3 beginner tips on becoming a better song writer.
Songwriting is a beautiful skill to develop. When learning the basics of songwriting, one must know how to catch their audience and portray the story and emotions they are trying to express. Songs are magical, something special happens when that certain song comes on that touches your heart and speaks to you in a way that no one could ever explain.
Music is a lot like a dance. Dancing shows emotion through actions that can’t really be expressed in writing, and music does the same. Music triggers feelings and emotions like nothing else can, so it’s vital that songs are written in a way to awaken and enhance feelings inside an individual. With that said, here are 3 beginner tips on how to become a better song writer.
1. Make It Real.
Songs that are written from real life experiences are the best! They’re always heart felt, and have more meaning than a song that was pulled out of a hat. If you don’t know what to write about search your feelings, a friend's feelings, or a recent event that happened in your community. When I began writing music and ran out of ideas for songs, I’d go to my friends who had recent breakups and other life changing experiences. I’d listen to their problems, and then write a beautiful song. I never revealed their name, location, or specifics, I would simply replace those things with the idea of the story I was writing about. Remember, real songs live forever.
2. Stay within the melodies (you, or someone else have composed), and always bring it back home.
Mozart was known for being one of the most talented songwriters in history. Although he had melodies that transposed into different melodies and led into newer melodies, he always brought all those melodies back to the way they were at the beginning of the song. Writing songs with different unique melodies is good, but it must be done in a way that is pleasing to the soul, and beautiful to the ears. Make sure all the melodies have some familiarity, and lead back to the beginning melody of the song. Music should take people on a journey and bring them back home. It’s exciting and familiar to the listener all at the same time. If you’re not quite sure what I’m talking about, listen to Mozart’s 5th Symphony.
3. Always make your lyrics meaningful.
Yes, there are songs that have no meaning to them, and yes some of those have made millions, but they will not live forever. A great songwriter writes lyrics that leave a lasting impression, which in return lives forever and never dies. When I worked as an A&R rep, new upcoming artists always dove into classical and old hit songs when wanting to do a cover, because people still purchase and love those songs everyday. And we know why! Because they have a special meaning to them. You can be a songwriter who’s hot for a year or two, or you can be a songwriter who’s remembered forever. In my opinion, by writing songs with purpose and meaning, your music will never go out of style.
If you're interested in listening to some of the songs I’ve written and composed, visit
www.maxinesoakai.com to hear samples of my Christian and Pop music, and get a FREE download of my song “Stand In the Rain” today!
Until next time, Ofaz!
