The Simple Songwriting Formula that Changed Everything for Me

Summary

In this video, the presenter shares a transformative songwriting formula to help songwriters identify and develop great song ideas. The formula consists of three key components: a concept, a title, and a song map. The concept outlines the song's general idea, the title acts as an anchor for the lyrics, and the song map provides a structured approach to escalating emotion and narrative. By utilizing these elements, songwriters can create focused and compelling songs, while also having the flexibility to adapt titles and ideas throughout the writing process.

Takeaways

• 🎶 A writable idea consists of a concept, a title, and a song map.
• 💡 A concept is the general idea or theme of the song, setting the stage for the narrative.
• 🏷️ A title serves as an anchor for the song, guiding the direction of the lyrics.
• 🗺️ A song map outlines how to approach the title, including different angles of meaning and emotion.
• 🔍 The combination of the three components provides structure and clarity before writing begins.
• 📖 Examples like Ed Sheeran's 'First Times' illustrate how a title can focus the lyrics.
• ⚡ A song map can follow various trajectories, such as problem escalation or situation/context/consequence.
• 📈 Having a clear map allows for emotional growth and development throughout the song.
• 📄 A free PDF template is available to help create effective song maps.
• ✍️ Formulas are not the only way to write songs, but they can help when feeling stuck.

Q & A

What is a writable idea in songwriting?

A writable idea consists of three components: a concept, a title, and a song map, which together provide structure and direction for the song.

Why is having a concept important in songwriting?

The concept represents the general idea you want to explore in your song, helping to shape the narrative and emotional depth.

How does a title function in the songwriting process?

The title acts as an anchor for the song, focusing the lyrics around a central theme and guiding the direction of the writing.

Can the title of a song change during the writing process?

Yes, songwriters are not obligated to stick with the original title; it can evolve as the song develops.

What is a song map?

A song map outlines how the song will progress emotionally and structurally, indicating how to develop the concept and title through verses.

What are two examples of effective song maps discussed in the video?

1. Problem Intensification and Escalation. 2. Situation, Context, Consequence.

How does the song 'Happy' by Pharrell Williams exemplify a song map?

In 'Happy,' the first verse describes the feeling of happiness, while the second verse introduces obstacles, showcasing how the song map evolves.

What is the benefit of using a songwriting formula?

A songwriting formula provides a helpful framework for songwriters, especially when they feel stuck or lack direction in their creative process.

What does the phrase 'giving your song a bucket' mean?

It refers to the idea that having a structured plan allows songwriters to fill their song with content instead of aimlessly trying to create without direction.

Why might some songwriters resist the idea of using formulas?

Some may feel that formulas restrict creativity or suggest that there is only one way to write songs, which can be counterproductive to artistic expression.