YOUR BEST SOURCE FOR USEFUL SONGWRITING STUFF
A: There are lots of ways to write songs. Some people write the melody or chords first, then add lyrics. Paul McCartney famously wrote the melody and chords to “Yesterday” before he had the lyrics. He went around singing the phrase “scrambled eggs” pr “ham and eggs” (depending on who’s telling the story) until he came up with the lyric “yesterday.”
“Stronger (What Doesn’t Kill You)” is a major hit song that’s a master class in songwriting for the Pop charts. Learn today’s hottest song structure for radio hits, plus ideas on how to write a great Pop lyric and build emotional energy into your melody. I’ll take you through this song step-by-step and show you simple exercises that will get you writing like the pro’s do!
“I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz was a #1 hit single and continues to be a favorite with listeners. It’s a great example of an upbeat, feel-good song that has plenty of creativity, fresh lyrics, and an an irresistible melody. Find out how he does it and then learn how you can use these same songwriting techniques in songs of your own! I’ll walk you through this hit song and show you step-by-step!
Here are three copyright questions I get asked all the time…
Before you start pitching your song to publishers, film & TV music supervisors or music libraries, before you enter it in a contest, or otherwise spread it around the industry, I definitely recommend copyrighting your songs or lyrics. In the United States, you’ll do that through the Library of Congress. Their online e-filing system makes it easy.
If you live outside the U.S. be sure to research the copyright laws in your country. That said, there are many countries that share copyright agreements with the U.S. that allow you to protect your song through the U.S. copyright office. Find out more about registering foreign works in the U.S.
You’ll also find a printable form, FAQ, and helpful instructions at the Copyright Office website. There’s a fee for each form you file – whether it’s online or via mail – BUT you can register groups of lyrics or songs on a single form. Do that!
There have been many successful songs written about places: New York, Paris, San Francisco, Chicago, and foggy London town. Â In these songs, the big city often provides a backdrop for a love affair or nostalgic memories.
But small towns and rural locales can also be inspiring. Jason Aldean’s “Tattoos on This Town” is a great example of a vivid lyric about growing up in a small town. Classics like “Blue Bayou” and “Rocky Mountain High” evoke the feeling of a place.
LYRIC STARTER: Think of a place that holds emotions or memories for you and write a song about it. Paint a picture so your listener can see and feel the place as you do. What is it you remember? What stands out? Why do you feel the way you do?
