First off, I’m no musician. Sure, I played the guitar before I lost my sense of hearing but it was nothing sort of impressive. I’m also not a legit composer, though I have written two songs in high school and college. But that’s about it. I have dismissed the idea of becoming part of a band long ago. Yet here I am, hoping to inspire anyone by sharing some tips on writing an original composition—all based on my little experience in songwriting, as well as those I have realized during the years of listening to a variety of music genres.
READ: You Know That Song ‘Tadhana? This Was Where It Was Created
5. Put it on paper ASAP.
As soon as an idea sparks, seize the moment and write it down. It doesn’t have to be an actual song booklet or any kind of paper; just capture the lines by typing it on your notes app or by simply recording your voice. The latter is easier and more convenient for when you start laying down the music since there would already be a tune to guide your lyrics.
4. Don’t rush it.
It is rare for most composers to complete a great song overnight. It takes patience. Of course, you might lose inspiration and think that all you’re capable of doing is crap. Don’t let it ruin the mood. Just write down whatever comes to your mind. You can edit it later. The point is to just let the ideas flow. Who knows, maybe what you’re referring to as “crap” might actually get someone to have an LSS.
3. Stay away from clichés.
Enough with the “feeling lost without you” lines when you’re heartbroken. The same goes for anything that has to do with “tonight”—apparently an inauspicious time to move on, trod down the memory lane, and cry. They’re done to death and it doesn’t give you an edge. Be creative! You can express the exact same feeling using a different angle and wording.
2. Write from the heart.
Although I said earlier that you should avoid clichés, it is still important to pour your heart out into your songwriting. Whether you’re heartbroken, lonely or hopeful, you should be able to convey sincere feelings. Give the song a background through the verses, and the meaning through the chorus part.
1. Widen your horizons.
Don’t contain your ideas in just a single genre. Listen to everything as much as possible and pick some inspiration from it. You may find that one song has badass lyrics while the other has the sing-along quality that you’ve been trying to capture. Be open-minded and just take in what such music gives you.
So you see, you don’t have to be Shakespeare to create a song. As long as you have an ear for rhythm and a knack for poetry, you can transform your writing into a hit. You can turn it in to a recording company if you’re feeling confident about the finished product. Or, if you prefer to go the indie route, you could go sign up at SoundCloud and do the recording yourself. Composers are a hot commodity these days so keep fueling your passion.
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