do you write lyrics or music first

In the intricate process of creating original content, be it in the form of lyrics or music, the question of whether to start with one or the other is often debated. For those who consider themselves writing masters, this choice can be pivotal in shaping the final product’s direction and depth. Let us delve into various perspectives on this dichotomy, exploring how writers and composers might approach their creative endeavors differently.

Perspective 1: The Lyricist’s Approach

For many lyricists, the initial spark often comes from a well-crafted verse or a poignant phrase that resonates deeply within them. These moments, which may seem spontaneous at first glance, are actually the culmination of days, weeks, or even months of introspection and observation. The act of writing lyrics typically involves a blend of storytelling, imagery, and emotion. The lyrics serve as the narrative backbone of the song, providing context, themes, and emotional depth. Once the lyrics are established, the composer then builds the melody around these words, ensuring they complement each other harmoniously.

Perspective 2: The Composer’s Perspective

On the other hand, some composers find inspiration in the rhythmic patterns and harmonic structures rather than in the literal words. They might start with an instrumental riff, a catchy beat, or a melodic line that evokes certain feelings or emotions. This approach allows for more flexibility in crafting the lyrics later, as the melodies can guide the lyrical content. Composers might spend hours experimenting with different chord progressions, rhythms, and instrumentation before settling on a musical foundation. Subsequently, they fill in the lyrics, ensuring they align seamlessly with the chosen melody.

Perspective 3: A Hybrid Approach

Many artists opt for a hybrid approach, combining elements from both methods. They might begin with a sketch of a melody or a chord progression, inspired by a particular mood or feeling. This serves as a springboard for lyrical ideas, allowing for a more organic and intuitive development of the song. Alternatively, they might start with a detailed set of lyrics, using them as a roadmap to guide the creation of the musical arrangement. In either case, the ultimate goal remains the same: to create a cohesive and compelling piece of art that resonates with listeners on multiple levels.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision of whether to write lyrics or music first is a matter of personal preference and creative flow. Some may prefer to dive straight into the heart of the narrative, while others might start with the sonic foundation. Regardless of the starting point, the most important aspect is to ensure that the resulting composition is authentic, meaningful, and engaging. Whether a songwriter writes the lyrics first and composes around them, starts with a melody and fills in the lyrics, or employs a hybrid approach, the key lies in maintaining a balance between creativity and craftsmanship.

Related Questions:

1. How do you decide when to write lyrics or music first?

   • I tend to start with a melody or a rhythm because it helps me tap into the emotional core of the song. Once I have a solid foundation, I fill in the lyrics.

2. Do you ever rewrite entire songs after starting with lyrics, or do you stick with your initial idea?

   • Yes, sometimes I’ll start with lyrics and find that the melody doesn’t quite fit. In such cases, I rewrite parts of the melody until everything feels right together.

3. What tools or techniques do you use to ensure your lyrics and music complement each other?

   • I listen to different versions of the song, trying out various melodies and chord progressions. Sometimes, I even record different iterations of the melody and compare them against the lyrics to see what works best.