Songwriting Craft & Inspiration

ROBIN FREDERICK TAKES YOU INSIDE TODAY'S HIT SONGS.

LEARN HOW TO WRITE A SONG: a step-by-step guide

Songwriter with Guitar

This easy-to-use guide will show you how to write a song, from finding a great title to writing your melody. Hands-on songwriting exercises will jump start your creativity, while  ‘how-to’ video tutorials are a fun way to find out more.

by Robin Frederick. Request permission to reprint

What comes first, melody or lyrics? How does an idea become a whole song? How do you know if your song is any good? Well, I’ll answer the first two questions in this article. The third question – How do you know if your song is good? – is answered like this:

If a song genuinely expresses your feelings, then it’s a good song. It doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks.

If a song expresses your feelings AND touches other people, moves them emotionally, or gets them on the dance floor – that’s a  good song with the potential to become a HIT.

So, how do you write a song that moves other people and makes them want to listen? Well, that’s where song craft comes in.

‣ What is song craft and why do I need it?

Good songwriters use song craft to give their songs emotional impact and create a memorable experience for listeners. The tools and techniques of our craft are not arbitrary; they weren’t invented just to drive us crazy or make us write copy-cat songs without depth or originality. They exist because, over hundreds of years, songwriters have found that they help listeners to understand, experience, and remember the  message at the heart of a song.

The simple, time-tested ideas on this page will help you write a song that expresses your feelings and moves listeners, keeping them involved and interested in what you have to say. Like any skill, though, song craft takes a little practice, so be sure to try the “Go Ahead and Do It” exercises that follow each step.

CONTENTS… 1. | GET STARTED 2. | BUILD YOUR SONG ON A TITLE 3. | TRY A HIT SONG STRUCTURE 4. | ADD IMAGES & RELATED WORDS 5. | CREATE A MELODY 6. | FIND THE CHORDS 7. | FIND A CO-WRITER 8. | DEMO YOUR SONG

‣ How does a song get started? (Good question!)

WATCH THIS ON VIDEO.  

Getting started can be one of the hardest tasks in songwriting. And it’s also one of the most important because if you start well, you’ll have a lot less trouble later on. You’ll know where you’re going and you’ll have plenty of things to say.

There’s always the temptation to jump right in and begin with the first thing that occurs to you. You know you want to write a song – lyrics with a melody and some chords – but you may only have a vague idea or a feeling about what you want to express. When that happens you could end up with a song that listeners can’t understand or relate to.

So which  comes first – lyrics, melody, or chords? My answer is: None of the above. There are a lot of ways to start a song and you could start with one of those, but I’m going to suggest that you start with THE TITLE .

The title is going to be the line that everyone remembers. More important, it’s going to define the message of the song. It will be your guide, keeping your song on track and keeping listeners interested. Think of your title as the peak of a pyramid. The rest of the song is made up of the building blocks that support it.

Start your song with a title that appeals to you. Make sure it’s a phrase that rings true in your ears. Something that makes you say, “I’ve got to know more about that!” Because if YOU want to know, others will want to know.

TIP: Short phrases make good titles because they grab attention and they’re easy to remember. The ideal length for a title is one to five words.

Where to find good titles Keep your eyes and ears open for good titles that have energy for you. Action words, images, or short phrases make good titles. Attention-grabbing newspaper headlines are full of good titles. Here are a few examples of titles I picked up by reading through a popular magazine: “A Dream On The Edge,” “Hiding in the Shadows,” “What You Can’t Change,” “Slipping Away.”

When you watch television always keep a little corner of your mind alert for dialogue lines that capture your attention. Listen to your friends and family to see if you can pick out interesting phrases. Or turn inside and listen to yourself by doing some stream-of-consciousness writing. Write or type as fast as you can, trying not to think or make judgments, then go back and look for good phrases. Start keeping a list of these potential titles. You can use them whenever you’re ready to write a song.

GO AHEAD AND WRITE A SONG – Start your title list right now. Pick up a book or magazine, or scan for interesting short phrases. Write down at least three phrases. Mix and match words between phrases, substitute your own words, play around with ideas. Try to come up with at least one phrase that makes you want to write a song. Keep looking for more phrases until you have something you like. Draw a big circle around that phrase. Then keep reading.

Find out how to start a song at Amazon.com

Use my book “Song Starters” to find dozens of great titles, phrases, themes, and more! Available at Amazon.com.

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‣ Turn a title into a lyric. Here’s how.

WATCH THIS ON VIDEO.

Now, let’s begin to turn your title into a great lyric by simply asking a few questions – the questions suggested by your title. If you use these questions as a guide when writing your lyric, you’ll be able to…

  • Finish every song you start
  • Keep listeners with you
  • Make your song say what you want.

Ask the questions hidden in your title Every title suggests questions that need to be answered. Some of the questions will be ones that you want to explore, others will be questions that listeners have. You’ll need to answer both. Let me give you a few examples…

Take a classic song title like “Heartbreak Hotel.” Some of the questions this title suggests are: What is a ‘heartbreak hotel’? What happens there? Where is it?

Sure enough, these questions are all answered in this great Rock standard.

  • What is a ‘heartbreak hotel’? A place to go when your baby leaves you.
  • What happens there? Brokenhearted lovers cry.
  • Where is it? Down at the end of Lonely Street.

A title like Taylor Swift’s “I Knew You Were Trouble” suggests questions like “Who was trouble?” “What kind of trouble?” and ‘How did things turn out?” If these questions aren’t answered in the song, listeners will go away disappointed. Here’s the lyric. Take a look to see how these questions were answered.

In a big Country hit like “You’re Gonna Miss This” recorded by Trace Adkins, listeners will be asking “What will this person miss?” and “Why will he miss it?” Check out the lyric. You might be surprised by the answer! That’s the sign of a great song. It draws the listener in with questions, then answers them in a fresh way.

Robin's songwriting books at Amazon.

Of course, you’ll also have questions you want to write about. Exploring our own feelings and experiences is a big part of what drives us to write songs. So, here are a few questions you might want to answer.

  • What does your title mean?
  • How do you feel about that?
  • Why do you think that happened?
  • What do you hope or fear will happen next?

If you’d like to hear a lyric example, listen to “Be With You,” a song I wrote with singer-songwriter Ed Patrick for our duo Neverway. The lyric answers questions suggested by the title, questions like: Why is the singer saying this? What’s happening? Who is involved? What is the singer feeling? Why is it important to him?

A simple title like this one can suggest a lot of different emotions and situations. Ed and I wrote about the feelings we wanted to express, but another songwriter could go in an entirely different direction with the same title. You can choose the questions you want to answer and the way you want to answer them.

GO AHEAD AND WRITE A SONG – Go back and look at the title you circled in the previous exercise. What questions does it suggest to you? What would you like to say about it? Write down the questions you’d like to answer. Then add any questions you think listeners might have.

Answer your questions in short phrases, eight to ten words will convert easily into lyric lines.  Write more than you think you’ll need; you won’t use all of it. Remember, it’s just raw material. Explore the possibilities. Don’t worry about rhyming, just say what you want to say. That’s the best place to start.

Shortcuts to Great Song Lyrics

‣ Why is song structure such a big deal?

Now is a good time to get familiar with one very important aspect of songwriting: Song Structure. An easy-to-follow structure acts like a pathway, leading your listener through your song from beginning to end. This is a key point to keep in mind when you write a song.

The most common contemporary hit song structure looks like this: VERSE / CHORUS / VERSE / CHORUS / BRIDGE / CHORUS .

Listeners like this song form because it provides enough repetition to feel familiar and enough variety to keep them interested. It also gives you, the songwriter, the chance to add emotional dynamics to your song. Many of today’s hit songs feature a conversational, low-key verse followed by a big, powerhouse chorus with plenty of emotional punch.

Once you get familiar with this basic song structure, there are plenty of add-ons and variations to play with. Some songs have a pre-chorus or a post-chorus section with catchy hooks to make sure the listener will remember the song. But try using this structure to get started. It’s been the basis of many huge hits and many more to come.

Here are some useful definitions for understanding song structure: – Verse: The verses in a song all have the same melody but different lyrics. The verse lyrics give us information about the situation, emotions, or people in the song.

– Chorus: We may hear the chorus of a song three, four or more times. The lyric and melody remain the same each time it recurs.The chorus lyric sums up the heart of the song. The title of the song almost always appears in the chorus section and may be repeated two or more times.

– Bridge: The bridge has a different melody, lyrics, and chord progression from the verse or chorus. It provides a break from the repetition of verse and chorus. The lyric often provides an insight or revealing moment.

GO AHEAD AND WRITE A SONG: 1. Use the song form VERSE / CHORUS / VERSE / CHORUS / BRIDGE / CHORUS .

2. Look at the questions you wrote down in the previous section and choose a question to answer in each section of your song. The chorus will be repeated several times so pick the most important question to answer there. Often, that question is “How does that make me feel?”

3. Be sure to use your title in your chorus! Fill in a few lines around your title answering some of the questions you think listeners might have. Make sure your listeners understand your song by having the singer come right out and say what he or she really feels at least once in the chorus.

4. When you have a rough idea of your chorus lyric, move on to a verse. Verse lyrics tend to be more conversational, so keep it simple and just answer the question you picked for each verse  in an open, honest way.

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‣ Add images & related words to bring your song to life

Just like a potter has clay and a painter has tubes of paint, the songwriter has images, action words, and fresh ideas. When you write a song, these are your raw materials. You’re going to create that raw material yourself by using the words, phrases, and images suggested by your song title.

Make a list of words and images the title suggests Let’s say your song title is “You Make Me Smile.” To create raw material based on this title, think of words and images associated with smiling. We can start with obvious ones like “happy,” “sunny,” “bright,” and “fun.” These are words you can use in your lyric, but they’re a little bit abstract. Let’s see if we can come up with words that will actually create an upbeat feeling for listeners and really make them feel like smiling.

Take the words “happy” and “fun,” for instance. What are a few things that are fun, things that make people smile? Parties, dancing, weekends, and vacations. The sound of laughter and music. Favorite foods and a day at the park with friends. A trip to the beach, a night on the town. Bright lights and crowds and carnival rides.

These are just rough ideas. Try not to judge whether they’re good or not at this stage. Just write down everything that comes to you. You won’t use all of it, but you never know what might end up in your song.

Now, let’s try the word “sunny.” Obviously that word makes me think of sunshine, which makes me think of summer and being outdoors, which makes me think of grass, trees, and flowers. Flowers make me think of colors – gold, red, purple – and bees buzzing around.

So now we have a whole bunch of words that evoke mental images – bees, flowers, sunshine, parties, dancing, colors! They all have to do with smiling and feeling good. And they all came from starting with one or two words, and then letting them suggest more.

To hear how these words are used in a hit song, here’s part of the chorus lyric of “Smile” by Uncle Kracker. Notice how many words are similar to the ones we came up with.

You make me dance like a fool Forget how to breathe Shine like gold Buzz like a bee Just the thought of you can drive me wild Oh, you make me smile

Now the listener is able to picture how the singer is feeling instead of just having to take her word for it. This is one of the most important tools a songwriter has. Check out “Smile” by Uncle Kracker on Spotify, read the lyrics online, or watch the video to hear even more fun images and ideas based on smiling.

BONUS TIP: After you have a list of related words, make a list of contrasting words and images, ones that suggest the opposite. For example, I wrote a song called “California Girl.” Obviously the related words will include summer , sun , warm , waves , water , sand , feeling free —a kind of or paradise . Contrasting words might be winter , moon , cold , fire (contrasting with water), and feeling caught or trapped (the opposite of feeling free).

If you’d like to hear how I turned these lists of related and contrasting words into a lyric, watch the video of my song “California Girl.”

GO AHEAD AND WRITE A SONG – Make a list of words, images, and phrases related to your title. Write down single words or short phrases. Don’t think about rhyming or making sense of things at this point. And try not to be critical of your ideas – just write down what comes to you. Then, make a list of contrasting words, images, and phrases. Write as many words as you can think of in each column. Let one idea suggest another and follow the trail wherever it takes you. This is a great exercise for stretching your creativity.

When you have a good list of words, try plugging some of them into your verse and chorus lyrics. Replace a statement with an image or action that helps to express the emotion in your song and makes the listener feel what you feel or see what you see.

‣ Look for the melody that lives in your lyrics

Every time you open your mouth to speak, you start singing! Don’t believe me? Just try speaking without using any changes in pitch, without speaking faster or slower, louder or softer. You can’t do it! You end up sounding like a robot. Although we usually think of singing as something quite different from talking, we actually use a lot of melody when we talk.

When we talk we use pitch, volume, phrasing, and rhythm – all the elements of a song melody. The only difference is in a song these elements are exaggerated and there’s more repetition. So if you have a few lyric lines, all you need to do is speak them to get a raw melody started.

Melody, speech, and emotion It’s the melody part of speech that communicates emotion. In fact, just by changing the melody you can give the same words an entirely different emotional meaning. Try this: say the phrase “Oh, no?” as if you are asking a simple question. Now, say the same phrase — “Oh no!” — as if you are anxious and frightened. Notice the difference in the melody? In the question, the melody goes up at the end. In the frightened version, the pitch starts higher and then the melody moves downward. Exaggerate the emotion in the second phrase and you’ll really hear it. Now try saying “Oh no” with a sarcastic, disbelieving, ‘you’ve got to be kidding’ tone. It’s an entirely different melody from the other two.

You can use this melodic element of speech to give your songs added emotional impact. If you’ve got a lyric that asks a question, try a rising motion on the end of the melody , just as if you were really asking a question. Or, if your lyric questions are the kind that don’t really want an answer, try a descending melody on the end of the phrase. You’ll make the meaning clear and sound natural and believable to your listeners.

Try these tips to make your song melodies more memorable.

A good song is one that evokes emotion—both in the lyrics and in the melody. Movies and television shows use songs to add emotion and memorability to a scene. Commercials look for songs that make viewers feel happy or confident when they think of their product. You can use the melody and lyric tools I’ve included in this article and elsewhere on the site to create songs that make people feel the emotions you want to express.

Film & TV Songwriting

GO AHEAD AND WRITE A SONG – To achieve the conversational tone of many of today’s verses, try speaking your verse lyric in a casual, conversational style, then exaggerate it a little to begin creating your verse melody. Keep the pauses that occur naturally and exaggerate the little ups and downs in your speaking voice. You’ll want to make changes later but, for now, this will give you a good place to start. Remember, this is your raw material, not the finished melody.

Choruses often have more energy and urgency, conveying more of the song’s emotional heart. As we saw with the “Oh, no!” phrase, the more emotion there is, the higher the voice tends to be. That’s why very emotional Pop and Rock choruses work well in a higher note range. Speak the chorus lyric with as much emotion as you can put into it. Now, exaggerate the pitches, keeping the rhythm of the words and any pauses that occur naturally. This will get you started on your chorus.

Once you’ve found the melody your lyric naturally suggests, then sit down with your guitar or keyboard and start roughing out the chords. I like to record my vocal ideas before I even start to add chords, that way I can recall the original “spoken word” melody in case I want to go back to it. Of course, there are other ways to write a song melody but this one will give you a great place to start.

Make your melody one that listeners can’t forget: Read this tip!

‣ What happens next?

Writing both lyrics and melody If you play guitar or keyboard and you’re going to be writing your own melody and chords, check out this post— Finding the Chords for Your Song — for some ideas on how to find chord progressions that work well in contemporary songs.

Work on the melody and chords using the verse and chorus lyric you wrote, gradually smoothing and changing until you have something you like. Then write the rest of the lyric to the melody you just created.

Writing lyrics only If you’re going to be looking for a collaborator to put music to your lyrics, then you should go ahead and finish the lyric now. Filling in the rest while sustaining the emotional tone of what you’ve done is a tough job but if you’ve gotten this far, you can do the rest.

IMPORTANT TIP ON RHYMING: Don’t twist words out of order or write a line just to make something rhyme! A vowel rhyme —rhymes like love/enough or mine/time/sigh with the same vowel sound but different final consonants—will work just fine for popular songs. (Songs for musical theater are different – they often do require perfect rhymes.) Check out a web site like Rhymedesk.com or B-rhymes.com to find lists of interesting, closely rhyming words to use.

Read my post To Rhyme or Not to Rhyme on my blog site.

Know when to take a break Work on your lyric for short periods of time. If you’re not getting anything usable, walk away… literally. Take a walk and let things settle for awhile. Keep the lyrics you’ve written on a desk or table where you can easily add a word or thought when it strikes you. Keep the hit song melody in your head.

