# Song Chops

> Songwriting Made Simple


## Posts

- [Dolly Parton's "Jolene"](https://songchops.com/dolly-partons-jolene/): Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” was based on a young girl who approached her early on in her career. She had red hair, green eyes and fair skin – Dolly asked her name. It was Jolene. She quipped “Jolene, Jolene, Jolene, Jolene – I’m going to write a song about you someday.” The rest is history. What Makes The Song Great While the driving tempo is one of the things that makes the song an easy genre-shifter, being covered by everyone from Sinead O’Connor, to Mindy Smith, to Melissa Etheridge to the White Stripes, it’s the subtle lyric – a simple direct address appeal […]
- [Case Study: HAVEN.'s "I Run"](https://songchops.com/case-study-haven-s-i-run/): When AI Suspicion Derails a Breakout Hit In October 2025, a dance/EDM track called “I Run” by HAVEN. exploded on TikTok. A short teaser posted around October 10 went viral, and within weeks the full song was soundtracking millions of TikTok videos and plays.[1][2] When “I Run” hit streaming platforms on October 28, 2025, it immediately converted that social momentum into chart performance: At that point, HAVEN. was on track for a likely Billboard Hot 100 debut and a career‑making first release.[1] Then everything flipped. As more listeners heard the vocals, fans and industry people began asking a pointed question: […]
- [ISRC vs UPC Codes](https://songchops.com/isrc-vs-upc-codes-complete-musicians-faq/): If you’re releasing music, understanding ISRC codes (International Standard Recording Codes) and UPC codes (Universal Product Codes) is essential. Understanding them for a single, an album, a music video, or even a cover song is critical. In fact, in the debate between ISRC vs UPC codes, ISRC codes uniquely identify each sound or video recording. In contrast, UPC codes identify the entire product (such as an album or single) for retail and chart reporting. This identification allows streaming platforms, download stores, performance rights organizations to accurately track plays, sales, and royalties. Also, it allows sales tracking systems like Billboard’s Nielsen […]
- [Object Writing: Songwriting Exercise](https://songchops.com/object-writing-songwriting-exercise/): An object writing exercise is one of the easiest ways to keep song ideas flowing and find new ideas. Inspiration is sometimes a hard thing to come by. This writing exercise will help move things along, by challenging you from a few unconventional sources – a dictionary and photos (not yours). Dictionary Exercise Object Writing Exercise with Photos STEP 1 – pull some random photos from the internet that appeal to you. Don’t use your photos (that’s too easy). Just find pictures you that stop you as you visually scroll through them. You can use a keyword search on Google […]
- [Transform Poems Into Captivating Songs](https://songchops.com/transform-poems-into-captivating-songs/): Transforming poems into songs sounds like something that’s pretty easy to do. After all, the words are there. The rhyme is there. The meter is there. All you have to do is add the music! But the challenge is in creating something accessible to a listener that comes at them in a song’s structure. Ultimately, they shouldn’t be able to tell it was a poem. Transform Poems Into Songs: Getting Started  Choose Your Poem  Look For A Natural Refrain or Chorus No Natural Refrain? Now What? Don’t worry, you’re not stuck. Here are some easy steps to help you create […]
- [Ghost Song Songwriting Exercise](https://songchops.com/ghost-song-songwriting-exercise/): Stuck with a blank page and nothing is really inspiring you? Use the ghost song process. Start with a song you like and build a new one! Ghost song writing is a type of songwriting exercise that can move you into a new song, and sometimes a new sound that’s very different from the songs you normally write. The main idea is that you start with a known song and start changing it incrementally, using the original as the template to get your writing in motion. The key here is changing it.  You cannot keep any of the lyric or […]
- [Suzanne Vega 'Small Blue Thing'](https://songchops.com/suzanne-vega-small-blue-thing/): Master of Becoming the Other! Becoming the other is a true form of transformation. Not only is Suzanne Vega’s ‘Small Blue Thing’ one of my favorite songs, it is the master class for songwriters who want to write from the perspective of someone – or something – else.  I first heard it in 1985 playing through the mid-quality speakers of a boom box in a small record store.  It was on her debut album. I stayed until the last song. Then, I bought the cassette tape and didn’t remove it from my car stereo for at least 6 months. While […]
- [5 Poems For Songwriters](https://songchops.com/5-poems-for-songwriters/): I chose five poems for songwriters, because poems help you understand the magic of language. These poems highlight the power of language. I started writing songs out of a love of language, poetry and my family’s music history – at least I think that’s why. Some things you’re just drawn to – and songwriting for me is one of those. Poetry is about discovery through detail in a moment. For me, songwriting is about the same – the speaker and the connection to the thing being brought forth. Because an emotional tie is important to discovery, being able to really […]
