How to Write a Song

Writing a song is a deeply rewarding process that combines creativity, structure, and experimentation. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned musician, having a clear framework can make the songwriting process smoother and more enjoyable. Here, we break down the steps to crafting your own song, inspired by a recent session with a student and enhanced with additional insights.

Step 1: Pick a Key

The first decision when writing a song is selecting a key. This choice will determine the tonal foundation of your piece. You can choose between major keys, which often convey happiness or brightness, and minor keys, which evoke sadness or introspection.

Example: Key of D major.

Step 2: Play Chords in the Key Using the Harmonized Scale

Next, familiarize yourself with the chords available in your chosen key by harmonizing the scale. This means building triads or seventh chords on each note of the scale. For example, in D major, the harmonized scale produces the following chords:

• D major (I)
• E minor (ii)
• F# minor (iii)
• G major (IV)
• A major (V)
• B minor (vi)
• C# diminished (vii°)

Play through these chords and see which resonate with you.

Example Chords: D, Em, G, A.

Step 3: Choose a Rhythm

Now it’s time to determine the rhythmic feel of your song. Rhythm encompasses tempo, time signature, and overall groove or feel. Ask yourself:

• Is the song fast or slow?
• Is it in a common time signature like 4/4 or something less conventional, like 6/8?
• Will the feel be straight or swung?

Example: Medium tempo, 4/4 time signature, straight feel.

Step 4: Decide the Order of Chords

With your chords selected, create a progression. Experiment with different sequences until you find something that feels cohesive and satisfying.

Example Progression: Em – D – A – G – D.

Step 5: Write Down the Chords and Beats

Document your chord progression on paper or digitally. This is crucial for remembering what you’ve played and fostering a productive mindset of creating something tangible. Writing it down also allows you to revisit, refine, and eventually let go of the work as it takes on a life of its own.

Example:

| Em | % | D | % | A | % | G | D |

Writing down the progression also means deciding how many beats each chord will last. For instance, in 4/4 time, you might allocate four beats per chord, or split some bars between two chords.

Step 6: Compose a Melody

With your chord progression in place, it’s time to craft a melody. You can approach this in several ways:

Option A: Use Your Instrument

Pick out notes from the scale of your chosen key and experiment. Write the melody in standard notation, tablature, or MIDI.

Option B: Hum or Sing

Let the melody flow naturally by humming or singing over the chords. This method can be quicker but requires you to record or transcribe your ideas immediately to avoid forgetting them.

Tips for Melody Writing:

• If you’re stuck, focus on one chord at a time.
• Record your improvisation and refine it later.
• Use intervals to add emotional depth. For instance, a leap of a 6th might create excitement, while a stepwise motion conveys smoothness.

Example Melody (Intervals):

| Em | % | D | % | A | % | G | D | 6 1 3 2 1 1 3 2 1 6 5 1

Step 7: Write a Complementary Section

Once you have your initial 8-bar section (commonly referred to as the A section), consider whether it needs a complementary section (B section). A B section should contrast with the A section while maintaining coherence. This could mean using a different chord progression, rhythm, or melodic idea. For more ideas, check out my article on complementary sections here.

Step 8: Create a Melody for the B Section

Repeat the melody-writing process for your B section. Since this section serves as a contrast, consider varying the rhythm, pitch range, or emotional tone of the melody.

Step 9: Decide on a Third Section or Bridge

Some songs benefit from a third section, such as a bridge or outro. Decide if your song feels complete with just A and B sections, or if it needs another contrasting part to add depth. Bridges are particularly effective in ABABCB forms, providing a new perspective before the final chorus, but not every song needs one.

Step 10: Arrange Your Sections

Experiment with the order of your sections to find the structure that works best. Common arrangements include:

• 1. AABA: Verse – Verse – Bridge – Verse
     • Example: “Over the Rainbow” (Harold Arlen)
  2. ABAB: Verse – Chorus – Verse – Chorus
     • Example: “Smells Like Teen Spirit” (Nirvana)
  3. ABABCB: Verse – Chorus – Verse – Chorus – Bridge – Chorus
     • Example: “Umbrella” (Rihanna)
  4. AAA (Strophic): Repeated verses with variations
     • Example: “Blowin’ in the Wind” (Bob Dylan)

If you’re unsure, play around with transitions until the song feels balanced.

Step 11: Add Additional Elements

Now that you have your core structure, think about embellishments or additional sections:

• Introduction: Set the mood and establish the key.
• Interlude: Provide a musical break between sections.
• Outro: End the song with a memorable conclusion.
• Chord Embellishments: Try inversions, extensions, or alternate voicings to add color.

Final Thoughts

Songwriting is both an art and a craft. While following a structured process can be immensely helpful, remember that rules are made to be broken. Stay open to inspiration and let your creativity guide you. Ultimately, the best songs come from a place of genuine emotion and self-expression.