13 answers
3
Questions
Updated
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How Can I Become Better At Writing Songs?
I would LOVE to learn how to write meaningful songs, and inspire people with my voice and words!
But I'm not sure how. Where do I draw my inspiration from? Where do the words come in? How do I rhyme correctly? What are the right words to put together and when?
13 answers
Updated
BreAnne’s Answer
In my opinion when it comes to inspiring people, I look at what inspires you and what
motivates you? What makes you smile? What is that one thing that helps you make it through the day? Also when it comes to rhyming words you could simply read poetry, or even some literature. This has helped me write amazing flows to my music, and also practice writing poetry, read one of your favorite poetry and try writing your own version. Think of the words that you want to use and try rhyming the words
the best way you can. For example, let’s say you wanna use “leave” you could also use “be” “grieve” and etc. By writing out as many words that rhythms base on the words you want to use in your song, remember to always be true to yourself and remember to add your voice in your music. By inspiring people they love learning who the real “you” are, or sharing relatable stories and how you overcame something is amazing. Give the audience something to believe in and remember what target audience are you looking for, and what important message do you want to share
with them, and what motivates you that you could share with everyone that could possibly relate to you. I hope this helps and good luck.
motivates you? What makes you smile? What is that one thing that helps you make it through the day? Also when it comes to rhyming words you could simply read poetry, or even some literature. This has helped me write amazing flows to my music, and also practice writing poetry, read one of your favorite poetry and try writing your own version. Think of the words that you want to use and try rhyming the words
the best way you can. For example, let’s say you wanna use “leave” you could also use “be” “grieve” and etc. By writing out as many words that rhythms base on the words you want to use in your song, remember to always be true to yourself and remember to add your voice in your music. By inspiring people they love learning who the real “you” are, or sharing relatable stories and how you overcame something is amazing. Give the audience something to believe in and remember what target audience are you looking for, and what important message do you want to share
with them, and what motivates you that you could share with everyone that could possibly relate to you. I hope this helps and good luck.
Updated
Karen’s Answer
I would study the lyrics and chord structures of the songs you already like and see why you like them.
I would also narrow down the genre of music you want to write a song in rock, alt rock, country, Christian, jazz, pop, electronic, new age, rap, hip hop, r & b, and on and on
Who are your favorite artists?
Read American Songwriter magazine, which can be found in book stores or libraries or online
Check out books at your library about songwriting. My favorite book is Songwriting for Dummies
Join a music organization like Ascap, BMI, Country Music Association, Gospel Music Association, etc. go to CMA Fest in Nashville in June and talk to your favorite artists in person. Join fan clubs of your favorite artists in the industry and ask them at meet and greets what their favorite ways are to songwrite.
I would also narrow down the genre of music you want to write a song in rock, alt rock, country, Christian, jazz, pop, electronic, new age, rap, hip hop, r & b, and on and on
Who are your favorite artists?
Read American Songwriter magazine, which can be found in book stores or libraries or online
Check out books at your library about songwriting. My favorite book is Songwriting for Dummies
Join a music organization like Ascap, BMI, Country Music Association, Gospel Music Association, etc. go to CMA Fest in Nashville in June and talk to your favorite artists in person. Join fan clubs of your favorite artists in the industry and ask them at meet and greets what their favorite ways are to songwrite.
Updated
John’s Answer
Hi Roselyn!
I would recommend four things:
1. Keep a journal where you write down things that happen to you or people around you and how you feel about them.
2. Listen to lots of songs, and start keeping track of your favorites. Then break down the structure of those favorites, and write down in your journal what you like most about them.
3. There's a short book you can get on Kindle (US$4.99) or from Amazon called, the 30-minute Songwriter by Robin Frederick which tells you how to build songs from lots of different starting places (title, lyric line, rhythm groove, song structure (including hit songs), instrumental hook, chord progression, etc.) and how to develop and polish it from any of those starts.
