Tag: melody

Robin’s Interview in Beat Magazine

Q: What makes a great song great?
A: For me, a great song is one that moves listeners emotionally. One that makes them understand something more deeply or see something in a new way. In some ways, a great song actually changes the listener.

Q: What’s your personal ingredient list for what you consider a good song?
A: A good song is one that expresses what the songwriter feels. If, every time you play your song, you say, “Yes, that’s what I felt. That’s what I wanted to say.” Then it’s a good song. A great song is one that communicates your message to listeners and makes them feel what you felt when you wrote it. 

Continue reading Robin’s Interview in Beat Magazine

Rewrite Your Song Melody and Make It a Monster

How to Rewrite a Song MelodyLet’s say you’ve just spent the afternoon writing a song and you feel you’ve got a good start on a first draft. The concept is strong, the structure feels right. Of course the lyric still needs work but you’re planning to go back and rewrite it.

But what about the melody? Will you go back and rewrite that, too? Or will you stick with the first idea that came to you?

Many times, a songwriter who wouldn’t dream of settling for a rough draft of a lyric, uses the first melody that comes along. Often these melodies are the result of old habits; they may sound dated and familiar. The writer might not even know that a melody can be rewritten, strengthened, and polished just like a lyric. To give your song the best chance for success, make sure your melody works hard to attract listeners and put your emotional message across!

=> Melody makes your song structure easy to follow
Listeners don’t like songs that seem to wander aimlessly. They like to know where they are and they like the feeling of structure that a good melody provides. To do that, create plenty of contrast between sections – verse, chorus, and bridge. Then the listener will know when they’re moving from one section to the next. Successful songs use some combination of these three techniques for adding contrast to a melody:

VIDEO: Secrets of Hit Songwriting – “I Drive Your Truck” – Lee Brice

This Contemporary Country hit is an emotional powerhouse! Study this song for ideas on lyric imagery and an easy-to-use melody tip that will add a current , competitive edge to songs in all genres. I’ll walk you through this song step-by-step and show you how it’s all put together to create an unforgettable experience for the listener.

 

 

VIDEO: Secrets of Hit Songwriting – “Stronger” by Kelly Clarkson

“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!

VIDEO: Secrets of Hit Songwriting – “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz

“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!