As a songwriter, it’s natural to stick with what you know when it comes to writing music. However, stepping out of your comfort zone and knowing how to write songs in different genres can help you grow as a musician and expand your audience. In this blog, we’ll focus on how to write songs in other genres by exploring the melody and chords of the music.
1. Understand the fundamentals of the genre
Before you start writing, it’s important to listen to and analyze music in the genre you want to write in. Pay attention to the melody and chord progressions used in the music and take note of any common themes or sounds.
2. Experiment with chord progressions
One way to create a new sound in a different genre is to use different chord progressions. Try experimenting with different chord progressions that are common in the genre you’re interested in. For example, in blues music, a common chord progression is the 12-bar blues consisting of the I, IV, and V chords.
3. Use different scales and modes
Another way to create a new sound is to use different scales and modes. For example, if you want to write a rock song, there are plenty of rock songs written in modes other than the major or minor key. This includes modes such as the Dorian Mode, and the Mixolydian Mode.
4. Play with Melody
The melody is a key component of any song, and changing the melody can drastically alter the feel of the song. Think about the characteristics of a melody that is common in the genre you’re interested in. Is the melody more simple, or is it more soulful and elaborate?
5. Use rhythm and tempo to your advantage
The rhythm and tempo of a song can also greatly affect the feel of the music. For example, the wing rhythm is common in jazz, rock, R&B, and blues. Experiment with different rhythms and tempos to find the right feel for your song.
6. Pay attention to Dynamics
Dynamics, or the variation in volume and intensity of the music, can add depth and emotion to a song. Different genres can have different dynamic mappings. Pay attention to where the song in a different genre has the most volume and track the energy of the song.
Knowing how to write songs in different genres is a great way to grow as a musician and expand your audience. By experimenting with melody, chords, rhythm, and other musical elements, you can create unique and engaging music in a variety of genres. Keep practicing and don’t be afraid to take risks, and you’ll be writing songs in any genre in no time.
