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How do I start writing a good song and start an introduction to a story/film?
Should I start with finding a melody, or writing the lyrics first for songwriting? What are some tips for writing a good introduction to a storyline?
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5 answers
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Chris Ross’s Answer
Kaycelle!
Aha! The age-old question! Left brain/plotting first? or Right brain/seat of the pants first?
The lovely thing is, it actually doesn't matter! We have both intellect and instinct, and use both, eventually, when we create something of worth.
For me, I trust what I call "stickiness".
If something I write sits inside my head, goes around and around and refuses to go away, that's called a "sticky" idea. The catchy tune. The hook with a burr. The lyrical phrase...
Eventually there's only one way to get rid of it, and that's to write it down, in whichever form it takes.
So some people walk, dream, stroll, jog, ride a bike, jump out of an airplane. Whatever that thing is, to get the initial inspiration, well, that's the fun of it! One never knows, so one's always ready, alert, taking live in deeply.
Then the tune will get caught, or the word, or the image, in the dreamcatcher of our imagination.
And, if it's sticky enough, it might just stay around for long enough for us to delicately bring that initial impulse down to earth, without damaging it in the transition.
It's a little like catching a butterfly without a net.
Hold your mind out, stretch it wide... see what lands...
and then, gently gently, let it settle, as if it belongs there,
right in the palm of your mind.
Done.
HTH
Obviously in this case IMO IME, JM2c and YMMV!
Aha! The age-old question! Left brain/plotting first? or Right brain/seat of the pants first?
The lovely thing is, it actually doesn't matter! We have both intellect and instinct, and use both, eventually, when we create something of worth.
For me, I trust what I call "stickiness".
If something I write sits inside my head, goes around and around and refuses to go away, that's called a "sticky" idea. The catchy tune. The hook with a burr. The lyrical phrase...
Eventually there's only one way to get rid of it, and that's to write it down, in whichever form it takes.
So some people walk, dream, stroll, jog, ride a bike, jump out of an airplane. Whatever that thing is, to get the initial inspiration, well, that's the fun of it! One never knows, so one's always ready, alert, taking live in deeply.
Then the tune will get caught, or the word, or the image, in the dreamcatcher of our imagination.
And, if it's sticky enough, it might just stay around for long enough for us to delicately bring that initial impulse down to earth, without damaging it in the transition.
It's a little like catching a butterfly without a net.
Hold your mind out, stretch it wide... see what lands...
and then, gently gently, let it settle, as if it belongs there,
right in the palm of your mind.
Done.
HTH
Obviously in this case IMO IME, JM2c and YMMV!
Updated
Rodrigo’s Answer
I love what Chris wrote!
When I am scoring to film, I first find the rhythm of the sequence I am to score. I have a microphone to an armed track rolling, and I scat everything I hear linearly, and I do this multiple times. I record everything.
Once I am content, I quickly edit those ideas, and then I make instrument selection, find musical keys, et cetera.
I do this for the sake of time. It's the quickest way I have found to get it all out, and then I iterate adding percussion, instruments, and arrangements. I present every step to the director, so I don't get lost in an idea.
I am also quite involved in the process and with the director, this guarantees I understand the mood/vibe, and I ask for references, inspirations, you name it.
Hope this approach is of help.
Success always!
When I am scoring to film, I first find the rhythm of the sequence I am to score. I have a microphone to an armed track rolling, and I scat everything I hear linearly, and I do this multiple times. I record everything.
Once I am content, I quickly edit those ideas, and then I make instrument selection, find musical keys, et cetera.
I do this for the sake of time. It's the quickest way I have found to get it all out, and then I iterate adding percussion, instruments, and arrangements. I present every step to the director, so I don't get lost in an idea.
I am also quite involved in the process and with the director, this guarantees I understand the mood/vibe, and I ask for references, inspirations, you name it.
Hope this approach is of help.
Success always!
Updated
Dominic’s Answer
Chris’ answer is just similar to mine.
There really isn’t a conventional way to write a song. I’m a song/lyrics writer so I can tell you this with confidence.
I definitely can relate to Chris’ talk about having that “sticky” idea, when that particular sentence/bar decides to not leave my head until I pen it down.
Determining your flow is the key method of writing a song. What’s kind of song do you feel you’ll enjoy writing or singing?
The best way to know this is by starting out with various types of songs. Sad, love, Pop, rap, story telling and so many more!
I did this too so I can tell you it works really well.
Another important tip is; once you find a beat/tune, imaging yourself singing a hit song to that tune and while doing that, try to come up with melodies. Doesn’t matter if they’re bad or not, just keep coming up with Melodie’s and you’ll come up with that hit melody. It works trust me.
I hope you found this helpful. I’m rooting for you!
There really isn’t a conventional way to write a song. I’m a song/lyrics writer so I can tell you this with confidence.