The most important thing is to keep the emotional honesty of your song intact. Don’t settle for anything less. There are times when you’ll lose your way. When that happens…stop working! Go away and come back when you’re fresh. You’ll be able to see what needs to be fixed. Keep working on the lyric until you are genuinely moved and excited by it.

‣ One last thought…

What I’ve laid out for you here is a doorway into songwriting. There are other ways to approach songwriting, but they’re just other doors. Once you go through a door, that’s when you really begin to learn. Everything you need to know is right there on the radio, in your CD collection or on your iPod.

The best way to keep learning and keep growing as a songwriter is to study songs by your favorite artists. You can pick up new techniques and skills, find solutions to problems, and break out of old habits.   Here’s a list of today’s biggest hit songs  I’ve written a Song Guide that will walk you through each one, showing you the lyric, melody, and chord tools that makes them tick. And you’ll find tips on how to use these ideas in songs of your own.

Here are just three of more than 40 Song Guides covering all mainstream genres and Film & TV. Check out the complete list here .

  • Believer by Imagine Dragons
  • Hello by Adele
  • Play It Again by Luke Bryan

You don’t need to reinvent the wheel every time you write a song. Go ahead…stand on the shoulders of giants; use what others have discovered and build on it. Make it your own! Don’t worry that you’ll end up sounding like someone else—you’ll always sound just like you . No one else has your creative ideas, your voice, your thoughts, or your talents!

May your songs flow. ~ Robin Frederick

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Robin’s online songwriting courses .

Write songs that listeners will love and the music industry needs ! Click to find out more .

Musicnotes

How to Write a Song: An Introduction to Songwriting

Want to learn how to write a song? In this introductory guide, we’ll help you unpack the basics including song form, chord progression, melody, and more!

Musicnotes

Have you ever wanted to take your love of music to the next level by writing your own? Though it can be an exciting venture, it can be challenging to get started. After all, there are a lot of components to a single song. You have to think about the structure, the chord progression, the lyrics, the message, and so much more! We’re here to teach you how to write a song and get you off on the right foot.

Determine Your Process

Spoiler: There is no one way to write a song.

Everyone’s songwriting process is a little different, and so the first step in writing a song is to think about how you are going to write it. Do you want to start with the lyrics? The melody? The chord progression? If you’re not sure, think about which component of songwriting comes to you most naturally .  For example, perhaps you keep a journal and like to write on a regular basis. Try tackling the lyrics first.

Knowing how to write music and how to write lyrics are two different skill sets. Don’t get discouraged if one is easier for you than the other, especially in the beginning. You can always team up with a songwriting partner to help you get the ball rolling. Have a friend who loves to write poetry? Great! Ask them for a lyric or two.

You can experiment with your process until you find something that works for you. As you grow in your songwriting, you may even change up your routine from time to time. In any case, you have to start somewhere, so decide which component of the song you’re going to tackle first, and give it a go!

There are several different types of song forms, and your song needs to fit into one. Without a form, your song will have no structure, and it will be hard to follow. The most common types of song forms are

  • Verse/Chorus

Verse/Chorus songs usually alternate back and forth between the verse and chorus, though many times there will be a doubled verse or doubled chorus. In any case, there are only two principle melodies throughout the song. Examples include “ Make You Feel My Love ” by Adele and “ Your Song ” by Elton John .

  • Verse/Chorus/Bridge

Similar to the Verse/Chorus structure, the Verse/Chorus/Bridge formula adds a contrasting section (the bridge) at the end of the song and is typically followed by a final chorus. Examples include “ Fix You ” by Coldplay and “ A Million Dreams ” from The Greatest Showman .

A note about bridges : There are really great bridges that make a song a classic and then there are forgettable bridges that we ignore while waiting for that last chorus to come in again. What’s the difference and how can you write a great one?

A successful bridge has to change something about the song, either lyrically or musically. Lyrically, it can reveal new information to us that makes us interpret the last chorus differently. Maybe you really aren’t heartbroken about the breakup, and we find out in the bridge.

Musically, the best bridges introduce some interesting chords or other musical elements. You can try a chord or two you haven’t used elsewhere in the song. Flip your chord progression around. Add a zither. If you want an exciting bridge, something has to change.

AAA song form indicates different verses with the same melody and no major contrasting sections. It does not have a chorus or a bridge, but the melody is kept interesting enough to avoid the song sounding too repetitive. Examples include the traditional hymn, “ Amazing Grace ” and “ Sound of Silence ” by Simon & Garfunkel .

The AABA song form is similar to the AAA form, except that it contains contrasting “B” section before the last “A” section. Examples include “ Blackbird ” by The Beatles and “ Somewhere Over the Rainbow ” from The Wizard of Oz .

Some songs may also contain a “Pre-Chorus” leading up to the chorus. This section is like the glue from the verse to the chorus. Examples of pre-choruses can be found in “ Billie Jean ” by Michael Jackson and “ All of Me ” by John Legend .

Keep in mind that when it comes to song form, you can take some liberties. You don’t have to follow a formula verbatim, but these forms serve as a starting place for your song’s structure.

Chord Progression

The possibilities for chord progressions in songs are endless , and that can make it difficult to get started on your own. Before you decide on your progression, you’ll need to pick a key for your song. You can then build your progression around that key, using the I chord (tonic) as your center.

There are some general rules regarding movement from one chord to another. We’re going to look at the rules for major keys, since the majority of songs are written in these keys, and they are a good starting place for a beginning songwriter. We’ll be using Roman Numerals, so if you’re not sure what these stand for, check out our guide to Roman Numerals in sheet music here .

how to write a song - roman numerals

The I chord (tonic) can go to ANY of the other chords.

For a better understanding, let’s exchange the Roman Numerals for the chords in the key of C Major.

how to write a song - key of C major

Again, you don’t have to follow this chart exactly . As your songwriting develops, you will likely experiment more with inversions, borrowed chords, secondary dominants, and more! But for a starting place, you can use this chart to get you from one chord to the next. Using this chart, here are a few examples of progressions you can use in the key of C Major.

how to write a song - progressions in C major

The I-IV-V-vi progression is very common in pop music.

Other commonly used chord progressions include:

  • I-V-vi-IV (sometimes called the Don’t Stop Believin’ Progression)
  • I-V-bVII-IV

For your song writing purposes, consider these chord progressions to be jumping-off blocks. You can start messing around with them and see where they take you. You can certainly use them straight up, as they are, countless famous musicians have. You can also change them and turn them around to suit your needs.

Your melody will come naturally from your chord progression, as you will be pulling out notes from whatever key you’re in. Generally speaking, there are a few things you should keep in mind when settling on your own melody.

  • Your chorus should sit higher than the verses.

The chorus is usually the heart of the song and therefore is the most dominant in the melody. Your verses should be in a lower register so that when the chorus comes in, it’s the obvious climax.

  • Songs without choruses need variety.

We touched on this a bit in the song form section, but if you’re writing in the AAA song form, you’ll need a bit of movement at some point in your melody to avoid the song sounding too repetitive.

  • Do you want people to sing along?

If you’re writing a song you intend for others to be able to easily learn and sing along, you will want to simplify your melody. Make it something anyone could hear and repeat back to you!

  • Keep it catchy!

We all know those songs that get stuck in your head for days on end. These kinds of songs are the ultimate goal for a songwriter! A good way to test this is to try singing your song first thing in the morning, the day after you’ve completed it. Don’t listen to any recordings or look at any lyrics or music, and if you can remember it from the day before, you have a good song on your hands!

Song lyrics are the most common place to get stuck in the songwriting process. The first thing you need to determine before you begin to write your lyrics is the message of your song. What is it about? What do you want listeners to know–or not to know? You need to have a theme so that you can orchestrate your lyrics around that theme, instead of having a bunch of random lines that don’t go together.

Some good things to incorporate into your lyrics are…

  • A rhyming scheme.

Think of lyrics as sung poetry. Rhyming schemes provide structure and are pleasing to the ear. Utilize sites like Rhymezone and Thesaurus.com to give you options when you’re stuck. To dive deeper into rhyme schemes in our article “ Enhance Your Songwriting With These Rhyming Schemes .”

  • Repetition.

Less can always be more in songwriting. Just look at Leonard Cohen ‘s “ Hallelujah .” The rich storytelling lyrics of the verses are followed by a simple repetition of the word “Hallelujah” in the chorus. So if you have a word or phrase you’d like to emphasize in your song, don’t be afraid to experiment with repetition!

Songwriters are in a sense, storytellers, and it’s your job to paint a picture within your lyrics. Don’t be afraid to test out different adjectives and metaphors. Ed Sheeran demonstrates this well in the first three lines of “ The A-Team .”

White lips, pale face Breathing in snowflakes Burnt lungs, sour taste

There’s something to be said for having a bit of mystery in your songs. You want to leave your listeners thinking . If you’re too specific or you give too much away, you lose a little bit of empathy and room for interpretation. Of course, if you have a particular message you want to get across, you can be as detailed as you wish, however, you should still incorporate thought-provoking lyrics. Mystery promotes the longevity of a song. Otherwise, your listeners will get the message the first time through and not feel the need to revisit the song.

A few things to watch out for when writing lyrics are…

Rhythms and lyrics don’t always match, and you will want to be conscious of emphasizing the correct words and syllables in your lyrics. For example, if you had the word “sorry” in your song, you’d want the emphasis to fall on sor ry–not sor ry .

  • Crowded lyrics.

Try to avoid cramming in a bunch of lyrics into a small space. If it’s hard for you to sing it, it will be even harder for your listeners to repeat it. An excellent way to avoid this is to count out how many syllables your phrase should have according to the rhythm and then match your lyrics to that number.

The hook may be the most important component when learning how to write a song. At least, if you want to write hit songs. What’s the hook, you ask? It’s the earworm that won’t leave you alone. When you think of the band The Village People , what comes to mind? You’re probably singing “YMCA” right now. That’s the hook of that song. Other great hooks are “Stayin’ Alive,” “The Winner Takes It All,” and “To The Left, To The Left.”

The hook is frequently the title of the song, but it doesn’t have to be. It most often comes in the chorus but can show up in the bridge or a verse. In Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” it doesn’t show up until the coda, but what a way to go out!

The hook needs to be catchy, clever, and repeatable. It should be a short phrase, not more than four or five words. It should, in its own pithy manner, sum up the emotional content of the song. To learn great hook writing, study your favorite songs. Find the hooks. What makes them memorable? How did those hooks help propel that song’s success?

Now that we’ve gone through the individual components of writing a song, you’re ready to give it a try. Here are a few final tips before you dive in!

  • Listen to some of your favorite artists and songwriters, taking notes on the specific things they incorporate into their music.
  • Free write for 5-10 minutes before tackling lyrics.
  • Don’t spend too long on one word or phrase. If you feel stuck, move on, and come back to the section later. You can also check out this article: Beat Your Songwriting Block with These 5 Exercises .
  • Write as often as you can. Like anything, songwriting takes practice . You will become better over time, so it’s essential to get into a routine of writing often, even if you end up scrapping a song or two.
  • Turn off the inner critic for a bit. When you’ve finished your song, play it. Enjoy it. Make a video and put it out there for your friends. Don’t criticize it yet. Let it breathe for a month, then go back and ask yourself, “What could I change to make it better?” Change it on your next song.

Remember, even the greatest songwriters in the world have written songs they don’t like. So don’t give up when a song doesn’t turn out the way you want it to. Try again, and again! And soon enough, you’ll find you quite enjoy your music, and we’re sure that others will too.

  • Can you write songs if you can’t sing? Absolutely. Look at Leonard Cohen 😉
  • Is song writing hard? Sometimes. And sometimes it’s easy. The important thing is to just do it.
  • What makes a good songwriter? A good songwriter has something to say. They have emotions to express or a story to tell. Then they figure out the best way to get the message across through music.

how to learn to write songs

How To Write A Song: A Beginner's Guide

How To Write A Song: A Beginner's Guide

Are you ready to start songwriting, but you’re not sure where to start? Learning how to write songs on your own can be daunting, but it's certainly not impossible. With a little bit of guidance and practice, you’ll be able to turn your sparks of inspiration into fully completed compositions.

Below, we’ll discuss how to write a song in 5 easy steps. This step-by-step songwriting guide will walk you through the process of transforming your ideas into standalone tracks, and ties in nicely with previous posts we’ve made about songwriting .

There are plenty of ways to build a catchy song structure, so we'll share more customizable approach. This songwriting process is fully customizable, and will help you build your own songs from the ground up whether you're starting with a chord progression , chorus lyric, or simply your song's mood.

We'll share some of the building blocks of creating your own music along with some songwriting tips so that you can make music that sounds good and connects with others. Learning how to write a song is only a quick read away - Let's get into it!

how to write a song

1. Understand A Song’s Basic Elements

For starters, it can be helpful to understand a song’s essential elements. Generally speaking, you can break these elements down into two groupings: structural and sonic.

You already understand these different pieces intuitively. You could probably identify them by actively listening to your favorite song. Whenever the mood changes or transitions into another section, you’re listening to a shift in the song’s structure. With that in mind, here is the vocabulary you need to categorize these elements.

Structural Elements

These are sections of a song that come together to create an entire piece. Each of these elements serve as building blocks to your overall song structure.

  • Verse: Verses in songs usually take up the most time and are usually where the listener gets the most information about the speaker/singer. In lyric-based songs, this is where the singer is telling a story. A repeated chorus usually surrounds the verse. Verses usually aren’t repeated to a T, but they may reuse the same melody as another verse.
  • Chorus: These are the shiny, repeated moments in a song. The chorus is usually the most essential part of the song’s melody, and it often fully repeats with the same cadence and melody. Choruses include a hook, which just refers to a phrase or melody designed to stick in your head. The chorus, supported by the verses, is generally shorter and catchier.
  • Pre-chorus: A pre-chorus is an additional repeated melodic section that comes unsurprisingly, directly before the chorus.
  • Bridge: A bridge just refers to a section that contrasts with the rest of the piece. This could mean a different melodic structure, varied rhythmic pattern, or both. Bridges stand out and can help build tension to a final chorus or going back into a verse.‍

Some typical song structures include:

  • VERSE – CHORUS – VERSE – CHORUS
  • INTRO – VERSE – CHORUS – VERSE – BRIDGE – CHORUS
  • VERSE – CHORUS – BRIDGE – CHORUS

These are all common patterns, but don't feel like you need to adhere to them in order to be successful. Just remember that every section should add some value for your listener. For example, your second chorus might feel bigger or be longer than your first chorus, even though the sections are more or less copies of one another.

Sonic Elements

These are the main sonic elements you’ll need to consider throughout your writing process.

  • Rhythm: The rhythm of your track adds energy and groove to your composition. You’ll want to think about rhythm when determining how each section should flow into the next one. It's key to consider how different melody and verse lyric lines work rhythmically, but you'll also want to consider the rhythm of each sonic element throughout your song.
  • Chords and Bass: Chords and basslines serve as a backbone for your melody. These structural elements are usually somewhat repetitive. The repetition allows the melody to stand out against chords or the bass. Chords are created by using notes within the key of your song. If you're not sure how to craft a strong chord progression , you can look up videos or resources online, or simply borrow one from your favorite songs.
  • Melody: Melody refers to the string of notes that stands out amongst your other structural elements. Melody can stem through vocals as well as different instruments.

Remember that with any composition, nothing has to be set in stone. Not all songs are structured in the same way or have all of the critical elements represented. That said, these guidelines can be helpful when you’re just starting. They're all helpful songwriting tools and vocabulary you can use to communicate great lyric and melodic ideas with other musicians.

2. Find Something To Start With

Now that you understand the essential elements of a song , it’s time to get started. The best way to get going is to first come up with one of the sonic elements and build from there. Do you have a melody in mind? Record it on voice memos. A sick bassline? Mark it in your DAW . A great beat? Record it and start riffing off of it. Finding inspiration should be a fluid, playful process.

Most of the time, I prefer to start by creating a chord progression. This is often the easiest way for me to get inspired and start building something upon it. Learning basic music theory can be incredibly helpful in your journey as a musician. You can start by looking up common chord progressions online or even using a MIDI chord pack.

From there, improvise with yourself. What can you add to the progression to make it 10% closer to sounding like a full-blown track? During this stage, jot down anything and everything that comes to mind and save it for later.

There’s no one right way to write a song. The key is to create a fundamental element that’s inspiring enough to build off of itself. Here are a couple of examples of how you can build a song from scratch.

