What Should I Write A Song About? Unleashing Your Inner Songwriter
So, you’re ready to write a song? That’s fantastic! But staring at a blank page, guitar in hand, or a piano keyboard beckoning can be a little intimidating. The biggest hurdle for many aspiring songwriters is often the initial spark: what should I write a song about? This article will help you find that spark, explore a vast array of possibilities, and get you well on your way to composing your next hit (or at least a song you’re proud of).
Finding Your Inspiration: Where Do Great Songs Come From?
The truth is, inspiration can come from anywhere. It’s less about where it comes from and more about recognizing it when it arrives. Think of your life as a vast reservoir of potential song subjects. Pay attention to your emotions, your experiences, and the world around you. Observe, feel, and translate those observations and feelings into musical expression.
Exploring the Emotional Landscape: Tapping into Your Feelings
One of the richest veins for songwriting is emotion. Your feelings are the raw materials of a great song. Consider these emotional avenues:
Joy and Happiness: Celebrating the Good Times
Songs celebrating joy are timeless. Think about a recent moment of happiness. Was it a shared laugh with a friend, a stunning sunset, or achieving a personal goal? Capture that feeling of elation in your lyrics. Think about the specific details that made the moment special.
Sadness and Grief: Finding Beauty in the Blues
It might seem counterintuitive, but sadness can be incredibly powerful in songwriting. Vulnerability is often the key to connecting with an audience. Have you recently experienced a loss, a heartbreak, or a period of disappointment? Explore these feelings honestly and authentically.
Anger and Frustration: Letting it Out Creatively
Anger can be a destructive emotion, but it can also be a catalyst for creativity. Channel your anger into a song. Write about what’s causing you to feel that way. Just remember to aim for a thoughtful expression, not just a rant.
Love and Relationships: The Universal Language of Song
Love, in all its forms, is a fundamental human experience. Love songs resonate because they tap into something universal. Whether it’s the thrill of new romance, the comfort of long-term partnership, or the ache of a breakup, love provides endless inspiration.
Drawing Inspiration from Life Experiences: Your Personal Story
Your life is a story waiting to be told. Every experience, big or small, can become the foundation for a song.
Personal Anecdotes: Sharing Your Unique Perspective
Think about memorable moments from your past. A childhood memory, a travel adventure, a defining moment in your life – these can all be fertile ground for a song. The more specific and personal you are, the more engaging your song will be.
Social Commentary: Addressing the World Around You
Do you have strong opinions about current events, social issues, or the state of the world? Use your songwriting to express your views. This can be a powerful way to connect with listeners who share your concerns.
Observation of Others: The Art of Storytelling
You don’t have to experience everything firsthand to write about it. Observe the people around you, their interactions, their struggles, and their triumphs. Craft stories based on what you see and hear.
Exploring Themes and Concepts: Broadening Your Horizons
Sometimes, a more abstract approach is the best way to unlock your creativity. Consider exploring broader themes and concepts.
Nature and the Environment: The Earth as Muse
The natural world is a constant source of wonder and beauty. Write about landscapes, animals, the changing seasons, or the impact of humanity on the planet.
Dreams and Fantasies: Unleashing Your Imagination
Let your imagination run wild! Write about dreams, fantasies, alternate realities, or fictional characters. The only limit is your creativity.
Abstract Ideas: Exploring the Intangible
Delve into concepts like time, memory, hope, or faith. These abstract ideas can be surprisingly compelling song subjects.
Practical Tips for Choosing a Song Subject: Narrowing Your Focus
Once you’ve identified potential topics, it’s time to narrow your focus. Here are some practical tips to help you select the right subject:
Start with What You Know and Feel Best
Choose a subject that resonates with you deeply. Authenticity is key. If you’re not emotionally invested in the topic, it will be difficult to write a compelling song.
Consider Your Musical Style
The genre of music you write in will influence your subject matter. A blues song might be about heartbreak, while a pop song might be about celebrating a new relationship.
Brainstorm and Freewrite
Don’t censor yourself. Write down every idea that comes to mind, no matter how silly it seems. This can spark unexpected connections and lead to new discoveries.
Research and Gather Information
If you’re writing about a specific historical event or a scientific concept, do your research. Accuracy and detail can add depth and credibility to your song.
From Idea to Song: The Next Steps
Once you’ve chosen your subject, it’s time to start writing. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Develop a Strong Hook
The hook is the part of the song that grabs the listener’s attention. It could be a catchy melody, a memorable lyric, or both.
Structure Your Song
Most songs follow a basic structure: verse, chorus, verse, chorus, bridge, chorus. Experiment with different structures to find what works best for your song.
Write Compelling Lyrics
Use vivid language, imagery, and metaphors to create a powerful and engaging story. Focus on showing, not telling.
Compose the Music
Experiment with different chords, melodies, and rhythms to create a musical landscape that complements your lyrics. Don’t be afraid to experiment.
FAQs: Addressing Common Songwriting Concerns
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you further on your songwriting journey.
Why is it so hard to come up with ideas?
It’s perfectly normal to experience creative blocks. The key is to be patient and persistent. Try different brainstorming techniques, take breaks, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Sometimes, the best ideas come when you least expect them.
Can I write a song about something I don’t know much about?
Absolutely, but be prepared to do your research! Immersing yourself in a subject you’re less familiar with can be incredibly rewarding and open up new creative avenues.
How do I know if my song idea is good?
That’s a question only you can truly answer. Does the idea excite you? Does it feel authentic? Does it have the potential to connect with an audience? Trust your gut.
What if I’m afraid of being judged?
Everyone has insecurities. Remember that the creative process is about expressing yourself. Write for yourself first. Share your work with trusted friends or mentors for constructive feedback.
Where can I find more inspiration?
Look everywhere! Listen to different genres of music, read books, watch movies, and immerse yourself in the world around you. Inspiration is all around; you just need to be open to receiving it.
Conclusion: Unleashing Your Songwriting Potential
Choosing what to write a song about can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. By exploring your emotions, experiences, and the world around you, you’ll find a wealth of inspiration. Remember to be authentic, persistent, and open to experimentation. Start small, choose a subject that excites you, and let your creativity flow. The most important thing is to start writing. The more you write, the better you’ll become, and the more confident you’ll be in your ability to find amazing song subjects. So, grab your pen, your guitar, or your keyboard, and start creating! You have a story to tell, and the world is waiting to hear it.