Songwriting can sometimes feel like trying to catch lightning in a bottle. Some days the muse whispers sweet nothings in your ear, and other days? Well, you’re just staring at the same four chords wondering if the magic has packed its bags and moved on.
That’s why I always appreciate when someone takes the time to distil the craft into clear, actionable ideas, and the folks over at SongTown have done just that in their latest article: “5 Pro Tips for Writing a Great Song—Every Time.”
It’s a grounded and generous piece that offers practical wisdom without the fluff. Whether you’re just getting started or have miles of melody behind you, the five tips they share act like a compass for those days when you’ve lost your songwriting North.
The Core Message in a Nutshell
At the heart of the article is the reminder that great songs aren’t just born—they’re built. The five tips emphasize consistency, intention, clarity, emotional connection, and commitment to craft. In other words, success in songwriting isn’t about waiting for inspiration to strike like lightning—it’s about learning how to make your own weather system.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the main points they cover:
- Write with purpose – Know what you’re trying to say before you say it.
- Write a lot – Quantity leads to quality. Practice isn’t optional.
- Edit wisely – Your first idea isn’t always your best. Learn to refine.
- Write from real emotion – Authenticity resonates louder than cleverness.
- Collaborate – Two (or more) heads are often better than one.
It’s like building a house—you can dream all you like, but without a foundation, framework, and follow-through, you’re just sketching castles in the air.
My Take on the Message
As someone who’s spent a good part of his life dancing with songs—sometimes gracefully, other times stepping on their toes—I can vouch for every one of those tips. Especially the idea that emotion is the engine. If the song doesn’t move you when you’re writing it, how can it move anyone else when they’re listening?
But I’d add this: don’t confuse effort with pressure. Writing a lot is crucial, yes, but it’s not about churning out songs like a factory. It’s about showing up regularly. Some days you’ll write gold, other days you’ll write gravel. But even gravel can pave the way to somewhere worthwhile.
And when it comes to collaboration, I’ve found that it’s not just about having an extra set of hands—it’s about having an extra set of ears. Someone else can hear the hidden melody in your idea, the lyric between your lines.
Collaboration, done right, brings dimension to your song that you might not find on your own.
Take a Moment, Take a Read
If you’re in a place right now where your songwriting feels stuck—or you just want to sharpen your edge—this article might be just the nudge you need. It won’t give you formulas (thankfully), but it will give you perspective.
You can read the full article here:
5 Pro Tips for Writing a Great Song—Every Time
Give it a read, let it marinate, and then get back to the page, the piano, the guitar, or wherever your songs like to be found.
And if something from the article speaks to you, if a light bulb goes off or a lyric starts forming, drop me a line. I’d love to hear what you’re working on.
