Song Writing

So You Think You Can't Write Songs

Anyone can write songs. Anyone can write great songs. Some of the best songs by the best bands/artists are based on simple chord structures and simple rhythm & beats.

To get into song writing you simply have to abide by some simple rules.

Here is our 5 step guide

Step 1 Create a 1 Simple rhythm (strumming pattern)

Decide on a temo (slow, fast)

The rhythm and tempo will relate to the type & style of song you want to write.

Examples; slow ballad or fast pace energetic, reggae rhythm etc

Example simple strumming patterns    d d d d
                                                                      d d d d u
                                                                      dd uu du

Question
Can a simple strumming pattern make a good song.

Answer                                        Strumming pattern on each chord
Wild Thing                             The Troggs                 dd
Ground beneath her feet      U2                           d d d d
The Scientist                         Coldplay                 d d d d
Heart of Gold                         Neil Young             d d d du

Simple rhythms can make great songs

Sometimes LESS is MORE

Step 2 Decide on a key and select chords from the

relevant scale

Music is about the relationship between notes and chords.

Songs are written in a key and the associated scale.

Example Key of G major

Notes in scale G A B C D E F#

Some 3 finger open chords

avaliable from within this scale G Am C D Em

This means you can use any some or all of these chords for a song written in the key of G

In short the chords will work together as they are from the same scale.

Note
Go to the "Chord Chart" page for an illustration of selected simple chords from major scales

Step 3 Select the chords you are going to use in your

song

Apply your strumming pattern (rhythm

and beats) to the chords

Experiment with those available from the scale you have chosen.

To create a simple 3 chord song;

Select 3 chords from within your chosen key and scale - Experiment

Example;
Fom the G major scale you can use any, some or all of the chords
G Am C D Em

Let's say for this example you have tried them all and decide to use D G and C

Apply your chosen strumming pattern (rhythm and beats) to each chord.

ie;
Key of G
3 finger Chords D G C
you are going to use strumming pattern dd uu du

Step 4 Write a simple verse and a simple chorus

using the chords you have selected

Example Strumming pattern on each chord (dd uu dd du)

Verse D D G G (x4)

Chorus C D G C

C D G G

Step 5 Play or develop

You now have two choices

Play your song,

you could even apply lyrics

Develop and add interest.

(Go to Video "Lessons - Techniques" section have a look at Video lesson "Adding interest".

5 step guide - Summary

Step

1       Create a simple rhythm and beat (strumming pattern)

2       Pick a key

3       Select some chords from the scale and
            apply your strumming pattern to
            the chords

4       Create a simple verse and a simple
            chorus

5      Develop your song by adding interest

Now go and write your first song

Need more guidance ?

Go to Video Lessons - Techniques section

select "song writing video" lesson

Go to "Chords Chart" page
for some open chords in major scales

www.kickstartguitar.com

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