Start With The Idea

If you're a natural wordsmith, it may make sense to start with the lyrics . Some songwriters find it helpful to make a brainstorm of their thoughts in order to decide a topic for their song. Once you've selected a topic, you can allow yourself to freely write about the subject at hand.

Some might find it helpful to conceptualize a song by asking a question. For instance, "What makes you feel the most at home?", "How do you feel about X?", "What do you dislike about X?" can all serve as prompts for songs .

You just want to find something that gets your ideas flowing, whether that's a question, brainstorm, or spontaneous start of inspiration. Using your emotional tone while songwriting can naturally help you be more vulnerable towards your audience which is great for bringing in dedicated listeners.

From there, start to formulate your ideas into consistent lines that preferably have some sort of rhyme scheme. Having a full set of lyrics can serve as the pillar for your melody, chords, and the rest of the track. The key concept is to get one portion of the composition concrete so that you're able to have a firm foundation to build off of. Create a lyric sheet for your different ideas.

For songs that are instrumental or without any lyrics, it may be helpful to brainstorm the ideas you're working to convey.

Let's say you're creating a song as part of a score for a movie - It may be helpful to write out different cues, emotions, and points at which you want to shift the track from one sonic idea to the next. Regardless of whether or not your song has lyrics, a little initial planning can go a long way.

Start With An Instrument

While some might only see songwriters as those with guitars or pianos, you can practically build a song off of any sound or instrument. Build a string or notes or a melody and notate it using staff paper.

For a less classical method, you could hum or sing notes into your phone's voice memo app. Experiment with different combinations of notes until a particular string or two seems to stick.

Once you've gained these melodic ideas, you can start to fit rhythm or lyrics to them. In this way, one of the elements of the process should naturally flow into the next.

Start With The Rhythm

If you're more rhythmically inclined, start with building drum or beat ideas. Once you've crafted a couple you're happy with, you can start to improvise on top of them, either with an instrument, sound, or vocal melody. Alternatively, you could piece together a rhythm and figure out the what lyrics make sense within a rhythmic phrase.

As you can see, there are plenty of routes to successful songwriting. All you need to do is to pick which element you'd like to start with, and build from there.

how to make a song

3. Experiment With Melody

Once you’ve created your foundation of the song, it’s time to start adding in melodies . You may find that melodic ideas come to you naturally. Alternatively, you can use a scale to build melodic lines . Create different melodic phrases and capture them in your DAW or voice memos so you can refer back to them later.

Don’t get too hung up on where certain elements will go (i.e., which melody will be for the chorus and the verse). If one seems to fit naturally into one role or the other, that’s great, but remember that you can always refine these ideas later.

One exercise that helps me is playing a chord progression on a loop and improvising melodies using a nonsense word like “da” or “la” on top of it. I’ll record myself singing notes in my voice memos and then add lyrics to these notes later.

If you’re not finding melodies that fit well with your voice or instrument, you can always go a step back and adjust your starting sound.

how to write a good song

Refining Your Own Melody

If you already created verse and chorus melodies in the previous step, you can use this section as a time to refine what you've already created. One of the best things about writing songs is that there's no one way to get to your desired destination. Take your loosely formed song ideas and start to edit with a fine ear. Is there a verse melody that shines above the rest? Does your chorus melody run too long or too short? Start to think about these small changes so that you can build a strong song structure through small details.

4. Write Lyrics & Create Structure

Once you have created your melodies, you’re ready to write lyrics . You can use these lyrics to fit within the melodic structure you’ve already created.

Brainstorm different topics you’d like to write about. From there, you can think of words that fit within your melody’s phrasing. It also helps to rhyme lines to give your song some more flow and cohesion.

By this point, you should be able to piece together the whole song. Start laying out where you want your chorus, verse, and bridge sections to be. Feel free to listen to some of your favorite songs and reference their structure. It’s totally fine to listen to a pop song and follow the same format to ensure that yours is organized well.

Once you have structure, lyrics, and melodies that fit solidly together, you can start to rehearse these parts in conjunction with one another.

Building Out Your Song

If you're finding that your song isn't building itself out naturally, you can use a more common song structure, such as an ABAB pattern. These patterns work by having certain sections repeat over the course of a timeline of a song. Each sonic structural element can correspond to a different letter. For example, the verses may be assigned to letter A, the chorus sections to letter B, and the bridge to ABC.

A common pop song structure could be ABABCB. You can look up additional patterns online if you're not sure how to build out your song. If your song doesn't follow a traditional pattern to a T, don't fret! There have been formulaic hit songs but also many of successful songs that don't follow a particular roadmap.

Improving Your Lyrics

For many, it's not difficult learning how to write a song, rather understanding how to write a great song. While creating something that's "good" is somewhat subjective, lyrics play a powerful role in song structure, so you'll want to spend some extra time here while you learn to write songs.

Think about what lyric lines would draw you in as a listener. Does your song title convey something relatable? Is the song title embedded within the chorus lyrics to increase memorability? While this may seem like a small detail, don't forget that a listener's first impression to a track is often the title.

Work on your verse lyric and chorus lyric structure as well. Many hit song writers utilize familiar, relatable concepts in order to connect with their audience. Your entire song should tell a story, or paint a picture for whoever is listening.

You can think of your song structure as having a beginning, middle, and end just like a story. Writing lyrics to the tune of different melodies can be a quick way to see what fits and what doesn't within a common song structure.

While it's important to create a memorable hook , don't use that as an excuse to neglect the song structure of the rest of your track. A compelling first verse can bring a listener in to an otherwise unheard chorus. Writing music is about connecting with others, so make sure your song form supports this and is accessible to a wide variety of people.

Adding Interest

Once you have the basic chord progression, melody, lyrics, and sections ironed out, it's time to add on all of the extra bells and whistles. Fine tune your lyrics to see if there are any general verbs you can replace with more descriptive action words.

This is a great time to add new sounds to your music to keep listeners fully engaged all throughout the track. Your central idea should stay more or less the same at this point, but everything you add on top of the pre-existing music should serve to highlight the best selling points of your track.

Close Out Your Song

First impressions are important, but so is a good ending! Determine how you'd like to end out your track.

For many, this means utilizing one big final chorus that leaves the hook stuck in the listeners head.

For others, this could just be slowly but surely fading out the track.

Think about what makes the most sense for track's emotional and sonic feel. What special lyric can you put in the end of the song that a listener would want to revisit? What makes your track replay-able?

5. Refine Your Track

While you’re practicing your song, you may notice that some lyrics need to be adjusted to flow with the melody or that one section sounds better next to another. Don’t be afraid to edit and refine your track!

It can also help take a step back from your writing session and check back in the next day or week. Sometimes, you need a fresh set of ears to create your best work.

Luckily, with practice, this process should become easier over time. Above all, don’t forget that there isn’t one good way to write a song. Instead, figure out a process that highlights your productivity and creativity.

Don't Be Afraid To Restart

Sometimes, a drafted song can serve as the initial inspiration for your next song. Your first song doesn't have to be perfect. Just remember that if you're having trouble turning a rough idea into a fully formed song, there's nothing wrong with restarting.

You'll want to get into the habit of finishing as many song ideas as you can, but the process of creating a song will inevitably help you hone your skills as a songwriter. Great songs usually come into existence out of plenty of practice, so don't be too hard on yourself if you find that you're stuck on one song.

Get Feedback

One of the best ways to refine your song is to seek out feedback from those you trust. Many times, we become accustomed to the way our songs flow just by nature of working on them for hours on end in a vacuum. Once you feel like you've created a song worth sharing, it's time to see how others feel.

Getting critical feedback can be a sobering process, especially if you're not used to it, but remember that everyone has the end goal in mind of helping you improve your song. Some may find that your song seems to sound good while others may suggest a different chord progression, chorus lyric, etc.

The good news is, you get to decide whether or not you're going to take someone's advice. I recommend seeking out known songwriters and musicians as well as general listeners for feedback. This will give you a more diverse pool of advice, giving you the most potential to improve your song.

If you don't have access to a feedback loop in person, you could ask for it online. Soundcloud, Reddit, etc. all have spaces where you can ask for feedback on a buddy song. Engaging in this practice will help you see the strengths and weaknesses in your own music which will undoubtedly help you grow as an artist and songwriter.

Try, Try Again

Some song writing seems effortless, but a lot of the time there's hours of work and raw material hidden behind that hit song. Your first draft might not always reach it's final song form, and that's okay. Songwriting tips can be helpful , but the best teacher is taking the time to participate in the world of songwriting.

Start writing on a regular basis to really see your songwriting skills come together. Fortunately, your have all of the songwriting tools you need already available - You just have to be brave enough to write many, many songs in order to find that hit.

songwriting

How To Write A Song FAQs

If you're still unsure of how to write a song, here is a set of commonly asked questions and answers to deepen your understanding about songwriting.

Can Anyone Write A Song?

In short, yes! Anyone can write a song if they are willing to tap into their creativity. Learning to do so isn't always easy, but songwriting is a skill just like anything else, which means that it can be improved over time.

Remember that writing your first set of songs will likely be the most difficult, and become easier over time. With a little practice, writing your own song will seem like second nature.

Is Writing A Song Hard?

The songwriting process can be different every time which means that in some cases, it can be difficult, and in others, it can be effortlessly simple. 

Creating your own songs certainly takes practice, but as you exercise the songwriting process on a more regular basis, you'll find that it becomes progressively easier to stumble across a great song. Learning how to write a song can be difficult, but producing a good song can be easy with enough practice.

What Should I Start A Song With?

You should start a song with whatever feels the most natural to you at the time. One of the best parts about songwriting is that it's a fluid process - meaning you don't have to necessarily adhere to one method over another. You could start your song with lyric writing, or begin your session with some killer chord progressions.

Sometimes, it's easiest to have a specific song structure in mind to get the creative juices flowing. Just know that whatever way you choose to write songs is valid, as long as it gets you to write!

How Long Is A Song On Average?

On average, most songs end up being around 3 minutes long. However, plenty of songs are longer or shorter depending on the message, genre, and overall composition.

Rather than focusing on how long a song is, it might be helpful to focus on keeping the listener engaged throughout the duration of your composition.

Can you be a singer without writing songs?

If songwriting isn't necessarily your forte, don't fret! You don't have to be a songwriter in order to be a singer.

In fact, many famous singers don't fully write their songs. Many times, a song is written by multiple songwriters and simply performed by a single singer.

How do you know if a song you wrote is good?

Music, just like any art form, is subjective, so it's impossible to know whether your song is 100% good.

However, if your song is catchy or memorable in some way, listeners may be more likely to listen to it on a regular basis or create an emotional connection to it. This should inform your songwriting, as you should strive to create memorable melodies and relatable lyrics.

Is songwriting a good career?

Songwriting can be a great career for those willing to put in the work. As with most creative industries, it can be quite competitive to find songwriting positions that consistently provide a thriving salary.

Although, if you're willing to hone your craft, it's possible that you'll land a position as a studio songwriter, assisting a wide array of artists on a regular basis.

writing songs

How long does it take to write a song?

The time it takes to create a song varies greatly depending on your individual composition. It could be within a number of hours, or it could take a number of months.

The important point isn't how long it takes you. It's more productive to focus on whether or not you finished the song. You might find that you become a more efficient songwriter as you practice writing.

How do I check if my song is original?

It's possible that you unintentionally borrowed ideas from other popular songs, so it's a good idea to run your lyrics through a search engine like Google to check for originality. As long as you're crafting your own melodies and lyrics, your song is likely cleared as original. Don't use samples of other songs in your compositions unless you've cleared it from the original artist.

How Do I Start Writing Music?

Writing music can seem daunting, but you should be able to do so if you give yourself the chance to play with your sonic and creative instincts. You can start writing a song based off of an emotion, thought, or even just an imaginary situation.

Songs are more or less melodic stories, so it may be a good idea to write the lyrics first and then add notes after the fact. Once you get one song cleared, writing your second one will be even easier.

What if my song sounds like another song?

Oftentimes, songs sound like one another. If this happens to you, you can always switch up a couple of notes in the melody, or try performing in a different key to build originality. Also note that chord progressions can't be copyrighted, so you're free to utilize the same progression as one of your favorite tracks.

Hopefully, you've come away from this piece with plenty of great ways to write music. Enjoy the creation process and start writing!

how to learn to write songs

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How to Write a Song

Techniques and tips for writing your own songs in the 21st century

Omar Zulfi

Written By:

Last Updated: December 2023 | Article Details: 4509 words ( 24 – 26 minute read )

We may earn commissions from purchases made through our links. Learn More .

YouTube video

If you want to learn how to write songs, we’ll give you a step-by-step approach in this article.

We’re going to get into song lyrics, melody, story and more. We’ll also give you some tips on how you can write better songs below. Finally, we’ll have some resources you can use to improve your skills as a songwriter.

One thing to keep in mind is that there are many different approaches for how to write a song – the method we go over here is just one way to do it. But I’ve found it to be a very effective way to write, and many popular artists do something very similar when writing their songs.

Let’s get right into it…

Quick Note: We assume you know what it means when we use the terms “harmony,” “scales,” “chord progresisons,” “melody,” “bars,” and “beats.” If you’re not sure  check out our quick music theory guides  before you read on.

Hand Writing on Paper Next to a Keyboard and Headphones

Article Table of Contents

  • i Video Overview
  • ii Audio Version of Article
  • ii Writing a Song Step-by-Step
  • iv Writing Songs vs. Writing Hits

1. Step-By-Step Process In-Depth

  • 1.1 Song Structure
  • 1.2 Chords and Beats
  • 1.3 The All Important Topline
  • 1.4 Choose Your Best Melodies
  • 1.5 Writing Lyrics
  • 1.6 First Draft + Re-Writing
  • 1.7 Record Your Final Draft

2. Tips to Help You Learn to Write Better Songs

  • 2.1 RE-WRITE YOUR SONGS!
  • 2.2 Don’t Be Cliched or Obvious
  • 2.3 Don’t Be Too Abstract
  • 2.4 Melodies Really Are Everything

4 Frequently Asked Questions

5 Final Thoughts & Additional Resources

Audio Version of Article

Listen to the entire article instead:

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Learn the Secrets to Writing and Producing HIT SONGS

HitSongsDeconstructed

Writing a Song Step-By-Step

We’ll explain everything in this list in more detail in this post, but here’s an overview of the steps involved in writing your own song.

The first thing to do in writing a song is to find a mood/vibe that you like in the moment. You can start with a chord progression that speaks to you or find a full beat/instrumental online to write your song to.

The next step is to find the main melody of your song (the topline) by freestyling and recording ideas using gibberish words or random phrases that come to mind.

Now you will listen to your recordings and pick out your favorite melody ideas. You’ll also want to categorize each melody idea as a “verse,” “chorus,” “pre-chorus,” “bridge” melody.

Now that you have your melody ideas categorized, start coming up with lyric ideas that fit the sound of the melodies. Start with the chorus to come up with a summation of your story, then fill in context/detail in your verses and pre-choruses. Make sure you’re telling an overall story and that your lyrics vibe with the mood of the chords/beat.

Now come up with a rough arrangement of all your lyrics and melodies together – the basic structure should resemble something like Intro-Verse-PreChorus-Chorus-Verse-PreChorus-Chorus-Bridge-Chorus-Outro. Record a rough take so that you can listen to the gist of it as a “full” song.

Now it’s time to listen to your recording with a critical ear and refine and rewrite lyrics so they’re more impactful. Maybe you can refine the melody ideas or flow/rhythm of your delivery. Maybe you can think of better phrases/words to use. Rewrite your entire song to make it the best thing possible.

Now is the time to record a final draft of your re-written song. If you have music production skills or know someone that does, now is the perfect time to record a “demo” of your song with a bit more production work behind it (like a properly recorded vocal, etc.).

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Now it’s important to remember – there’s no wrong way to write a song. The above process is just one single way to do it. It’s a pretty effective way, I’ve found, but it’s not gospel.

If a different songwriting process works better for you, lean into it. The idea is to just be able to write the best material possible. So don’t be afraid to do things differently when writing songs for yourself.

Writing Songs vs. Writing Hits

Before we move any further, it’s probably a good idea to get into the distinction between writing songs and hits.

You can write whatever you want to as a songwriter. Let your creativity and oddity run wild. But don’t expect it to resonate with the masses.

Writing hit songs is an art and a science in itself. There is a craft to it. And certain “rules” or “boundaries” that you usually have to follow to maximize your chances of success with it.

That’s just how it is.

