Guide · Songwriting

How to write a song: a simple step-by-step method that gets songs finished

There is no single right way to write a song, but there is a simple way to get one finished. This is a method that works whether you start with words, a melody or a riff.

1. Start with one idea, not a whole song

A title, a line, a melody you hummed, or a riff. One small thing you like is enough. If you have a pile of voice memos, start there.

2. Find the hook or the title

The hook is the bit people remember. Often it is the title, said in the chorus. Write a few options and pick the one you would sing in the car.

3. Write the chorus first

The chorus says the main idea as simply as you can. Keep it short and singable. Everything else in the song points at it.

4. Write the verses to show, not tell

Verses give the details: who, where, what happened. Verse one sets the scene, verse two moves the story on. Use things people can see and hear.

5. Add a bridge if the song needs a turn

A bridge changes the view: a new chord, a new angle, a twist in the story. Not every song needs one.

6. Write lyrics to the melody, not the other way round

Sing the melody with nonsense words first, then fit real words to the rhythm. Lyrics that fight the melody sound forced.

7. Record a rough demo straight away

Phone voice memo, one take, guitar or piano and voice. A rough demo is how you hear what is working.

8. Write down what is missing, then stop

Before you finish a session, write one line about what the song still needs: "verse two is weak", "needs a bridge". Next time, do only that.

9. Call it finished

A song is finished when it says what you meant and you can play it all the way through. You can always make a better version later.

Questions

How do you start writing a song?
Start with one small thing you like, a title, a line or a melody, and build the chorus around it.

Should I write the lyrics or the melody first?
Either works. Many songwriters find it easier to get a melody first, sing it with nonsense words, then fit the lyrics to it.

How long does it take to write a song?
A rough song can take 20 minutes; a finished one can take weeks. Getting a rough version recorded quickly is what keeps most songs alive.

How do I write lyrics for a song?
Decide what the song is about in one sentence, write the chorus to say that simply, then use the verses for specific details: places, objects, moments.