4. There's another book with greater detail called, "Shortcuts to Hit Songwriting" also by Robin Frederic ($8.90 used on Amazon - I have no connection with Robin. I've just seen lots of songwriting books and I like these two of hers the best. She also has lots of 'How to write a song videos on YouTube). This one has 126 techniques, including how to choose a title, choosing a genre, writing a hook, making your lyrics come to life, maintaining believability while you rhyme, long and short phrasing, how to use chords, and a 14-question checklist for the whole song.
In my opinion as a producer, the best songs are the ones that give you an emotional experience as a listener - from the lyrics, the melody, the beat, and the singer. You can do this - Good luck!
I would recommend four things:
1. Keep a journal where you write down things that happen to you or people around you and how you feel about them.
2. Listen to lots of songs, and start keeping track of your favorites. Then break down the structure of those favorites, and write down in your journal what you like most about them.
3. There's a short book you can get on Kindle (US$4.99) or from Amazon called, the 30-minute Songwriter by Robin Frederick which tells you how to build songs from lots of different starting places (title, lyric line, rhythm groove, song structure (including hit songs), instrumental hook, chord progression, etc.) and how to develop and polish it from any of those starts.
4. There's another book with greater detail called, "Shortcuts to Hit Songwriting" also by Robin Frederic ($8.90 used on Amazon - I have no connection with Robin. I've just seen lots of songwriting books and I like these two of hers the best. She also has lots of 'How to write a song videos on YouTube). This one has 126 techniques, including how to choose a title, choosing a genre, writing a hook, making your lyrics come to life, maintaining believability while you rhyme, long and short phrasing, how to use chords, and a 14-question checklist for the whole song.
In my opinion as a producer, the best songs are the ones that give you an emotional experience as a listener - from the lyrics, the melody, the beat, and the singer. You can do this - Good luck!
Updated
Will’s Answer
Becoming a better songwriter is just like anything else…it takes lots of practice. I’ve been fortunate over the years to have top ten songs on radio and other accomplishments but it didn’t come without years of work getting better. You need to figure out what style of music you want to write, then study every aspect of the songs you like. Aspects include lyrics, chord changes, melody, instruments used. Find out who wrote those songs and study their style of writing. It takes a lot more than rhyming words over three chords and a beat. If you’re wanting to get songs to artists, networking is key. In the real world, there are thousands of people writing songs, some are successful and others are not. You need to be better than all of them. Don’t write like they do, write something they aren’t writing. It’s a tough business.
Updated
Steve’s Answer
Where do I draw my inspiration from?
Draw inspiration from your life. The people around you, the things you like to do, the creative work (art, music, entertainment) you consume. What do you like that's out there? Then ask yourself what's missing, and fill in that gap.
Where do the words come in?
For me the words usually come after the music is written, but often times I will have a concept I want to write about in mind, or maybe a single line. However the more words I have up front, the less likely to fit properly into the music I create without heavy editing, which is kind of like trying to put a square peg in a round hole. So my advice is start with the music. I'll also add that if you are done with the music, the placement in the music of your words and melodies is 100% up to you based on what you think is best. It's your art, so if you love it, you did it correctly.
How do I rhyme correctly?
We all know what rhyming is. So as long as you have words that rhyme you'll be fine. But rhyming isn't always necessary for every line. Sometimes non rhyming vocal structured can still be pleasing to hear depending on how you hold out notes and vowels. Experiment, and as always, if you like it, you did it right.
What are the right words to put together and when?
When is easier to answer, and I talked about it earlier. I usually work out lyrics and melodies after the music is written. I just think it's easier to put icing on the cake vs baking a cake under icing.
What are the right words? Back to your inspiration. What has meaning to you? What do you want to share about yourself or the world around you? What do you want to talk about. It's your art, it's your choice. As long as it's authentic and true to yourself, I think you're on the right path.
Draw inspiration from your life. The people around you, the things you like to do, the creative work (art, music, entertainment) you consume. What do you like that's out there? Then ask yourself what's missing, and fill in that gap.
