Lyric Writing Tips - How to write a song title - 5 ideas you can start with to finish your songs.
It all starts with a song. A great song should have a compelling title. When writing a title ask yourself these three questions.
- Is it catchy?
- Is it memorable?
- Does it support the lyrics of the song?
Let the title set the stage for the song. If you have a title in mind, you can pull from the songwriting stories and themes in my previous blogs. When you have an idea for a song, make sure you write it down. One of the best things you can do is have an app on your phone that you can store a quick recording. Let’s run down a few you can use.
- Apple notepad on your iphone
- Songspace
- Music Memos
- Day One
- Evernote
- Google Drive
All of these apps are great and they all have unique features. Make sure you always have something to log your lyrics, ideas, and titles when they pop. Collecting these little nuggets will pay off over time when you sit down to write. You’ll never run out of ideas this way. When you get stuck, you will always have your song crafting toolbox to work with.
The title of your song should hook the listener. Titles are often repetitive and placed carefully within the song. They can illustrate a person’s name, a place, an event. When you have an idea that you think is a good title, try to build your song from there. Let’s look at 5 types of titles you can run with.
How to find song titles. 5 Songwriting tips you can use for your ideas journal.
1. Steal One - one of my favorite books is Steal like an artist by Austin Kleon. Artist’s are thieves, we just borrow from one other. How many cool song titles are there in popular music. How many ways can you rewrite a title that has already been successful. Grab a billboard chart and start rewriting the top 10 in your favorite genre. See what you come up with.
2. Names - Amanda, Light up my life! Me and Bobby McGee, Kaw Liga. How many cool tunes have you heard of with a name? Try being inspired by someone you have love for. This can be relatives or lovers. What about someone who passed away? Can you tell a story using the name of that person. What about someone you want to be like? Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson. I know a guy who wrote a song about pitching a song to Willie.
3. Your Calendar - What about songs with months, days of the week, or dates? What about Sunday Morning Coming Down by Kris Kristofferson. I always loved Long December by Counting Crows. Days, Months, and Dates can bring up ideas about the seasons, the weather, holidays, and events that happen during the year. Try to think in pictures and jot down some ideas you have about your favorite times on the calendar.
4. Destinations - New York, Japan, California? How many different places have turned up in song titles? Set your story in another place that you have been or dream about. See if you can capture a title from a place. Look at pictures on instagram to spark some ideas for titles.
5. Colors - Purple Rain, The Yellow Rose of Texas, Blue Eyes Crying in The Rain? Colors paint great titles. Try to find some titles with colors and rewrite them with your own experiences. Do you have any ideas for a title yet?
Okay! There’s 5 places you can grab a song title. I’ll put a downloadable pdf file in the post so you can follow along. Make sure for follow me on Instagram at songwriting_ready and check out the podcast if you want to listen along. Happy Writing!
Grab our lyric writing blueprint and learn the craft of songwriting step by step.
Have you ever struggled to find the point behind a song is a the lyrics jump back and forth? Or pondered the story line and how it might bring you full circle from verse and bridge to chorus. This is something i encounter not often, but often enough to have developed an understanding on in the studio during recording sessions. These awkward moments are usually where i would take these few values and let the artist consider them in their flow.
Common Themes:
This is a method where you would correlate your real life experiences into your song via metaphor or analogy to create a more universal and relatable sound in your music and for your listener. Doing so can also develop an emotional investment from the listener to the music which provides more potential for conversion of cold audience to warm/fan. Some good examples of resonant topics are:
Love
Death
The Afterlife
Growing Experiences
2. The Development of Stories:
There are many avenues in which a story can begin. Personal experience, Ideology, Fact-Fiction and almost any outlet which displays media whether it be current or dated as after-all, they have or will have depicted a story which can or has struck someones emotional notes. I do not want the term emotional to be a pillar in this as it has become one. Your story does not have to convey lyrically a very emotive presence. These stories can come from everyday interactions you have with other people, experiences from your friends or anything that at the end of the day, can maintain Common Themes throughout. The next topic i find relevant to many of the recording artists i hear and work with that is not the most over looked as we all know it is important, but it is not the most focused on. This is:
3. Creating Diverse Rhyming Schemes:
Creating the scheme is as simple as mapping out the rhyming words you have from each phrase or every other phrase. The first rhyme being labeled A, second rhyme is B, the third C and so on. Here is an example of the scheme:
A. Many’s the time ive been mistaken
B. And many times confused
A. I’ve often felt forsaken
B. And certainly misused
Notice A has a scheme that is intertwined between B to broaden the attention span of your listener. This is a very common pattern that is heard in many genres of music as it holds a powerful effect on the listener and like i said, gives them something more to listen to. Imagine if the song had the same rhyme scheme at the end of every line. Not to exciting right?