- [Object Writing: Quickest Path To Great Lyrics](https://songchops.com/object-writing-quickest-path-to-great-lyrics/): Object writing is one of the best ways to learn how to write great lyrics full of imagery – quickly. It’s also a way to create ideas in your songwriting notebook for those days when inspiration is hard to come by. To help move things along, try challenging yourself with an unconventional source – objects around you. Object writing is really about finding a moment or message by using objects around you. To be honest, you’ve probably already done it a time or two, but didn’t realize it. For an example: you see an old wooden sign on a shop […]
- [7 Must-Know Chord Progressions Every Songwriter Uses](https://songchops.com/common-chord-progressions/): A progression is basically the chord series or the chords you choose to use and their order. If you’re just starting out, using some common chord progressions as your starting point can help get you past the blank page. Here’s a trick to keep up your sleeve for when you start getting into theory a bit more.  All major scales follow the same pattern:  W-W-H-W-W-W-H where “W” is “Whole note” and “H” is a “Half note” – or “W2HW3H” as I like to remember it!  And, to make sure you always have plenty of chords handy, use this free chord grid: […]
- [Nashville Number System](https://songchops.com/nashville-number-system/): If you’ve recorded in Nashville, you’ve run into the Nashville Number System. While I could explain it here, there are quite a few resources that can do it much better. So instead, I’ve gathered up some online tools, books and videos to help you understand how the Nashville Number System works. So what is it? Basically, it’s the numbers that correspond to where the chords sit in the key you’re in. It’s a way to quickly state a key, and then which chords you should be playing with a few letters and numbers. Sort of a universal language across all instruments […]
- [Create A New Song: Put A Twist On Cliche Phrases](https://songchops.com/create-a-new-song-put-a-twist-on-cliche-phrases/): Cliche phrases can be a great song prompt starter. Whether you’re using in a song, or as your hook line, they can help you create interesting new songs that challenge you to come up with new song ideas. The trick is to give it a twist by changing a word, using it in a way in a line, or taking a new perspective on the cliche by framing it in a unique way. We’ll give you a list of cliches so you can write a song today (or at least get an idea in your notebook), and give you examples […]
- [What Is A Song Prompt?](https://songchops.com/what-is-a-song-prompt/): A song prompt is a starter. It’s a way to get to a song by assigning yourself a specific focus. The benefit of a prompt is that you’ve got a way to keep writing songs. This is true even when you may not feel particularly inspired. That way, when inspiration does hit, you’ve practiced so many times. Then, you’ve got the tools to make your inspired idea shine! They also keep you from writing the same old song ideas: love, loss, regret, happy beer mug raisers, etc.  Plus, they get you onto a different path every now and again. Who […]
- [Song Prompt: Eleven More Things](https://songchops.com/song-prompt-eleven-more-things/): What’s better than a song prompts list of “more things” to get your brain working and go somewhere you didn’t imagine? These prompts can help generate some song or poem starters you can relate to quickly and easily.  You’ll spend less time trying to manufacture a scene, characters or circumstances, and get right into the writing! Best for: writing lyrics development. Tips To Get You Started: Next Step: It can be something as simple as verse/chorus/verse/chorus/chorus or verse/verse/verse.  You don’t have to stick with it – but it will give you a framework so you can focus on the lyrics. […]
- [Song Prompt: Eleven Things](https://songchops.com/eleven-things-song-prompt/): This “Eleven Things” song prompt focuses on selecting from a variety of items to provide you with a large, outside-the-box array of objects to spur your imagination. It’s a great way to start getting your brain working not only for songs, but poems as well. By using items most of us can relate to quickly and easily, you will spend less time trying to manufacture a scene, characters or circumstances. Best for: writing lyrics development. As a twist on the prompt, you can write a poem using one of the prompts and then convert the poem to a song! Tips […]
- [Song Prompt:  Use a Book as a Starter](https://songchops.com/song-prompt-use-a-book-as-a-starter/): Write a Song About Some Aspect of a Book It can be: Questions To Ask Yourself Prompt Chord Progression Key = D Verse:  D – Em – G – A  (I-II-IV-V) Chorus:  C – Bm – G   (bVII-IV-IV) Use this progression as you use a book as a song prompt to inspire your melody. Need more chord progression to choose from? Use this Guitar Keys And Chords Cheat Sheet along with common chord progressions. Your Next 5 Steps First:  write for 15 minutes on one of the items (or similar) above Second:  create a song idea from the above Third: decide on your song plot and […]
- [Rhyme Pattern Proxy](https://songchops.com/rhyme-pattern-proxy/): This one is great to use if you’re stuck on a song and works pretty quickly. The goal is to force you to find new words or ways to phrase what you’re trying to say. Have your rhyming dictionary ready!
