Summary
This video provides a step-by-step method for songwriting, applicable to beginners and experienced writers. It breaks down the process into four core stages: Concept, Chords, Melody, and Lyrics. The instructor emphasizes idea generation through note-taking, the emotional impact of chord progressions, a spontaneous approach to melody creation, and a relaxed process for lyric writing. It also covers basic song structure and the importance of practice and refinement, encouraging writers to produce many songs rather than aiming for a single 'perfect' one. The goal is to equip viewers with a clear path to finishing a complete song.
Key Insights
Maintain a digital note folder for unlimited song concepts.
Capture interesting or inspiring thoughts throughout the day immediately in a notes app. Do not rely on memory, as ideas are easily forgotten. This preparation avoids the struggle of finding inspiration when ready to write.
Chord progressions create distinct moods and can be simplistic.
Different sequences of chords (progressions) evoke different feelings, from uplifting to melancholy or romantic. Some highly successful songs use only two or four chords.
Focus on spontaneous singing and recording to capture compelling melodies.
Sing freely over the chord progression without worrying about words or perfection. Record everything sung, as first instincts are often the best and melodies are easily forgotten.
Consistent practice ('reps') is crucial for improving songwriting skills.
Writing many songs, even imperfect ones, builds skill more effectively than striving for a single perfect song. This practice leads to better, more memorable music over time.
Sections
Introduction: Songwriting Superpower
Songwriting is presented as a powerful skill with potential for personal enjoyment or career success.
The ability to write songs is framed as a superpower that can captivate audiences, initiate movements, or provide personal fulfillment. The video promises a simple, step-by-step method that works for everyone, regardless of experience level or career aspirations.
Instructor's Method Guarantees a Complete Song
Using a method that has helped the instructor write over 30 songs with millions of streams, viewers are assured a clear path from idea to finished song. The process is instrument-agnostic, encouraging the use of whatever is available.
Comprehensive Masterclass Approach
The video is structured as a comprehensive masterclass, offering expert-level information for free. Viewers are encouraged to prepare an instrument and take a deep breath to begin the process.
Step 1: Concept - The Song's Idea
Begin songwriting with a clear concept or idea for the song's theme.
The concept defines what the song is about, whether it's personal, a story, or a singular idea. Examples include 'driver's license' for a progressing story and 'Hotline Bling' for a singular idea.
Maintain a digital note folder for unlimited song concepts.
Capture interesting or inspiring thoughts throughout the day immediately in a notes app. Do not rely on memory, as ideas are easily forgotten. This preparation avoids the struggle of finding inspiration when ready to write.
Select a concept that resonates emotionally and lyrically.
The instructor uses the concept 'I'm lonely like an astronaut,' derived from personal reflection and word association (astronauts are in space, lonely), to illustrate the process.
Step 2: Chords - The Song's Foundation
Chords provide the musical foundation and establish the song's mood.
Chords communicate the song's idea musically. Major chords generally sound happy, while minor chords sound sad. Learning a few chord progressions offers significant creative freedom.
Chord progressions create distinct moods and can be simplistic.
Different sequences of chords (progressions) evoke different feelings, from uplifting to melancholy or romantic. Some highly successful songs use only two or four chords.
Record or document your chosen chord progression to avoid forgetting it.
Use Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) like Ableton or free options like GarageBand, or even phone voice notes or paper, to save the progression. Capturing the tempo and feel is crucial.
Loop the chord progression for consistent practice and writing.
Using a DAW's loop function allows for continuous playback, freeing up mental energy for creative tasks and ensuring consistency during the writing process.
Understanding Song Structure
Standard song structures guide the listener through the song effectively.
A common structure like Verse-PreChorus-Chorus-Verse-PreChorus-Chorus-Bridge-Chorus keeps listeners engaged. Verses and pre-choruses build detail and story, while the chorus contains the main, memorable idea.
The chorus should contain the song's most memorable and 'sticky' melody.
The chorus is the core idea and often features the catchiest melody that gets stuck in the listener's head, as exemplified by 'Shape of You' by Ed Sheeran.
Step 3: Melody - The Song's Voice
Focus on spontaneous singing and recording to capture compelling melodies.
Sing freely over the chord progression without worrying about words or perfection. Record everything sung, as first instincts are often the best and melodies are easily forgotten.
Melodies should communicate feeling, with lyrics added later.
Prioritize the emotion conveyed by the melody. Resist overthinking; letting go and singing naturally leads to more memorable melodies. Use gibberish or made-up words to aid the process.
Select the melody that makes your brain 'light up' as the primary hook.
The instructor identifies a melody that stands out as their favorite and decides to use it for the chorus, emphasizing the importance of choosing what resonates personally.
Step 4: Lyrics - The Song's Story
Craft lyrics that align with the concept and melody, lowering the stakes.
Once a strong concept, chords, and melody are established, lyrics become easier. The first draft doesn't need to be perfect; focus on getting words down that match the melody and concept.
Rhyming is encouraged, and lyrics can be refined over time.
While not strictly mandatory, rhyming is beneficial. Use the notes app for writing and don't rush the process, but avoid getting stuck trying to write perfect lyrics immediately.
Build verses and pre-choruses to establish details and complete the song.
After crafting the chorus, write the other sections to develop the narrative and structure. Viewers can pause to complete their own songs or wait for pointers.
Refinement and Final Thoughts
Songwriting involves iterative refinement and making necessary changes.
Listen through the song repeatedly, making adjustments to improve it. While sometimes songs come together perfectly on the first try, most benefit from revision.
Embrace flexibility in the songwriting process; order of steps can vary.
The presented order (Concept, Chords, Melody, Lyrics) is efficient but not rigid. Writers can start with lyrics, melody, or jump between steps. Finding a personal workflow is key.
Consistent practice ('reps') is crucial for improving songwriting skills.
Writing many songs, even imperfect ones, builds skill more effectively than striving for a single perfect song. This practice leads to better, more memorable music over time.
Set realistic goals and avoid excuses to start making music.
Whether aiming for fun or a career, regular practice is vital. Choose a frequency (daily, weekly) that fits goals and inspiration. The core message is to stop making excuses and start creating.
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