4. Studying Song Structure
I have done this in the past with previous song where i would examine the structure of a song from start to end (WHILE NOTING IT) to implement it into my own music. The interesting thing is lyrically your structure provides more detail than the music does naturally. So be concise and reflect back on your common themes to move the listener from point A to B and to C and so on.
-Verses should tell the story. They hold a majority of your lyrical context which can:
Set your characters
Pulls the listener in with emphasized details or scenic exploits.
You can absolutely adapt your own information to your verse, but remember to move from left to right on a story line chronologically telling the story to your listener.
-Choruses should be infectious and really bring out the that fishing hook to grab the listener. You want this part to be the most emotional, to hold the higher notes and melodies on both your singing and instrumentals and be spoken conclusively with power. Lyrical concepts could flow in the same direction as the verse sections, but should be a cap on top inspiring the mood of the entire song in its most emotional phase and repeat two to three times.
-Bridges are a more creative territory that happen around the 3/4 mark around your song where you can implement different melodies, offer a unique progression change in chords and in general, renew the interest of the listener to your song. One of the easiest ways to create a bridge that still holds interest is to tear apart your chorus and build it from the bottom up every two, four or eight bars. This will develop suspense and keep the listener in a nostalgic state between remembering what they just heard and what they are about to hear. Applying a fresh chord progression within your key or lyrical pattern in the same tempo is another way to renew the interest in what might be a solo or chorus.
-Coda is a fancy word for outro. Its where the song releases the listener back to where they came from. These can be crafted by simply removing elements of your instrumental every two, four or eight bars as stated previously for a bridge but should entail phrases and lyrical elements from prior song sections that may repeat, echo out or swell in and out to imply that this in fact is, the end.
5. Tell a story:
I know i have probably hit this one on the head enough. But when it comes down to it, a good story teller will provide you with context and emotion without telling you where and what this context and emotion came from. Creating a lyric that metaphorically resonates with someones life experience can greatly affect the way the song is taken in and even more so if the lyrics are proposed in a chronological manner giving the listener more of a time line to relate to these topics on.
So this is my second set of tips here that i did some searching on as well as provided some of my own experience with! I hope these help you out and work well within your next writing session. Thanks for reading!
Song Structure Challenges: Crafting Memorable Hooks
Song Structure Challenges: Crafting Memorable HooksCrafting a memorable hook is one of the most exciting and challenging aspects of songwrit
Crafting a memorable hook is one of the most exciting and challenging aspects of songwriting. The hook is the part of the song that grabs the listener's attention and sticks with them long after the song has ended. To create a hook that stands out, it’s essential to understand song structure and how to effectively integrate your hooks into it. This post will break down song structures, explore the art of crafting hooks, and offer strategies to overcome common challenges in song structure.
Understanding Song Structure
Before diving into hooks, let’s first get a grasp on song structure. A song’s structure provides a roadmap for how its parts fit together, helping to create a cohesive and engaging piece of music.
Common Song Structures
1. **Verse-Chorus Structure**
The verse-chorus structure is perhaps the most common format in popular music. It typically features alternating verses and choruses, with the chorus being the catchiest part of the song.
- **Verse:** Introduces new lyrics and melody, setting up the story or theme.
- **Chorus:** Repeats the central hook, reinforcing the main message and making it memorable.
2. **AABA Structure**
The AABA structure consists of two verses (A), a bridge (B), and a final verse (A). It’s often used in classic pop and jazz songs.
- **A Sections:** Present the main theme or hook.
- **B Section (Bridge):** Provides contrast and a break from the repetitive A sections.
