Without a steady flow of great songwriting topics, it is very difficult to consistently write solid songs. But where do these ideas come from? And more importantly, how can you find them in order to have a virtually unlimited supply of things to write about? Those questions can be a big obstacle for any creative effort, so it helps to know exactly where to look for the kind of inspiration that motivates you.
The truth about song ideas is that they are everywhere. In fact, it would be easier to list the places they do not come from instead of all of the areas that they do come from. Being receptive to them is the key to finding them. This means paying attention to the things that happen to you each day and the experiences that you have. Conversations, people, and events can all lead to the foundation for your next song.
One of the things that many songwriters find helpful is to document the random thoughts they have throughout the day. Some writers will carry a book or notepad with them while others prefer a small mini-recorder. They will write down or sing whatever catches their attention, including parts of new melodies, choruses, or verses. In addition, you might think of a really clever phrase or title. You never know where you will be when the spark for a new song will pop into your head, so be ready for it.
Besides outside influences, your own personal feelings often make the best songs because they are real and you have an emotional investment with them. Developing a sincere emotion in a creative way can lead to music that automatically connects with an audience. Basically, if something is important to you, it is much more likely that you will put your heart into it, and that is the essential ingredient to an amazing song.
Love is a subject that has been written about more than any other theme in the history of music. What makes it so universal and widely fascinating? Just about everyone can relate to it on some level. No matter what their current position is, most people have been in love before, or they would like to be in love someday. The countless ways to express all of the different feelings surrounding love make it even better for writing. Loss, gain, hopes, and dreams all factor into relationships, and when people hear songs about them, it takes them back to a memory; it becomes personal.
Another factor to consider is the reason why you are writing a particular song. If it is because you are building a music career, the topics you choose will reflect that. Even when writing songs just for yourself, select things that interest you. Use your collection of notes or recordings as a reference to avoid writer's block and brainstorm your thoughts as well. The greatest ideas are inside of you and all around you. Let inspiration be your guide and you will never go wrong.
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