- [Create Your Own Rules](https://songchops.com/create-your-own-rules/): Create your own rules to govern how you’ll write the song. You can create rules that defy conventional rules, or just put a twist on a direction you would normally follow. Then, write within your rules. And – this is a great method down the road. If you ever get stuck, and need a prompt or some general inspiration, the rules give you a construct. This exercise also allows you to experiment with new ideas, or incorporate ideas from songs you admire. Be bold! Put some things out there that challenge conventional thinking. And, challenges your normal patterns. So, if […]
- [Songwriting Exercise: Write For An Artist](https://songchops.com/songwriting-exercise-writing-for-an-artist/): This songwriting exercise focuses on writing for an artist. You’ll work through some simple steps to: (1) find an artist that works with your style of writing, and (2) write a song for that artist targeting the concept and lyrics as much as possible. The intention here is to embrace the challenge of trying to write for someone else. You’ll find new ways of approaching a song, and start developing an ear for what sets an artist apart from others. There’s also the additional challenge of writing for an artist that doesn’t fit your style! Pick An Artist You’ll need […]
- [Storytelling: Tell Songs Like A Movie](https://songchops.com/story-streaming-tell-songs-like-a-movie/): Storytelling can get pretty messy pretty quick. And, in a song, you only have three to four minutes. So, how do you make sure you’re telling a great story in a compelling way, and capturing the hearts and minds of your listener? Story Streaming. Story Streaming is a way to approach your storytelling, and is very similar to object writing. But, unlike object writing, which focuses intensely on a single object and allows for associations to occur, story streaming has a big picture goal: create a vehicle to convey a message. Story streaming is “the movie” you’ll use to craft the […]
- [Melody: 5 Essential Books](https://songchops.com/melody-5-essential-books/): Melody is the messaging highway of your song. It helps maintain the interest of your listener much like scenery along the route. They can give your lyrics either a neighborhood lane, super highway or country road feel to deliver the story. And much like a road system it can have turns, back tracking and sometimes a rush to the destination! Let’s face it, writing unique, interesting melodies is tough. So, why not have a little help! My Book Picks To Build Your Melody Writing Skills (As an Amazon Associate we may earn a commission on qualifying purchases) Easy to follow and […]
- [Effective Similes In Songs](https://songchops.com/effective-similes-in-songs/): Creating effective similes in songs can take a ho-hum lyric and turn it into a “wow!” lyric. The magic of a simile is that it allows you to use a direct comparison between two things in order to describe the thing you are talking about. Not to sound like a business person, but the ROI on using a simile in a song, if done well, is big because it is immediately additive to your song. FREE Simile Generator Worksheet Get this step-by-step songwriting worksheet to help you build great similes in songs. Because it pulls all of the things associated with the comparison […]
- [Joni Mitchell 'The Magdalene Laundries'](https://songchops.com/magdalene-laundries/): On her 1994 album Turbulent Indigo Joni Mitchell has one of the most descriptive, powerful songs you’ll ever hear. She crafts a first person story about a young girl incarcerated in one of Ireland’s Magdalene institutions – The Magdalene Laundries for being over twenty, unmarried and attractive. Magdalene Laundries Song Analysis The song is an exceptional example of taking a news topic and finding the human side that speaks of the injustice, but never sounds like it’s a protest song – it never talks at the listener, takes a position and pounds at it. It simply takes a first person account and uses elegant metaphor, figurative […]
- [Creating Better Melodies](https://songchops.com/creating-better-melodies/): Melodies can be tricky to find, invent and build – especially when we keep hearing the same thing in our head. So, how do you break the pattern? Melody mapping. It’s a visual way to find patterns and tendencies that you often repeat. Just changing a few of these items can create new songs in your catalogue. And, by understanding the rhythms, chord structure, line lengths, lyrical meter that you are most comfortable with, you can create new patterns that simply go against those patterns. There are a couple of exercises below to help you figure out: (1) If your […]
- [How Melody And Lyrics Work Together](https://songchops.com/how-melody-and-lyrics-work-together/): Melody and lyrics play a key part in: (1) differentiating your song, (2) communicating your message, and (3) creating a compelling, memorable moment for a listener.  So how can you achieve all three each time your write? Pat Pattison takes a look at a song by Ann Rapetti (with a live performance) and talks about melody and the lyric. As she plays through the song, there’s discussion around placing emphasis on key words throughout the melody, and how word choice drives at least part of the options you have for creating unique sounding melodies. Melody And Your Lyric Intro Melody […]
- [Verb Power](https://songchops.com/verb-power/): Verbs are power in a song. So, mastering your verb power will make your songs more memorable because there is more emotion and motion in your songs. Verbs will enhance your imagery. Sounds strange, but let’s dig into the idea of stronger verbs. The words “jump” and “catapult,” while synonyms, have very different visual and emotional responses from a reader/listener. Verbs can help your songs rise above the expected. Because something as simple as word choice can move a song from nice when heard, to memorable, every word counts. Since emotional connection is what brings it home for a listener, verbs are […]
- [Rhyme Mastery: Lori McKenna 'The Bird & The Rifle'](https://songchops.com/rhyme-mastery-lori-mckenna-the-bird-the-rifle/): Lori McKenna’s “The Bird & The Rifle” is a masterclass in song craft. Not only is the rhyme pattern brilliant, but she illustrates how to use a metaphor to get across an idea most would have done as a conversation between a man and woman.  Instead, she went with a rifle and a bird. Not only does the rhyme pattern kill, she combines with some unconventional approaches to common song elements like the chorus and song outro. She uses a super-clever rhyme pattern with staggered end-rhyme that gives the song a unique sound and story-like atmosphere.  McKenna’s gift is her […]