Where do the words come in?
For me the words usually come after the music is written, but often times I will have a concept I want to write about in mind, or maybe a single line. However the more words I have up front, the less likely to fit properly into the music I create without heavy editing, which is kind of like trying to put a square peg in a round hole. So my advice is start with the music. I'll also add that if you are done with the music, the placement in the music of your words and melodies is 100% up to you based on what you think is best. It's your art, so if you love it, you did it correctly.
How do I rhyme correctly?
We all know what rhyming is. So as long as you have words that rhyme you'll be fine. But rhyming isn't always necessary for every line. Sometimes non rhyming vocal structured can still be pleasing to hear depending on how you hold out notes and vowels. Experiment, and as always, if you like it, you did it right.
What are the right words to put together and when?
When is easier to answer, and I talked about it earlier. I usually work out lyrics and melodies after the music is written. I just think it's easier to put icing on the cake vs baking a cake under icing.
What are the right words? Back to your inspiration. What has meaning to you? What do you want to share about yourself or the world around you? What do you want to talk about. It's your art, it's your choice. As long as it's authentic and true to yourself, I think you're on the right path.
Updated
Fabian’s Answer
Hey Roselyn,
My name is Fabian and I had the same question when I 1st started, but never had help from anyone. Great thing you got help from many people and now you’ll get some tips from me as a writer/rapper, music producer, lyricist, etc.
Inspiring people with your words and music is a good thing. How I see it is talking what you’ve been through and your achievements to become your a singer. Inspire them with the story on what you need to do and the hard work you do to reach that goal. You reaching that goal or persevering that goal will make other people hear the song and say, “I know how this person feels.” Have them have that connection with you with the same goals and motivation. Tell a story and I’ll bet you that achieving your goal will be inspiring for many people around the world.
For rhymes at the as a ABCD or as a AABB isn’t hard as well. It all depends on the message you’re writing to the world. Think of words that rhyme and if unsure of the meaning, always have a dictionary, which helped me a lot when learning how to write. The more words you know how to rhyme, the more unique style of writer you’ll be as a singer. As mentioned, it’s just writing a story and making sure the rhyming and its meaning fits to the story. At first it may be hard, but within time you will write stories without using a notebook or pencil which is called freestyle.
There is no wrong or right answer to writing a song, but when you first write the song, read it loudly and make sure it has a good flow and the meaning of each line, of each verse, of each bar makes sense. As mentioned, you’re writing a story which your audience is listening to.
Anyway, I hope this information could help you into becoming a better music writer. You’ll become successful if you practice, keep on asking questions and always be open minded to other ideas with connections you get on the way.
My name is Fabian and I had the same question when I 1st started, but never had help from anyone. Great thing you got help from many people and now you’ll get some tips from me as a writer/rapper, music producer, lyricist, etc.
Inspiring people with your words and music is a good thing. How I see it is talking what you’ve been through and your achievements to become your a singer. Inspire them with the story on what you need to do and the hard work you do to reach that goal. You reaching that goal or persevering that goal will make other people hear the song and say, “I know how this person feels.” Have them have that connection with you with the same goals and motivation. Tell a story and I’ll bet you that achieving your goal will be inspiring for many people around the world.
For rhymes at the as a ABCD or as a AABB isn’t hard as well. It all depends on the message you’re writing to the world. Think of words that rhyme and if unsure of the meaning, always have a dictionary, which helped me a lot when learning how to write. The more words you know how to rhyme, the more unique style of writer you’ll be as a singer. As mentioned, it’s just writing a story and making sure the rhyming and its meaning fits to the story. At first it may be hard, but within time you will write stories without using a notebook or pencil which is called freestyle.
There is no wrong or right answer to writing a song, but when you first write the song, read it loudly and make sure it has a good flow and the meaning of each line, of each verse, of each bar makes sense. As mentioned, you’re writing a story which your audience is listening to.