Roll of Money Between Keyboard, Guitar and CDs

If you don’t want to be constrained like that when writing a song, there’s nothing wrong with writing whatever you feel. Express your art. That’s one of the greatest things you can do.

Just don’t complain about it if the song’s not hitting and no one’s listening. If you want a hit, work within the “pop hit” framework. Otherwise, just do you and find contentment in the art.

Decide now what you’re trying to do with your songwriting: do you want to express yourself creatively or do you want mainstream success? Or maybe a bit of both?

Either way, accept the reality of whatever it is you’re trying to do. And always remember you don’t need to be a “hit songwriter” to have success in music. You can build a great career just doing you.

I say that to say… this isn’t an article about writing hit songs , it’s just about writing great songs in general.

How to Write Songs for Beginners – In Depth

Ok, so now let’s take a look at each of the steps involved in writing a song in a bit more depth. Because of the nature of sitting down to write a song, it will be tough to really explain how it’s done in detail, but let’s give it a shot.

The first thing you should know is that most songs have a few different sections:

  • intros/outros,
  • the chorus (same melody across choruses, lyrics sum up the song’s “story” in a catchy/hooky way),
  • the verse (similar melodies across verse, lyrics gives more detail on the story),
  • the pre-chorus (same melody across pre-choruses, lyrics add onto verse and build up into a climactic chorus section)
  • a bridge or “departure” section (a new section with new melodies, new lyrics and sometimes even new harmony/chords).

Most pop songs follow this structure – Intro -> Verse -> Pre-Chorus -> Chorus -> Verse -> Pre-Chorus -> Chorus -> Bridge/Departure -> Chorus -> Outro.

Often times each song section is based on a multiple of 4 bars ( read this if you don’t understand what a bar is). A lot of verses, bridges and choruses clock in at 8 bars of music (sometimes 16). Pre-Choruses are often 4 or 8 bars in length.

Just keep all that in mind for now.

Related Content: Song Structure Explained – A Deep Dive

Step 1: Chords and Beats for Your Song

A song isn’t just music. And music isn’t just sounds. Music (and thus a song) is the change in sound over time. So you need some sort of harmonic movement to really craft any song. And with any song it can really help to start with a chord progression in the very least, instead of trying to come up with a melody and lyrics off jump.

Nowadays a lot of songwriters will search online on YouTube or sites like BeatStars for a pre-made instrumental to write to.

This is a great way to start writing a song , because you have a full production to start writing your song to. You can also try to find a local producer in your city to work with, but that’s much more involved.

When you’re starting out writing a song, all you really need is chord progression – whether you’re using a piano, a guitar or even just a midi pattern .

Person Playing a Midi Keyboard Next to a Mixer

What to Do:

Start with something that’s either 4 or 8 bars/measures and loop it over and over. That’s the “bed” of your song.

Make sure it’s a vibe that matches however you’re feeling in the moment. What kind of song do you want to write? Happy? Melancholy? Angry? Make sure the feeling matches the chords/beat you’re using.

And just play it over and over and start to feel the vibe.

Close your eyes and feel the sounds. You’ll probably want to start humming along with it. That leads into the next step…

Step 2: The All Important Topline

Now that you’ve got a base for your song, it’s time to come up with a topline.

A topline is really just the MELODY of the song . The all-important song melody – the thing people will latch onto, resonate with and remember the most. Not the lyrics, JUST the melody.

This step is all about finding the shapes of your melodies for each part of your song.

Don’t underestimate the power of a great melody in a song. It’s everything – and nowadays, that’s true even if you’re writing a rap song (which is traditionally light on melody).

Set up a phone, laptop or portable recorder to record your voice along with the chords/beats playing in the background. It doesn’t have to be good quality or fancy. It just needs to record audio.

Loop your chord progression for 3 or so minutes if you can. If you’re playing it live with an instrument, just keep playing over and over. If you’re using a beat, just let it play through.

Now start humming along with the musical backing – hum out whatever melody ideas start coming to your mind. It DOESN’T MATTER IF THEY’RE GOOD OR NOT.

Woman Singing While Playing Guitar

This is just brainstorming song melody ideas.

Also, words don’t matter at this stage. You can use gibberish to make up fake/nonsense words while trying to create the melodies, but just humming is fine too.

If you do use gibberish, different song lyric ideas may start to form. Keep them in mind, but don’t worry about finding the right words yet.

This is ALL ABOUT MELODY.

Do this at least 3 times, recording each take. Lots of songwriters use this approach.

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Step 3 – Choose Your Best Melodies

The next step is to choose your favorite melodies and categorize them. You’re going to be choosing the melodies you think are the most impactful for each separate section of your song.

Some things to keep in mind is that each song section (verse, chorus, etc) should be unique and distinct. You don’t want to use the EXACT same melody in every single section of the song or it will be boring.

A lot of times, verse melodies are more subdued than chorus melodies. Chorus melodies are often either really epic or very drawn down. The big thing is that the chorus melody is DISTINCT from the verse melody.

Verse melodies are often also more complex (not much, but a bit) than choruses. Chorus melodies tend to be the most simple and catchy parts of a song.

But again, these aren’t hard and fast rules. You can do whatever you feel like for your song.

Once you have 3 recorded takes of your melody/topline freestyles, play them back to yourself one at a time.

Pay attention for any melody ideas that immediately jump out to you. The kinds of melodies that make you go “oooh that’s dope!”

Categorize that melody – does it sound like it’d be better in the verse or the chorus? Maybe the bridge? Make a note of it.

Listen through every take you recorded and do that for every melody that perks up your ears.

Screenshot of Vocal Comping in a DAW

This is where having some basic music production skills can help.

Categorizing audio clips like this is really easy in DAW (digital audio workstation) software.

By the time you’re done, you should have an overall structure of your song, complete with verse and chorus melodies (and a bridge melody if necessary).

Now, you need to record one more take of your melodies over top of your music – this time in the exact order of your song so far (i.e. verse, pre-chorus, chorus).

You’ll be working with this new recording of each melody you chose, in proper order, to tell the song’s full story.

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Step 4 – Writing the Song Lyrics

Now that you have the melody written for your song, it’s time to work on and write the lyrics . If you’re wondering why we recommend focusing on the melody first, there’s a couple of reasons:

  • It’s easier (and more effective) to fit words into a melody than trying to fit a melody onto words
  • The melody is always more important than the lyrics in a song. Lyrics are important, but melody is much more memorable and needs to be ON POINT first.

But again, this isn’t a hard and fast rule. Do whatever is easiest for you as you write. If you work better by writing song lyrics first, do that. This is just what we find most effective.

Remember this: a song is a story – an emotional journey, in lyrics, melodies and musical backing. They all work together to tell a story and convey emotions.

Start by looping and playing a specific section of your new song recording. It’s normally best to start writing the chorus lyrics first.

That’s because the chorus will be a “summation” or “climax” of the story – the main point or lesson or message the story is trying to tell. Start with the end in mind, and then work backwards to fill in the details and context

Usually the verses and pre-chorus will provide background and details on the story you’re trying to tell, and will build up to an eventual “payoff” in the chorus.

How do you do it?

If you used gibberish during the freestyling, there may have been some outlines of words that would work well in that melody. Try excavating an idea from that gibberish. What is the song’s melody “trying” to say when you listen to it? Write down whatever comes to mind.

Usually the song will tell you what it wants to be.

Just always remember that the song melody is all important. Lyrics you write should work WITH the melody, not the other way around. If the melody ends on an “ooh” sound more easily, try to use a word that does too.

Start to piece together your story with ideas and phrases and words that say what you and the song are trying to say. What’s the “summation” or “climax” of the story you’re telling? Write that as your chorus.

Once you’ve got the chorus, then go back and start thinking of lyrics that could fit the verse. The verse will add context to your story and give background and details. Write the story out in a way that leads to the climax/summation in the song chorus.

And then do the same as you write the pre-chorus (if you’re using one) – it should continue to build up the story to the ultimate payoff in the chorus.

Do this for each section of your song until you’ve got everything written. You’ll usually only have to write one chorus, one pre-chorus, one bridge and 2 or 3 verses.

Quick Tip: I highly recommend writing your lyrics down with pen and paper. There’s just something about being able to cross things out and the motion of actually writing your lyrics that helps make things stick.

Person With Guitar and Notepad

Step 5 – Bring Your First Draft Together

This step is really straight forward.

Now that you have written a first draft of your song lyrics and melody. It’s time to record a rough take of everything you wrote.

Again, this doesn’t have to be high quality. Recording it on your phone is totally fine. Just record one whole run through, from beginning to end, of all you verses, pre’s, choruses and the bridge if you have one.

It’s ok if you screw up a bit here and there during the recording. It’s a rough take. Just something for you to listen to.

Once you’ve recorded this first take of the full song, step away. It’s time to take a break. Don’t move on to the next step until you’ve had time away. You need FRESH EARS for the rest of the steps. Come back later, or better yet the next day.

Step 6 – The All Important Song RE-WRITE

You may feel great about the song you wrote so far. You may think it’s the best thing you’ve ever done. But I can almost guarantee, your song is not as good as it could be.

And that’s where taking the time to perform this extra songwriting step is crucial to writing great songs .

Never underestimate the awesome power of rewriting your song .

Ernest Hemmingway once said something like “the first draft of anything is shit.” And that is the absolute truth.

Spend time refining the songs you write – re-write wherever necessary. That is what will set you apart as a songwriter from everyone else trying to do this thing.

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Take the recording you created of your full song’s first draft, and just sit there and listen to it over and over.

Listen to the song at least 3 times – read your lyrics sheet while listening. Pay attention to the song melodies, the flow of the song sections and the transitions between sections you write.

Does anything feel off? Does anything feel jerky or not smooth and like it fits in it’s proper place?

Are the words you used for a particular line, really the best words/phrases you could use to convey that idea?

Would this particular melody sound better if it ended upwards vs. downwards?

Person With a Computer, Pad of Paper and Crumpled Up Sheet

While you’re listening to your song, ask yourself “how could this be better” for EVERYTHING.

And then try things out. Re-write and re-record things as you make edits. Does it sound better or worse? Compare the versions against each other.

Really sculpt away at the song until you have the absolute purest essence of what you’re trying to do. You can do as many re-writes as you think are necessary.

And once you learn more about the craft of songwriting over time, you’ll start to recognize these opportunities to improve more and more in all your songs.

Step 7 – Record Your Song’s Final Draft

Now that you’ve refined your song to it’s absolute best, it’s time to record a final draft of everything.

Do something similar to what you did in step 5, above – one full run through of the newly re-written song.

Again, it doesn’t have to be super high quality. A phone recording is perfectly acceptable right now.

But at this stage, if you have access to the equipment/skill, you can record a demo of the song. If you’re trying to pitch the song to other artists or labels, a well produced demo can go a long way.

Having said that, just remember that the SONG has to be there. A well produced but badly written song will go nowhere. That’s why I stress the re-write so much. It’s the only way to do things right.

But record a final draft that you can use for whatever purpose you’re writing for. If you’re the artist you’re writing for, you’ll eventually want to record your songs properly, with good equipment.

Having a full, final draft “scratch track” to work from, though, makes everything easier in the long-run. So just record something for now on your phone.

Tips to Help You Learn to Write Better Songs

And there you have it, y’all! You’re officially a songwriter. Congratulations.

That’s not all there is to it. Knowing how to write a great song is a deep and intricate craft. It takes years and years of work to master. Keep learning about the art of writing your own songs. There are so many great resources out there for you to work with.

But for now, here are some general tips to keep in mind when you’re pursuing this craft.

RE-WRITE YOUR SONGS!

I have to say it again, because it’s that important. Great songs are NOT written, they are RE-WRITTEN.

Always re-write your songs. They can always be better. They can always be more impactful, more emotional, more catchy.

When you’re listening through to your song’s first draft that you put together, pay attention to what it is each line is trying to say. Is there a better word/phrase to use that is more modern/unique/etc? Is the metaphor you’re using way too abstract so that no one listening will be able to get it?

Also pay attention to your song melodies! Is your verse melody cohesive and easy to follow or is it all over the place with no real motifs that listeners can latch on to? Are you using repetition and contrast effectively in your melodies?

RE-WRITE YOUR SONGS. Make them the best they can possibly be, because you’re competing with everyone out there in the world.

Don’t Be Cliched or Obvious

A cliché is an overused or very obvious and stereotypical idea. Saying something like “it’s always darkest before dawn” would be a cliché. You should avoid using these phrases and ideas that everyone out there already uses. You want to be interesting and unique in your lyricism.

Another thing is you don’t want to be too obvious in your lyrics. Saying “I love you more than everything” is the most obvious and boring and tired way to say what you’re trying to say. Try to find a unique and interesting way to say the same thing.

Say what you want to say, without saying it directly.

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Don’t Be Too Abstract

Now the yang to the yin – even though you don’t want to be too obvious, you also don’t want to be too abstract where no one even understands what you’re trying to say.

Great writing is the balance between the two within a single song.

Don’t use phrases or slang that is personal or unknown in wider culture. Don’t intentionally try to be so artsy and poetic that it’s difficult to comprehend. And try not to make things so personal to yourself that others won’t be able to connect to it.

Melodies Really Are Everything

Your song’s main vocal melody is SO important. It’s impossible to over-emphasize this. Everything in your song should serve the main melody.

Don’t believe me? Max Martin , arguably the most successful and prolific hit-making songwriter ever, is a strong believer in the power of melody. So much so, that he prefers using words and lyrics that don’t even make sense if it makes the melody of the line better.

Here are some tips for a great song melody:

  • Keep it singable – stay within an octave and a half as much as you can
  • Simplicity is key – make your melody easy to follow along with – not a bunch of complexity, not a lot of wild jumps in pitch, etc.
  • Be balanced – a great melody will use a balanced combination of step-wise movement (note to next note in scale), and intervallic leaps (note to a higher/lower note in scale)
  • Use repetition – motifs are small melodic phrases that repeat throughout a song. It heightens your song’s memorability and helps anchor your listener
  • Keep it interesting – it’s also important to modify your motifs to keep things interesting and not monotonous/boring. Even slight changes like one different note in a repeated section can make a world of difference
  • If you were to draw your melody out on a staff or in music software, it should look like a bunch of rolling hills (gradually moving upwards and then back down again)

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Frequently Asked Questions About Writing a Song

The topic of the songs you write is often very personal to you. But you can write about literally anything. It’s important to keep in mind that there are certain universal ideas that will resonate with more people, more often. Those topics include love and relationships, loss and sorrow/pain, interesting stories, inspiration and living life and even introspection and philosophy. The most popular topic to write songs about is, of course, love and relationships.

Songwriting is a really personal thing. So you want to write wherever you’re most comfortable. Whether that’s a bedroom, a studio, the beach, whatever – you want to find a place that lets you be you without fear of judgement. As far as where to write your song lyrics, I prefer a pad of paper and a pen but using your notes app in your phone is totally fine too. Do whatever feels best to you. Coming up with melodies, however, is usually easiest when recording yourself freestyling.

When you’re first starting out and writing songs, it’s tempting to want to get your song out there. But just wait and focus on your craft. Your first 100 songs are PRACTICE. Once you’re a really good songwriter, you can try joining and reaching out to Performance Rights Organizations (like ASCAP/SOCAN/BMI/etc) and getting them to guide you along your songwriting career. It’s also a good idea to connect with artists and singers in your local city to write with or for them.

You don’t need to be a musician to write your own songs. If you don’t play any instruments or make your own beats you can do a couple different things. You can download full beats/instrumentals for your song from places like YouTube or BeatStars. That’s a great way to start with a full production behind your song. You can also use tools like Beat Building Blocks which contain pre-made, drag-and-drop patterns of chord progressions and drum grooves to easily build your own musical backing to the song you want to write.

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Final Thoughts

When you’re first starting out writing your own songs, you’ll be bursting with ideas. And that’s a great thing – utilize it.

Write as many songs as you can as fast as you can. There’s no getting around it – your first songs are going to suck. It’s just how it is.

My recommendation is to get through your first 100 songs as quickly as possible. Just write, write, write.

Most of what you make will be bad. But after your first 100 songs you’ll likely have become a really skilled songwriter.

The first 100 is just practice. So get it out of the way as soon as possible.

If you really want to level up your songwriting skills, I highly recommend you join HitSongsDeconstructed – they’re the best resource on the internet I’ve found on how to write hit songs.

And there you have it – a complete guide on how to write a song for beginners. I hope you found this article helpful!