3. **ABABCB Structure**
This format includes verses (A), choruses (B), and a bridge (C). It’s a versatile structure that allows for dynamic and engaging song development.
- **A Sections:** Introduce the song’s narrative.
- **B Sections:** Feature the hook or chorus.
- **C Section (Bridge):** Offers a fresh perspective or variation.
The Role of Each Song Section
1. **Introduction:** Sets the tone and grabs attention.
2. **Verses:** Build the story or theme of the song.
3. **Chorus:** Delivers the hook and the song’s main message.
4. **Bridge:** Adds variety and emotional depth.
5. **Outro:** Provides closure and wraps up the song.
Crafting Memorable Hooks
A hook is the essence of your song—the part that makes it stick in listeners' minds. Crafting a memorable hook involves a blend of melody, lyrics, and rhythm.
**What is a Hook?**
A hook is a catchy phrase, melody, or riff that stands out and grabs the listener’s attention. It’s usually the most memorable part of the song, often repeated multiple times to reinforce its impact.
**Characteristics of a Great Hook**
1. **Catchiness:** The hook should be easy to remember and sing along to. Catchy hooks often have a rhythmic quality that makes them stick.
2. **Emotional Impact:** Great hooks evoke emotions, whether it’s joy, sadness, or excitement. They resonate with listeners on a personal level.
3. **Simplicity:** Keep it simple. A hook that is too complex can be hard to remember. Aim for clarity and impact.
**Techniques for Writing Hooks**
1. **Melody Creation:** Experiment with different melodies until you find one that feels unique and memorable. Use repetition strategically to make the melody stick.
2. **Lyric Crafting:** Write lyrics that are relatable and resonate with your audience. Play with wordplay and imagery to create a memorable phrase.
3. **Rhythm and Groove:** Incorporate a rhythm that complements your melody and lyrics. The groove of the hook should make listeners want to move along with it.
**Breaking Down Song Structures for Hooks**
Understanding how to fit your hook into various song structures can enhance its effectiveness and ensure it stands out.
The Verse-Chorus Structure
In the verse-chorus structure, the hook usually appears in the chorus. Make sure your chorus is significantly more impactful than your verses to highlight the hook effectively.
- **Example:** In a song like “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran, the chorus features a memorable hook that contrasts with the verses, creating a dynamic and engaging experience.
**The AABA Structure**
For the AABA structure, the hook is typically present in the A sections. The B section (bridge) provides a contrast, which can make the hook more striking when it returns.
- **Example:** Classic songs like “Over the Rainbow” by Judy Garland use the AABA structure, with the hook prominently featured in the A sections.
**The ABABCB Structure**
In the ABABCB structure, the hook appears multiple times, including in the chorus and sometimes in a modified form in the bridge. This format allows for variations and development of the hook throughout the song.
- **Example:** Modern pop songs often use this structure, giving hooks multiple chances to shine and evolve.
Common Song Structure Challenges
Crafting a hook that fits seamlessly into your song structure can be challenging. Here are some common issues and how to overcome them.
**Avoiding Repetition**
While repetition is key for making a hook memorable, overdoing it can lead to monotony. Vary the delivery of the hook and integrate it in different ways to keep it fresh.
- **Tip:** Use different instrumental arrangements or vocal variations to keep the hook engaging throughout the song.
Balancing Originality and Familiarity
A hook should be original but still familiar enough to resonate with listeners. Striking the right balance can be tricky.
- **Tip:** Analyze successful hooks in your genre and experiment with variations to find a unique yet familiar sound.
**Creating Smooth Transitions**
Ensuring that the hook fits seamlessly into the structure is crucial. Abrupt changes can disrupt the flow of the song.
- **Tip:** Focus on smooth transitions between sections and use the bridge to create a natural build-up to the hook.
Tips for Enhancing Your Songwriting
1. **Experimenting with Different Structures:** Don’t be afraid to try unconventional song formats to discover new ways to integrate your hook.
2. **Analyzing Successful Songs:** Study hits in your genre to understand how they use hooks and structures effectively.
3. **Collaborating with Other Songwriters:** Working with others can provide fresh perspectives and new ideas for crafting memorable hooks.
