How to write a song as a gift

A personally written song is an incredible gift that is sure to be treasured. A song shows that you are a creative and thoughtful person, and that you value the recipient enough to give them the gift of your time, skills, and effort. Learning to write lyrics, compose the melody, and perform the song are all things that will help brighten your loved one's day.

Steps

Part 1 of 3: Write the Letter

Step 1. Find out what his favorite style of music is

Your country music fan mom probably doesn't value a pop song as much as your boyfriend who listens to pop all day. You don't need to write a song in a style that you don't like or know too well, but writing a song in a genre that the recipient likes is a good way to make sure they like your gift.

Step 2. Decide what you want to say

Writing a song will be much easier if you know what you want to say. You don't need to start writing lyrics right away, but take a few minutes to write down your favorite things about this person, how they make you feel, and why you want to write them a song.

• Write a list of the 10 things you like the most about this person. This is a good way to think about why it's so cool.
• Try the opposite tactic. Write why you want to write this song in six words or less. This can help you get to the main point quickly.
• If possible, talk to other people who know the recipient. They may have some ideas that you can use.

Step 3. Pick the most important thing you want to say

Go through your favorite things list and pick the most important and essential thing you want to say. This can be something very simple, like a blanket "I love you." Use it as the basis for the chorus.

Step 4. Determine the structure of the song

Songs usually have three different verses, each followed by a chorus that is generally louder and faster. Also, it is usually always the same throughout the song. You can also include a bridge, which is a section between the verse and the chorus, to make the transition sound better. If you want the song to be longer or more complex, you can include a middle 8, which can be a different set of lyrics and even a solo of music. Remember that the structure of the song is entirely up to you.

Step 5. Write the chorus of the song

The chorus should be short (four lines or chords is a good rule of thumb). It should be eye-catching and memorable, so keep it simple and fun. You don't have to rhyme, but it's often easier to write a chorus than it rhymes.

Step 6. Write the verses

The verses lead to and support the chorus. They can be longer, have more detail, and be more personal than the chorus.

• If the chorus is about how you want your crush to notice you, write verses that talk about why you like them and how being apart from them makes you feel.
• Write verses that follow a rhythm. Each line should have almost the same number of syllables, and you should be able to put the same emphasis on the last syllable of each line. These syllables will form the rhythm of the melody, so make sure each line matches the others. There is no need to rhyme, but it will make it easier to form the rhythm.
• A good rule of thumb is that a verse should be twice as long as the chorus.

Step 7. Make several drafts

Don't expect to write the perfect song on the first try. It's okay to write multiple drafts of a song. In fact, it will make it even better!

• If all the lines are different in length, edit them until they are the same length. For example, if you have two lines that say "I love her more than I can express. I love the way she celebrates with me every day," you will have to remove five syllables from the second line.
• Think about what the chorus says and remove the verses that do not support it. If the chorus talks about how your best friend saved your life, you can probably delete lines about his dog.

Part 2 of 3: Compose the song

Step 1. Choose your instrument

You can sing the song a cappella if you want, but if you want to include instruments, choose those you know how to use before you start writing. If you want to use several, you will have to find other musicians to play with you or have access to recording software that allows you to create layers for each instrument.

Step 2. Experiment with composition techniques

Some people prefer to sing songs out loud to determine the best melody, while others prefer to improvise with their musical instruments. Try both to determine what works best for you as a songwriter.

It's okay if you can't read music. Many famous musicians don't know! If you can't write the melody, keep practicing until you memorize it

Step 3. Write a melody

The type of melody you write will depend on your preferences, but there are some general tips. You don't need to write it down, but you will definitely have to memorize it.

• Repetition is important, but don't be too repetitive. The melody should regularly repeat the same sounds to give the song more structure, but don't overdo it. Too much repetition can be annoying.
• The melodies that rise and fall are usually very pleasant. Don't make the song go up in pitch, take it down and then up.
• Make sure it flows. If you want to go from a very low note to a very high note, put midtone notes in the middle. Sudden changes can make the melody sound jarring.
• Make sure that each rhythm in the melody matches the syllable of the letter.

Step 4. Experiment with your melody and lyrics

Play with the melody on its own for a while. Then add the letter. If something doesn't sound right or the lyrics don't fit right, feel free to make changes!

Part 3 of 3: Present the song

Step 1. Practice the song repeatedly

Don't immediately jump from writing to playing the finished song at the recipient's party. Practice a few times alone to get to know her well. This is very important if you plan to play it live.

Step 2. Introduce the song to someone else

Allow someone else to listen to the song before the recipient. If it is likely to hurt or embarrass the recipient, is an accidental copy of a popular song, or needs more work, it's best to find out before introducing it to everyone.

Step 3. Play the song for the recipient

If you want, you can play the song live for the person you wrote it for. If you do, make sure it is special. Use something that adds to the presentation and make sure you have practiced before.

Step 4. Record the song

If you want to make a recording of the song, you have several options.

• Get someone to film you. If you do, be sure to use a high-quality camera; a cell phone will not provide as good visuals and sound.
• Use home recording software. You can buy a show or use an online recording site.
• Approach a professional studio. You can hire a professional to record the song. Small record labels often rent studio time, and some areas have walk-in studios.

Step 5. Choose a format

You can send a music file or link to a stream of the song, or give it a physical copy, such as a CD, cassette, or disc. The format you choose will determine the completion process. Sending a file can be very fast, but pressing a vinyl record can take several weeks.

Step 6. Review the recording

Make sure it is of good quality before giving it as a gift. Check for static, skipping, cut out letters, or poor sound quality. Make sure you listen to the entire recording. There may be an error at the end. If you plan to give a CD as a gift, make sure it is compatible with your car or computer stereo.

Step 7. Give the recording as a gift

If you plan to submit a file or post it on a web page, write a message about how much it means to you. If it's for a specific event, like a birthday, send your best wishes. If you plan to give a physical recording (like a CD or vinyl record), design a nice wrapper or label.

Step 8. Register the copyright

In the United States and many other countries, the writer of a song automatically owns the copyright. However, if you wish, you can take additional steps to formally register your song. To do this, contact the copyright office by reaching out in person, sending an email, or visiting their website.

Advice

• If you have friends who have a band, write a song for them to play.
• If your song sounds good, send it to a record label.
• Giving someone an inspiring and fun song before a test or interview can help calm their nerves.
• If it's a love song, try to specify it.