Additional Resources

Related Guides and Articles

  • How to Write a Verse
  • How to Write a Pre-Chorus

Tools for Songwriters (affiliate links)

  • Uncover the Secrets of the Biggest Hit Songs in the World
  • Make Your Own Beats Easily With Beat Building Blocks
  • Release Unlimited Music to Spotify, Tidal, Apple Music and More
  • Learn the Art of Songwriting with John Legend
  • Learn How to Sing Better in 30 Days!
  • Learn Songwriting and Production with Alicia Keys
  • Berklee’s Guide to Writing Better Lyrics
  • The Addiction Formula Songwriting Book
  • Shortcuts to Hit Songwriting Book

Back to Main Songwriting Section

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Learnings from the frontlines of music creation.

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How To Write A Song in 7 Simple Steps

How to write your first song

This is lesson is step 2 / 7 of a LANDR Lesson Plan. Click here to start from the beginning or simply just keep on reading.

Most new musicians want to know how to write a song so they can start making original music.

  • Find a spark of inspiration
  • Jot down your ideas
  • Build your creative vision
  • Create a structure
  • Fill out your arrangement
  • Finish your song strong
  • What if I get stuck?

But writing a good song is notoriously difficult.

After all, professional songwriters spend their whole careers chasing success.

But everyone has to start somewhere and you don’t need to be a musical genius to write a good song.

In fact, there’s so many different ways to do it that every songwriter has their own unique workflow and style.

And while there are no rules, there are some easy steps you can follow to help you learn songwriting and get to a finished product faster.

Here’s how to write a song in seven steps.

Unlock better songwriting

Get the tools and knowledge you need to write better music with professional music theory instructors in LANDR Studio.

Learn music theory

1. Find a spark of inspiration

Peggy goes through her songwriting process.

Inspiration is the first step of any creative endeavor, but it’s also the hardest part.

Unfortunately, nothing can provide inspiration on demand—but that doesn’t have to be discouraging.

There are plenty of places to find it if you keep an open mind.

Whether your creative spark comes from your favourite music , your experiences in life , other types of art or specific musical features like, hooks, basslines , lyrics or chord progressions , what matters is finding an idea that resonates and following where it leads.

When you put it that way, getting inspired shouldn’t provoke anxiety.

To help you even more, here’s a collection of resources to help you find songwriting inspiration and make the most of it when it strikes.

Learn to write songs

Everything you need to turn ideas to music.

Preview of youtube video

23 Ridiculous Songwriting Tips That Actually Work

Call and Response: How to Make a Musical Conversation

Call and Response: How to Make a Musical Conversation

Earworm: How to Write Hooks That Get Stuck in Your Head

Earworm: How to Write Hooks That Get Stuck in Your Head

Hard Truths: Music Theory Gets in the Way

Hard Truths: Music Theory Gets in the Way

What is Flow State and Why Does it Help You Make Better Music?

What is Flow State and Why Does it Help You Make Better Music?

Song Hooks: 6 Ideas to Help You Write Catchier Music

Song Hooks: 6 Ideas to Help You Write Catchier Music

Why Getting Out and Living Life is Crucial for Musical Inspiration

Why Getting Out and Living Life is Crucial for Musical Inspiration

Writing Better Lyrics in Your Songs

Writing Better Lyrics in Your Songs

How to Improvise Better on Your Instrument

How to Improvise Better on Your Instrument

5 Places to Find Inspiration Outside of Music

5 Places to Find Inspiration Outside of Music

How to Separate Inspiration from Impersonation in Your Songwriting

How to Separate Inspiration from Impersonation in Your Songwriting

Why You Should Never Quit Making Music

Why You Should Never Quit Making Music

2. jot down your ideas.

When a good idea strikes, you need to be ready.

Capturing musical fragments in the moment of inspiration is a key part of the songwriter’s craft .

If you build up a bank of ideas, you can come back to them later when inspiration doesn’t flow as freely.

In addition to that, being mindful of creativity helps you build your songwriter’s mindset. The more you pay attention, the more often you’ll unlock ideas.

There are a few ways to do it, but here are some basic techniques to help you build successful habits for songwriting.

Keep a lyrics diary

A lyrics diary is a notebook where you record phrases, lyric snippets or other written material to be used in a song.

Many songwriters keep one for flashes of inspiration or idle scribbling during the day.

Starting a lyrics diary is a great first step for learning how to write lyrics .

Once you get in the habit you’ll never go anywhere without it!

How to Write Great Song Lyrics in 5 Steps

How to Write Great Song Lyrics in 5 Steps

Record sketches in your daw or with your phone.

If your songwriting process lives in your DAW or on your instrument, recording sketches of ideas is a must.

Even if you’re not sure your idea is a “keeper,” making a record of it will help you remember it, or develop it into something with more potential later.

Don’t worry if you end up with a folder full of sessions called, “Idea #274903,” it’s all part of the process!

Use a field recorder to capture cool sounds

If your work relies on sampling you may have a different concept of songwriting.

In that case, you’ll know that sounds themselves can be ideas—and that capturing them in the moment is essential.

Luckily a phone mic or portable field recorder can act like a sonic camera when you hear something that inspires.

You never know what it could turn into in your DAW!

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Field Recording: 10 Ways to Use Found Sound in Your Production

Field Recording: 10 Ways to Use Found Sound in Your Production

3. build your creative vision.

With your main idea in hand, it’s time to flesh out a vision for your song.

You don’t need to have everything defined beforehand, but developing the general idea of your song will give you a framework for the rest of your creative process.

Here are some questions to ask yourself as you build out your vision for a song:

What mood will my song have?

Identifying a mood for your song will help you with all sorts of questions. Is it spirited, or melancholy? Should it be fast and aggressive? Or chill and groovy?

Define the mood and you’ll be able to make decisions faster.

What elements will my song include?

You can really narrow things down if you know what your song doesn’t need.

For example, does your song have singing or lyrics ? If not, you can skip that part of the process entirely.

But if you know you need a great bassline to make it work, then it’s worth spending more time to figure it out.

In fact, many songwriters prefer to start with an element they know will be central to the rest of the song.

For some that’s the groove or the drums , for others it’s the vocal hook or chord progression .

Does my song have a topic?

Is your song about something? Do you speak to it directly in the lyrics? Or is it more of a general theme?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, try to focus on your topic as you write.

Some of the best songs tell a story!

4. Create a structure

Anthony explains the basics of song structure.

With a great core idea and a general direction, you’ll need some structure for your song to take shape.

Many songwriters consider structure the toughest part of songwriting, but it doesn’t have to be a stumbling block.

In fact the vast majority of popular songs follow only a handful of possible structures.

I’ll go through the basics here, but if you need a more in-depth guide, head over to our overview of song structure to get up to speed.

Song building blocks

Most songs are made up of three key structural elements— verse , chorus and bridge .

The verse is the section that builds and develops your song’s narrative.

The chorus is where that development pays off. It’s a repeated section that usually contains the most direct statement of the song’s main idea. It also tends to be the catchiest, most memorable moment.

The bridge is a contrasting section that leads the song in a different direction before heading back to a verse or chorus.

Bridges are typically used to shake up the pattern and make familiar elements like the chorus hit extra hard when they come back in.

There are plenty of variations on these basics so check out our other resources about song structure to get the full picture.

But most songs can be broken into these three parts. They’re all you have to know to get started!

Common song structures

With that in mind, here are a few examples of structures you’ll often find in specific genres.

These structures are common, but your song doesn’t have to follow them to work.

All you really have to do is think about your song’s rising and falling action—it’s almost like the narrative arc of a novel or a movie.

how to write a song infographic

Song structure explained

Learn the building blocks of songwriting.

4 Ways To Write an Impactful Verse

4 Ways To Write an Impactful Verse

Preview of youtube video

What Is A Chorus? How To Write A Memorable Chorus

Preview of youtube video

Song Structure: How to Organize a Song

Bridge in Music: How to Tie Your Song Together

Bridge in Music: How to Tie Your Song Together

5. fill out the arrangement.

Arrangement is a big subject in music. It includes topics like key , tempo , instrumentation , chord voicings and more.

Even though arrangement seems challenging, it’s not too difficult if you’re working in a DAW.

If you record your parts as you go, your DAW timeline gives you a bird’s eye view of everything happening in the song.

When you look at it like that, all you have to do is make use of musical variety to enhance your song’s impact.

I’m talking about techniques like building up to a big chorus, changing the timbre of a sound for a different section or varying the dynamics between loud and quiet.

Understanding arrangement in music

Learn to organize, shape and chop ideas into a finished piece.

Music Loops: How to Use Loops to Write Tracks [Get 5 Free Loop Packs]

Music Loops: How to Use Loops to Write Tracks [Get 5 Free Loop Packs]

Preview of youtube video

Arranging Music: 5 Easy Tricks For More Interesting Mixes

Dynamics in Music: How to Unlock the Power of Expression

Dynamics in Music: How to Unlock the Power of Expression

7 Essential Arrangement Tips for Working With Samples

7 Essential Arrangement Tips for Working With Samples

Preview of youtube video

Bass is the Place: How to Start Your Tracks With a Bassline

6. finish your song strong.

A great song with a strong arrangement is a beautiful thing. But even a rock solid tune needs the right presentation to shine.

This stage is where you’ll encounter the two most vital processes in music production— mixing and mastering .

If you’re just getting started with songwriting it might seem impossible to take on a whole new musical discipline. But songwriting and music production aren’t as separate as they used to be.

You’ll never have to turn on a computer to write a great song, but it’s common for motivated songwriters to learn how to produce their own work.

If you develop these basic skills, you can incorporate them into your workflow however you like.

Here are a few ways songwriters can work with music production tools:

  • Mix as you go letting your sound shape your inspiration in the DAW
  • Write your song first and switch into mixing mode to nail down your sound
  • Collaborate with another person in a traditional artist/engineer relationship

Getting your songs ready for release

Learn how mastering works.

What Does Remastered Mean? Remastering in Music Explained

What Does Remastered Mean? Remastering in Music Explained

Mastering Chain: 7 Stages That Shape Your Master

Mastering Chain: 7 Stages That Shape Your Master

Pre-Mastering Guide: 5 Tips for Better Pre-Masters

Pre-Mastering Guide: 5 Tips for Better Pre-Masters

Dynamic Range: What It Is and Why It Matters in Mastering

Dynamic Range: What It Is and Why It Matters in Mastering

How to Hear Compression in Mixing and Mastering

How to Hear Compression in Mixing and Mastering

5 Reasons Why Mastering Matters

5 Reasons Why Mastering Matters

Preview of youtube video

Mixing vs. Mastering: The 5 Main Differences

Loudness 101: How Mastering Levels Affect Your Sound

Loudness 101: How Mastering Levels Affect Your Sound

7. what if i get stuck.

Creative blocks seem like they can strike at any time. No matter what your songwriting process is like, there’s always a chance for creative momentum to slow down.

But it doesn’t mean you’ll be stuck for good.

Part of being a strong songwriter is learning how to beat creative blocks or make them less disruptive when they come along.

In fact, there are plenty of strategies out there to help you kickstart your creativity and get back into songwriting flow.

Here are a few techniques to help you get past it:

Even when you’re not experiencing writer’s block, you might need some extra support to do your best work.

Read - <a href="https://blog.landr.com/free-songwriting-tools-online/">The 10 Best Free Songwriting Tools for Musicians</a>

Read - The 10 Best Free Songwriting Tools for Musicians

Luckily, there are some incredible digital tools available that can help you be more productive and finish songs faster.

Here’s a roundup of helpful tools you can download and use right away:

More songwriting tips

The 7 simple steps above can get you started on your songwriting journey. But there are plenty of other helpful concepts that aspiring songwriters can use to get unstuck.

Here are a few more tips you can use to break through creative blocks.

Write with a collaborator

Plenty of songwriters have found their sound through collaboration with others.

Think of classic songwriting duos like John Lennon and Paul McCartney.

There’s something about bouncing ideas off a collaborator that can increase creativity and yield improved results.

Finding a collaborator that you resonate with isn’t always easy, but this type of musical relationship can take many forms.

Some songwriters prefer writing music, while others excel at writing lyrics.

Some songwriters love arrangement and structure while others would rather focus on hooks.

Whatever your songwriting style, there’s a collaborator out there that can complement it.

Check out our resources on musical collaboration to dive deeper into how you can get work together with other musicians.

Music Collaboration: How to Keep Up Creative Relationships Online

Music Collaboration: How to Keep Up Creative Relationships Online

8 Ways to Make Your Music Collaboration a Success

8 Ways to Make Your Music Collaboration a Success

Learn music theory for songwriters.

Writing songs takes a bit of knowledge of the fundamentals of music.

I’m talking about basics like chords and progressions, rhythm and form.

These are some of the central topics in music theory.

And while it may seem like music theory is a dry academic subject, it’s actually one of the most direct ways to improve the quality of your work.

The more you understand about how musical elements work, the more creative and empowered you’ll feel while using them.

Luckily, you don’t have to be an academic theorist to get most of the benefits. Even the intro concepts of music theory can be helpful for writing songs.

Check out our guides to getting started with music theory to learn more.

Intro to theory

Learn the basics and write better songs.

Preview of youtube video

Major Scales: Learn Scale Degrees, Key Signatures and More

Music Theory: The Basics You Need to Make Better Music

Music Theory: The Basics You Need to Make Better Music

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Try songwriting exercises and prompts.

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Everything you need to start a track.

Like any skill in music, songwriting can be improved with practice.

But how exactly do you practice writing songs? It’s not quite like warming up on your instrument.

The answer is through songwriting prompts and exercises.

Could you write a song about any subject? It’s an interesting question, especially if you typically write from your own inspiration.

Songwriting exercises give you a specific goal to achieve with a song. Songwriting prompts lay out an approach and challenge you to create something with it.

These practices can take some of the pressure off of step number one.

You may not decide to release material that was created from a songwriting exercise, but you never know! You could stumble onto something that may surprise you using these methods.

Analyze your favorite songs

Which songs move you most deeply?

For many aspiring songwriters, your favorite works are often the starting point for your own songwriting journey.

But how can you emulate greatness without just copying? The answer is to analyze great songs to understand how they work.

You can be informed about the underlying mechanics without copying a song beat for beat.

Musical analysis is another task that will test your theory chops, o but it can be a great way to develop your skills.

Listen closely to a song you love and try to identify these key features:

  • The chord progression
  • The tempo and meter
  • The parts of the song ( verse , chorus , bridge, )
  • The lyrics and melody

Become a songwriter

Writing a good song is one of the most satisfying feelings as a musician.

It seems tough when you first start, but everyone can do it if they put in some effort to learn the basics.

From fostering inspiration to crafting the final presentation, there are a lot of steps involved in songwriting.

But discovering each one is an exciting part of the creative journey that will help you develop as an artist.

If you’ve made it through this guide you’ll have a great start for writing your first song.

Michael Hahn

Michael Hahn is an engineer and producer at Autoland and member of the swirling indie rock trio Slight.

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how to learn to write songs

15 Easy Tips for Learning How to Write Songs

15 Easy Tips For Learning How To Write Songs

For those who’ve spent their career as musicians playing with other artists, learning how to write a song can be a challenge. Many artists believe this isn’t something that can’t be taught but I disagree.

When I first started writing songs years ago, I had a hard time figuring out how to start. I worked at it though and over time found that writing music got easier and easier.

Below are some of my biggest tips and exercises I learned for those looking to learn the art of songwriting. With these in mind and a healthy amount of dedication you’ll be on the path to performing your own compositions in no time.

1. Start Writing

This may seem like a no-brainer but even seasoned songwriters can struggle with it. One of the biggest questions beginner songwriters ask is how to start or where to start.

Start writing songs

The biggest secret to songwriting is just to start!

Should you begin with the lyrics or the melody? Is better to find a good instrumental hook or chord progression instead? The simple answer to these questions is that there is no answer.

Everybody writes music in different ways and it’s up to you to figure out what works best. Try several different approaches to songwriting and you’ll soon discover a preference. The biggest part of it all is just sitting down to start writing or nothing will ever happen.

2. Listen to Lots of Music

Listening to other songwriters.

Listening to other songwriters can have a major impact on your writing.

The best lesson you can get in songwriting is through listening to other songwriters and trying to understand how they convey their works. This seems like an easy step but it’s not as simple as putting on background music while doing other work.

Try to attentively listen to the songs and make mental notes as you do. Figure out what works, what doesn’t and what you want to try in your own writing. You’ll soon discover new chord progressions, lyric forms and styles you wouldn’t have thought of otherwise.