Conclusion
Crafting a memorable hook is a blend of creativity, technique, and understanding song structure. By experimenting with different formats, honing your melody and lyrics, and addressing common challenges, you can create hooks that captivate and resonate with your audience. Remember, the most memorable hooks are those that reflect your unique style and connect with listeners on an emotional level. Keep experimenting and refining your craft, and you’ll be well on your way to writing songs that stand out.
FAQs
1. **What makes a hook memorable?**
- A memorable hook is catchy, emotionally impactful, and simple. It should be easy to remember and evoke a strong reaction from listeners.
2. **How can I avoid clichés in my hooks?**
- Aim
for originality by experimenting with unique melodies and lyrics. Analyze popular hooks to identify and avoid common clichés.
3. **Should I always follow a traditional song structure?**
- While traditional structures are effective, experimenting with unconventional formats can lead to innovative and memorable hooks.
4. **How do I know if my hook is effective?**
- Test your hook with different listeners and get feedback. If it sticks in their minds and evokes a strong emotional response, it’s likely effective.
5. **Can hooks be different for different music genres?**
- Yes, hooks can vary by genre. Tailor your hook to fit the style and expectations of your genre while still aiming for originality and impact.
How to Expand Small Musical Ideas into Full Tracks: Tips for Building Complete Songs
How to Expand Small Musical Ideas into Full Tracks: Tips for Building Complete SongsSometimes, you stumble upon a great musical idea—a catch
Sometimes, you stumble upon a great musical idea—a catchy loop, an inspiring chord progression, or an irresistible melody—but you find yourself stuck, unsure how to go about building complete songs. Don’t worry! This is a common challenge for many musicians and producers. Expanding small ideas into fully developed tracks involves a combination of creativity, structure, and technique.
In this guide, we’ll explore key tips for turning those initial fragments into complete, well-rounded tracks.
1. **Start With a Clear Structure in Mind**
Every great song follows a structure, and understanding basic song formats will give you a roadmap for expanding your ideas. One of the most common structures is:
- **Intro**: Sets the tone of the track and leads into the main sections.
- **Verse**: Delivers the narrative and progresses the story.
- **Chorus**: The central, repeated section that carries the main hook or message.
- **Bridge**: A contrasting section that adds variety and often leads into the final chorus.
- **Outro**: A closing section to wrap up the song.
By mapping out where your musical ideas can fit within this structure, you can give your track a sense of flow and development. For example, if you have a catchy loop, it might become your chorus. Then, you can build verses that contrast with it or develop an intro that leads into the hook.
2. **Develop Dynamic Changes**
One key to expanding an idea into a full song is variation. A loop might sound great for a few bars, but listeners will want to hear more variety over time. Use dynamic changes to keep the track engaging. Here are some ways to do this:
- **Layering Instruments**: Start with a few core elements and slowly introduce additional instruments or textures to build tension and excitement.
- **Varying Energy Levels**: Think about energy levels in your song. You could start with a more laid-back intro, build up energy in the verse, and reach full intensity in the chorus.
- **Using Automation**: Automate volume, panning, and effects (like reverb or delay) to create movement and variation throughout the track.
By introducing subtle changes, you’ll transform a repetitive idea into a dynamic, evolving track.
3. **Add Contrasting Sections**
If you have a great chorus or melody, complement it with contrasting sections. For instance:
- **Verses**: If your chorus is upbeat and energetic, your verses can be more stripped-back and lyrical to create contrast.
- **Bridge**: A bridge can provide a fresh break from the repetitive cycle of verse and chorus. It can introduce a new key, tempo, or mood.
Contrasting sections make the high points of your song more impactful, providing listeners with moments of tension and release.
4. **Expand Melodic and Harmonic Ideas**
A single chord progression or melody can serve as the foundation of your track, but you can expand it by varying the harmonies and melodies. Try the following techniques:
- **Modulation**: Change the key of your progression in different sections for a dramatic shift.
- **Melodic Variation**: Take the main melody and tweak it slightly in different parts of the song. You could change the rhythm, timing, or pitch of a melody to create variation while keeping the core idea intact.
- **Inversions and Voicing**: Use different inversions of the same chord or play with how you voice your chords across different instruments to keep your harmony interesting.
