MODELING
One of the biggest challenges of songwriting is learning flow. It is one thing to write down a bunch of words and chords and cram them together to make something sound pseudo musical. It is another thing to make a continuous song from beginning to end that expresses something within your heart.
Try tearing apart and analyzing a song that you already enjoy listening to. What is it about the song that makes it unique, catchy, and appealing? If you can play an instrument, break apart the chord changes and find out if there is anything interesting or out of the ordinary. Write new lyrics over the top of the old ones using the same amount of syllables in each line.
FORM & STRUCTURE
Although there truly are no rules when it comes to songwriting, there are several elements that are common throughout today’s contemporary music. First of all, every song has some sort of form (verse; verse/chorus; verse/chorus/bridge; etc.). Become familiar with and try emulating the form of your favorite songs.
FORM & STRUCTURE
Although there truly are no rules when it comes to songwriting, there are several elements that are common throughout today’s contemporary music. First of all, every song has some sort of form (verse; verse/chorus; verse/chorus/bridge; etc.). Become familiar with and try emulating the form of your favorite songs.
The hook is usually a single phrase within the song that summarizes the meaning or theme of the song. Often times the hook will be a short lyrical phrase that contains either the song title or some other theme the songwriter wants the audience to remember. The hook can also be a musical phrase that will stay with people long after the song is over.
The bridge is an extension of the song. It will take the listener someplace further than the verse and chorus are allowed to go. Lyrically it should make a new statement, or re-emphasize something that has already been said. Musically it should provide contrast to the song and/or even provide opportunity for an instrumental section.
The best way to get ideas for song form is to continually listen to music. Try a style that may be out of the ordinary for you: Reggae, Classical, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Metal, Punk, Classic Rock, etc.
SONGS OF THE LORD / SPONTANEOUS WORSHIP
The bridge is an extension of the song. It will take the listener someplace further than the verse and chorus are allowed to go. Lyrically it should make a new statement, or re-emphasize something that has already been said. Musically it should provide contrast to the song and/or even provide opportunity for an instrumental section.
The best way to get ideas for song form is to continually listen to music. Try a style that may be out of the ordinary for you: Reggae, Classical, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Metal, Punk, Classic Rock, etc.
SONGS OF THE LORD / SPONTANEOUS WORSHIP
“He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God. Many will see and fear and will put their trust in the Lord.” (Psalm 40:3)
SING YOUR PRAYERS. You will make yourself vulnerable to God, and therefore deepen your relationship with Him. (God may use this time as inspiration for a new song that could grow into something corporate). Many modern worship songs have been berthed out of spontaneous worship. Read your Bible, pray to God, and sing what is in your heart. If you don’t set your expectations too high, you will be surprised of the songs that God will place in your heart.
SEARCH FOR INSPIRATION. Read the Bible, go to the park, head to the mountains, play some music. In all reality we cannot describe all of the wonders of God in one short song, however, God loves to speak to people of His character through worship. Find an action or characteristic of God that inspires you. Why do you choose to worship only Him?
“Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” (Luke 6:46)
PRACTICE MAKES PREPAREDNESS. Notice that I did NOT say "Practice Makes Perfect!" Every song has merit, and many early songs will prepare us for the songs that are to come. Some songs are only meant for the audience of One. Other songs have the potential to reach the ears of millions. The good news is that God has millions of new songs in His hands, and He is waiting to give them to whomever asks.
PRACTICAL STEPS
• Buy a journal and keep it with you at all times.
• LISTEN, LISTEN, LISTEN to music!
SING YOUR PRAYERS. You will make yourself vulnerable to God, and therefore deepen your relationship with Him. (God may use this time as inspiration for a new song that could grow into something corporate). Many modern worship songs have been berthed out of spontaneous worship. Read your Bible, pray to God, and sing what is in your heart. If you don’t set your expectations too high, you will be surprised of the songs that God will place in your heart.
SEARCH FOR INSPIRATION. Read the Bible, go to the park, head to the mountains, play some music. In all reality we cannot describe all of the wonders of God in one short song, however, God loves to speak to people of His character through worship. Find an action or characteristic of God that inspires you. Why do you choose to worship only Him?
“Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” (Luke 6:46)
PRACTICE MAKES PREPAREDNESS. Notice that I did NOT say "Practice Makes Perfect!" Every song has merit, and many early songs will prepare us for the songs that are to come. Some songs are only meant for the audience of One. Other songs have the potential to reach the ears of millions. The good news is that God has millions of new songs in His hands, and He is waiting to give them to whomever asks.
PRACTICAL STEPS
• Buy a journal and keep it with you at all times.
• LISTEN, LISTEN, LISTEN to music!
• Open your heart and mind to inspiration.
• Practice writing songs, share them with others,
and allow for feedback.
• When you pray, try singing your prayers.
• Read the lyrics of the bands you like.
• Read and re-write the Psalms.
RESOURCES
• “Facedown” by Matt Redman
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