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Analyzing a Song – So Simple Every Student Can Do It

December 13, 2022 //  by  Lindsay Ann //   2 Comments

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English teachers, teaching your students how to analyze song lyrics needs to be a “go-to” strategy, a step toward deeper analysis of more complex texts .

Whether you’re teaching poetry, persuasive essays, or some other writing unit, analyzing song lyrics will give your students an opportunity to look at the different ways that language can be used to capture emotions and tell stories .

This close reading process will also help improve their vocabulary and grammar skills while they are having fun!

Here are some tips on how to teach students to analyze song lyrics so that they can gain valuable writing knowledge through a familiar medium they love!

Analysis of Song Lyrics

Taylor Swift makes analyzing song lyrics in the classroom easy peasy. Like her or not, you can count on her to write songs that tell a story, are layered in deep meaning, and littered with Easter eggs that are fun to try and collect (even for the non-Swifties). 

Taylor Swift’s “ Anti Hero” is a fun student-friendly song to bring into the classroom to practice analysis skills.

With callbacks to songs on other albums in lines like “I have this thing where I get older but just never wiser,” you can challenge students to analyze the development of a theme across multiple texts (helloooo higher level DOK and those really tricky to meet standards!).

Lyrics like “I’m the problem; it’s me” coupled with the title setup an opportunity to teach the concept of anti-hero (I especially like the idea of teaching about anti-heroes after teaching about the hero’s journey) and challenging students to analyze how Swift herself could be seen as this archetype by analyzing other songs and conducting online research.

“Anti Hero” also has what appear to be two references to pop culture ( 30 Rock and Knives Out ) that had even the swiftest of Swifties stumped online. These references are an accessible way to introduce the idea of allegory. 

Taylor has really teed up the song analysis practice in English classrooms to be endless with so many rabbit holes to go down at every turn! 

Song Meaning “Hallelujah”

Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” has a deep meaning making it a popular choice for teaching song analysis.  The meaning of Hallelujah is about someone who was deeply in love and is mourning the guilt of the loss of that love .

The song can teach students how to analyze lyrics by pointing out that even though it doesn’t say so explicitly, this is a song about a break-up .

They can also learn other aspects of reading literature, like examining tone and form. Analyzing song lyrics enables students to apply what they’ve learned as they read other texts or songs.

After reading a poem or listening to a song’s lyrics, students should be able to answer questions like: 

• Who is speaking? 
• How do you know? 
• What do you think the speaker’s feelings are?
•  What does this tell you about their personality? 
• Do these feelings make sense for the situation?

Good Songs to Analyze

When choosing good songs to analyze remember these three things:

• Choose a song that tells a story
• A song with a deep meaning or theme that challenges students’ inferential thinking skills works best
• Pick songs that students will know and be excited to listen to (that means that while “We Didn’t Start the Fire” is technically a great song for analysis, it might not be the most engaging for your students)

Here are some songs for teaching song analysis that will not only help you teach important analysis skills but also engage and delight your students:

• “ Pray for Me ” by the Weeknd ft. Kendrick Lamar
• “ Thunder ” by Imagine Dragons 
• “ Bohemian Rhapsody ” by Queen (this one is suitable for older students)
• “ Born This Way ” by Lady Gaga
• “ Getting Older ” by Billie Eilish 
• “ Drivers License ” by Olivia Rodrigo 
• “ This is America ” by Childish Gambino/Donald Glover
• “ Matilda ” by Harry Styles
• “ Victoria’s Secret ” by Jax (does have some profanity – I’ve linked the “clean” version)
• “ Vacation ” by The Dirty Heads (does say “shit”)

How to Analyze a Song

Teaching students how to analyze a song is similar to teaching poetry or literary analysis, but using songs disguises the learning as a fun activity making it really engaging and accessible for all learners.

Start by having students listen to their song twice .

• Instruct them to listen through for the first time just for enjoyment and to follow along with the printed lyrics (or digital if you have a way for students to access the lyrics online).
• Then have them listen a second time but this time have them highlight and circle words and phrases that they think are important and interesting. 

