The Art of Song Composition: Before or After Lyrics?

When it comes to the creation of a song, the age-old question persists: does one write the lyrics before or after composing the melody? This article explores how different songwriters and composers approach this process, offering insights into the diverse methods used in the industry.

Historical Approaches

Richard Rogers, a renowned composer, collaborated with lyricists Lorenz Hart and Oscar Hammerstein in various ways. When working with Hart, Rogers would start by composing the music first, followed by Hart’s lyrics. Conversely, with Hammerstein, the process reversed, with Hammerstein writing the lyrics first and Rogers setting them to music. This flexible approach highlights the variability and creative freedom in songwriting and composition.

Personal Inspiration and Creativity

Personal inspiration and creative processes play a pivotal role in deciding when to write lyrics. As one song creator explained, 'Sometimes I come across a beat that’s already been used, but I come up with lyrics on the spot for it.' Inspiration can strike at any time, and songwriters must be prepared to capture it. Others find the lyrics challenging, thus choosing to start with the melody. For instance, when stumbling across a tune that feels brilliant, the next step is often to find the words that fit it.

Composition and Lyrics in Harmony

Another perspective on the process is that songwriting often begins with a theme. The songwriter pens lyrics around a chosen theme, and from there, a melody emerges. This approach emphasizes the interplay between lyrics and melody, ensuring that the music and the words complement each other.

The Fusion of Lyrics and Melody

More often than not, lyrics are written after the melody is composed. Many songwriting practices align with the traditional method of melody-first composition. However, there are rare instances where a composer discovers a melody first and dedicates the lyrics composition to it. One notable example showcases a song without a pre-existing melody that was later composed to fit the lyrics:

'Such an awesome song this is'

Conclusion

The flow of inspiration can be unpredictable, and the process of song composition can vary widely. Whether a lyricist or a composer takes the lead, the ultimate goal is to create a coherent, emotive song that resonates with the audience. The beauty of songwriting lies in its flexibility, allowing artists to embrace the creativity and individuality that shapes each unique composition.

Related Keywords

song composition lyrics melody

Further Reading

Explore more on songwriting and composition techniques:

Advanced Songwriting Techniques Melody and Lyrics Interplay Inspiration in Songwriting