Note

Songwriting

How a fragment of melody, a phrase, or a rhythm gradually finds its form.

Visual noteA song grows from a seed
  1. 01 Seed

    A line, rhythm, or melodic gesture.

  2. 02 Boundaries

    Key, tempo, and point of view.

  3. 03 Form

    Parts that support the central feeling.

A living fragment comes first, then boundaries, and finally a finished form.

Save the first signal

The beginning of a song is often too small to seem important. Record it immediately: sing it into your phone, play one chord, or write down a few words without worrying about rhyme.

Do not explain everything

A strong line opens a door without leading the listener through every room. One concrete detail usually says more than a complete explanation of the feeling.

Finishing is a separate craft

Inspiration provides material. Decisions finish the song: removing a weak verse, changing perspective, keeping the simple chorus, and finally placing the full stop.