Anyway, I hope this information could help you into becoming a better music writer. You’ll become successful if you practice, keep on asking questions and always be open minded to other ideas with connections you get on the way.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6338
Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Roselyn,
How Can I Elevate My Songwriting Skills?
Enhancing your songwriting skills is an artistic journey that requires consistent practice, drawing inspiration, and refining your craft. Here are some actionable steps to bolster your songwriting prowess:
1. Discover Your Muse:
Emotions: Use your personal emotions and experiences as a wellspring of inspiration. Reflect on significant moments that have evoked strong emotions within you.
Observation: Engage with the world around you. Take note of conversations, nature, art, and other potential sources of inspiration.
Music: Broaden your musical horizons by listening to a diverse range of genres to ignite your creativity and familiarize yourself with various styles and techniques.
2. Hone Your Songwriting Craft:
Consistent Practice: Dedicate time daily to write songs, even if it's just a few lines. Consistent practice is the cornerstone of improving your craft.
Master Song Structure: Familiarize yourself with the fundamental structure of songs, including verses, choruses, bridges, and how they synergize to form a harmonious piece.
Experiment with Rhyme Patterns: Experiment with various rhyme patterns (e.g., AABB, ABAB) to discover what aligns best with your style.
3. Polish Your Lyrics:
Stay Genuine: Write from your heart and maintain your unique voice. Authenticity strikes a chord with listeners.
Revise and Refine: Don't hesitate to revise and refine your lyrics. Often, the most impactful lines emerge after numerous drafts.
Employ Imagery: Use your words to create vivid mental images. Use metaphors and similes to craft imagery that captivates the listener.
4. Welcome Feedback:
Share Your Creations: Don't shy away from sharing your songs with others for feedback. Constructive criticism can be a catalyst for your growth as a songwriter.
Join Songwriting Circles: Network with other songwriters online or face-to-face. Collaborating with others can infuse new perspectives and ideas.
5. Never Stop Learning:
Enroll in Classes or Workshops: Consider enrolling in songwriting classes or workshops to acquire new techniques and gain wisdom from seasoned songwriters.
Read Songwriting Books: Numerous books on songwriting can provide invaluable tips and guidance.
Remember, songwriting is a personal odyssey, so don't let setbacks deter you. Keep writing, experimenting, and refining your craft, and your skills will steadily improve.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used to Answer this Question:
Songtrust: Songtrust is a premier music publishing administration platform that provides valuable resources and insights on songwriting techniques, copyrighting, royalties, and more.
BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.): BMI is one of the largest performing rights organizations worldwide, offering educational resources for songwriters on subjects like song structure, lyric writing, and melody creation.
Berklee Online: Berklee Online provides online courses in music production, songwriting, and music business taught by industry professionals, offering comprehensive knowledge on various aspects of songwriting.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
How Can I Elevate My Songwriting Skills?
Enhancing your songwriting skills is an artistic journey that requires consistent practice, drawing inspiration, and refining your craft. Here are some actionable steps to bolster your songwriting prowess:
1. Discover Your Muse:
Emotions: Use your personal emotions and experiences as a wellspring of inspiration. Reflect on significant moments that have evoked strong emotions within you.
Observation: Engage with the world around you. Take note of conversations, nature, art, and other potential sources of inspiration.
Music: Broaden your musical horizons by listening to a diverse range of genres to ignite your creativity and familiarize yourself with various styles and techniques.
2. Hone Your Songwriting Craft:
Consistent Practice: Dedicate time daily to write songs, even if it's just a few lines. Consistent practice is the cornerstone of improving your craft.
Master Song Structure: Familiarize yourself with the fundamental structure of songs, including verses, choruses, bridges, and how they synergize to form a harmonious piece.
Experiment with Rhyme Patterns: Experiment with various rhyme patterns (e.g., AABB, ABAB) to discover what aligns best with your style.
3. Polish Your Lyrics:
Stay Genuine: Write from your heart and maintain your unique voice. Authenticity strikes a chord with listeners.
