This guide provides an entry-level introduction to songwriting and how to make a song from scratch. A song can capture a memory or an energy specific to a certain moment in time, preserve it, and project it forwards for future listeners to appreciate. Writing songs is part of a grand, ancient oral tradition. When we think of a song today, we’re as much focused on the melodies, chords, and rhythms as any narrative in the words. This intersection of music and lyrics is the essence of songwriting. Traditionally, a song comprises a lead vocal part with lyrics, often (but not necessarily) backed by an instrumental accompaniment. These two artistic disciplines fuse together in a song-part storytelling, part music composition. It’s the meeting point of music and poetry. Songwriting is the art and craft of creating original songs by combining melodies, lyrics, and emotions to express thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a creative and meaningful way.