Challenge students to consider the following questions during their second time listening and to annotate the lyrics as they go:

• Who’s telling the story? What’s their perspective? How do they feel? What’s making them feel that way?
• What’s the mood of the song? Do the lyrics or the music contribute more to the mood?
• What figurative language do you notice in the lyrics? Why might the songwriter have chosen to include that figurative language?
• What could the songwriter be saying about human nature or society through their lyrics? How could you write a theme statement about these lyrics?

Once you’ve gotten your students started with the analysis process, make sure to involve your students. Ask them what they notice and use their insights to build discussion. Have them write a summary of the song or write a detailed analysis or work on a more creative, visual response.

Song & Poem Analysis Paired Text Lesson Plans

Make close reading, textual analysis and literary analysis of songs (and poems)  less intimidating  with these detailed, CCSS-aligned  close reading song analysis lesson plans for paired texts . Integrated close reading, text-based writing, speaking, listening, and inquiry skills, make these lessons both  engaging and worthwhile.

To help you save prep time, I’ve put together some awesome lessons for you HERE , including:

• Carrie Underwood’s song “Cry Pretty” & Macklemore & Ryan Lewis’ song “Growing Up”
• William Ernest Henley’s poem “Invictus” & Imagine Dragons’ song “Whatever it Takes”
• Maya Angelou’s poem “Still I Rise” and Tupac’s song “Still I Rise”
• Stephen Dobyns’ poem “Loud Music” and Incubus’ song “Dig”
• “Anti-Hero” by Taylor Swift
• “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” by Green Day and “Brick by Boring Brick” by Paramore
• “Hotel California” by the Eagles and “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin
• Protest Songs
• “Mad World” by Tears for Fears and “A Million Dreams” sung by Pink / The Greatest Showman

Wrapping Up

When students analyze songs, they think about its overall impact.

What makes this song great, and why do you like it? What is it about this song that makes it stand out?

Thinking through these ideas with easily-accessible texts makes transferring their skills and knowledge to literature (ya know, the kind with the capital L ) easier.

They’ll have practice analyzing craft moves like figurative language and allegory, but they’ll also have practice with those more complex reading strategies like making inferences and connections .

Have a song you think would be perfect to analyze in the classroom? I’d love to hear about it! Drop me a comment below to share! 

About Lindsay Ann

Lindsay has been teaching high school English in the burbs of Chicago for 19 years. She is passionate about helping English teachers find balance in their lives and teaching practice through practical feedback strategies and student-led learning strategies. She also geeks out about literary analysis, inquiry-based learning, and classroom technology integration. When Lindsay is not teaching, she enjoys playing with her two kids, running, and getting lost in a good book.

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• Language & Lit
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How to Write a Song Analysis for English Class

Listening to your favorite music might be an enjoyable pastime, but analyzing a song lets you apply what you're learning in English class to a favorite composition. Figurative language, tone and theme are just a few literary devices you can practice identifying as you write about music. By analyzing these elements, you can gain an greater appreciation for the practical application of the tools of English to songwriting.

Select an original, meaningful song for your paper topic. Consider the emotional depth of the lyrics, the themes and issues it introduces and its creative use of language as you choose a song to write about. For example, "Imagine" by John Lennon, which speculates about what a world full of peace would look like, presents a strong message about countering the effects of violence and spiritual conflict in the world.

Listen to the song with the lyrics in front of you. As you play the song, underline or highlight important lines and phrases that contribute to its meaning, as well as any personal thoughts or responses that come to mind. These reactions can help you shape the analysis of your song when you begin to write.

Introduce your song in the essay by giving some historical background about it, including the songwriter, year and any events that that shaped its creation. For example, "The Rising" by Bruce Springsteen showcases the resiliency of Americans after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. Describing this context would be a good way to introduce readers to the song and its theme of survival.

Analyze the lyrics by examining figurative language, phrases that describe something by comparing it to something else. In "The Sound of Silence," for example, Simon and Garfunkel use personification, which gives emotional characteristics to an object, animal or idea. By addressing the song to the "darkness" of nighttime, they emphasize the song's themes of loneliness and isolation. You can also write about the use of rhyme, repetition and other sound devices. In "Bleeding Me" by Metallica, the speaker uses repeated lines such as "I'm digging my way" and "This thorn in my side" to show his struggle in breaking away from addiction.