Revise and Refine: Don't hesitate to revise and refine your lyrics. Often, the most impactful lines emerge after numerous drafts.
Employ Imagery: Use your words to create vivid mental images. Use metaphors and similes to craft imagery that captivates the listener.
4. Welcome Feedback:
Share Your Creations: Don't shy away from sharing your songs with others for feedback. Constructive criticism can be a catalyst for your growth as a songwriter.
Join Songwriting Circles: Network with other songwriters online or face-to-face. Collaborating with others can infuse new perspectives and ideas.
5. Never Stop Learning:
Enroll in Classes or Workshops: Consider enrolling in songwriting classes or workshops to acquire new techniques and gain wisdom from seasoned songwriters.
Read Songwriting Books: Numerous books on songwriting can provide invaluable tips and guidance.
Remember, songwriting is a personal odyssey, so don't let setbacks deter you. Keep writing, experimenting, and refining your craft, and your skills will steadily improve.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used to Answer this Question:
Songtrust: Songtrust is a premier music publishing administration platform that provides valuable resources and insights on songwriting techniques, copyrighting, royalties, and more.
BMI (Broadcast Music, Inc.): BMI is one of the largest performing rights organizations worldwide, offering educational resources for songwriters on subjects like song structure, lyric writing, and melody creation.
Berklee Online: Berklee Online provides online courses in music production, songwriting, and music business taught by industry professionals, offering comprehensive knowledge on various aspects of songwriting.
GOD BLESS!
James Constantine Frangos.
Thank you, this is amazing! I really needed it.
Roselyn
Updated
Kevin’s Answer
Hello there, Roselyn. My name is Kevin, so let's get to it.
When i want to write a song?
1. 1st verse + chorus + 2nd verse + chorus +3rd verse + chorus (end) Or 2 verses and 2 choruses
Find a topic you would like to talk about and shed light on it.
(Family + The School Life + Your experience in Cincinnati + Bullying Etc)
Beginning + Middle + End
A topic that you bring up as a disease/problem (So To Speak) and at the end.
You show us the cure/solution.
Once you find the topic?
Think of EVERY word, place, item, name etc. That is associated with it.
Example: Dogs
Verse 1- (beginning) Title: Dog Life!
There's nothing more important than having trust in a FRIEND
They also say trusting a FRIEND could also come to an END
Somebody was lied on, backstabbed, or stole FROM
Or you did a favor then they've disappeared when you were owed ONE
But dogs are much different they are emotionally SMART
and like a few of us they only tend to lead with their HEART
Loud and aggressive, bark for nothing, some bark with INTENTION
So when working ? They want to play, cause they need ATTENTION
Strong in their right some run some try to FIGHT
Throw something over their head and they might take FLIGHT
The bell rings, they jump, delivery or a NEIGHBOR
And they're always on guard , just in case of some DANGER
A snack or two, head rubbed for a FEW (minutes)
Sad or feeling overwhelmed is when they sit next to YOU
1 in a million part of the fam always apart of the PLAN
A woman's pride and joy but, a Man's Best FRIEND
(chrous)
Could be,
A bulldog...
A Shih Tzu...
A terrier... (Dog Life!)
They have them....All around us....In your area
A Dobermann...
A Poodle...
So Lucky...(Dog Life!)
A Retriever...
A Beagle...
Or a Husky...
(Dog Life!)
Verse 2 - (Middle)
I work full time so I'm barely home at ALL
At the front desk taking notes and answer CALLS
People are so rude gossiping throughout the DAY
No place for peace of mind chaos always in the WAY
But my boss says: "You always try and give your best"
If that's the case? why do the ones that don't? Make LESS?
Sometimes i want to quit, to walk out is the next STEP
Then I'm reminded by a picture sitting on my DESK
My best friend i SEE
Tongue hanging with the TEETH
The one that brings me so much joy a stress RELIEF
The one that shows love, follows me around the HOUSE
Happy with food and water, no matter the AMOUNT
I drive a HONDA It means we are on one ACCORD
When i pull into the driveway guess who's at the DOOR?
