Does the idea of people being moved by a song you wrote warm your heart? Does knowing that there are people out there who have your song stuck on replay in their heads excite you? If you thought the word "yes!" in the last five seconds, perhaps songwriting is for you. Before you pluck a string on your guitar, or start typing out lyrics on your computer though, there are some things an absolute beginner in songwriting should know. Songwriters with some experience, or even those of you who have been looking around for materials to learn more about songwriting, may already know some or all of the pointers I'm about to well, point out.;) These are for those who have ABSOLUTELY no idea what songwriting is about.
1) Anyone can write a song!
Wondering if you have what it takes to write a song? Don't worry, anyone could write a song! Ever heard the saying "Everyone has a book within them"? Well, it's the same for songwriting. Everyone has a song inside of them, waiting to be heard. That's where your skill as a songwriter comes in. Did all your doubts that had been put aside for a while just flush back in again? Well, that's okay, if you had the skill and knew your way around writing a song, you wouldn't be reading this. I know, "duh" right? More importantly though, it takes practice to sharpen your skills as a songwriter. For most of us, it's not easy expressing our emotions in a way that makes people feel like they can't help but empathize with us, let alone doing it in melody with rhymes and all.
2) Songwriting is a craft.
As mentioned above, you need practice to be good at what you do. Yes, talent may play a role in it, a substantial one sometimes, but really, without consistent practice, there goes your craft. As with most other things, don't expect yourself to be able to create something awesome right off the bat. I know I've said this already, but I can't stress this enough, PRACTISE, PRACTISE, PRACTISE!!! With the guidelines this, and further articles will bring, try writing lyrics and/or melodies, and put them up on forums for unbiased critique. If they're able to provide you with constructive criticism, don't take it to heart. Thank them, and try improving things the next time! You will only get better!
3) Creativity + Organization = An original piece of work people will appreciate
Since I'm a lyricist first, let's use lyricism as an example. I can't tell you how many times I've seen posts of lyrics online that just look like a colosal clump of words. There are loads of people out there who believe structure and organization hinders their creativity. Here's something important that all newcomers to this field, who are serious about songwriting, should know: Songs have structure, lyrics have structure and melodies have structure. Please do not confuse creativity with untidiness! If people can't make sense of your creative expressions, your work will go unappreciated.
I know this hasn't really taught you much about the actual writing of a song, but my aim in this article is to set your mind roaming in the right direction. Having a fundamental understanding of how songwriting is like, and to have the attitude in you that says, "Anyone can write a song!" will help you through difficult times when you start your tough but wonderful journey into songwriting. Trust me though, if you have a burning desire to get "the song within you" out, it will happen!
Hope this article has given both, curious folks, and newbies to songwriting out there a taste of what goes on in the heart of a songwriter.;) Look out for more of my articles on practical tips for writing a song, such as song form, rhyme schemes, etc.
Have a musical day!
Author Resource:-
Author Ken Wong is an aspiring songwriter just like you. He's constantly looking for books, softwares and websites to help other aspiring songwriters, and himself, further their craft in songwriting. For some great resources that could help you better understand and improve your craft, visit:
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