- [Organize A Hook Book](https://songchops.com/organize-a-hook-book/): Organize your hook book! It’s one of the best things you can do to make sure you’ve got ideas and lines at your fingertips when you’re working toward your 300 song goal. It’s also handy to have something ready to toss out as a starter when you’re headed to a co-write, especially if you’ve never written with the person before. I’m a little bit right brained – a little bit left brained (but not related to Donny or Marie). So while I’m creative, I’m also a little OCO (obsessive compulsive order as my pal Todd would say). Naturally, I have […]
- [Kacey Musgraves 'Merry Go Round'](https://songchops.com/kacey-musgraves-merry-go-round/): Kacey Musgraves, along with Josh Osborne and Shane McAnally, uses the play on words in ‘Merry Go Round’ bring the images and the story of “a life” from a Texas small town full circle. It’s a universal message delivered with a popish melody line and music that resonates with audiences across genres – and most importantly – in younger demos. The song uses the simplicity of a nursery rhyme to capture a vignette of small town life from the perspective of an adult (told in third person). The innocence and time frame reference of a nursery rhyme to evoke a […]
- [Rhyme Patterns](https://songchops.com/rhyme-patterns/): Understanding rhyme patterns is one of the best ways to increase your songwriting ability. What Are Rhyme Patterns To me, rhyme is one of the fundamental building blocks, or can be one of the most destructive forces, in a song. How you arrange your rhymes is called the pattern. You’ll sometimes hear someone refer to your verse as an AABB or your chorus as a CCCC. When you hear this, the person is talking about the song’s rhyme pattern. An AABB rhyme pattern means the first two lines rhyme with the same vowel sound, and the next two lines rhyme, […]
- [Adele 'Chasing Pavements'](https://songchops.com/adele-chasing-pavements/): A recent comment on the blog got me thinking. The comment was downplaying the songwriter’s lyrics, mentioning they sounded as if they were written by a 17 year-old, because, well, they sort of were. So I thought, why not go ahead and highlight some songs by the under-20 set, and focus on one in particular: Adele’s ‘Chasing Pavements.’ Song Start:  The song was inspired by a bar room encounter Adele had with her then boyfriend.  She had found out he cheated on her, so she made her way to the pub, located him in the place, and promptly punched him in […]
- [Rhyming Tools](https://songchops.com/rhyming-tools/): A rhyming dictionary is important if you’re a songwriter. It’s a great tool to find new ways of saying things and get you away from predictable rhymes like: when it snows, I have to blow my nose. Here’s a little assistance to finding a good one. Online Tools For Rhyming Rhyme Desk Rhymer by WriteExpress RhymeBrain B-Rhymes Books Still Rule For Rhyming! My favorite rhyming dictionary is Clement Wood’s. It is organized well, is easy to use, has a nice sound and poetry explanation at the beginning, and has a great range of words and phrases. If you’re going to purchase […]
- [Rhyme Families: Your Secret Weapon](https://songchops.com/rhyme-families-your-secret-weapon/): Using rhyme families effectively can help you not only move through a song, but add nuances to the rhythm, melody and feel or tone imparted. The goal is to find rhymes that don’t sound awkward, like “with love I swing for the fences/when I see you it all commences;” or too simple, like “every time it snows/I have to blow my nose.” (That’s a favorite of my songwriting partner. She’s in charge of the music). What Are Rhyme Families? Anyway – one of the best things I ever did was take a poetry writing class for forms. Forms are things like […]
- [Adele 'Hello'](https://songchops.com/adele-hello/): Adele’s ‘Hello’ focuses on a telephone conversation/voicemail. The song brilliantly leverages the strength of direct address to create a highly personal moment, while the melody moves from ballad to power ballad utilizing eighth notes and scale shifts to create defining moments within simple, direct lyrics Even if you’re not a vocalist, you can leverage the structural craft of the song to add dynamics to your songs. Adele Hello Lyrics The Lyrics: Let’s Talk Vowel sounds Vowel sounds are Adele’s middle name – yep – Adele “Vowel Sounds” SomethingOrOther. OK – not really, but she is one of the best at working them […]
- [When To Stop Finishing Songs](https://songchops.com/when-to-stop-finishing-songs/): Don’t get me wrong. Finishing songs is important. But, not every song deserves endless revisions! I believe there are some songs that come out and flow down the page simply to get you to the next one. Not every song you write is meant to be “the one.” Sometimes, songs are simply the bridge to “the one.” So how do you tell the difference? Frankly, there’s no clear line. At the end of the day, it’s your call! But, I’ve created some guidelines to give you a general sense of direction. First and foremost, you should finish each song. They […]
- [Keeping Your Spare Song Parts](https://songchops.com/keeping-your-spare-song-parts/): You’ve heard of a spare parts for a car – so why not have spare song parts? One of the best ways to give yourself permission to write songs quickly, and then move onto the next one if you’re not feeling the “greatness” of it is to keep parts of the song. For example, pull a line you love from a song you got down the page on but are just not feeling is quite there. I’ve got several songs where the song itself isn’t working very well, but there are several lines in it I like. I use those […]
- [Eric Church 'Talladega'](https://songchops.com/eric-church-talladega/): Artist Eric Church Album  The Outsiders (2017) Songwriter  Eric Church & Luke Laird Total Time 4:22 Structure   V | CH | V | CH | BR | CH Talladega VERSEIt was the summer before the real world started,   [A]And the deal was we would get to go,   [B]If we cleaned it up, and got it running, Daddy’s old Winnebago    [B]Wing and a prayer down 65,   [C]Five best friends on four bald tires,   [C]I can still see Billy smiling, when we finally made it . . .   [A] CHORUSTo Talladega, boys raised up, whiskey in your glass,   [D]Here’s to turning up,slowing down […]
- [Creating A Bridge That Works](https://songchops.com/creating-a-bridge-that-works/): Creating a bridge in a song is done for one key reason:  to galvanize the “A-Ha!” moment of the song. Musically, it should sound different – but how do you do that? Paul Simon has a tip: In an interview, he mentions that one of the devices he uses quite a bit is to construct the bridge from any notes left over from a twelve tone scale. You can hear the device in use on his song ‘Still Crazy After All These Years.’ This song has a couple of interesting aspects to it that create quite a bit of contrast […]
