8 Top Tips for Beginning Songwriters
Things I wish I knew upfront.
Songwriting has been one of my most fantastic journeys over the years, such as –
The joy of discovering chords, harmony, and melody
The opportunity to learn how to write lyrics, how they all go together
I learned how to make commercial songs, material recorded by someone who sings way better than I can and is paid to do this work.
Looking back over this journey, if I had to start it all over again, I’d jump at it. It’s been such fun and so meaningful.
But, if I were to start again as a songwriter, what top tips would I wish I knew up front?
Two Big Things
Rules versus Tools
First, one of the two big things I wish I had known about back then was this:
On this journey there are very few rules but many tools: Tools to make it sound artistically better.
This was something I heard from Pat Pattison at Berklee Music School. And the more songs I’ve written, the more I realize there are very few rules but a lot of tools that can make songs even better than I thought they could be.
Click here to learn more about this.
Back to Front Writing
Secondly, I was in a Nashville writing room with a hit songwriter a few years ago. As we worked on a new song, he said something that stuck with me:
"The best way to write a song is back to front."
At first, I was puzzled. But as he explained his process, it all started to make sense. He wasn't talking about literally writing the last verse first. He was talking about having a clear vision for the song before you even start writing. He emphasized that many commercial songwriters focus on crafting the chorus first, then move to the pre-chorus and verses.
It was an "aha" moment for me. It made me realize the importance of having a plan when writing, especially when working under pressure. To know more about this, click here.
In my books, Song Maps and The Organized Songwriter, I talk about developing a process for songwriting and organizing your ideas so that you can be more productive and efficient.
But starting all over again, where should beginning songwriters start? Here are a few things here:
Song Structure: Understanding the building blocks.
Idea Generation: Finding inspiration and crafting titles.
The Art of the Hook: Creating a memorable centrepiece.
Storytelling Techniques: Engaging your listeners with narrative.
Starting Strong: The power of the first line.
Putting It All Together: Tips for writing a complete song.
Song Structure
Most commercial songs have these basic parts: verses, a chorus, and a bridge.
Verses: The verses develop the story, setting the scene and introducing the characters. They give the details and build anticipation for the chorus.
Chorus: The chorus is the song's core, the part that stays with the listener. It delivers the main message and repeats throughout the song—the business card for your title.
Bridge: The bridge is where the song takes a turn, offering a new perspective or a shift in emotion.
You may also find these parts:
Pre-Chorus: Builds energy and anticipation leading into the chorus.
Outro: Extends the feeling of the song after the last chorus.
Idea Generation
Inspiration can come from anywhere! The sources encourage writers to pay attention to everyday life. Tap into your own experiences and memories:
Personal stories: Reflect on your own life journey and the events that have shaped you.
Relationships: Consider the dynamics of your relationships with loved ones, friends, and even strangers.
Observations: Pay attention to the world around you and the details that capture your attention.
You can also draw inspiration from other creative works, such as books, movies, and other songs. Capture everything (in an Idea Bank or something similar)
The Art of the Hook
The hook is what makes your song stick in the listener's head. It should be memorable and reflect the song's theme. To craft a great hook:
Focus on a powerful phrase or line.
Create a simple, singable melody.
Experiment with rhythmic patterns.
See more here.
Storytelling Techniques
A compelling story is key to engaging your listeners. Use these strategies to craft a narrative:
Setting the Stage: Use vivid language and descriptions that appeal to the senses. Draw the listener into the world of your song.
Developing Characters: Give your characters depth and motivations. Make them relatable and believable.
Creating Conflict: Conflict is essential for driving a story. It creates tension and keeps the listener wondering what will happen next.
And use toggling and Song Maps (see more here).
Starting Strong
The first line is your chance to capture the listener's attention right away. Use the first line to:
Introduce the main character or situation: Immediately draw the listener into the song's world.
Set the tone or mood: Establish the emotional landscape of the song.
Create intrigue: Make the listener want to hear what happens next.
Learn how to upgrade your first line here.
Putting It All Together
Once you have an idea:
Keep It Simple: Focus on a few key ideas and allow them to develop naturally.
Plan Your Song: The sources highlight the importance of planning in songwriting. You can use techniques like Song Maps or simply outline your ideas in a notebook.
Seek Feedback: Share your song with trusted listeners and be open to constructive criticism.
Refine Your Work: Don't be afraid to revise and rewrite until you're satisfied with the result.
Learn more about getting your first foot into the industry here and how to get your songs critiqued by professional songwriters here.
In Summary
Songwriting is a fabulous journey of discovery and self-expression. As you embark on your songwriting adventure, remember to have fun and experiment. Don't be afraid to make mistakes and try new things. Remember, many tools are available to help you, but the most important tool is your unique voice.
Explore my book, Song Maps - A New System to Write Your Best Lyrics, for more songwriting tips and techniques.
Questions
Here are some questions to help you move forward:
What are your favorite songs, and what makes them so compelling to you?
What stories or experiences in your life could inspire a song?
What kind of music do you want to create?
Hope this helps!
Simon.
Simon, under Rules Versus Tools, you wrote, "On this journey there are very few rules but many rules" - I think you meant to say "few rules but many TOOLS."