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How to Become a Music Producer | How to Choose a Career | How to Become a DJ | How to Buy Concert Tickets | How to Start a Band | How to Read Music | How to Write a Song | How to Copyright Your Music | Music Education | How to Make a Press Kit | How to Make a Demo | How to Find a Rehearsal Space | How to Soundproof a Room | How to Overcome Stage Fright | How to Become a Pop Star | How to Read Tabs | How To Play Piano Videos | Sheet Music | How to Write a Song
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Managed Since: 06/08/2009
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Managed Since: 06/08/2009
Views: 351
Money Earned: M$7.49
Page revenue is subject to change as we obtain data from our partners
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Songwriting Techniques
This video features songwriter Zosia, whose hit song "Monday" was featured on MTV's show The Hills, discussing her process for writing songs. She walks you through the steps of the brainstorming process, and then outlines techniques for writing verses for the actual song. She emphasizes the importance of trusting your own creative process and ideas, and says it is a very individual process, and you should approach it in your own way. -
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Step 1: Education and Training
- While a degree in music is not necessary to become a songwriter, it is certainly helpful. If you can't afford a degree, take classes in music and writing to develop your skills. Learn how to play as many instruments as possible and take some singing classes to develop a better understanding for music, even if you don't see yourself as a performer. Learn how to write chords and sheet music. Listen to as music as possible.
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Step 2: Songwriting
- Writing a song is a creative process which can occur in a variety of ways. Some songwriters set aside time to create songs; others work when they feel the inspiration. Some start with the lyrics; others with writing the melody. Don't restrain yourself and expect perfection from the beginning. Brainstorm, try a variety of approaches and allow yourself to experiment. Have a thesaurus and rhyming dictionary handy when writing the lyrics. For more tips, check out Mahalo's guide on How to Write a Song.
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Step 3: Selling Your Songs
- If you want to become a successful songwriter, how you market your songs is important. Unless you want to perform the songs yourself or with a band, you need to find someone to perform them or purchase them.
- Copyright your songs.
- Create a demo tape or CD of your songs.
- Submit your songs to music publishers, record companies or artists together with your biography and resume.
- Many record companies have writers on staff. Consider applying for a position.
- There are a variety of alternative markets besides writing for artists. Songwriters can write material for TV, the movie industry, commercials and many other markets.