how do i write good song lyrics?

Answer 1

pen and paper for starters

Answer 2

Two methods are out there after devising a theme or a story.
1) Write the lyrics first, paying a lot of attention to the accentuation of the words (do what I do, tap your thumb on the desk as you rhythmically read it and check for any inconsistencies), bear in mind that the number of syllables has to be the same for every rhyme or symmetrical by two or three. The rhyming rules are pretty flexible in English and you can always hear it yourself to see if a word fits.
2) The second option is if the vocal melody is already there. Then, you have to find words that fit based on the musical accentuation. This is more difficult to do especially if the melody isn’t straightforward, but it allows for a lot of musical and rhyming freedom and (personally I think) this is the best way to go. This, though, means that if you can’t write the music yourself, you have to follow the concept of the song as told to you by the composer.
Some golden rules:
i) Avoid clichés (I love you so much, you are the world to me, I want to hold you, if I can’t have you I’ll die, looking through your eyes etc.)
ii) FIRST think of the concept and then go on with the writing (trust me, this is a common problem).
iii) Be original. Devise a plan as to how to gradually bring the listener to a point of view or a feeling and don’t throw them in it from the first moment (this is what refrains are for). Keep notes of this plan before writing any lyrics.
iv) The refrain has to be more straightforward to its meaning than the rest of the lyrics.
v) Try to be symbolic instead of using comparisons (e.g. ‘Lost in your deep blue sea of sorrow’, instead of ‘When you cry, your eyes are like the blue sea’). Use as much as you want of this, but at some point you have to be giving hints as to what you’re talking about.
vi) Try to have the entire picture in your mind all the time through the process.
vii) Think of situations or feelings that are common enough (if this is how you want to go about with this), but at the same time can have a relevance to individuals. Try to be specific. James Blunt in ‘You’re beautiful’ is a good example. Even though I generally don’t like this guy at all, I have to admit that the lyrics successfully take the common emotion of I-want-you-but-I-can’t-have-you and thought of a scene in the subway to express it. The listener brings the picture in his mind and sympathises with him, as he can have similar experiences. Get it?

And I’m spent…

Answer 3

I draw from real life experiences and what I feel like inside, another advice is (and several of my songs came out like this b4 I changed em) is don't take ANYTHING from other peoples music, even listening to it while trying to write is horrible, in fact I would almost recommend not listening to music period!

Answer 4

I found some good inspiration on these 2 sites that helped...

Answer 5

it should be based on your experiences in your life. reflecting on it, you will be able to plan a song by the also means of inspiration.

Answer 6

just sit down and take a look at your life. Use your experience with life, the ups and Downs

Answer 7

read some poetry and then try making some yourself.
then when your done with that... add music to the lyrics.

Answer 8

use your imagination-- combine that with your musical prowess -- mix that with good vocals --- and you may have a recipe for a good ; or perhaps , brilliant song --- it's your call --- don't shy away !!!

Answer 9

You cannot plan it!
It should come like that!
This is what is called "inspiration"!