Analyze the song's use of musical arrangements. Think about how the song's choice of a major or minor key, dominant instruments and texture relate to the lyrics and theme and create a specific mood. For example, the minor piano chords and driving drumbeats of Adele's "Set Fire to the Rain" illustrate the speaker's desolation after the end of a bitter relationship.

Write a conclusion that emphasizes the main theme of the song. If you're writing about Christina Aguilera's "Beautiful," for example, you might say that the song encourages people who have been bullied to recognize and celebrate their uniqueness rather than let people's words hurt them. Draw your paper together in a way that shows how the song's lyrical and musical elements illustrate this message.

Things You'll Need

• Milton District High School: Lyric/Song Writing and Analysis

Kori Morgan holds a Bachelor of Arts in professional writing and a Master of Fine Arts in creative writing and has been crafting online and print educational materials since 2006. She taught creative writing and composition at West Virginia University and the University of Akron and her fiction, poetry and essays have appeared in numerous literary journals.

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Nine Teaching Ideas for Using Music to Inspire Student Writing

By Natalie Proulx

• May 10, 2018

Some of the greatest written works of our time have been inspired by music. Walt Whitman conceived of and wrote “Leaves of Grass” while listening to opera . Alice Walker, Langston Hughes, Ntozake Shange and Ralph Ellison were all moved by spirituals, jazz and blues . And Lin-Manuel Miranda’s rap musical “Hamilton” was born of his love of hip-hop . These writers understood what many educational researchers know — that music opens up pathways to creative thinking, sharpens our ability to listen and helps us weave together disparate ideas .

In this teaching resource, we suggest nine exercises to use music to inspire student writing — from creating annotated playlists and critical reviews to music-inspired poetry and personal narratives. Each idea pulls from Times reporting, Opinion pieces and multimedia on music to give students a place to start. The activities are categorized according to three genres: creative and narrative writing; informative and explanatory writing; and persuasive and argumentative writing.

How do you use music in your classroom? Let us know in the comments.

Creative and Narrative Writing

Exercise #1: Write a story or poem inspired by music.

One way you might let your students be inspired by music is to have them describe in words what they hear, a method Jean-Michel Basquiat employed in his poetry and paintings.

In “ Bowie, Bach and Bebop: How Music Powered Basquiat ,” Ekow Eshun writes:

In 1979, at 19, the artist Jean-Michel Basquiat moved into an abandoned apartment on East 12th Street in Manhattan with his girlfriend at the time, Alexis Adler. The home, a sixth-floor walk-up, was run-down and sparsely furnished. Basquiat, broke and unable to afford canvases, painted with abandon on the walls and floor, even on Ms. Adler’s clothes. The one item that remained undisturbed was Ms. Adler’s stereo, which had pride of place on a shelf scavenged from the street. “The main thing for us was having big speakers and a blasting stereo. That was the only furniture I purchased myself,” said Ms. Adler, who still lives in the apartment. When Basquiat was around, she recalled, “music was playing all the time.” On Thursday, the exhibition “Basquiat: Boom for Real” opened at the Barbican Center in London. The show focuses on the artist’s relationship to music, text, film and television. But it is jazz — the musical style that made up the bulk of Basquiat’s huge record collection — that looms largest as a source of personal inspiration to him and as a subject matter.

Invite your students to read the article and then listen to the Times-curated Spotify playlist “ The eclectic taste of Jean-Michel Basquiat ” as they view his art and read his poetry . Discuss what they notice about the musical influence in Basquiat’s work. How do the content, colors, textures and shapes in his paintings resemble the sounds they hear? How are these reflected in the words, phrases, mood and rhythm of his poems?

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101 Songwriting Prompts: Quick Ideas for Writing Hit Songs!

Let’s face it: songwriting is HARD sometimes. So if you need some quick ideas to break out of a rut or find inspiration, you’re in luck!

You’ll also find a bonus section at the end of this post with some miscellaneous song prompts that don’t fit neatly into any of the other categories, but can STILL help you craft an original, compelling song that the world will love! Check them all out!

101 Songwriting Prompts for 7 Plots (Plus a Bonus!)

Love song prompts.

The most popular song category by far is  love , because music helps you capture the feeling of this emotion better than almost anything. There are also so many different kinds of love songs – here are just some possibilities to get you started!