My one and only ,365 through any SEASON
If life had no cause? Then you gave it MEANING
(Chorus 2)
German Shepard...
A Chihuahua...
Cane Corso...(Dog Life!)
When i sit down....They always jump....On my torso...
Welsh Corgi...
A Boxer....
Or A Collie...(Dog Life!)
On their birthday....Gonna throw them....a little party (Dog Life!)
End it (Something Extra For The Listener)
This dog here needs a home (yeah)
This dog here needs a home (yeah)
This dog here needs a home, with a big ol bone, never will they roam (yeah)
Got pics of them on my phone (yeah)
Our love through the years, has grown (yeah)
If you ride into town
Go and save one now
So they'll NEVER BE ALONE! (Done)
Also, when stuck on a word?
Google the definition and type: "Words that rhyme with...." That should help you.
Good luck, You've got this!
- Kevin
When i want to write a song?
1. 1st verse + chorus + 2nd verse + chorus +3rd verse + chorus (end) Or 2 verses and 2 choruses
Find a topic you would like to talk about and shed light on it.
(Family + The School Life + Your experience in Cincinnati + Bullying Etc)
Beginning + Middle + End
A topic that you bring up as a disease/problem (So To Speak) and at the end.
You show us the cure/solution.
Once you find the topic?
Think of EVERY word, place, item, name etc. That is associated with it.
Example: Dogs
Verse 1- (beginning) Title: Dog Life!
There's nothing more important than having trust in a FRIEND
They also say trusting a FRIEND could also come to an END
Somebody was lied on, backstabbed, or stole FROM
Or you did a favor then they've disappeared when you were owed ONE
But dogs are much different they are emotionally SMART
and like a few of us they only tend to lead with their HEART
Loud and aggressive, bark for nothing, some bark with INTENTION
So when working ? They want to play, cause they need ATTENTION
Strong in their right some run some try to FIGHT
Throw something over their head and they might take FLIGHT
The bell rings, they jump, delivery or a NEIGHBOR
And they're always on guard , just in case of some DANGER
A snack or two, head rubbed for a FEW (minutes)
Sad or feeling overwhelmed is when they sit next to YOU
1 in a million part of the fam always apart of the PLAN
A woman's pride and joy but, a Man's Best FRIEND
(chrous)
Could be,
A bulldog...
A Shih Tzu...
A terrier... (Dog Life!)
They have them....All around us....In your area
A Dobermann...
A Poodle...
So Lucky...(Dog Life!)
A Retriever...
A Beagle...
Or a Husky...
(Dog Life!)
Verse 2 - (Middle)
I work full time so I'm barely home at ALL
At the front desk taking notes and answer CALLS
People are so rude gossiping throughout the DAY
No place for peace of mind chaos always in the WAY
But my boss says: "You always try and give your best"
If that's the case? why do the ones that don't? Make LESS?
Sometimes i want to quit, to walk out is the next STEP
Then I'm reminded by a picture sitting on my DESK
My best friend i SEE
Tongue hanging with the TEETH
The one that brings me so much joy a stress RELIEF
The one that shows love, follows me around the HOUSE
Happy with food and water, no matter the AMOUNT
I drive a HONDA It means we are on one ACCORD
When i pull into the driveway guess who's at the DOOR?
My one and only ,365 through any SEASON
If life had no cause? Then you gave it MEANING
(Chorus 2)
German Shepard...
A Chihuahua...
Cane Corso...(Dog Life!)
When i sit down....They always jump....On my torso...
Welsh Corgi...
A Boxer....
Or A Collie...(Dog Life!)
On their birthday....Gonna throw them....a little party (Dog Life!)
