Songwriting Tips

This set of guidelines was based on notes taken from a live songwriting lab at Soverign Grace Ministries' worship conference in 2002. The songwriting lab was hosted by Steve and Vicki Cook, Stuart Townend, and Mark Altroegge.

This list is not a comprehensive set of issues, but rather some special tips that may help in certain situations.

Song Form, Melody, and Harmony

• Songs should have melodies that take you somewhere.
• Have a good hook but don't overplay it.
• Don't be too predictable in harmony or melody.
• Be big in the chorus if the verse is timid/small.
• Songs need a place to breathe. A fast or wordy song can benefit from ending a verse a little early to create space.

Lyrics

• Worship songs should be theologically correct.
• Technique: use a single phrase to start each verse.
• Words should soar with the music.
• If the feeling of the song is somber, the words should be somber. The converse applies to upbeat/jubilant songs.
• Every verse should tie into the theme of the song.
• If the lyrics are about being repentant, then the song should end with a promise.
• Read the words aloud to determine the natural rhythm of the lyrics. Then write the rhythm of the melody to match.
• The song should have a good title that represents the content and meaning.
• Speak from the same person ("I" or "We") throughout the song.
• Don't let a rhyme write the song.