3. Write a Song Every Day

As with any other learned skill, learning how to write a song takes a lot of practice. The best way to do this is to commit yourself to sitting down and writing a song every day. Once again, what you write doesn’t have to be anything too fantastic, it could just be a silly tune about what you ate for lunch.

The important thing is that you force yourself to write on a regular basis. Some songs won’t amount to much but periodically you’ll sit down and write something amazing. You’ll soon discover that the more you spend time on it the better your songwriting will become.

4. Carry Around a Journal

Songwriting Journal

Carry around a songwriting journal so you’ll be ready when inspiration hits.

One of the most difficult aspects of learning how to write a song is finding the inspiration. Thankfully inspiration is everywhere if you open yourself up to it. So, carry around a small notebook with you and write down every little thing that incites creativity.

This doesn’t have to always be song lyrics or melodies either. It could be a phrase someone said, a reflection on your day or a sketch of something that looked inspiring. Writing things down will force the creative side of your brain to work overtime and find song ideas in everything you do.

5. Learn New Chords

If you’re new to playing an instrument your musical toolbox may be relatively small. Because of this it’s easy to get into the habit of using the same few chords for every song that you write. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing for the listener but it can start to make things dull for the songwriter.

Write songs on Piano

Learning new chords is a great way to get the creative juices flowing.

After some time you may wonder why you don’t feel inspired in the same way as when you first began writing. This could be because what you’re playing doesn’t give you the same creative surge after hearing it over and over.

Learning some new chords or chord progressions is a quick way to challenge yourself as a songwriter and get your creative juices flowing again.

6. Record Your Ideas

The voice memos app on your phone is one of the most useful tools to the songwriter. I’ve made the mistake too many times of having an idea and not recording it then forgetting it shortly after. Sometimes this can happen in a matter of minutes of having an idea for a melody or chord progression.

Learn from my mistakes and always record your song ideas as soon as you have them. Leaving a recorder running while you come up with ideas is also a great way to write a song. It lets you focus on your spur of the stream of consciousness and not on writing down or perfecting things. After working this way for a while you can go back through your ideas and flesh them out further.

7. Use a Rhyming Dictionary

A rhyming dictionary is key to keeping form and structure when you’re learning about songwriting. One of the things that makes popular music so memorable are rhymes from one line to the next. This makes it catchy for a first time listener and it will stick with them for much longer.

Thinking in terms of rhyming schemes can be especially difficult to the amateur songwriter. Thankfully there are tools like RhymeZone.com or Rhymer.com that make it easy to find words that go well together.

You’ll probably discover rhymes in words you didn’t even know existed. No only that but the more you use a rhyming dictionary, the less you’ll need it as your brain becomes accustomed to thinking in this manner.

8. Use a Thesaurus

Many people may think of using a Rhyming Dictionary when first learning how to write a song. However, not everyone realizes the importance of a thesaurus. Often times you can come up to a brick wall with a phrase you want to say that doesn’t fit your form.

Instead of trying to force lyrics that fit awkwardly, try to find alternatives for what you’re trying to say. A quick Google search of “synonyms for ____” will quickly show you a bunch of options you could use.

You may even discover a brand new direction to take your song that you would have never have thought of otherwise.

9. Co-Songwriting

Co-songwrite

Finding another songwriter to work with can lead to new ideas.

Many of history’s greatest songs were written by more than one person and there’s a good reason for that. Collaboration is a great way to come up with ideas you normally wouldn’t have and it will help a song reach its full potential.

Finding one or two friends you can bounce ideas around with can be a great learning experience. You’ll discover new tricks and techniques and will create new music in a fraction of time it takes to do it alone.

10. Use Garageband

Songwriting in a DAW such as Garageband , Ableton or Pro Tools can be a great way to quickly put together an idea. The instruments and loops in DAWs are all tools for inspiration and experimenting with new sounds can cure help writer’s block.

One word of caution however is not to get caught up perfecting your arrangement while writing. This can ultimately slow you down, when the point of writing in this style is to compose quickly. Remind yourself that you’re not producing a finished track for release. You can always go back to flesh out ideas or fix the production after an idea is complete.

11. Understand That Nothing’s Perfect

To make it easier for you to start, remind yourself that nothing you write is ever going to be absolutely perfect. This is especially true in the beginning when you’re just starting to learn how to properly write a song.

It’s easy to be overly critical of your work and this can be a good thing at times. However, it can also be your biggest enemy. Taking time to go through your writing with a fine-toothed comb can cause you to lose momentum. I don’t think any great songwriter was ever 100% satisfied with their work. The important thing is that they never let that stop them from creating.

12. Share Your Music

For many people, this is one of the most difficult parts of learning how to write a song. Sharing your work can be a scary experience, but it’s an important step in all creative industries.

Share your songs with the world.

It can be difficult but sharing your music with others is what songwriting is all about!

When you are ready to show someone a song for the first time find a close friend that you trust. You don’t have to do so in a way that asks for feedback, especially your first few times. However, once you’re comfortable with playing your songs for a friend start to ask for constructive criticism.

Being able to ask for and take this criticism is a principle quality when learning how write a song. You also don’t have to take every suggestion to heart. However, getting an outside perspective on something will shed light on areas where you can improve.

13. Finish Your Songs

A major problem all songwriters struggle with is actually taking a song from the idea to a finished product. Coming up with an idea for a verse or melody is easy but making it a finished composition takes hard work.

Finish your songs.

The more ideas that you have and leave unfinished, the more you’re teaching your brain how to write parts of songs but not the whole thing. Instead, try to come up with the entire shell of a song as soon as you have the concept. Not every aspect has to be amazing as long as you create an initial rough draft while you’re feeling inspired.

Once you’re able to finish even the worst of ideas, you’ll be more prepared when a great one comes along.

#14. Combine Ideas

If you can’t finish a song no matter how much you write, try to combine it with another incomplete idea. This may take some reconfiguring of lyrics or melody, so keep an open mind and don’t box your ideas in.

Something that you thought was the perfect chorus for a song may actually be the much needed bridge for another. Or, try taking a melody from one idea and using it with lyrics from another.

By “frankensteining” your best parts of multiple ideas together you can finally have some shelved ideas see the light of day.

15. Just Start Writing

Start writing.

This point is so important that I want to conclude by mentioning it one more time. The best way to learn how to write a song is through trial and error. Don’t expect everything you write in the beginning to be awe-inspiring or groundbreaking. Most likely, it won’t and that’s entirely okay.

The important thing is that you begin writing and don’t stop or be discouraged. As with anything, the more you do it the easier it will become and before you know it writing music will become second nature. Eventually you’ll wonder why you ever had trouble songwriting in the first place.

Got a great song, what’s next?

Once you have a great song and are ready to share it with the world, it’s time to record it. Our blog has plenty of tips and tricks for home recording . If you don’t want to record songs yourself, no problem! Sundown Sessions online recording studio also offers plenty of affordable solutions for all types of musicians who want to record their music without all the hassle.

Once you have a song recorded and want to start making some money from it, head over to SyncSongwriter.com . There you’ll find plenty of tips on how to get your music licensed to TV and film to start making a strong, viable income from your work.

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How to Write Song Lyrics

Last Updated: February 10, 2024 Fact Checked

This article was co-authored by Amy Chapman, MA . Amy Chapman MA, CCC-SLP is a vocal therapist and singing voice specialist. Amy is a licensed and board certified speech & language pathologist who has dedicated her career to helping professionals improve and optimize their voice. Amy has lectured on voice optimization, speech, vocal health, and voice rehabilitation at universities across California, including UCLA, USC, Chapman University, Cal Poly Pomona, CSUF, CSULA. Amy is trained in Lee Silverman Voice Therapy, Estill, LMRVT, and is a part of the American Speech and Hearing Association. There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 3,370,822 times.

There’s something magical about good song lyrics. They’re relatable, or poignant, or they just really make you feel a certain way. We all know great lyrics when we hear them, but what exactly makes them so great? How do you write your own song lyrics that convey your message and help people connect with your music? In this article, we break down the songwriting process step-by-step, from getting inspiration to crafting the perfect lyrics to pairing your lyrics with music. Once you know the basics, you'll be ready to write a song whenever inspiration strikes.

Understanding Common Structures

Step 1 Start with the AABA structure.

  • An Introduction - this is the section at the beginning which leads into the song. Sometimes it might sound different from the rest of the song, might be faster or slower, or it might not exist at all. Many songs do not have an introduction, so don't feel like you have to use it. [3] X Research source
  • A Verse - This is the main part of the song. It is usually fifty percent to twice the number of lines as the chorus but it does not have to be. What gives away a section of a song as a verse is that the melody is the same but the lyrics are different between the different verses. [4] X Research source
  • A Chorus - The chorus is the part of the song that repeats without changing: both the lyrics and melody are unchanged or nearly unchanged. This is usually where you try to fit the catchiest part of your song (usually called the hook). [5] X Research source
  • A Bridge - The bridge is a part that exists in some songs but not all. Usually coming sometime after the second chorus, the bridge is a part of the song that sounds completely different than the rest of the song. It is usually short, just a line or two of lyrics, and will sometimes lead into a key change. [6] X Research source

Step 3 Experiment with other structures as you get better at lyric writing.

  • C usually signifies a bridge, other letters that you see cited elsewhere likely just mean that that section of the song is none of the traditional parts and is unique to itself (sort of like taking a verse from a different song and putting it in).

Step 4 Try free form songs.

Getting Inspiration

Step 1 Use stream of consciousness exercises.

  • Do your exercises every day to help you brainstorm . In time, this may help you write better lyrics.

Step 2 Look at existing songs.

  • What you consider to be a good song might differ from someone else's preferences. Focus more on what you like because that's what's important.
  • For practice, you might try writing different lyrics for a song you like. You might change a few lines or create a totally new version.

Step 3 Follow your own opinions in deciding what to write.

  • If you're not sure what kind of music you want to write, give your favorite songs a listen and look for similarities.
  • Find the song writers who penned your favorite songs. Then, check out their body of work to look for trends and to evaluate their style.

Step 4 Look at existing poems.

  • Songwriting is an art-form, so it's good to develop your own style. Don't feel like you need to do what everyone else is doing.

Step 6 Keep writing to get to the good stuff.

  • Lyric writing may go through stages. Don't worry if what you're putting down on paper doesn't look like a song at first. You'll be able to shape it later.
  • Keep everything. If you write a single sentence of a song down, it always leads to something else sooner.
  • It's okay if your songs aren't very good at first. You can always revise them to write better lyrics.

Step 7 Write all the time.

  • Journal entries can be a big inspiration for a song. For instance, when you're going through hard times, you might write song lyrics that encapsulate your frustration, despair or hope. This will help your listeners relate to you.
  • You're probably going to get writer's block, as it happens to everyone. The best way to get past writer's block is to just get words down on paper. Don't worry if they're good or not.

Keeping Music in Mind

Step 1 Understand music notation.

  • Think of a section of music as being like four cups of water. Now, you can pour half of one of the cups into a fifth cup, but that now means that you have two half-full cups. The first doesn't get any more water in it. You similarly can't add extra beats without making it up somewhere (usually with a pause).

Step 2 Start with a melody already written.

  • A good example of this is the USA's national anthem, after the line "For the land of the free". There is a pause before "And the home of the brave", which allows the singer to recover from the very powerful previous few bars.

Finding Your Words

Step 1 Show, don't tell.

  • A good example of an alternative to this "I'm so sad" thing is from Damien Rice's song The Animals Were Gone : "At night I dream without you, and hope I don't wake up; 'Cause waking up without you is like drinking from an empty cup".
  • Brainstorm some ideas so you can see what you have and choose or even build off of an existing idea. It is probably best if you have an inspiration.

Step 2 Rhyme within reason...

  • Good: "You make me feel real again/You just have to smile and I know/The sun's coming out - Amen!"
  • Bad: "I really love my cat/My cat is where it's at/Her tail looks like a bat/She's getting kind of fat..."
  • Of course, there are some genre considerations. Rap often has far more rhyming than other genres, but even then it's not required. It's just stylistic.

Step 3 Try non-standard rhyme schemes.

  • For example, Macklemore's Same Love uses many examples of assonance rhymes and other non-standard rhymes: lately/daily, anointed/poisoned, important/support it, etc.

Step 4 Avoid cliches.

Wrapping Up

Step 1 Read what you wrote.

  • Try to write a great first line to hook the listener.
  • Revising your song is the best way to write better lyrics.

Step 3 Consult with others.

Getting Extra Help

Step 1 Learn how to...

  • With practice, you may be able to teach yourself how to play a musical instrument . However, you might prefer to take classes. This will make it easier to learn proper techniques and concepts like chord progression.
  • Learning to write music will help you write a whole song rather than just writing song lyrics.

Step 2 Learn to read...

Sample Lyrics

how to learn to write songs

Become a Song Writer with this Expert Series

1 - Become a Song Writer

Expert Q&A

Amy Chapman, MA

  • It's good to have a song writing notebook or perhaps a file on your computer. This helps you organize your thoughts better. Thanks Helpful 5 Not Helpful 0
  • Think about who you want to hear your song. What is it that you want them to hear? Thanks Helpful 7 Not Helpful 1
  • Never dismiss an idea for a song as "too stupid". Many of the best songs are about the most outlandish topics. Thanks Helpful 4 Not Helpful 1

Tips from our Readers

  • Check out songs you love and study how the lyrics work. Try out different writing techniques until you land on a style that clicks. When I first started, I had no knowledge of song structure. Then I realized my favorite band used a specific song structure, so I tried that and progressed way faster. Play with writing all kinds of songs to stretch your skills. Audiences like variety.
  • Nail down the lyrics if you'll sing your songs live on stage. Before a show, have someone check to make sure the words make sense. If you blank on the lines, take a breath and go through them slowly. Rereading a few times can help them stick. This will give you confidence to belt out those lyrics.
  • When first writing songs, you might copy classic tunes too much. While you can take cues from favorite songs, put your own spin on things. Most artists don't like direct copies. Instead, channel the vibe or style you admire, then create your own melodies and lyrics.
  • Don't filter your real feelings when you write lyrics. Grab a pen and paper and let it all out — get to know yourself better in the process! The page won't tell your secrets or judge you, so share freely. Use this as therapy for your mind and heart.
  • Craft lyrics that feel true to who you are. Songs come off more real when the words ring true to your identity. If certain lines seem untrue to your personality, they could be tough to perform with conviction.
  • Keep a notebook on you to jot down song ideas when they hit. Inspiration can strike anywhere, anytime, so be ready to follow those creative sparks. Revisit your notes later when you're working on new material.

how to learn to write songs

  • Don't plagiarize a song somebody else wrote or you could get in some serious legal trouble. But it's good to pick a style of lyrics or music you like. So if you like Katy Perry, write pop like her. Or if you like Taylor Swift, write lots of love songs. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • Example : My life is horrible and I think it is horrible because I left my cat at my Grandma's and she won't give my cat back so what am I going to do ohhh yeah... What am I gonna do? (that was bad)

Things You'll Need

  • An instrument - the guitar,the piano or whatever you can play (recommended to have on hand to create the melody)
  • Pencil or pen
  • Paper or computer (depending on whether you choose to write or type your lyrics)
  • You can also use your mobile phone instead of pen and paper

You Might Also Like

Blend Two Songs Together

  • ↑ http://www.songstuff.com/song-writing/article/aaba-song-form/
  • ↑ https://www.careersinmusic.com/song-structure/
  • ↑ https://www.fender.com/articles/play/parts-of-a-song-keep-it-straight
  • ↑ https://online.berklee.edu/takenote/how-to-write-song-lyrics/
  • ↑ https://thinkwritten.com/poetry-writing-inspiration/
  • ↑ https://lens.monash.edu/@politics-society/2019/07/19/1375851?slug=the-future-of-music-notation-in-a-digital-world
  • ↑ Amy Chapman, MA. Voice & Speech Coach. Expert Interview.1 April 2020.
  • ↑ http://songwritinglessonsonline.com/howtowritemusiclyrics.html
  • ↑ https://www.secretsofsongwriting.com/2017/03/01/how-to-know-if-your-song-is-good/

About This Article

Amy Chapman, MA

To write song lyrics, try writing down everything that pops into your head for several minutes without stopping. Then, take a look at what you've written to see if anything inspires you. You can also try looking at different songs and poems for inspiration and to get an idea of what kind of lyrics you enjoy. As you're writing your song, focus on describing how you feel in interesting ways as opposed to just telling people, which will make your song more relatable and memorable. To learn how to organize your song, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to write song lyrics in 5 easy steps

how to write song lyrics

So you want to learn how to write lyrics? Whether you’re looking to pen the next big hit or you’re just hoping to tell your own story in an authentic way, writing lyrics can be a fun and highly cathartic creative process. Lyric writing can also be a scary task to take on if you’ve never written a song before!

