12. Basic Songwriting

Overview

• Goal: Learn to analyze the structure, chords, and lyrics of a famous song, then transform these elements into a completely original composition.
• Key Principle: Use the framework of a song (its structure and feel) but change every element—chords, rhythm, lyrics, solos—until you make something uniquely yours.

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

• Brief, typically around eight bars long.
• 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

• The outro can be a variation of the chorus (reusing chords/melodies with changes) or a brand-new section designed to close the song.
• Usually a modified version of the Chorus or Verse progression.
• The focus shifts to expressive singing, eccentrics, 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.

Songwriting Checklist

• This section provides a Songwriting Checklist, a step-by-step guide on how to write your own unique music.