I definitely can relate to Chris’ talk about having that “sticky” idea, when that particular sentence/bar decides to not leave my head until I pen it down.
Determining your flow is the key method of writing a song. What’s kind of song do you feel you’ll enjoy writing or singing?
The best way to know this is by starting out with various types of songs. Sad, love, Pop, rap, story telling and so many more!
I did this too so I can tell you it works really well.
Another important tip is; once you find a beat/tune, imaging yourself singing a hit song to that tune and while doing that, try to come up with melodies. Doesn’t matter if they’re bad or not, just keep coming up with Melodie’s and you’ll come up with that hit melody. It works trust me.
I hope you found this helpful. I’m rooting for you!
Updated
Where's’s Answer
What helps me personally is having the beats on in the background while im writing. I find that i write the best when experiencing intense emotion of any kind. Pulling from those raw feelings with beats in the background can really create some golden lyricals! My personal go to for my beats/inspiration is Ryini Beats .
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
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Answers
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James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Kaycelle,
Embarking on the journey of songwriting and crafting an engaging introduction for a story or film can be thrilling! Here are some steps and tips to guide you:
Songwriting:
1. Define the purpose and genre: Consider the type of song you wish to create. It could be a personal reflection, a beautiful love song, or a narrative piece. This will guide you in selecting the right genre and style.
2. Seek inspiration: Your life experiences, feelings, and observations can be a rich source of inspiration. Additionally, you can gain creative insights from other songs, literature, or films.
3. Pick a structure: A song usually comprises a verse, chorus, bridge, and a catchy hook. Choose a structure that best complements your song.
4. Lyrics or melody first: There's no fixed rule here. Some songwriters pen the lyrics first, while others compose a melody and then fit the lyrics into it. Try both approaches and see which one resonates with you.
Tips for crafting an engaging introduction to a story/film:
1. Capture the audience’s attention: Begin with a hook that piques the audience’s curiosity and sets the mood for the story. This could be a striking visual, a compelling line of dialogue, or a scene filled with suspense.
2. Introduce your main character: Present the protagonist and their world right from the start. This allows the audience to form a connection with the character and understand their motivations.
3. Set the mood and tone: Utilize visuals, music, and dialogue to establish the desired ambiance for your story. This helps the audience grasp the overall feel of the film.
4. Introduce the conflict: Present the central challenge or issue that the protagonist has to tackle. This will engage the audience and spark their curiosity about how the story will progress.
5. Keep it succinct: Refrain from including unnecessary details or scenes that don't add value to the main plot. An effective introduction is engaging and concise.
6. Instill a sense of mystery: Leave the audience wondering about what's to come. This will motivate them to continue watching or reading your story.
Remember, practice and experimentation are the cornerstones of honing your skills in songwriting and storytelling. As you gain more experience, you'll discover your unique style and method of crafting captivating songs and stories.
May God bless you on your creative journey!
James Constantine Frangos.
Embarking on the journey of songwriting and crafting an engaging introduction for a story or film can be thrilling! Here are some steps and tips to guide you:
Songwriting:
1. Define the purpose and genre: Consider the type of song you wish to create. It could be a personal reflection, a beautiful love song, or a narrative piece. This will guide you in selecting the right genre and style.
2. Seek inspiration: Your life experiences, feelings, and observations can be a rich source of inspiration. Additionally, you can gain creative insights from other songs, literature, or films.
3. Pick a structure: A song usually comprises a verse, chorus, bridge, and a catchy hook. Choose a structure that best complements your song.
4. Lyrics or melody first: There's no fixed rule here. Some songwriters pen the lyrics first, while others compose a melody and then fit the lyrics into it. Try both approaches and see which one resonates with you.
Tips for crafting an engaging introduction to a story/film:
1. Capture the audience’s attention: Begin with a hook that piques the audience’s curiosity and sets the mood for the story. This could be a striking visual, a compelling line of dialogue, or a scene filled with suspense.
2. Introduce your main character: Present the protagonist and their world right from the start. This allows the audience to form a connection with the character and understand their motivations.
3. Set the mood and tone: Utilize visuals, music, and dialogue to establish the desired ambiance for your story. This helps the audience grasp the overall feel of the film.
4. Introduce the conflict: Present the central challenge or issue that the protagonist has to tackle. This will engage the audience and spark their curiosity about how the story will progress.
5. Keep it succinct: Refrain from including unnecessary details or scenes that don't add value to the main plot. An effective introduction is engaging and concise.
6. Instill a sense of mystery: Leave the audience wondering about what's to come. This will motivate them to continue watching or reading your story.
Remember, practice and experimentation are the cornerstones of honing your skills in songwriting and storytelling. As you gain more experience, you'll discover your unique style and method of crafting captivating songs and stories.
May God bless you on your creative journey!
James Constantine Frangos.