By exploring these ideas, you can keep the core melody or progression intact while still giving the listener something fresh in each section.
5. **Use Lyrics to Develop the Narrative**
If you’re working on a song with lyrics, use your lyrical content to expand your track. Think of your lyrics as a story or conversation. Each verse can build on the last, revealing more depth and perspective.
- **Verses as Story Progression**: Use the verses to provide context, background, and emotional build-up to the chorus.
- **Chorus as the Main Message**: The chorus should drive home the main point of your song, with concise and memorable phrases.
- **Bridge as a Turning Point**: The bridge often serves as a change in perspective or emotion, adding variety and depth to the narrative.
A well-crafted lyrical narrative helps hold your song together, making each section feel necessary and connected.
6. **Experiment With Instrumentation and Effects**
To avoid a track feeling too repetitive, experiment with different sounds, instruments, and effects. Here are some ways to add depth and color to your song:
- **Switch Up Instrumentation**: Introduce new instruments in different sections, such as adding a piano to the bridge or layering strings for the outro.
- **Use Sound Effects**: Subtle sound effects like background noise, reversed sounds, or textures can give your track extra flavor without overwhelming the core idea.
- **Vary the Arrangement**: Don’t be afraid to drop elements in and out of the mix. For example, you can remove the drums in the bridge or strip back the instrumentation in the verse to make the chorus feel more impactful when everything comes back in.
Experimenting with these options will add layers to your song, giving it a polished and professional feel.
7. **Jam and Improvise**
Sometimes the best way to expand on a musical idea is to step away from overthinking and just jam. If you have a loop or riff, play along with it and improvise. Try different rhythmic patterns, melodies, or harmonies. Record everything—you might discover a new section or idea that you wouldn’t have thought of in a more structured setting.
8. **Build a Narrative Arc in the Music**
Just like a story has a beginning, middle, and end, your music should have an arc that guides the listener through an experience. This arc doesn’t have to be limited to lyrics. Think about how your musical elements—dynamics, instrumentation, and melodies—can evolve throughout the song to create a sense of progression.
- **Introduction**: Set the mood of the track and introduce key elements.
- **Build-Up**: Gradually increase intensity as the song develops.
- **Climax**: Reach a peak moment, often in the chorus or bridge.
- **Resolution**: Slowly resolve the song, either by fading out or bringing the energy down.
Following an arc ensures that your song feels like a cohesive journey rather than a repetitive loop.
9. **Trust the Process**
Building a full song from a small idea can take time. Don’t rush the process—sometimes stepping away from your track and returning to it later can give you fresh perspective. Trust that with time and patience, your small idea will evolve into something complete and satisfying.
Final Thoughts
Expanding small musical ideas into full tracks requires a balance of structure and creativity. By embracing contrast, developing your melodies, using dynamic changes, and experimenting with instrumentation, you can turn a simple loop or riff into a fully fleshed-out song. Remember to trust your process and allow space for inspiration to guide you. With these tips, you’ll be able to take your ideas further and produce complete, compelling tracks that resonate with listeners.
Proven Techniques for Writing a Memorable and Catchy Chorus in Your Songs
Proven Techniques for Writing a Memorable and Catchy Chorus in Your SongsThe chorus is the heart of your song. It’s the part that listeners
The chorus is the heart of your song. It’s the part that listeners remember and sing along with long after the track has ended. Crafting a chorus that’s both memorable and catchy requires a mix of creative instinct and technique. Here are some proven strategies to help you write a killer chorus that sticks in the minds of your audience.
1. **Keep It Simple and Focused**
The best choruses are often the simplest. When your chorus is too complex, it can be harder for listeners to latch onto. Focus on clear, concise lyrics and a melody that’s easy to sing along with.
- **Tip:** Limit the number of ideas or words in your chorus. Instead of overloading it with too much information, focus on one central theme or emotion. Repetition of key phrases or words is a great way to drive the message home and make it stick.
2. **Make the Melody Stand Out**
The melody of your chorus should contrast with the verse to create an emotional lift. A catchy chorus often features a higher vocal range, more dynamic phrasing, or a more energetic melody compared to the verses.