- [Third Person Point Of View Song](https://songchops.com/third-person-point-of-view-song/): We’ll take a look at the third person point of view song by Jon Vezner and Don Henry called ‘Where’ve You Been.” What Is A Third Person Point Of View Song? Third person is the most distance the speaker can have from the action. Both the speaker and the audience are observing a situation, or, looking at a third person.  As a result, the speaker becomes the storyteller, guiding the audience through the narrative. Common pronouns:Singular – he, she, it, him, her, his hersPlural – they, them, their, theirs One of the most difficult decisions as a songwriter is how to choose the proper […]
- [A Song Title Should Give You Options](https://songchops.com/a-song-title-should-give-you-options/): A song title is one of the most important parts of your song. I usually try and give myself as much flexibility as possible when writing, so I tend to use a working title and tell myself to wait for the hook before I commit. Since your hook often ends up in your title (though it’s been known not to), deciding on a title first could limit where the song goes – which could result in a predictable, same-old-same-old song. Not what any of us are looking for on a regular basis. So, here are a few tips for finding the […]
- [First Person Point Of View](https://songchops.com/first-person-point-of-view/): Point of view (POV) is the perspective from which a story is being told. It can change the sentiment of the story, as well as the mood and depending on the POV, can change the outcome because your speaker will be limited to certain things they can report – or know. For example, if you write in first person and use the pronoun “I”, you can’t really report what someone else is thinking – only what you think they’re thinking, or what you see them do or hear them say – and then your reaction to it. So the point […]
- [What Is Third Person Point Of View?](https://songchops.com/what-is-third-person-point-of-view/): Third person point of view, or omniscient, is the most distance the speaker/singer can have from the action with exception of going to the moon. The speaker is simply the storyteller, guiding the listener through the narrative.  A third person speaker isn’t a part of the song’s content. They’re reporting what they see to the listener and walking them through events as a guide. Because third person point of view allows you to keep the speaker out of the story, it gives you latitude in choosing your subject matter.  You can talk about someone else’s situation and it will sound less […]
- [Direct Address Song Example: Sting](https://songchops.com/direct-address-song-example-sting/): I’m currently helping a friend with a set of lyrics, and something very interesting came up. The song is direct address, but not to a person. I know, you’re thinking, “OK – that’s personification right?” Actually, it’s not. The speaker is talking to the object and the object isn’t talking back. Direct Address & Personification Direct address to an inanimate object will often lead to personification.  So what is personification? It’s when a writer gives a physical characteristic or quality of animation to an inanimate object, or to an abstraction. For example, trees waving, moons laughing, eyes singing, hearts talking, etc. […]
- [Understanding Perspective](https://songchops.com/understanding-perspective/): Perspective is the voice of the speaker, informed by their beliefs, upbringing, cultural heritage and most importantly for a song, how they’re taking in the situation.  Are they thinking it to themselves, or saying it out loud to others?  What’s communicated can change significantly depending on the perspective. Point of view focuses on the “who” while Perspective focuses on “how the speaker is seeing” the scene. For example, is the main character’s voice Internal (thinking to themselves) or External (talking to others). In songwriting, we spend a lot of time talking about POV, but understanding perspective will unlock a whole […]
- [Switch Point Of View Exercise](https://songchops.com/switch-point-of-view-exercise/): One of the easiest ways to increase your understanding of point of view (POV) is to take a song you’ve completed and switch the point of view. Changing up your point of view will help you see how the song’s message can shift simply by changing how the story is being told. A second, additive way to enhance the message you’re trying to deliver, is to shift the perspective of the song. But more on that later! Point of view (POV) is how the story is being told and uses a variety of pronouns depending on the POV and the possessive tense […]
- [5 Steps To Building A Song Plot](https://songchops.com/5-steps-to-building-a-song-plot/): There are some core elements of a song plot that you’ll need to know to help you build a compelling song plot. The great news is, we have five steps you can follow to build yours. As a songwriter, creating compelling plots is expected. Plots with interesting twists or takes on life. But how do you start? Well, you would buy Sheila Davis’s book The Songwriter’s Idea Book and follow her advice! I’ve revised her grids over time, and added some of my own variations. There are five core elements of a plot. We’ll use in a step-by-step sequence to […]
- [What Is A Song Idea?](https://songchops.com/what-is-a-song-idea/): The number one question: is a song idea different from a hook? Song Idea Explained Yes – a hook is part of the song’s construction. You’ll find it somewhere in the song (usually the chorus), and it’s often repeated. In pop songs the hook repeats a lot. The hook helps articulate the song idea in a single statement. So, if a hook isn’t the same as a song idea, then what is a song idea? Well, it depends who you ask! According to Jimmy Webb in his book Tunesmith: “A great song idea usually utilizes an interesting hook line or title […]
- [5 Easy Steps To Writing Great Verses](https://songchops.com/5-easy-steps-to-writing-great-verses/): How can we make songwriting easier? Change your perspective before you start writing! Songs are really just scenes strung together – so just write those! If you break your song down into smaller scenes, or verses as we like to call them, it’s easier to structure your song and start writing. We’ll focus on the steps for a single scene. And, for the purposes of the discussion, let’s go with: Verse | Chorus | Verse | Chorus | Bridge | Chorus In this song structure, you’ll need two complete scenes since there are two verses. Let’s start walking through the […]
- [Direct Address Explained](https://songchops.com/direct-address-explained/): What Is Direct Address? Also called second person, direct address is about a direct conversation between the “I” and some second person or “you.” The pronouns associated with second person are: Singular: you, your, yoursPlural: you, your, yours You’ll often hear a combination of the pronouns I and you in a direct address song, so don’t let the I’s fool you – imagine the scene: does it sound like someone else is present? The benefit of using direct address is the immediate immersion of the listener into a situation. The situation needs to hold enough drama to engage the listener, […]
