Songwriting is an art form that is subjective and allows for endless possibilities. While there are certain technical aspects to it, there are also many things you technically can do while writing a song that you probably shouldn’t. Of course, as a songwriter, you have the final say in what you choose to do, but these are some techniques in songwriting that are commonly used less or avoided entirely for good reason.
1. Jumping around too much with Chords
One thing to watch out for is jumping around with chords too much. While it’s great to experiment with different chord progressions, too much movement can make a song sound disjointed and difficult to follow. It’s important to find a balance and let the chords support the melody, rather than the other way around.
2. Watch your Dissonance
Another thing to consider is using too much dissonance or unpleasant chords. While dissonance can be used effectively to create tension and add interest to a song, too much can be overwhelming and off-putting for the listener. It’s important to use dissonance sparingly and with purpose.
3. Complicated Melodies
An overcomplicated melody can also be a turnoff for listeners. While intricate melodies can be impressive, they can also be difficult to sing along to or remember. It’s important to keep the melody simple enough to be memorable, while still interesting and unique.
4. Silence is Golden
Silence can be one of the more powerful techniques in songwriting, but it’s important to use it artistically. Long stretches of silence can make a listener feel uncomfortable or disengaged. It’s important to find a balance between silence and sound, and to use silence purposefully to build tension or emphasize a specific moment.
5. Following Trends
Finally, it’s important to avoid getting too caught up in trends or what’s popular at the moment. While it’s important to stay current and be aware of what’s popular, it’s also important to stay true to yourself and create something that is authentic and meaningful to you.
In the end, songwriting is about finding a balance between technical skill and creative expression. It’s important to experiment and take risks, but also to be mindful of what works and what doesn’t. On the flip side, if you would like to experiment with all of these points and combine it into one song, you have freedom to do that as well. As a songwriter, you have the power to create something truly unique and special, so try these techniques in songwriting and take the time to craft something that is authentic and true to you.