- **Tip:** Experiment with moving the melody to a higher register or using wider intervals between notes. This creates a sense of escalation and excitement, making your chorus feel bigger and more impactful.
3. **Use Powerful Chord Progressions**
Chord progressions play a significant role in how memorable your chorus feels. While it’s important to keep the progression simple, the right chord choices can evoke strong emotions and create tension or resolution.
- **Tip:** A common technique is to start the chorus with the same chord as the verse but then quickly introduce new chords to create a shift. Major chords often bring a sense of brightness, while minor chords add depth or emotion. Experiment with key changes or using the Circle of Fifths to find progressions that add power to your chorus.
4. **Utilize Hooks**
Hooks are essential for making a chorus memorable. Whether it’s a catchy lyrical phrase, an instrumental riff, or a rhythm pattern, a hook gives your chorus its identity.
- **Tip:** Try writing a hook that’s short and instantly recognizable. This could be a repeated line, like "Don’t stop believin’" from Journey’s iconic song, or even a melodic instrumental riff. Hooks should feel effortless and fit naturally into the song.
5. **Emphasize Rhythm and Groove**
The rhythmic structure of your chorus can be just as important as the melody. By creating a groove that’s easy to move to, you can make your chorus more memorable and emotionally engaging.
- **Tip:** Use rhythmic contrast by changing the flow of the vocals compared to the verse. Syncopation or rhythmic variations can give your chorus a standout feel, making it dynamic and more engaging.
6. **Create a Strong Contrast with the Verse**
For the chorus to truly shine, it needs to contrast with the verse. If your verses are softer and more laid-back, aim for an explosive, high-energy chorus. If your verses are more intense, consider pulling back in the chorus to create a surprising contrast.
- **Tip:** Experiment with different dynamics, vocal styles, or instrumentation to set the chorus apart. Build energy through layers, like adding harmonies, backing vocals, or additional instruments that make the chorus feel fuller.
7. **Repeat Key Phrases and Melodies**
Repetition is a powerful tool for making your chorus unforgettable. It reinforces the theme and melody in the listener’s mind, increasing the chances of them humming it long after the song ends.
- **Tip:** Don’t be afraid to repeat the same line or melody several times in the chorus. The key is finding the balance between repetition and variation to keep the listener hooked without making the chorus feel monotonous.
8. **Add Emotional Weight**
The chorus is where the emotional core of your song should hit hardest. Whether it’s joy, sadness, triumph, or longing, make sure the chorus conveys the strongest emotional content of the song.
- **Tip:** Dig deep into the emotional message of your song and reflect it in your chorus. Lyrically, focus on words and phrases that directly tap into the feeling you want to evoke. Musically, use dynamics, chord changes, and melodic shifts to heighten the emotion.
9. **Use Vocal Harmonies and Layers**
Layering vocals or adding harmonies can make your chorus sound richer and more powerful. These techniques give your chorus a sense of grandeur, making it feel larger-than-life.
- **Tip:** Record multiple vocal takes to stack harmonies or create a choir effect for more dramatic impact. Even simple backing harmonies can elevate the energy of your chorus, making it more memorable.
10. **Test with an Audience**
One of the best ways to know if your chorus is memorable is by testing it out. Play it for friends, family, or other musicians and gauge their reaction. Are they singing it back to you? Does it stick in their minds after one listen?
- **Tip:** Record a demo and share it with a small group of listeners to get feedback. Sometimes what you think works well may need tweaking based on how others respond to it.
Conclusion
Writing a memorable and catchy chorus takes practice, but with these proven techniques, you can craft a hook that grabs listeners and stays with them. Keep it simple, use repetition wisely, and focus on contrast and emotion. By paying attention to melody, rhythm, and dynamics, you can create a chorus that elevates your song and keeps your audience coming back for more. Now, go ahead and write the chorus that your fans will be singing for days!
Are you persistent in your craft? Here are some things that might inspire some ideas in your next session.
I’m going to continue to post these every other day as i have found myself with outside obligations relative to this. It gives me time to put my learning to work and come back with some hands on experience for you.
