Some thoughts for people thinking of participating in #ShinodaProduceMe — or just writing songs in general (thread)
First, regarding #ShinodaProduceMe: This project is for new / aspiring songwriters and singers. No covers, no instrumentals please. OK, now for some tips:
No matter what your process is, make sure your fundamentals are strong: chords, melodies, and lyrics (singing) or flow, delivery, and lyrics (rapping). Those are the song. Without those, there’s nothing to build on.
First impressions matter. The first line should catch people’s attention. Whether that’s a jaw-dropping statement or a subtle clue about what’s to come, make sure your first line (and its delivery) are as good as you’re capable of.
A lot of the most talented writers I know either start with a great title, or find one asap. It helps set a “destination.” You can eliminate a lot of mixed metaphors and goofy poetry just by knowing early what your song is about.
Take the listener on a journey! Whether you’re telling a story or painting an abstraction, don’t take my attention for granted. Is there a story arc? Is there a payoff? Are there surprises along the way?
Tempo and key. You’re singing it, so make sure it’s in your best pocket and range.
Sometimes, it’s fun not to finish the first thing you make. You could start a few things, in sketch form, and work on them all at once. Ideas from one might inform another.
Once you have some rough songs, choose your BEST one and try to focus all attention on finishing and promoting that. Spamming lots of things (or half baked ideas) is likely to spread attention thinner.
OK, that’s it for now. I’m live on Twitch 10am-noon every weekday. Gonna go prep for today’s production stream...
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