10 Things NOT to Do When Writing a Song

1. Don’t Rely on Clichés

Lines like “broken heart,” “you’re my everything,” or “love like a fire” are overused and unoriginal.

  • Use fresh, specific imagery instead.

 Instead of “I miss you,” try “Your voice still echoes in the night”


2. Don’t Overcomplicate the Melody

  • Too many note changes or awkward rhythms make it hard to sing and remember.
  • Simplicity = sing ability.
  • Keep it simple and emotional.


3. Don’t Force Rhymes

  • If it feels unnatural, it’ll sound unnatural.
  • Choose meaning and flow over perfect rhyme.

Better to say what you mean than what rhymes.


4. Don’t Ignore Structure

  • Avoid rambling or random sections.
  • A clear structure gives your listener something to latch onto.

Without structure, a song feels like a puzzle with missing pieces.


5. Don’t Write Just to Impress

  • Don’t try to “sound deep” with big words or abstract ideas.
  • Clarity and authenticity matter more than showing off.
  • Pick your pockets in the song for complexity.


6. Don’t Be Afraid to Be Vulnerable

  • Hiding behind vague language or generalizations weakens emotional impact.
  • The best songs come from honesty, not ego.
  • Say exactly how you feel


7. Don’t Make Every Line the Same Emotion

  • Flat emotional tone = boring.
  • Use contrast: tension in verses, release in chorus, twist in bridge.
  • Even in the verses you can have highs and lows.


8. Don’t Skip Editing

  • First drafts are rarely final drafts.
  • Lazy lines, filler words, or off-beat phrasing should be fixed.
  • If you have to listen hard to understand please simplify the phase.


9. Don’t Copy Without Adding Your Own Voice

  • Inspiration is good. Imitation without originality? Not so much.
  • Put your spin on a theme, melody, or style.
  • Everything has been done under the sun but not in your way.


10. Don’t Quit Before You Finish

  • A half-written song teaches you less than a finished one.
  • Even if it’s “bad,” you learn more by finishing and reflecting.
  • Write a song everyday if possible.
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