As a professional songwriter of 12 years, I still have days where my mind is just as blank as the page in front of me. In all my years of songwriting, I’ve learned some useful songwriting tips that I can’t wait to share with you!

In this article, we’re going to go over five steps to help you write your first song along with some of my own lyric writing tips that have helped me to write lyrics that truly resonate with listeners over the years.

Learn how to write song lyrics:

  • Choose your story
  • Brainstorm ideas
  • Structure your song
  • Put your lyrics to music
  • Refine and edit your lyrics

How to write song lyrics

1. choose your story.

Lyric writing, at its core, is about storytelling. So it makes sense to know what story you want to tell before you begin! Start by choosing a topic or theme you want to write about. It could be a personal experience, a feeling, or a message you want to pass on to the listener.

If you’re trying to write your first song, my advice is to tell a story that you’ve actually lived through. This will help to give your lyrics a sense of authenticity. There’s a reason people say “write what you know.” Most listeners can tell when song lyrics are authentic and honest (or not).

For example: unless you’ve actually partied in Ibiza, it’s probably best not to write about it. But, for Mike Posner , the opening line of “I Took A Pill In Ibiza” really comes off quite honest and vulnerable.

The best lyrics tend to be more “emotionally charged.” This helps the listener to feel what the writer was feeling. So if you want your lyrics to really connect with others, it helps to choose a story you truly care about.

When learning how to write good lyrics, try to use imagery and metaphors to create a more vivid and engaging story. This can help your audience connect with the emotions and experiences you’re describing. Try to focus on activating multiple senses (sight, sound, taste, touch, and smell) in order to bring the listener into your world.

For example, rather than saying “the tea tasted like lavender,” you could say “the lavender lounged on my tea-soaked tongue.” Although both are relaying the same facts of the story, the second version allows the listener to activate more of their senses.

2. Brainstorm ideas

Once you have the story you wish to tell, start brainstorming some ideas around it. Write down any words, phrases, or images that come to mind. Don’t worry about making them rhyme or fit into any specific structure at this point. The key here is to just get your ideas out onto the page so you actually have some pieces to work with.

When you’re brainstorming ideas, make sure to focus on the audience. Ask yourself “who is this song for”? Is it for you? Your friends? A room of metalheads moshing their brains out?

Obviously, you’ll want to use words, phrases, and lyrical styles that are fitting for your audience. But, even the lyric “put your hands up” carries a totally different meaning when you’re talking to one person, versus a thousand. Keeping your audience in mind will allow you to better speak directly to them.

Brainstorming can also happen at any time in the songwriting process. Inspiration doesn’t always just flow the second you sit down to write a song! It helps to have a way to store your creative ideas when you’re on the go. Whether you bring along a physical journal, or simply record voice memos in an app on your phone, having a way to jot down your ideas on the fly will provide you with a useful collection to look back on when it is time to sit down to write.

Take a notebook with you to brainstorm ideas

You don’t just have to take notes from your own experiences either. Pay close attention to the lyrics in songs you like. What makes their lyrics do it for you? Do they use a unique rhyme scheme or is it their poetic imagery that you like? Perhaps it’s the subject matter of the song that really helps it hit home for you. Whatever the case may be, start listening to lyrics analytically and try to figure out how to implement what you enjoy into your own writing style.

Some of my favorite songwriters I draw inspiration from are K.Flay , Julia Michaels , Dean Lewis , and SYML .

When in brainstorming mode, it also helps to have some music software tools at the ready. If you’re just getting into the world of songwriting, I would recommend checking out KOMPLETE START . This free bundle of synths, sampled instruments, loops, and other sounds is sure to spark some inspiration.

Get KOMPLETE START for free

3. Structure your song

Now that you have a bundle of decent ideas to work with, it’s time to start polishing and piecing them together into a completed song with proper song structure . Keep in mind that structuring a song is always a subjective process and there are different ways to approach it depending on the genre and your own personal preferences.

Most songs typically include these sections:

  • Intro : The beginning of the song, usually instrumental or with minimal vocals, to grab the listener’s attention.
  • Verse: The section that sets up the story or message of the song, usually with a consistent melody and chord progression.
  • Chorus : The section with a catchy melody and lyrics that the listener can sing along with. The chorus usually contains the main message or “hook” of the song.
  • Bridge : A section that provides contrast to the verse and chorus, both musically and lyrically. It often serves as a transition between the two and adds more depth and dynamic to the song.
  • Outro : The end of the song, which can either be a repetition of the chorus or a unique ending.

Many song writers typically save their best lyrics for the chorus. After all, you do want the chorus to be the catchiest bit. But it’s often a good rule of thumb to start your song off with something that’ll “hook” the listener.

The opening sentence of a book is arguably the most important, because that line determines if the reader will keep on going. Since the main goal of writing good song lyrics is to get the listener to keep listening, you’ll want to start with a strong, opening line. Grabbing the listener’s attention right off the bat will mean you’ll have a better chance of keeping them around to hear the rest of your story.

And when piecing your various lyrical ideas together, feel free to re-order the typical song sections above to your liking. The main goal of this process is to experiment and find a structure that works best for allowing your lyrics to flow smoothly. Think back to the story you’re trying to tell. What sort of structure would help you tell that story best?

4. Put your lyrics to music

Once you have the structure of your song pretty well figured out, it’s time to put your lyrics to music.

Choose a chord progression for each section of your song. Keep in mind that it’s pretty common to use the same chord progression for the verses and chorus, but typically the bridge section switches things up at least a little bit in order to build tension between the verse and chorus.

Unless you’re writing rap lyrics, it’s important that your lyrics also follow a strong melody . But again, the point is to play with it and see which melody fits with your chord progression AND your lyrics.

We’ve been talking about chord progressions, melodies, and song structure—all key components of songwriting. Understanding music theory as well as these concepts obviously helps when it comes to crafting chord progressions and melodies for your lyrics to pair with. If you’re brand new to the world of songwriting, take a look at this introduction to music composition .

5. Refine and edit your lyrics

Once you have a draft of your song lyrics, take the time to refine and edit them. Look for ways to improve the flow, rhythm, and structure of your song. Try to eliminate any unnecessary words or phrases, unless they contribute to the overall cadence you’re needing in order to tell your story best.

Arrange, rearrange, and fine-tune your lyrics to make sure they’re easily singable. It always helps me to practice singing or reciting the lyrics out loud because this lets me identify any awkward phrases or sections that need revision. Keep reworking it until you’re happy with the final result!

And it’s important to remember this when learning how to write good lyrics: If your lyric writing is lacking inspiration, don’t be afraid to take a break, go out into the world, and have some experiences worth writing about!

I’ll often go in phases of songwriting. Sometimes I’ll write three songs in a day. And other times I won’t write anything for three months. It all just depends on the state of my life at the time. I’ve found that if you’re itching to write some new lyrics and nothing is flowing, there’s no shame in taking yourself on an adventure to go find some fresh inspiration.

Take the time to refine and edit your song lyrics

Start writing song lyrics

Remember, songwriting is a process that takes time and practice. I’ve been writing songs for nearly 25 years, but I feel I’ve only been writing good songs for the last decade.

It’s a technical art that needs to be honed, crafted, molded, and nurtured; but, the goal of writing great lyrics should always be to share your own story. So, don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things—that’s how you’re going to bring your own, unique voice into the world!

For further reading on the subject, check out this guide on songwriting basics . And if you haven’t already, get KOMPLETE START for free to get access to tons of sounds, instruments, and more to inspire your songwriting.

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how to learn to write songs

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how to learn to write songs

The Ultimate Guide To Learning How To Write Songs

Songwriting is a process we can all learn. Are you ready to learn how to write songs with us?

Over 250,000 guitar-learners get our world-class guitar tips & tutorials sent straight to their inbox: Click here to join them

In this free lesson you will learn…

  • The cornerstones of songwriting
  • An intro to musical intervals
  • 2 chord progressions you can put together
  • The best way to write melodies
  • How to put it all together in a song!

Let’s Learn How To Write Songs!

Songwriting is an art form that’s easy to get into when you have the right resources, but there are a lot of things to consider.

If you’ve been playing guitar for a while and you want to start learning how to write songs, you’ll likely want a bit of foundational knowledge to support you on your journey.

Writing music takes time and consideration – from the chords you choose to the melody you layer overtop, every move you make matters.

write-songs

Thankfully, it’s easier than ever to practice writing music thanks to the wonders of modern technology, so you can easily bust out the latest recording app on your phone to lay down some ideas to play with.

Some recording apps even let you loop a recording so you can practice fluidly overtop!

With all these wonderful advancements in recording technology in recent years, the only thing we have left to focus on is the process of learning to write songs themselves.

In this lesson, we’re going to give you a solid foundation that will cover all the bases of songwriting in a simple and effective way.

Writing music is all about process, so let’s explore that process in detail.

write-songs

Learning To Write Songs #1: Understanding Chord Progressions & Chord Similarities

Chords lie at the root of every song in existence – even solo melodies can have chords implied beneath them with ease.

If we’re going to learn how to write songs, we’ll need to understand chords and how they work.

As you know, chords are simply composed of notes stacked together. These notes can move, giving us new chords in the process. When we move notes within chords, or when we move to a different chord, we create motion.

This is an important concept that we’ll keep coming back to, so keep it in mind as you learn to write songs with us.

write-songs

Let’s take an example of two chords – C major and A minor – and look at the notes they possess:

E String: E

B String: C

G String: G

D String: E

A String: C

E String: X

High E String: E

G String: A

A String: A

See the similarities in these two chords?

Not only are the hand shapes similar, but they both possess two E notes. This means they will be easy to play between (it also means that they’re in the same key, which you will need.)

write-songs

It can then be said that playing these two chords back-to-back creates “good harmonic motion” as they can retain at least one note between them, while changing the other two.

These two chords function well together, and that’s what we want to look for in our chord progressions: chords that function well together.

how to learn to write songs

(If you don't understand the above image please read our article " How To Read Guitar Chordboxes In 60 Seconds ". It will make everything clear!)

how to learn to write songs

Good harmonic motion can be found in all sorts of different chord combinations – try this with all of your favourite chords and compare the notes in them to see what changes/what stays the same.

In order to more easily make sense of the notes within your favourite chords, check out this diagram of the fretboard showing all the notes in their various positions – this will help you greatly in learning to write songs.

Use this to start looking past the chords themselves and into the notes.

write-songs

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Learning To Write Songs #2: A Little Bit Of Theory

Every key and scale has a series of parameters that we need to follow in order to get a sensibly melodic outcome when we’re learning to write songs.

There are a couple of rules we can follow right out of the gate:

  • We want to use chords that fall into the same key
  • We want to use chords that compliment each other
  • We want to create a good sense of motion between chords
  • We want to follow the guideline of chord types in each key

how-to-write-songs

Depending on whether you’re in a major or minor key, the chord types available to you will be slightly different. When we’re learning to write songs, it’s important that we know the chord types in both major and minor keys.

The chord types in a major key (numbered by their intervals) are listed below in the key of C major:  

  • B Diminished

Now, let’s look at the chord types in a minor key, listed below in the key of A minor:

write-songs-on-guitar

Did you see it?

In the key of C major and A minor, the chords are exactly the same – just in a different order.

This is because A minor is known as the “relative minor” of C major, meaning that these two keys will share all the same notes and chords in a different order from one another.

Pro Tip: You can locate the relative minor of any major key simply by moving back three notes from the root of any major key.

This is important because the progression of chords informs the mood of the song we write, and therefore we need to be aware of our chord choice when we learn to write songs.

write-songs-lesson

Learning To Write Songs #3: How To Create Motion In Chords

Now that we’ve learned a bit about the intervals and chords within major and minor keys, we can start to put some chords together and work on the motion we talked about earlier.

Although you can certainly learn to write songs using only two chords (or sometimes even one), we’re going to focus on four-chord progressions just so we can really hear the chords move from one to the next.

We’re going to keep with the key of C major for this lesson on learning to write songs, so let’s first look at a chord progression with a tight sense of motion .

Here’s our first example:

how to learn to write songs

This chord progression functions well because it allows the notes to move around, creating a nice sense of motion without any huge, dramatic movements.

The C major moves to the G major, and the C on the A string becomes a B. The C on the B string becomes a D in the G major chord as well.

From the G major chord, we hold onto the D on the B string and move to a D minor, providing a stable and easy move.

write-songs-tutorial

Once we’ve played our D minor chord we move to A minor, once again creating a small set of movements that set up our glorious return to C major.

The D in the D minor on the B string returns to a C note at the first fret for the A minor chord, setting us with the relative minor chord that will give us a triumphant return to the C major chord.

As you can see from this example, learning to write songs is about finding chords that pair well together. To do this effectively, we need to understand musical keys and the chords they contain.

Once we learn these principles, we can string chords together in the same key with confidence.

Try this A minor chord progression on, and look for where each note moves to in the following chord!

Pro Tip: Did you know that many pop songs use the same four chords? Here’s the band “Axis of Awesome” to teach you more about just that- click here .

how to learn to write songs

Learning To Write Songs #4: Understanding Musical Scales

It’s worth noting at this point that because all of your chords are in the same key, there will be an element of tightness to your chord movement regardless.

This is because most of these chords share notes with one another.

In genres like Jazz, songs are written across multiple musical keys, creating more dramatic chord movements. As impressive as it is, that’s not how we write songs in the beginning.

This puts us at an advantage, though – All this means is that so long as we stay in one key, we can’t lose on the chords we pick.

There’s an art to picking those chords, and it lies in understanding the major and minor scales and their intervals. For this lesson, we’re going to focus on just the major scale for now.

easy-way-to-write-songs

The major scale is composed of seven notes, and each one of those notes holds a specific level of tension in relation to the other notes in the scale.

Our ears naturally want to hear us return to the root of the chord progression, so it’s important to pay attention to the level of tension in each interval and where else it pulls you harmonically.

Interval Stability Chart:

I – Root – Stable Interval

II – Unstable Interval – Can pull us toward either the I or the III

III – Stable Interval

IV – Unstable Interval – Can pull us toward the III

V – Stable Interval

VI – Unstable Interval – Can pull us toward the V

VII – Unstable Interval – Can pull us toward the I

guitar-song-writing

Try This: Play either one of the chord progressions from the previous section, and play the C major scale over top of those chords.

Listen for the tension and release of each note to see how the notes react to the chords you’re playing. This is important when learning to write songs!

You can record the chords with your phone’s recording app, or with a loop pedal if you have one.

ways-to-write-a-song

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Learning to write songs #5: applying scales to create a melody.

Now that we’ve covered musical chords, intervals and their appropriate levels of tension as well as a few chord progressions, we can start getting to melody writing.

When we’re learning to write songs, it’s important to pay attention to what we want to sit on top of our chords.

Ever had a melody you’ve just hummed in your head? You can put chords under that! So start humming along to the two progressions above and let’s get started.

free-guitar-lesson

Your melody could be played by the guitar, by a piano, a vocalist, whatever you like – but it should do two distinct things:

  • Compliment both the rhythm and chord progression of the song you’re writing
  • Follow (at least) some of the harmonic motion of the chord progression.

Following these two principles when learning to write songs ensures that your melodies will stick well with your chords, and that they will sound awesome every time.

Pro Tip: We’re purposely not going to give you a riff or melody to play in this section because we want you to make your own. Practice playing the C major scale once again over either of the two chord progressions above, and see what sticks out to you.

national-guitar-academy

#6: Creating Different Sections

Now that we’ve established all of our groundwork between scales, chords, intervals and melodies; there’s one last thing we’ve got to do:

Create a second section!

When we write songs, we often name these sections with letters, like “A” and “B” to help us indicate where we are in the song.

Due to the wonderful fact that both chord progressions above are in the same key, we can use both of them in this song!

Your C major progression will serve as an A section.

The A minor progression will serve as a B section.

how to learn to write songs

B sections allow us to get more creative with our melodies and chord progressions, allowing more space for movement within the confines of the song.

When we’re learning to write songs, leaving room for creativity is important. B sections help with that.

Pro Tip: You can add as many different sections to a song as you like! Get creative with it, especially when you put your lyrics down.

how to learn to write songs

#7: Putting It All Together

Well, we’ve reached the end! You’ve learned all the fundamentals, more or less!

