Writing your first song can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. Songwriting is a skill that anyone can develop with practice, curiosity, and a willingness to experiment. At Life By Music, we’ve seen beginners transform simple ideas into fully realized songs, and it all starts with taking that first step.
Whether you want to express your emotions, tell a story, or create music for others to enjoy, these tips will help you begin your songwriting journey.
1. Start with an Idea or Emotion
Every song begins with a spark, a feeling, story, or message you want to share. It could be as simple as a memory, a mood, or even a phrase that sticks in your head.
- Ask yourself: What do I want to say? How do I want listeners to feel?
- Keep a notebook or phone app to jot down any ideas that come to mind.
- Songwriting Tip from our Shoulder to Shoulder program for veterans:
- Write about the space between two versions of yourself – who you were, and who you’re becoming. What does the in-between feel like?
Even a single word or phrase can become the seed of a great song.
2. Focus on Lyrics or Melody First
There’s no wrong way to start. Some songwriters begin with lyrics, others with melody, or even a chord progression.
- Lyrics-first: Write down lines or rhymes that capture your message, then experiment with melodies that fit.
Melody-first: Hum or play simple tunes on an instrument and see which words naturally match the rhythm. - Chords-first: Pick a chord progression that inspires you, and let it guide the mood and flow of your song.
- Tip from our Rockin Guitar course for teens: Listen to a popular song you enjoy. Hum the melody of the chorus. Write your own lyrics to this same melody.
3. Keep It Simple
For beginners, simplicity is key. Start with short verses, a basic chorus, and a clear theme.
- Use a 3-4 chord progression if you’re just starting out.
- Focus on creating a melody that is memorable and singable.
Don’t worry about perfection. Rough ideas often become the most authentic songs.
4. Experiment and Play
Songwriting is as much about exploration as it is about technique.
- Try changing the rhythm, tempo, or key to see how it affects your song.
- Play around with different instruments or sounds to find your unique style.
- Record rough drafts to track your progress and discover ideas you might forget otherwise.
5. Edit and Refine
Once you have a draft, take time to revise.
- Cut out unnecessary words or lines that don’t serve the story.
- Make sure your melody and lyrics flow naturally together.
- Ask a friend or fellow musician for feedback. Collaboration can spark new ideas.
Remember, a song is rarely perfect on the first try. Rewriting is part of the creative process.
6. Keep Learning and Growing
Songwriting improves with practice. Try writing regularly, even if it’s just a few lines a day.
- Study songs you love and analyze why they work.
- Join a group, class, or program to learn from others. Life By Music’s group workshops, like Guitar Magic or Rockin’ Guitar, are great for building collaboration skills.
- Stay curious and open to inspiration from everyday life.
Getting started with songwriting is about taking small steps, embracing experimentation, and allowing yourself to express your ideas freely. Every songwriter begins somewhere, and your first song is just the start of a lifelong creative journey.
Whether you’re writing for fun, for performance, or to share with the world, the most important thing is to start. Grab your instrument, pen, or voice, and let your ideas take shape.
Learn more about Life By Music’s programs and workshops that help beginners develop their songwriting and guitar skills: Life By Music Programs