Writing songs isn't easy, but will certainly improve with time and practice. Exploring different ways to find songwriting inspiration can open up a variety of creative possibilities. We asked our Songwriting tutor Rob Crisp to share his ideas for songwriting inspiration, which include considering different genres of music.
You can watch Rob's video below.
Suggested Accompanying Activities
Please watch the above video before completing these activities. You can download a copy of the powerpoint slides and activities at the bottom of this page.
Songs of the Elements
Take a listen to these two pieces of music:
The Elements – Jean Féry Rebel (1737)
Elements – Lemon Jelly (2002)
- Write a song inspired by Air, Water, Earth or Fire
- Make a word list for one or all of them and use this to inspire lyrics
- Think of sounds that you could use to represent these elements and use them as the basis of your music
Messed up Clichés
- Think of a popular saying or phrase, then turn it on its head. You could use this as your title and write the rest of the song about it, or you could write loads and use them all
Make a Rule Then Break It
- Make a rule - musical or lyrical
- Anything goes - try 'I can only use Major Chords' or 'Only use one syllable words'
- Then break it!
Resources
Song Inspiration - powerpoint presentation
Accompanying Songwriting Activity (as above)
