How to Compose Your First Song

Some poets and writers try to start off by writing lyrics, or a poem. Unfortunately, they're missing one key thing, and that's the melody. No matter how great the words of a song are, without a good, catchy, moving melody there is no song. With a bad melody, those fantastic lyrics might as well just stay as a poem. So start off with a tune, it might even just be a loop, but the tune is the real basis for any good song.

Some people are able to write the tune and the lyrics at the same time, but some of us aren't able to do that, we just hear something in our head, then think of words to go with it later.

2. Add lyrics

Now, it's type for lyrics. Analyze the beats, and the notes and play around with the words and the mood you wish to convey. Music is best when it can express a powerful emotion, so go for something that you think your audience can relate to.

3. Add chords to accompany the vocal melody

If you learned how to play the piano, then you'll understand the concept of chords. If not, you should go to your local music store and get a very basic book on chords and harmonies. If your song is largely about the vocals you should concentrate on creating a good harmony with the melody you created.

4. Add other instruments, if necessary

Sometimes drums, a bass, or other instrument might help bring the correct emphasis to a song. Sometimes it might detract from the song, depending on what you are going for. Take, for example, Cat Steven's "Moonshadow". Can you imagine that song with an electric guitar and over-the-top orchestrations with mixers and rap melodies? Probably not.

5. Record it

A simple microphone, a few USB chords and the right application on your computer, you can probably record a song that's of okay quality. You can at least record the song for your future reference in case you ever want to get back to it and do more work. Otherwise you can get a song of good enough quality that you can broadcast it on the internet.

Helpful hints:
Carry a voice recorder around with you. You never know when inspiration will hit, and it would be a shame to get that type of inspiration only to be lost later that day.

Carry a notebook as well, in case inspirational lyrics happen to hit you as well.

Don't be afraid to share with your companions. Most people know at least a few talented musicians, and if you share your music with them, they could always help out, and give you great pointers and constructive criticism. Joining a musicians workshop could also prove to be incredibly helpful.