Where a Beginner Should Start When Writing a Song

1. Start With a Core Idea or Emotion

Think:

What do I want to say?
How do I feel? Where are you in life ?

Choose one of these to begin:

• “I miss someone.”
• “I feel unstoppable.”
• “I’m starting over.”
• “I wish I could say this to someone.”

Keep it personal and clear.

 2. Write a Simple Chorus First

The chorus is the heart of your message.
It’s usually short, emotional, and repeated.

Try filling in a simple formula:

 “I feel ____, and I can’t ____ / But I still ____ every time I think of you.”

Tweak later—just get a rough chorus out. Go with your instincts.

 3. Add Verses to Build the Story

Each verse explains why the chorus exists.

Use this pattern:

• Verse 1: Set the scene and environment
• Verse 2: Add more detail or shift in emotion
• Bridge (optional): A twist, new perspective, or conclusion

Don’t worry about perfection at this stage. Get a loose framwork going.

 4. Keep It Simple

• Use common words and clear sentences.
• Stick to 4–8 lines per section.
• Rhyme where it feels natural (AABB or ABAB).
• Less is more.

 5. Use a Beat or Chord Progression

If you play guitar, piano, or use a beat app or digital audio sofware, pick a simple chord loop to build around.
Even humming a melody to your lyrics is enough to start.

 6. Speak or Sing It Out Loud

• Does it sound natural?
• Does the rhythm feel good?
• Do the words fit the emotion?
• Can you get thru the section without stopping ?

Revise anything that feels off or clunky.

 7. Record a Rough Draft

• Use your phone’s voice memos.
• Write it down on paper.
• Record as you sing it, even if it’s messy.
• Don’t aim for perfection—just capture the idea.

 8. Finish It!

Don’t stop halfway—even if it feels imperfect.
Finishing your first song is a HUGE milestone. 

You'll learn more finishing one song than starting ten.