How I write muh songz

by Stephen
(Los Angeles)

Here's my process,

First of all, I come up with a chord progression. After I settle with something I play around with it adding more or subtracting. After I have that I harmonize my vocals to it, usually humming to get the melody. Once I got that I start writing, as the words usually come quite easily from that point on.

There, I now have the foundation of a song. Sounds easy, but sometimes I can play with a progression for months and still have nothing, if that's the case I usually "bank it". Meaning, I simply remember what was played and if I come across another chord progression that goes with it or finally think of how I can harmonize over it with vocals, then I'll pull it out of the ol' noggin and give it another whirl.

After that point (being a solo artist) I will record the song on my computer. To get an idea for lead, I just play the song over and over all the while playing a corresponding scale on top of it until I get an ideal lead for the song.

As for writing lyrics, I can't really add any input there, everyone's different. Sometimes I write lyrics before coming up with the instrumental part, but not usually, since it always comes naturally for me AFTER I've got the instruments down. A lot of times simultaneously.

Another tip I suggest is to not obsess over the ends, and instead enjoy the means. Lots of people are infatuated with the ideas of playing shows, record deals and so on, resulting in a mess of ideas, unwarranted pressure, and a loss of enjoyment from playing. I find myself there sometimes too. Quickly realize where your mindset is and remember why you started playing in the first place, you might (or might not) find an audience sooner or later, but if you just keep practicing and having fun everything WILL fall together.