I'm really confused - songwriting

by Bayley
(Shell Lake, SK, Canada)

I'm under 18, and when I went on this songwriting site, I found it really confusing. My brain dosen't really function properly, and I was wondering if there would be novels, books, etc. where I can get extra help?


Webmaster comments - For Ask A Question

Hi Bayley,

Knowing where to start in songwriting can be confusing. There are so many things to learn and consider when writing. However, I believe the most important thing to do is to start writing and learn bit by bit as you go along.

Just write as much as you can. The various pieces of information on this web site will make more sense with time.

There is no specific correct place to start a song. Some people start with a title and some start with the music, melody or riff. It also can be any combination in between those.

Go with what inspires you in the moment and write what you can. I encourage you to brainstorm and write a first draft and don't worry if it is good or works well.

Once you've got some ideas or pieces of the song go back and edit and try and give it shape and form. Try to connect emotionally with the listener so they can share in what you see, feel and show in the song.

Give yourself a free license to create something that is in your personal experience or beyond it. Feel free to make stuff up, it doesn't have to be about you personally.

The beauty of songwriting is you can create your own world in the song. What's most important is that your listeners feel they can be part of what you create.

You asked specifically if there are novels and books etc that would be of extra help to you. There are many songwriting books out there. I went to Amazon.com and put together a short example of books you could start to read to help you.

Click here to see the books I recommend. Pat Pattison's book Writing Better Lyrics or Jason Blume's book 6 Steps To Songwriting Success will give you a place to start. I also included Lisa Aschmann's book 1000 Songwriting Ideas to help you get inspired.

Thanks for submitting your songwriting question. If anyone else has suggestions for Baley, please post your comments.

John Cowell - Webmaster