How do I write good lyrics?
I used to make songs a while ago and I wanna get back into that, but whenever I try to write lyrics my mind just goes blank. What should I do?
View hidden comment
Expert Comments
One of the best ways to become a better songwriter is to turn to the songs and poetry you admire for inspiration. Maybe take a break from writing your own lyrics and listen to your favorite songs again: what is it about them you love? What do you find moving or meaningful about them?
When you do sit down to write, go slow, and don't feel pressured to write a perfect song from the get-go: it may take time, especially if you haven't done it in a while. Brainstorming and freewriting can help you develop ideas to write about. So can changing your environment: take a walk, and take notes about what you observe.
View hidden comment
When you do sit down to write, go slow, and don't feel pressured to write a perfect song from the get-go: it may take time, especially if you haven't done it in a while. Brainstorming and freewriting can help you develop ideas to write about. So can changing your environment: take a walk, and take notes about what you observe.
Just start writing
. Begin. Get the muscle moving. It’s less intimidating once you start, and spontaneity can be powerful. Once a creative, always a creative. You don’t lose that. When you start writing again, that part of your brain activates.
Personally, I don’t write lyrics on paper. I start with humming and melodies. Melody always comes first for me. But some writers are lyric-driven. Think of songwriting like poetry—take The Star-Spangled Banner. It started as a poem by Francis Scott Key before becoming a song. Songwriting is essentially words plus melody.
If you’ve been writing a lot and hit a block, take a break—go for a walk, clear your head. But if you haven’t written in a while and feel blocked, you need to start writing again. It’s like going back to the gym. It might feel hard at first, but once you start moving, the energy returns . It’s all about getting into the groove again.
View hidden comment
Personally, I don’t write lyrics on paper. I start with humming and melodies. Melody always comes first for me. But some writers are lyric-driven. Think of songwriting like poetry—take The Star-Spangled Banner. It started as a poem by Francis Scott Key before becoming a song. Songwriting is essentially words plus melody.
If you’ve been writing a lot and hit a block, take a break—go for a walk, clear your head. But if you haven’t written in a while and feel blocked, you need to start writing again. It’s like going back to the gym. It might feel hard at first, but once you start moving, the energy returns . It’s all about getting into the groove again.
Reader Comments
Watch a Ralph Murphy lecture on songwriting. He’s been making hits for like 50 years. He has so much good info for writing music. I suggest everyone check him out on YouTube. . . . Me personally, I usually hum and mumble over chord progressions I make and then words start to form in places. I’ll write those down and then start working out from there. I use Ralph Murphy’s tips to avoid pitfalls which has been the most beneficial to my songwriting.
View hidden comment
What’s on your mind? Ask anything.
Get advice and feedback from experts and wikiHow readers just like you.
Ask a Question
More Forum Discussions
Ask a Question
Trending Discussions
Why do people like Taylor Swift?
Read More
Would you rather meet Sabrina Carpenter or Taylor Swift?
Would you rather meet Sabrina Carpenter in real life and spend your day with her or would you rather meet Taylor Swift and hang out in her house all day? Which one do you guys go for? In my answer and opinion I would go for the Sabrina one :)
Read More
Need Movie Recommendations for a Chill Weekend
Hey everyone,
I’m seeking some enjoyable movies for this weekend—something engaging yet lighthearted. I’m open to all genres, as long as it’s a quality watch.
Please share your favorites below!
Read More
