I am just now getting into lyrics writing. I'm sure just getting started is an absolute nightmare for most beginners and I'm one of them. So just throw in tips for what you do, how to think abroad, think outside the box, or just whatever comes to mind! Much appreciation people.
Im not very good at writing lyrics but I guess a good approach would be to start with a poem, break it up into three sections, and then write a chorus to place in between each. For inspiration just look around you, reflect on an even, consider how it made you feel. The rhymes will come naturally once you get on a train of thought. Song writing is tough, in my opinion, but once you get the hang of it youll be cranking them out like Tupac
melody should come before the lyrics. Paul McCartney swore by this, explained that sometimes he would include words not because they were poetic per say- but simply because they sounded good when sung.
Melody before lyrics or lyrics before melody, its a matter of preference in my opinion. I cant freestyle, so to speak, but I can write a good poem off the top of my head.
Or you could try more surrealistic approaches, such as cut-up lyrics... I believe David Bowie used this approach sometimes. I have, too, although with significantly less success than Mr. B
You have to listen to your heart and dig deep into your soul. That's where the best music comes from.
you should write your lyrics and melodies seperate so there's no pressure for one to conform to the other..trying to write lyrics with a melody in your head can be difficult, but writing lyrics then trying to wrap a melody around that can also be difficult. try to write when you're feeling good, when you've got a creative energy flowin...mister j is exactly right. just write, write, write, let it flow out of you. write down whatever you're feeling when you're feeling good and creative and dont ever try to force it. just keep pumping out lyrics like that, then when you have a melody floating in your head go through all your lyrics and pick out the one that fits the melody best, then just edit it and work with it from there. Thats what I always do..might be a weird way to go about it but it works for me.
I sing as I'm writing...so I think of a melody as I'm writing the words. What usually works for me is one very inspiring line that hits me...and I'll base my whole song around it
as you can see from the above posts, there really isnt a set form....writing first, music first......for me, I've learned to just relax....words come when they come and music (can be melody, chords, a certain beat..etc.). What works for one, may not for you. Maybe consider all of the above, until you find what works best for you. I know many musicians who stress over music/writer's block. It's all pretty simple, really. It shouldnt be a nightmare. As resumetemp wrote, just let it flow.....and when the well runs dry, it's dry. But be sure, it will replenish!! Peace Dave