The only thing left to do now is practice, but you can make note of the following principles to make your life a little easier:

  • Pay attention to note movement and tension between chords so that your chord changes are always complementary to one another (i.e. don’t use a tense interval if you don’t want tension in that part of your song)
  • Follow your ears! It’s important to listen for where chords want to lead to, and often the best solution for the next chord is right in front of you already
  • Don’t overcomplicate it – Simplicity is often the best course of action when learning to write songs, so don’t make it hard on yourself.

how to learn to write songs

How To Create A Process To Write Songs

It takes time to create a process for yourself, but by following the principles outlined above you’ll be able to start mastering the art of writing music in no time!

The most important part of all of this is that you not be hard on yourself and give yourself time to learn. Impose melodies over chord progressions, and sing along to what you write.

Learning to write songs doesn’t just make us better musicians, but it improves our ear training in the process as well (which is super important!)

Stay on the path of creativity!

Recommended Resources

Did you enjoy this lesson on learning to write songs?

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20 songwriting apps and books that will level up your music

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If you’ve ever tried to write a song, you know that it can be a challenge.

Sometimes you feel uninspired; other times you know what you’d like to say but may not be able to find the right words.

Then, of course, there’s the pressure of writing a song that people will actually listen to and like.

The good news is, there are countless resources out there that can help you improve your songwriting. Whether you’re just getting started or you’re a seasoned songwriter looking to streamline your process and write better songs, there are techniques you can learn and tools you can use.

In this article, we’ll share 10 apps and 10 books about the art of songwriting that will make your creative process more enjoyable.

The songwriting apps will allow you to move beyond pen and paper and write your songs in a way that’s more efficient and productive. They provide words, rhymes, chords, and other suggestions to help you bring your ideas to life without getting stuck or interrupting your creative flow. Many are free to use or cost just a few dollars.

The books will provide you with exercises, writing prompts, examples, and practical advice on how to write great lyrics, melodies, rhythms, and harmonies. They’re written by award-winning songwriters and many are used as textbooks at the Berklee College of Music.

Without further ado, let’s take a look at the songwriting apps and books that will help you take your craft to the next level.

10 songwriting apps that will change the way you write songs

1. word palette (free, ios).

Word Palette is the perfect app for getting over writer’s block. It lets you switch between a regular keyboard and a collection of scrambled text, from which you can borrow words and generate new ideas. You can use the app’s built-in collections or create your own by importing your favorite articles, poems, quotes, and other song lyrics.

2. Simple Songwriter ($4.99, iOS)

Simple Songwriter is a handy tool if you don’t play an instrument or don’t have one on hand. You can browse a selection of chords, try them out, and record a simple progression. You can also record your singing at the same time. After you’ve recorded the chord progression, you can change the key, swap out any of the chords, and fix the timing.

3. BandLab (free, iOS, Android, and Desktop)

BandLab is a mobile DAW you can use to make music anywhere. It’s a great tool for songwriters because you can use it to record your ideas on the go, be it melodies, harmonies, basslines, or any other instrumental parts. It features a looping station you can use to generate new ideas and a notepad for writing down lyrics.

4. Rhymer’s Block (free, iOS and Android)

Rhymer’s Block can streamline your lyric writing process by suggesting rhymes as you type. It’s perfect for finding the perfect rhyme or getting over writer’s block and coming up with new ideas.

5. RhymeZone (free for Desktop, $2.99 for iOS, and $3.99 for Android)

RhymeZone is another great tool for finding rhymes and inspiration. Simply input a word and browse a list of its perfect rhymes, near rhymes, synonyms, descriptive words, and much more.

6. Suggester ($13.99 / free lite version, iOS and Android)

Suggester helps you choose chords that work well together. You can try out different chords to see how they sound and build progressions that give your song the exact mood and emotion you want to create. It’s perfect for songwriters who aren’t well versed in music theory, but want to be able to experiment with a wide range of possibilities.

7. Hum ($3.99, iOS)

If you currently use a note app to write down lyrics and a separate voice recorder to capture melodies, you’ll love Hum. It combines these two features into one app, so you can store all your ideas in one place. You can also organize your songs by key, tuning, use of capo, and even mood.

8. Lyric Notepad (free, iOS and Android)

Lyric Notepad is an all-in-one tool for songwriters. It lets you record yourself singing and attach the recording to any part of the lyrics, find rhymes, count syllables, take notes, and much more.

9. Autochords ($4.99 / free lite version, iOS)

Autochords provides chord progressions so you can focus on writing lyrics and melodies. You can select progressions in a variety of styles and moods, as well as change the tempo and key of your song. The app also displays chord diagrams for piano, guitar, and ukulele, so you can learn to play an instrument at the same time.

10. Songwriter’s Pad (free lite version, iOS, Android, and Desktop)

Songwriter’s Pad is another all-in-one solution. It can help you find rhymes, note down chords, and capture recordings. It’s also a handy tool for overcoming writer’s block—it has a built-in idea generator that will provide you with words and phrases based on a selected emotion.

Bonus: CoSo (free, iOS and Android)

One bonus entry to conclude this songwriting apps section is Splice’s very own CoSo. The app allows you to easily create unique ‘Stacks’ of up to eight loops that can serve as great instrumental beds for writing toplines and developing lyrics.

10 songwriting books you need to read

1. writing better lyrics by pat pattison.

This book has been a must-have in the songwriter’s toolkit since it was first published in 1995. The new 2010 edition will take you through over 20 hit songs and examine what makes them great, so you can apply the learnings to your own lyrics. You’ll also complete 50 exercises that will teach you how to turn your ideas into powerful, compelling songs. Get ready to practice songwriting every day, put in the work, and watch your songs come to life.

2. Songwriting Without Boundaries by Pat Pattison

Looking for even more lyric writing exercises? Pat Pattison has got you covered with another songwriting book, complete with over 150 prompts you can use to practice your craft. It features four 14-day challenges to help you commit to a routine and make songwriting a habit.

3. The Craft of Lyric Writing by Sheila Davis

Published in 1985, this book has stood the test of time and helped countless songwriters develop their lyric writing skills. It covers song forms, tools and techniques for writing better lyrics, putting them to music, common songwriting mistakes, and much more. Each lesson is illustrated with examples of real songs, so you can see the techniques in action. And don’t be deterred by the fact that these examples are a few decades old—everything you’ll learn is still very much relevant and applicable to modern music.

4. Tunesmith: Inside the Art of Songwriting by Jimmy Webb

This book offers a glimpse into the life and creative process of award-winning songwriter Jimmy Webb. Part autobiographical and part instructional, it shines a light on every aspect of songwriting, from crafting to selling your songs. Expect to encounter a bit of history, personal anecdotes, songwriting techniques, music theory, industry advice, and everything in between.

5. Songwriters On Songwriting by Paul Zollo

Get your hands on the revised and expanded edition of this book to read 62 interviews with some of the greatest songwriters of our time. Get up close and personal with musicians like Bob Dylan, Alanis Morissette, Madonna, and Leonard Cohen and hear directly from the source about their inspiration, creative process, and musings on the art of songwriting.

6. Melody in Songwriting by Jack Perricone

This book will teach you how to write interesting and memorable melodies, and use harmony to take these melodies to the next level. It also breaks down hit songs to examine exactly what makes them special, so you can use the same techniques in your own songwriting.

7. The Songwriter’s Workshop: Melody by Jimmy Kachulis

This book uses a hands-on approach to teach you how to write melodies and make use of rhythm and structure. It even comes with access to recordings, so you can practice your newly learned songwriting techniques in real time. Once you’ve finished this book, be sure to check out its sequel, The Songwriter’s Workshop: Harmony .

8. How To Write One Song by Jeff Tweedy

If you’re new to songwriting and are lacking the self-confidence to get started, this book is for you. It focuses on finding joy in the creative process and will gently guide you through writing your first song. After reading this book, you’ll not only finish your first song, but feel inspired and empowered to write many, many more.

9. The Addiction Formula by Friedemann Findeisen

If your goal is to write radio-ready pop songs, this book is a must-read. It breaks down over 300 chart-topping songs from artists like John Legend, Maroon 5, and Rihanna, and uncovers the secrets of their success. It goes beyond lyrics and melody to discuss things like arrangement and production, so it’s a helpful read for producers, too. No matter what your role is in the music creation process, you’ll learn how to craft songs that are captivating, engaging, and addicting.

10. The Ultimate Book of Song Starters by Ed Bell

No matter how much songwriting experience you have under your belt, there will always be times when you feel creatively stuck and out of ideas. That’s where this book comes in—it features over 500 songwriting prompts in the form of word starters, chord starters, and rhythm starters. The next time you feel uninspired, pick an idea from this book and see where it leads you.

Use these songwriting apps and books to create your best music yet

With these songwriting apps and books in hand, you have everything you need to improve your songwriting skills. The only thing left to do is establish a regular writing routine and practice your craft every single day. In no time at all, you’ll be able to write without waiting for inspiration to strike and bring your songs to life in a way that’s easy and fun.

Best of luck with your songwriting!

Explore royalty-free one-shots, loops, FX, MIDI, and presets from leading artists, producers, and sound designers:

July 7, 2022

how to learn to write songs

SAYANA is a contemporary R&B singer-songwriter based in Toronto, Canada. She’s currently releasing a new song every month for a year. Check out her latest release, “Nobody Needs to Know” anywhere where you listen to music.

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Learn how to make beats for a song with this in-depth guide, where we cover everything from the tools you’ll need to how to sequence your own rhythms.

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Get to know CoSo, Splice’s new music creation surface for iOS and Android.

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Learn how to maximize the moments in your day-to-day life when you’re not in your dedicated creative space.

IMAGES

  1. 15 Easy Tips for Learning How to Write Songs

    how to learn to write songs

  2. How To Write Lyrics For A Song By Your Own

    how to learn to write songs

  3. How to Write Songs in 5 Steps or Less

    how to learn to write songs

  4. How to Write a Song (with Examples)

    how to learn to write songs

  5. How To Write a Song In 5 Steps

    how to learn to write songs

  6. How to Write a Song

    how to learn to write songs

VIDEO

  1. How To Write A Song for Beginners! #howto #music #writing #songwriter #inspiration #nathanleazer

  2. Easy Techniques to Write Songs Every Day

  3. Songwriting tip to write new melodies and chord progressions!

  4. How to learn write Letters E 3D

  5. Learn to write, instruction and relax .Lovely Fauna Youtube Channel

  6. How to write Keya in Korean language

COMMENTS

  1. Simple Songwriting Guide: How to Write a Song in 5 Steps

    Written by MasterClass Last updated: Dec 15, 2021 • 3 min read Even if you believe you don't know how to write a song, you may find yourself surprised at the music bottled up within you. The songwriting process varies from artist to artist, but if you approach it with a plan, you'll have the tools necessary to produce your very first song.

  2. LEARN HOW TO WRITE A SONG: a step-by-step guide

    LEARN HOW TO WRITE A SONG: a step-by-step guide This easy-to-use guide will show you how to write a song, from finding a great title to writing your melody. Hands-on songwriting exercises will jump start your creativity, while 'how-to' video tutorials are a fun way to find out more. by Robin Frederick. Request permission to reprint

  3. How to Write a Song: A Step-By-Step Beginners Guide to ...

    Want to learn how to write a song from start to finish? Follow this step-by-step guide by professional music teachers and songwriters.

  4. How to Write a Song: An Introduction to Songwriting

    Want to learn how to write a song? In this introductory guide, we'll help you unpack the basics including song form, chord progression, melody, and more! Musicnotes Nov 7, 2018 • 10 min read Have you ever wanted to take your love of music to the next level by writing your own?

  5. Songwriting: Writing, Arranging, and Producing Music

    Songwriting Producing Details to know Shareable certificate Add to your LinkedIn profile Specialization - 4 course series Get in-depth knowledge of a subject 4.8 (196 reviews) Beginner level Recommended experience 1 months at 10 hours a week Flexible schedule Learn at your own pace

  6. How to write a song: the ultimate guide

    This guide provides an entry-level introduction to songwriting and how to make a song from scratch. We'll cover the basics of how to write a song, finding inspiration for music and lyrics, song structure and arrangement, as well as how to take advantage of hardware and software tools to improve your workflow.

  7. How To Write A Song: A Beginner's Guide

    1. Understand A Song's Basic Elements For starters, it can be helpful to understand a song's essential elements. Generally speaking, you can break these elements down into two groupings: structural and sonic. You already understand these different pieces intuitively. You could probably identify them by actively listening to your favorite song.

  8. Songwriting: Writing the Music

    Songwriting: Writing the Music This course is part of Songwriting: Writing, Arranging, and Producing Music Specialization Taught in English 20 languages available Some content may not be translated Instructor: Scarlet Keys Enroll for Free Starts Feb 15 Financial aid available 10,763 already enrolled Included with • Learn more About Outcomes Modules

  9. 26 Songwriting Tips for Beginners: What 20+ Years Has Taught Me

    26 Powerful Songwriting Tips for Beginners Below are 26 tips for writing music, based on my past couple decades of writing music.

  10. How To Write a Song Like a Pro: The Ultimate 7-Step Guide To ...

    Step 1: Finding Inspiration Step 2: Developing a Song Structure Song Structure: Examples & Methods Customize Your Structure Step 3: Writing Lyrics Lyric Lines: Unleash Your Raw Material Craft Verse Lyrics That Tell A Story Design A Powerful Chorus Lyric Experiment With Rhyme Schemes and Structure Polish & Revise Your Lyrics

  11. How to Write a Song

    1. Step-By-Step Process In-Depth 1.1 Song Structure 1.2 Chords and Beats 1.3 The All Important Topline 1.4 Choose Your Best Melodies 1.5 Writing Lyrics 1.6 First Draft + Re-Writing 1.7 Record Your Final Draft 2. Tips to Help You Learn to Write Better Songs 2.1 RE-WRITE YOUR SONGS!

  12. How to write a song: Make a song in 7 steps

    Have you ever wanted to learn how to write a song? Ask any number of accomplished songwriters how they do it, and they'll likely all tell you something completely different. This is because there's no single correct way when it comes to how to write a song; like any creative process, it varies greatly from one artist to another.

  13. How to Write a Song (with Examples)

    1 Decide what genre you want to work within for your song. Different musical genres have specific classic features that you may want to use in your song. If you're writing a country song, you may want to use a steel guitar and build your melodies and lyrics around the theme of loss and hardship.

  14. How To Write A Song

    Ever wanted to write a song? Looking for inspiration? In this video we break down songwriting into four key elements and give you tips and strategies for how...

  15. How To Write A Song in 7 Simple Steps

    Start learning 1. Find a spark of inspiration Peggy goes through her songwriting process. Inspiration is the first step of any creative endeavor, but it's also the hardest part. Hot tip: Never underestimate the power of unstructured improvisation to produce ideas.

  16. 15 Easy Tips for Learning How to Write Songs

    1. Start Writing This may seem like a no-brainer but even seasoned songwriters can struggle with it. One of the biggest questions beginner songwriters ask is how to start or where to start. The biggest secret to songwriting is just to start! Should you begin with the lyrics or the melody?

  17. How to Write a Song

    Set words to rhythm using the concepts of metre and scansion. Identify the ingredients of an effective melody. Describe the different chord types and progressions used in popular songs. Explain the most commonly used song forms and structures. Explore how songs can develop when different lines and instruments are added to the accompaniment.

  18. How to Write Song Lyrics (with Pictures)

    Revising your song is the best way to write better lyrics. 3. Consult with others. Once you're done with your song, it can be a really good idea to share a test version with others. Even if they're just reading your lyrics, they may be able to find places where the rhythm is off or where the rhymes sound strange.

  19. How to write song lyrics in 5 easy steps

    1. Choose your story. Lyric writing, at its core, is about storytelling. So it makes sense to know what story you want to tell before you begin! Start by choosing a topic or theme you want to write about. It could be a personal experience, a feeling, or a message you want to pass on to the listener.

  20. The Ultimate Guide To Learning How To Write Songs

    Learning To Write Songs #1: Understanding Chord Progressions & Chord Similarities. Chords lie at the root of every song in existence - even solo melodies can have chords implied beneath them with ease. If we're going to learn how to write songs, we'll need to understand chords and how they work.

  21. 20 songwriting apps and books that will level up your music

    You can also organize your songs by key, tuning, use of capo, and even mood. 8. Lyric Notepad (free, iOS and Android) Lyric Notepad is an all-in-one tool for songwriters. It lets you record yourself singing and attach the recording to any part of the lyrics, find rhymes, count syllables, take notes, and much more. 9.