- [4 Steps To Connect Song Scenes](https://songchops.com/4-steps-to-connect-song-scenes/): You have to connect your song scenes if you want a listener to follow what it is you’re trying to say. This can sometimes be harder than it sounds. Here are four easy steps to help you connect your song scenes. The scenes of your song will be in your verses nine times out of ten. The chorus will be used for your big message, and while it can contain a scene, the action is usually in the verses. Following these steps will help make your song more cohesive, flow better if you’ve got a story song plot, and give you […]
- [Song Plots You Need To Know](https://songchops.com/song-plots-you-need-to-know/): If you listen to any genre, you’ve heard them – the three primary song plots. You’ll notice they increase in complexity as you move from Attitude/Emotion to Situation to Storyline. For example, pop songs tend to be Attitude/Emotion song plots (to paraphrase Gillian Welch, you can get ready for a date listening to them). Situation/Circumstance song plots are a bit more grounded in reality, but still do not have a discernible time line. Storyline song plots are literally just that – a story with a timeline. For your songwriting, the plot type should be something you determine early. Your lyrics […]
- [What Is Point of View?](https://songchops.com/what-is-point-of-view/): Point of view, or POV, gives your song a starting point for it’s perspective. Perspective is a nuance of point of view. An example of POV + perspective is: first person song where the speaker is talking to themselves. In order to utilize perspective you have to pick your point of view first. At the end of the day, you have three to choose from: In this article, we’ll cover the definition of each type of point of view, and when to use it. And, the great news is: you can choose one to start your song and then try […]
- [What Is A Simile?](https://songchops.com/what-is-a-simile/): A simile is a type of “figurative language” used in creating imagery. Wait . . . figurative language and imagery aren’t the same thing? So what is imagery? Put simply, imagery is the representation of one thing by another thing using vivid, or “figurative” language, to represent objects, actions, or ideas. These devices are used with the intention of creating a deeper understanding of the thing being talked about by referencing objects, actions or ideas already familiar to the listener. Imagery uses four types of “figurative language”: How Do You Use A Simile In A Song? A simile uses the […]
- [Best Metaphor Song Ever](https://songchops.com/best-metaphor-song-ever/): Not only is A Thousand Horses‘ debut single “Smoke” a great sounding song, but it is the poster child for how to use a metaphor, making it the best metaphor song we’ve heard. Why is this song the best metaphor song ever? Well, besides the gritty, Southern rock blues vocal delivery by Michael Hobby, it’s the songwriting brilliance of Ross Copperman, Jon Nite and Michael Hobby! If you had to set the bar for a great metaphor song – this one would be it. The Metaphor Using smoke to describe a woman – risky! Basically, a metaphor is a device used to […]
- [What Is A Metaphor?](https://songchops.com/what-is-a-metaphor/): A metaphor is a type of “figurative language” used in imagery. It’s best used to make a connection between things your listener can easily identify with quickly. The first thing in the comparison adds context and meaning to the second thing for the listener. This can be tough to pull off in a song when it’s flying by in 3 minutes. So how can you do it effectively? Let’s Start By Defining Imagery Imagery is the representation of one thing by another thing using vivid or “figurative language” to represent objects, actions, or ideas. Imagery uses four types of “figurative […]
- [Writing Lyrics: Allusion Exercise](https://songchops.com/writing-lyrics-allusion-exercise/): Find the Allusions Around You One of the best ways to pull a new technique or concept into your songwriting is do a lyric allusion exercise. For this one, spend the weekend looking for allusions! But don’t worry, it won’t be the whole weekend! You’re looking and listening for things you can use for an allusion reference (e.g., objects, signs, conversations, etc.). Look around and write down anything that reminds you of something else. Anything. Don’t worry if it doesn’t make you feel warm and fuzzy. Be sure to include what it made you think of and the emotion you […]
- [6 Allusion Examples](https://songchops.com/6-allusion-examples/): While it’s one thing to know what an allusion is, applying it to your songwriting is easier to grasp if you can study songs using allusion well. By understanding how songs use allusion to add to the basic song idea, you can bring the tool into your own songwriting process more frequently. Allusion is a form of figurative language, an allusion is an indirect reference of limited length to a person, place, thing or idea of historical, cultural, literary or political significance. It does not describe in detail the person or thing it is referring to – it simply suggests it. For […]
- [What Is Allusion?](https://songchops.com/what-is-allusion/): You probably see or hear an allusion in use a couple of times a day, but do you use it in your songwriting? Have you had a moment when you’re hanging out with friends, and to jokingly give you a hard time, one of your friends references something indirectly you immediately recognize and understand. You have a common familiarity to the reference. That’s allusion in action. However, in a song – your goal is to use an allusion that most people get so it can add depth and another layer of emotion to your song. An allusion is a form […]
- [5 Personification Examples](https://songchops.com/5-personification-examples/): I thought I’d put together 5 personification examples to underscore just how powerful well-written personification songs can be.. It’s the act of giving inanimate objects or abstract concepts 
animate or living qualities.  You know, trees laughing, sun kneeling, guitars crying, watches grinning, etc. “I’m A Little Teapot” is a great example. The teapot is talking, describing itself and giving itself human qualities. It’s actually one of the hardest types of songs to write – even for advanced songwriters. When done correctly, it can create some great imagery and symbolism. It’s a way to take the familiar for someone and transform the scene so […]