End it (Something Extra For The Listener)
This dog here needs a home (yeah)
This dog here needs a home (yeah)
This dog here needs a home, with a big ol bone, never will they roam (yeah)
Got pics of them on my phone (yeah)
Our love through the years, has grown (yeah)
If you ride into town
Go and save one now
So they'll NEVER BE ALONE! (Done)
Also, when stuck on a word?
Google the definition and type: "Words that rhyme with...." That should help you.
Good luck, You've got this!
- Kevin
Heyyy! That's super helpful! Thanks!
Roselyn
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Roselyn,
I have so many questions:
Do you know what kind of music you want to write? Do you like rock, country, rap, etc? Do you want to write the music as well as the text, or just the words, or pair up with someone? Do you play an instrument? Can you sing? Are you taking music classes for voice or an instrument already? Are you thinking about songwriting as a career or as a hobby?
If you are just starting out, start in your local environment: Are there any music groups in your school? A music teacher who also performs? Anyone in your circle of friends or in your school who is in a band? Anyone in a local facebook or Whats App group? Is there a club/pub/theater that has live music? If you can make connections to other people who dabble in music you'll find resources, can try out different styles and you might find "your people". Working together and learning together makes many things easier.
If you search for "songwriting" on YouTube, you'll find lots of videos and whole courses. You can also search for "songwriting critique" to find videos that might be useful. You'll also find people who offer online courses.
If you look at Cincinatti, there is the School of Rock that has instrument and songwriting courses. You can also find private teachers. I have left some links for you below.
There are also local workshops and summer camps like this:
https://www.girlsrockcinci.com/
Online platforms like coursera or skillshare have songwriting courses.
If you are looking at colleges, there are many music schools that have songwriting courses including University of Cincinatti. Some also have courses and summer programs. I left a link for Berklee School of Music below. They also have a YouTube channel.
I hope this helps! Good luck!
KP
https://www.schoolofrock.com/locations/cincinnati
https://takelessons.com/oh/cincinnati/songwriting-lessons
https://www.coursera.org/courses?query=songwriting
https://summer.berklee.edu/programs/songwriting-workshop
https://college.berklee.edu/songwriting/bachelor-of-music-in-songwriting
I have so many questions:
Do you know what kind of music you want to write? Do you like rock, country, rap, etc? Do you want to write the music as well as the text, or just the words, or pair up with someone? Do you play an instrument? Can you sing? Are you taking music classes for voice or an instrument already? Are you thinking about songwriting as a career or as a hobby?
If you are just starting out, start in your local environment: Are there any music groups in your school? A music teacher who also performs? Anyone in your circle of friends or in your school who is in a band? Anyone in a local facebook or Whats App group? Is there a club/pub/theater that has live music? If you can make connections to other people who dabble in music you'll find resources, can try out different styles and you might find "your people". Working together and learning together makes many things easier.
If you search for "songwriting" on YouTube, you'll find lots of videos and whole courses. You can also search for "songwriting critique" to find videos that might be useful. You'll also find people who offer online courses.
If you look at Cincinatti, there is the School of Rock that has instrument and songwriting courses. You can also find private teachers. I have left some links for you below.
There are also local workshops and summer camps like this:
https://www.girlsrockcinci.com/
Online platforms like coursera or skillshare have songwriting courses.
If you are looking at colleges, there are many music schools that have songwriting courses including University of Cincinatti. Some also have courses and summer programs. I left a link for Berklee School of Music below. They also have a YouTube channel.
I hope this helps! Good luck!
KP
Karin recommends the following next steps:
Updated
Richa’s Answer
"Starting to write meaningful songs can be very challenging, here are some tips which I think can help you:-
1) Find Inspiration: Anything can inspire a song – your feelings, experiences, or even a cool phrase you heard. Keep your eyes and ears open!
2) Express Emotions: Let your feelings flow into your lyrics. People connect with songs that feel real.
3) Jot Down Ideas: Carry a notebook or use your phone to capture ideas as they come. You never know when they'll turn into a song.
