Marty Robbins didn't co-write. In fact when he was first approached the person doing the signing wanted Marty to sing other songs. Marty said he had better songs than the ones he was given. Then the person wanted to put his name on Marty's songs as a co-writer. Marty told his band to pack up, they were going home. He was signed. He didn't put anyone elses names on his songs.

I think co-writing is only important if the writers are somewhat weak when writing alone. It may only be important in getting more access to someone hearing your song and then when in a Music Center such as Nashville. Of course if you can co-write with an Artist it may be an advantage.

Most Major Artists wrote very few songs but cut songwriter's songs. Merle Haggard probably don't co-write much.

I would be happy to give up some of my rights to my songs if an Artist asks. However all of my songs are only written by me, no co-writer's.

Ray E. Strode