- [Best Personification Song Ever](https://songchops.com/best-personification-song-ever/): Mary Chapin Carpenter’s “I Am A Town” is not only the most ambitious, but as a result, turns into the best personification song ever written. The whole song is a town speaking. And what’s most impressive is that it’s speaking the whole time. And you never really notice that you’re getting all emotional from how a town feels. What!? Needless to say, I love this song. OK I love quite a few, but I really love this one right behind “Wichita Lineman.” Not only is the repetition crafted into the song well, but the idea of a town telling it’s […]
- [Personification In Songs](https://songchops.com/personification-in-songs/): What is personification? Personification is the endowment of inanimate objects or abstract concepts 
with animate or living qualities. Caution is recommended to not over-endow an object or concept with living qualities.  It can quickly turn unrealistic, or comic if not careful. When this happens, your listener starts to question the reliability of the speaker and if the doubt is reinforced with other poor observations or figurative language that is not in the realm of possibility, your listener is out. Personification Done Well & Not So Well If personification is such a big risk, why use it at all? Like all figurative language, […]
- [Songwriting Glossary](https://songchops.com/songwriting-glossary/): Songwriting Glossary For Songwriters A songwriter glossary of common terms you’ll be using as you learn how to write songs can be extremely helpful. And, knowing what specific songwriting terms mean will help you grow as you get feedback on your songs. Figurative Language & Literary Devices Allusion An expression or phrase used to call something to mind without expressly mentioning it. A form of figurative language, the effectiveness is contingent on the listener knowing the story or event being referenced. For example, “finding the truth was his white whale” is a clear reference to Moby Dick. Or, “their life […]
- [Partial Capo: Create Variety in Your Songs](https://songchops.com/partial-capo-create-variety-in-your-songs/): Partial capos sound complicated. But – they can make your guitar playing easier and add a unique quality to how your songs sound. Why try partial capos? I’ll review some standard capos I use in combination with my partial capos. And I’ll cover 3-String, 4-String, and 5-String partial capos along with a few chord books for each. Partial Capos Because you can combine a partial capo with other capos to give some variety to your music, you’ll want to find the ones that work best for the job you need done. If you read the standard capo recommendation post, you […]
- [Guitar Capo: Choosing and Using One](https://songchops.com/guitar-capo-choosing-and-using-one/): There are a lot of good reasons to use a guitar capo. I know, you’ve probably heard a guitar player say you shouldn’t. But, if you have no intention of being the next Carlos Santana, then you’ve got the green light to use a guitar capo whether you’re playing an acoustic, electric or classical guitar. Why should you use one? Because it makes songwriting easier. For example, you can find your key by simply moving up and down the neck of your guitar without having to transpose your chords into a different key. And, you don’t end up with a […]
- [FREE 5 Step Songwriting System eBook](https://songchops.com/free-5-step-songwriting-system-ebook/): Who doesn’t want an easy system for writing songs? With the free 5 step songwriting system, you’ll be able to use right now. Today. To write your next song. When I say “songwriting success” I mean the ability to sit down, write a song and love that you’re doing it. We all get frustrated with how overwhelming it can all seem, but this 5 step songwriting system can make it easy. Our free e-Book will give you the strategies you need to start writing songs today! And what’s better, it’s a way to build a songwriting system so you’re not […]
- [Colter Wall Sings Ian Tyson’s “Bob Fudge”](https://songchops.com/colter-wall-sings-ian-tysons-bob-fudge/): Ian Tyson is one of the best cowboy song writers around. Maybe songwriters.  His song “Bob Fudge” is an exceptional example of how to write from someone else’s perspective. The song covers 71 years and makes it interesting in less than 5 minutes. Writing someone’s life story into a song, while keeping it compelling, visually rich and moving along – is difficult. And, you can also get bogged down in a bunch of, what I like to call, “Joe Friday Facts.” Boring, lifeless details. A first person song from the point of view of a stranger is a great exercise […]

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- [Spotlight Guide](https://songchops.com/spotlight-guide/): Promotion. Performance. Presence. Spotlight Guide: Share Your Music & Grow Your Audience Spotlight/Promotion is about shining a light on your songs —whether on stage or online. Learn how to perform with confidence,share authentically, and grow an audience that connects with your music. The 5 SONGWRITER pillars Creating A SpotlightFor Your Songs Songs are made to be heard. Promotion is about building bridges — through performance and connection — so your music has a chance to inspire, heal, or energize others. When you promote, you’re not just “marketing” — you’re inviting people into your story. Whether through a live performance or […]
- [Pulse Guide](https://songchops.com/pulse-guide/): The Heartbeat. The Studio. The Release. Pulse Guide: Share Your Song With the World A song isn’t finished until it’s heard. Pulse is about bringing your music to lifethrough recording, production, and releasing it into the world.You’ll learn the options for DIY setups, studio sessions, and how toconfidently share your finished songs on streaming platforms. The 5 SONGWRITER pillars Why Releasing SongsCreates Impact A song locked in a notebook or on your private playlist alone is locked away and keeping your message from reaching the world. And, the world may need your song right now! Recording and sharing your music […]
- [Ownership Guide](https://songchops.com/song-ownership-guide/): Rights. royalties. distribution. Songwriter Ownership Guide: Protect Your Music & Get Paid Your songs are valuable assets.The Ownership pillar helps you protect your music, register your works,and collect royalties so you’re recognized and paid for your creativity. The 5 SONGWRITER pillars Why SongwritersNeed Ownership Ownership is empowerment. When you claim your rights as a songwriter and artist, you’re not just checking boxes—you’re giving your music a voice that carries beyond the page or the stage. Every song has two hearts: the one you wrote (the composition) and the one you recorded (the master). When you understand and protect both, you […]
