Good, The Bad and The Queen], Elvis Costello, David Gray, Chris Difford and Glenn Tilbrook [Squeeze], David Crosby, Graham Nash, Emeli Sande and Sir Paul McCartney give a masterclass in the art of songwriting.

In the last of three programmes, John Wilson looks back over more of his conversations with 45 acclaimed songwriters for Â鶹Éç Radio 4's series ‘Mastertapes’.

Recorded with an audience of fans at the Â鶹Éç Maida Vale studios in London, each guest focuses on a key album from their career, describing in detail how dozens of much loved hit songs were written.

Now, the ‘Mastertapes’ guests are brought together to offer a unique how-to guide to writing the perfect song.

In this episode, Randy Newman reflects on writing for films and Graham Nash recalls Neil Young’s unique playback system.

Presented and produced by John Wilson.

Made for Â鶹Éç Radio 4 Extra and first broadcast in May 2021.