Working a Melody in an Upward Direction

From the start of a verse to the end of a chorus, melodic direction should be generally upward. Here’s a close look at that principle. ____________ Download “The Essential Secrets of Songwriting” 6-eBook Bundle, and discover the basic principles of why hit songs work. _____________ There’s a good reason why melodies typically work their way upward […]

7 Ways to Build Energy in a Song’s Chorus

The general direction of song energy between verse and chorus should be up. Here’s some ideas for making that happen. ____________ Purchase “The Essential Secrets of Songwriting” 6-eBook Bundle, and get this eBook FREE OF CHARGE: “From Amateur to Ace: Writing Songs Like a Pro”. _____________ If you were to trace a line that represents the energy […]

Different Ways to Write an Effective Chorus Hook

A chorus hook is a great way of grabbing the listener, and giving them something to hum all day long. Here are 2 ways to get the job done. ____________ Download “The Essential Secrets of Songwriting” 6-eBook Bundle, and find out how hit songs of the past 5 decades can make your songs work. _____________ There are […]

Becoming a Better Lyricist: Making an Emotional Appeal

When songs sound “corny”, bad lyrics are almost always to blame. Here are some ideas for improving your lyrical abilities. ____________ Download “The Essential Secrets of Songwriting” 6-eBook Bundle, and get back to the basics of why hit songs sell. _____________ Every language has a written form and an oral form. In songwriting, you’ll want to focus on […]

Song Structure Idea: Starting With the Chorus

Verse-chorus designs are the most common, but there’s nothing to say that you have to start with the verse all the time. ____________ Download “The Essential Secrets of Songwriting” 6-eBook Bundle, and get back to the basics of why hit songs sell. _____________ It may seem strange to start a song with the chorus if you consider that […]

Hit Songs Are Mostly About the Hook

How much material does a hit song need? Not a lot. Rihanna’s no. 1 hit “We Found Love” is mostly hook, and little else. ____________ Download “The Essential Secrets of Songwriting” 6-eBook Bundle, and get back to the basics of why hit songs sell. _____________ When you listen to songs on the Billboard Hot 100, you can start […]