10 Most Common Mistakes Made by Beginning Songwriters

Today, we will be looking at the most common mistakes made by newbie songwriters. While songwriting can vary widely in style and content there are some aspects of songwriter that are problematic for the beginning songwriter. By examining some of the barriers faced in the process of writing a song we can focus on any difficulties and offer some positive solutions.

1. Incomplete song. One of the most common mistakes is also the most obvious which is failing to complete all aspects of your song. Songs typically require an intro, completed verses, an effective chorus,  a bridge section and a proper ending or fade out. Just having a few melodies and a scattered lyric need won't work and need to be developed into a complete song. Be thorough, in your compositions.

2. Lyrics are over written. Keeping it simple is key to writing effective songs. Create lyrics that avoid clutter and are overly descriptive. Remember, your  music brings a quality words can"t always express and a simple phrase is usually more credible.

3. Melody is too repetitive. Most pop, rock and country styles rely on an interesting melodic line to avoid boredom. Look to  a more active melody to create excitement in your songs.

4. Weak Hook. The hook is the most important part of your song and is the reason people will be drawn to you song. A good hook can make your songs memorable. While there is no specific formula you can follow to create good song hooks, it helps to build your song around your best lines in words and melody to this  part of your song. 

5. Too many chord changes. Avoid over harmonizing you melody. Your chords are there to support your melody and not to overwhelmed it.  Changing a major chord to minor, adding a 6th or using a diminished or augmented  chord can be more effective than a too busy harmony.

6. Rhythm Is sloppy. Keep your songs tight in terms of rhythm. Don"t allow the tempo to become erratic. Keep good time and your songs will be better for it.

7. Awkward lyric. If a certain line in your lyric seems awkward change it to something that adds to your song rather than something that does not

8.  Lack of emotion. Songs need to exciting, happy, sad  or even visionary. In other words give your audience a reason to listen by amping up the emotional quality to your songs. Boredom will end a song's success quicker than anything.

9.  Lack of editing. Is your song too short, too long, too busy?  Find the best version of your song by editing out unnecessary lyrics and melodies to increase their power and effectiveness.

10. No faith. If you don' put believe in your own songs chances are no one else will as well. Have confidence in your songs and within your songs as well. Tell a story, create an image, follow what goes down the road to find something people can relate with and are drawn to.

Last of all, with these ideas  presented your songwriting can improve and become an interesting and better vehicle for your music and creativity to explore. Till next time.

More articles on songwriting:

7 Myths about Songwriting
Understanding Basic Chords
10 Tips on How to Improve Your Songwriting
9 Tips for Writing a Song for Beginners

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