16. How to Write a Song (Even If You Think You Can't)

Chad

04 Apr 2024 • 19 min read

Part 1: The Big Idea

Quick Summary

The core idea for writing your first song is to avoid starting from zero. We'll show you how to break down a well-known song, understand its fundamental structure, and then reassemble it using your own original lyrics, chords, and riffs. This chapter provides a clear blueprint to turn inspiration into your unique anthem.

Context

So far, you've mastered the essential building blocks of music. You started with the 12 notes that form everything, organized them with the Circle of Fifths, and unlocked the power of the pentatonic and major scales. From there, you learned how to build the 7 diatonic chords and use them on the neck. Now, you're going to use every one of those skills for the ultimate purpose: writing your own original music. This chapter is where it all comes together.

Your Mission

Your mission is to master the art of musical alchemy. We'll guide you in taking the essential energy and structure of a song you admire and transforming it into something completely new and original. This process will enable you to convert inspiration into your signature sound.

Part 2: The Building Blocks

Understanding Song Sections

A song typically consists of the following sections, arranged in a standard order:

Intro – Verse 1 – Chorus 1 – Verse 2 – Chorus 2 – Solo – Outro

Intro

Builds tension and intrigue to draw listeners in.
May feature a catchy guitar riff, haunting chords, or a dynamic drum fill.
Often mirrors the Verse chord progression.

Verse 1

Introduces the story of the song.
Provides context that leads into the Chorus.
Verse 1 & Verse 2 typically share the same chord progression.

Chorus 1

Delivers the song’s main message, which often includes the title .
The most memorable and catchy part of the song.
Designed to be easy to sing along with.
Chorus 1 & Chorus 2 typically share the same chord progression.

Verse 2

Verse 2 continues the storyline introduced in Verse 1, but with entirely new lyrics that further develop the narrative.
Provides new details or perspectives, then leads back into the Chorus.

Chorus 2

May be identical to Chorus 1 or slightly varied.
Re-emphasizes the song’s main message.
At the end of the Chorus 2, the stage is set for a guitar solo.

Guitar Solo

An opportunity to showcase your guitar skills.
Acts as the climax of the song.
Typically follows either the Verse or Chorus chord progression.
Transitions smoothly into the Outro.

Outro

For the outro, you can use a modified chorus/verse progression, or create a unique section designed to bring the song to a close.
The focus shifts to expressive singing, embellishments, and having a whole lot of fun.
Some artists prefer a short, simple outro to neatly close the song.
Others go all out, extending the ending with powerful, heartfelt performances—my personal favorite.