4)Play with Structure: Songs usually have a pattern, but don't be afraid to mix it up. Experiment and see what feels right for you.
5) Learn from Others: Listen to different songs and pay attention to how they're put together. You can learn a lot from what others have done.
6) Rhyme Naturally: Rhyming is fun, but don't force it. Let your words flow naturally, and don't worry if they don't always rhyme perfectly.
7) Craft Your Lyrics: Choose words that paint a picture and convey your message. Get creative with metaphors and storytelling.
8) Practice Regularly: The more you write, the better you'll get. Set aside some time each day to work on your songs.
Remember, there's no right or wrong way to write a song. Just have fun with it and let your creativity shine!"
1) Find Inspiration: Anything can inspire a song – your feelings, experiences, or even a cool phrase you heard. Keep your eyes and ears open!
2) Express Emotions: Let your feelings flow into your lyrics. People connect with songs that feel real.
3) Jot Down Ideas: Carry a notebook or use your phone to capture ideas as they come. You never know when they'll turn into a song.
4)Play with Structure: Songs usually have a pattern, but don't be afraid to mix it up. Experiment and see what feels right for you.
5) Learn from Others: Listen to different songs and pay attention to how they're put together. You can learn a lot from what others have done.
6) Rhyme Naturally: Rhyming is fun, but don't force it. Let your words flow naturally, and don't worry if they don't always rhyme perfectly.
7) Craft Your Lyrics: Choose words that paint a picture and convey your message. Get creative with metaphors and storytelling.
8) Practice Regularly: The more you write, the better you'll get. Set aside some time each day to work on your songs.
Remember, there's no right or wrong way to write a song. Just have fun with it and let your creativity shine!"
This is so helpful! Thank you!
Roselyn
Updated
Brianna’s Answer
Writing songs used to be quite a challenge for me, especially when I was just starting out. But I discovered a secret - the key is to write about what you love or are passionate about. It's also very effective to write songs based on personal experiences. This approach can truly aid in comprehending a situation, making it easier to express it in a song. I began my songwriting journey by composing a song about a favorite TV show of mine. This sparked a creative surge in me, and soon I was crafting songs for my friends and about my personal experiences. So remember, let your passions and experiences guide your songwriting - it can make the process much more enjoyable and rewarding!
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
I’ll answer your questions in number format :)
1. Usually, I get inspired by the world around me and my life whether that be my personal life in relationships or what’s on with the world. It’s helpful to write in journal or a diary or write poetry before starting to the write the full song.
2. Words will come as long as you have the inspiration for it. Getting into reading and poetry will help a lot with this. The songs that come the easiest for me are the songs I feel very strong about emotionally which is easier to write and come out of me.
3. It’s easy to find words that rhyme and you don’t have use words to rhymes every line. If it flows nicely and sounds correct, it’s good.
4. Tip: Try not to make it too wordy and complicated but not too simple or short either. Finding the right balance is key.
1. Usually, I get inspired by the world around me and my life whether that be my personal life in relationships or what’s on with the world. It’s helpful to write in journal or a diary or write poetry before starting to the write the full song.
2. Words will come as long as you have the inspiration for it. Getting into reading and poetry will help a lot with this. The songs that come the easiest for me are the songs I feel very strong about emotionally which is easier to write and come out of me.
3. It’s easy to find words that rhyme and you don’t have use words to rhymes every line. If it flows nicely and sounds correct, it’s good.
4. Tip: Try not to make it too wordy and complicated but not too simple or short either. Finding the right balance is key.
Updated
Holly’s Answer
Keep learning your favorite songs. Look up the tablature and stay busy learning songs you love. It brings inspiration and also teaches you chords and chord progressions at the same time. As for lyrics, I read a lot of poetry but also sometimes hearing just one word or phrase will inspire a whole song. Sometimes I can even create drama in my head that will inspire the emotions needed to create. Stay inspired any way you can!
Thank you so much! I'm definitely going to do this!
Roselyn
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