How to Write Lyrics to a Song: tips and techniques to do this seamlessly so that the words fit beautifully with the melody.
Okay so you have written your first song and are feeling on top of the world, and probably confident too. That is indeed a great accomplishment!
But how about writing the lyrics to a song’s melody? Have you tried doing that or are game for that?
How about writing more songs…on different subjects? The moment you start writing more songs, you’ll realize that it is not so easy to write good lyrics. After some time, you will really look for ways to quicken up the process and also look for tips that will really help improve your lyric writing.
Synchronizing Can be a Challenge
This is one of the common problems that most beginners face. Writing the words is not a problem but making it work with the melody is a challenge. It is because the words may end up maybe one beat off, or probably you need to change time in the chorus.
So if you have a cool melody line and are writing lyrics to fit into these, and are struggling with the parts that don’t match well.
What is a practical way to deal with this problem? Is there any easy way to tackle this?
Decide What’s Important
At times, it’s just about choosing what is important, the lyrics or the melody line. Depending on where you are on the song timeline, it could be just easy to choose.
For example, if you have a chorus melody that doesn’t work with the words, you need to ask yourself the following questions:
Once you have the answer to these, it is just easy to make the adjustments.
So if the melody line is superb and not worth changing, you can do a few things such as:
Which Comes First: Music or Lyrics?
So what comes first, Music or Lyrics? Here are some thoughts on this debate & experiences of famous musicians & composers.
Almost all music enthusiasts who are getting started with songwriting have this question to ask.
The Standard Process
So What’s the standard process? To write the words first of a song and THEN put the music around it or is it the other way around?
To put it simply – various musicians, composers & songwriters have their own preferences and there’s no hard & fast rule on what to follow.
So it really doesn’t matter and the professionals do encounter both the situations; it’s just that they have the skills to adapt to both the situations.
Tips for Novices
Having said that, for someone who has never done it before, it can be challenging to make a start. Usually, it’s seen that those who are good at playing a musical instrument are capable of composing a tune around any lyrics (the other way is even easier for them).
So you just have to try both the approaches and see what’s comfortable for you, and stick to that method for some time.
How Do Pros Do it?
Here’s a fact:
With experience however, you are able to deal with any situation.
At time you may compose an entire musical arrangement first, then write melody and lyrics to it. At other times you may do the other way around.
Here’s a useful video that explains this topic further:
How To Write Good Lyrics: Powerful Tips
If you intend to become a pro in song writing, you will have to write on varied topics, which can be a challenge. You may definitely start by writing about things that you like or interests you, but to become good you need to experiment with other topics as well.
So, in case you feel your writing needs a lesson or two, here are some great ideas and techniques that will take your lyrics to the next level.
Useful Links
- Best Lyric Writing Software reviewed here.
- Useful Songwriting Tips & Techniques
- Best Songwriting Software reviewed here
To Conclude
Now that you have some great ideas, start using them right away. I’m sure you’ll have a new perspective and new ways to look at your songs! Also remember, some of the best songs come along when you are feeling a lot of emotion. Most of the time, it’s just a matter of making small adjustments that retains the overall beauty of the song. However, you need to know what to choose so that the song remains catchy. This is what you need to remember when you are looking for the solution to how to write lyrics to a Song.
KeytarHQ editorial team includes musicians who write and review products for pianists, keyboardists, guitarists & other musicians. KeytarHQ is the best online resource for information on keyboards, pianos, synths, keytars, guitars and music gear for musicians of all abilities, ages and interests.
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