Any of you who have read my e-books, particularly my chord progression e-books, know that I often use the analogy of taking a walk to describe how a good chord progression works. It’s a good analogy for many reasons. But here’s the main one: when you take a walk, the path you’re on is like the chord progression […]
The term “modal chord progression” may technically be a bit of a misnomer. But in common usage, a modal progression could best be described this way: a set of chords that points to a note other than the tonic (key) note. In other words, if you’re using what appear to be chords from the key of A […]
Normally, an Italian musical term from the classical music world would send any self-respecting songwriter running for cover. In this case, the daunting word “appoggiatura” can actually become your best friend if you’re trying to find a good way to inject some energy and interest into an otherwise boring melody. Here’s how it works. An […]
Written by Gary Ewer, from “The Essential Secrets of Songwriting” website. • Follow Gary on Twitter ________________________________ How do I write a hook for the song I’ve already composed? Is that possible, or must the songwriting process start with the creation of a hook? In a way, all songs have a hook if they’re memorable. A hook […]
Download “The Essential Secrets of Songwriting” 6 E-Book Bundle, and discover how your good songs can be great. ____________ Chord progressions don’t need to be complicated animals. In fact, the more complicated it is, the more problems it can cause for a song. Progressions that are too complicated are either too long, or throw in chords […]
Any working songwriter will tell you that writer’s block is one oftheir fiercest enemies, something they must constantly work against to keep at bay. A bad dose of writer’s block can completely sap the fun and enjoyment out of songwriting, and make you feel like a rank amateur. Writer’s block is, in short, the inability to summon the […]