- [Heart Guide](https://songchops.com/heart-guide/): Message. Melody. Music. Songwriting Heart/Craft Guide: Honing Your Lyrics, Melody, Structure & Music Great songs . . . meaningful songs, are built with strong craft.The Heart pillar helps you shape lyrics, melodies, your musicand song structure so your ideas connect deeply with listeners. The 5 SONGWRITER pillars Why Heart (Craft)Is the Core of Songwriting Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life? – Mary Oliver The quote may seem an odd way to start a conversation about songwriting craft. But, not only was Mary Oliver one of the greatest poets of our […]
- [Start Here](https://songchops.com/songwriting-start-journey-here/): Start here Welcome to Song Chops — Start Your Songwriting Journey Here Follow the 5 pillars of songwriting growth — from your first spark to sharing your music with the world. The 5 SONGWRITER pillars Choose A Path Not Sure Where To Begin? Song OutlineWorksheet Songwriter Royalties Checklist Idea StarterWorksheet GET STARTED TODAY! Write your first song today. Sometimes starting is the hardest part. We’ll make it easy with our simple 5 step system. We’ll cover the basics of writing a song, breakdown the parts in a simple way and get you started on your first song. Even if you’ve […]
- [Creativity Guide](https://songchops.com/songwriting-creativity-guide/): spark. mindset. inspiration. Songwriting Creativity Guide: How to Find Ideas & Inspiration Every song begins with a spark. In the Creativity pillar, we’ll show you how to find inspiration in everyday life,overcome writer’s block, and capture ideas before they slip away. This is where you’ll learn to trust your voice and start turning thoughts into songs. The 5 SONGWRITER pillars Why Creativity is the First Step in Songwriting “The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” Mark Twain I think constantly trying to figure out how to “be creative” is a bit of a red herring. I know – crazy […]
- [Songwriting Worksheets](https://songchops.com/songwriting-worksheets-2/): SONGWRITING WORKSHEETS TO START & GROW No – songwriting worksheets aren’t about doing homework. Worksheets can help you start a song and move faster down the page. If your goal is to tell the best story in the best way, songwriting worksheets help fine tune your writing. And one of the biggest benefits? Being your guide when you’ve got no one around to bounce things off. These worksheets will help you gain knowledge and confidence when it comes to how to write a song. They’ll also help you get organized from ideation through pitching your songs, recording them and playing […]
- [Parts Of A Song](https://songchops.com/parts-of-a-song-defined/): What Are Parts Of A Song? There are no rules – just options! Each component, or the parts of a song, serves a very specific function in creating the overall tapestry. And, much like a tapestry, if you weave things together in a way that’s innovative, but doesn’t necessarily use the elements for the proper purpose, you could end up with a bit of a mess on your hands. And by that, I mean something your listener has a hard time following. I’m not saying you need to follow all of the rules all of the time. What is ideal […]
- [How To Write A Song](https://songchops.com/guide-how-to-write-a-song/): A Guide: How To Write A Song Sometimes explaining how to write a song is made a little too hard. What do I mean by that? Well, there are a bunch of rules and things you have to know. You get stuck in what you’re supposed to be doing versus what you’re trying to say. So what if the approach where different? What if you could start writing your first song, or start creating songs that really put your message out into the world the way you want it to. Not the way that fits standard genres or what “a […]
- [Build Songwriting Skills](https://songchops.com/practice-songwriting/): Build Your Songwriting Skills Easily! Sitting down to write a song and practice your songwriting can be daunting when you’re staring at a blank page. The prompts and exercises gathered here is a great place to come to start your songwriting session. No more needing to feel inspired to write, simply start an exercise! If you are feeling inspired but want to go outside of your normal box, then a song prompt may be your best bet. Songwriting Exercises Song Prompts Practice Songwriting By Listening: Steal This Idea! If you are looking for additional ways to spur some inspiration, check […]
- [Rhyme](https://songchops.com/rhyme/): Rhyme is one of the best ways to upgrade your songs. Bring advanced song craft to your songs to shift them to a different level. LEARN ADVANCED TECHNIQUES & RHYMING SKILLS! This is one of songwriting’s foundational skills. Rhyming patterns, family rhyme and using poetry techniques can help elevate your songs. Knowing how to do it and when not to separates those starting out with next-level songwriters. By learning simple, advanced techniques you can elevate your songs past your years of experience quickly. To start, I would recommend using a rhyming dictionary so you can put all of the techniques […]
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- [About](https://songchops.com/about/): About Us Empowering Songwriters About Us The world is absolutely a better place with more songs in it! Our mission is to help songwriters who are feeling overwhelmed, afraid and intimidated by the world’s definition of a “real song” – transform into confident, accomplished songwriters who use their songwriting to change not just the world, but themselves and their lives. Mentoring, teaching and guiding other songwriters through resources, tools and encouragement is what we’re all about. Whether you’re just starting out or have been doing it for awhile, our goal is to provide every person who has ever wanted to […]
- [Home](https://songchops.com/): find your voice Songwriting can be part of your life today. You may want be one of the biggest stars in the world, or just play songs for your family during your summer camping vacation. Or maybe you have a message you want to bring into the world to create change. Songwriting and songs are a universal language anyone can speak. If you write songs and want to find some new songwriting tools, this is your place. Or maybe you’ve never written a song and want to start. Well – this is your place too! Because – we’re all songwriters […]
- [Privacy Policy](https://songchops.com/privacy-policy/): 1. Introduction Welcome to SongChops.com (“Song Chops,” “we,” “us,” “our”). We care about your privacy. This policy explains how we collect, use, share, and protect your personal information. 2. Information we collect 3. How we use your information We use your info to: 4. Sharing your information We only share data: 5. Cookies and tracking We use cookies and similar tools to: 6. Your privacy rights 7. Children’s privacy Our site isn’t designed for children under 13. We don’t knowingly collect info from this demographic. If aware of such data, we promptly delete it. Parents can also request deletion. 8. […]


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