What do you find yourself writing when it comes to creating good lyrical themes? As i talked about before, there are a wide spread of topics you can chronologically lay out that appeal to many people and again, i want to talk about lyric production and song structure to help bring power to your song and meet your existing warm audience as well as cold audiences.
One thing i read about earlier this morning was creating timeless lyrics. Lyrics that are still captivating and interesting even over a long period of time. That time frame can be within the amount of time it takes to listen to your song, or lyrics that are simply unforgettable. One way you can help get these lyrics stuck in your head is by applying a catchy melody or series of harmonies within your song. Obviously this is the goal, but if you are approaching a hook/chorus you will want this to be the part that brings the listener in even more so and if done right, can be unforgettable or timeless in a sense.
For examples of timeless lyrics and incredible song writing, check out “Paint it Black” by The Rolling Stones, “Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen. These bands wrote handfuls of timeless songs and had lyrics that are emotionally captivating and interesting even decades later.
When you are drafting your lyrics whether it be digitally composing or the classic pen to paper, lay your lyrics out on a staff if possible and ensure that each syllable is tied to a note. This is where you will be able to play with your melodies, skips and steps as we talked about a bit in the last posting. Even if you plan on assigning the same tones over eighth notes, sixteenth notes or single syllables it helps to make sure every one of your syllable is rhythmically and melodically established to your song. Otherwise the effect may sounds out of key or off tempo discerning the listening and could create a lack of interest. Although many applications of flats and sharps come into play, it helps to know a bit of theory to work around what might add a little extra color to your song.
One thing we have not talked about yet is bass lines. In artists like Tame Impala, Oliver Tree and say Yellow Days you will notice their bass lines are a huge player in the flow of the song as it drives the low end of the song providing more feeling and creates something more immersive than if you were to have the tones from only your kick/808’s delivering your low end tone. The bass line does not need to be anything technical, but should be found as the root or fundamental notes of the chords and keys your strings or synth instruments are being played in sort of grounding and gluing your song together. When your bass line as well as synth instruments or strings are all together it could bring more opportunities to your table melodically hen it comes to the production of your lyrics and where they fit in tone and melody.
One way to add texture to your melody in your song is add rise and fall in your tonal and note movement. This can again, be done with any instrument you choose to have laying over your bass line but in all dynamic changes in volume and velocity will add more character to your production. This is heavily noted in many Saxophone players who use velocity in hard how the notes are being played to contour the emotion and make it hit more effectively to the listener.
Another thing to note when writing is to use engaging major chords as these are more compelling and have been noted in top hits more than minor chords. Like i have said before, produce your progressions and harmonies with whatever taste is needed in your song. For example you have Tadow by Masego and FKJ. This song features a wide variety of Minors and Majors creating a very harmonious and archetype sound production. Good Major chords that are used very often are as follows: C – G – Am – F ; D – A – Bm – G ; A – E – F#m – D ; G – D – Em – C ; and E – B – C#m – A.
When it comes time to captivate, bring in new instruments or change the dynamics of already existing instruments in your production. Most songs derive from no more than seven instruments including vocals as it can become quickly muddied up and create incoherence when listening to it. Seven may seem like a small number but remember that each instrument can be used in different manners to bring in what could feel like a new environment with each section of your song i.e: Verse, Chorus, Pre Chorus etc.
Because music can be fickle especially when writing you may want to record your practice sessions or keep a note book handy when ideas pop up. You never know when a new idea will pop and you will never know how quickly you can lose until its gone. Be creative and experiment with new sounds. From personal experience i have ran into accidental melodies, harmonies and riffs that blow my own mind.
And finally, when you are creating you need to be persistent. Many song writers have an enormous pack of songs before they finally hit the billboard. You need to practice your writing skills to 1. Develop and ear for what it is you know you are good with and 2. Get the bad songs out the way. Not every single thing you write and produce is going to be good. It will take plenty of trial and error before you discover a sound that suits your skills set and is enjoyable by others. Again, most artists write for upwards to a decade before they create something that is incredible and even then, they write songs they would not put out into the world. patience and persistence will always be the bread winner.
I hope this thought was insightful and brings to light some new methods or ideas for you and your creative process. If you are in need of some more thoughts and tips, follow my space and look back on previous postings! Thanks for the read.