Write a song about the first time you went out with someone special for the very first time. What was it like to meet them, where did you go, what did you do? Are you doing it in the present, or reminiscing about your first date many years later?

Write a song about someone in your family. How do you feel watching your children growing up, both needing your support and seeking independence from you? What would you do if you lost your siblings? Relationships with parents are always compelling; are you determined to be different than them, or have you become your mother/father?

Song Example : Daughter by Loudon Wainwright III

Write a song about your first crush. How young were you two? Did you pass notes in class or exchange glances when the teacher’s back was turned? 

4) Wedding anniversary

Write a song exploring sex and what it means to you. How does it make you and your partner feel, in the moment and about your relationship? Is there a creative euphemism you can use to get across the message while still being radio-friendly? 

Song Example : Pour Some Sugar on Me by Def Leppard (plus millions of other songs!)

Write a song in the form of a letter. Is it a romantic ballad expressing unrequited love, a message of regret that you’d rather burn then send, or a letter from a secret admirer?  

8) Seasonal Love

Write a song about enjoying the holidays with a loved one. Is it nice to get cozy by the fire while it snows outside? Does your blanket buddy like one marshmallow or two in their hot cocoa?

Write a song about a love that you can’t seem to shake. Even though you know you’d be better off going, what’s keeping you there? Does it excite you that the love feels wrong? 

Write a song about a fling you had. Was it a one-night stand or did it last a whole summer? Did you always intend to keep it short, but now you’ve developed a deeper connection? Is it liberating or unfulfilling to have short-lived love?

11) Toxic relationships

Write a song about a truly unhealthy relationship. You love them, but at what cost to you? Are you risking your dignity, your sanity, or your physical safety? Why do you turn to love in the worst places?

12) Friends: the family you choose

Write a song about falling deeply in love. How does it feel to be submerged so suddenly in affection? Is it purely euphoric, or is there a powerless there that scares you?

Write a song about how much you love yourself. Are you proud of your body, your mind, or your talent? Are you a firework, brave, or ready to roar? 

Song Example : Shake it Off by Taylor Swift

Write a song about how much you love a young child. How has having a baby changed your perspective on life? Do you want to be there for your child but worry you won’t – or worse – can’t?

Song Example : Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel) by Billy Joel

  Song Example : Every Breath You Take by The Police

Write a song about falling in love with someone you see across the room. What about them caught your eye? How will you approach them? Do they reciprocate your feelings, reject you, or hide their feelings?

Song Example : Shut Up and Dance by Walk the Moon

Hate Song Prompts

The other side of the coin with love,  hate  is a very popular genre. Powerful emotions like hate lend themselves to louder vocal performances, like those in punk and metal bands, but can be found in any genre. 

1) Betrayal by lover

2) Teenage angst

Write a song about hating the city you live in. Is your city so big that you feel like you’re lost in the crowd, or so small that everyone knows about your mistakes? Do the landmarks in your town remind you of your ex or some other trauma you experienced there? Are you stuck there, dying to leave, or already on your way out?

4) Self-loathing

Song Example : Creep by Radiohead

Write a song about someone you want to disrespect. Is this a friendly rivalry where you roast the other for fun, or do you have a genuine bone to pick? What about them do you want to disparage – their principles, physical characteristics, and/or body of work?

6) Frustrated in love

Write a song about how you love and hate someone in equal measure. Have they taken advantage of you but you like the feeling anyway? What’s it like to be trapped between a rock and a soft place? 

8) Political disagreement

Write a song about something political that you hate to see. Does it make you mad to see young people sent to war? Why do the rich never seem to have the rules apply to them? Is the system broken, or is it actually working as intended?

Song Example : B.Y.O.B. by System of a Down

Write a song about how hatred itself is poisonous to your soul. Is hate ever the solution? How could you explain the feeling of hatred to someone who never experienced it? What about it hurts the hater more than the hated?

Write a song about something insignificant that makes you upset. Do you confront someone over it? Do you think people who do it deserve to burn in Hell? Is your song’s narrator justified or just bitter?

Loneliness Song Prompts

Write a song about when you were aching to be with someone romantically, but it was not to be. Did they want you just as badly but couldn’t get to you, or did they not even know you exist? Was this recent, or a has your loneliness been fermenting for years?

Write a song about how being single has it’s advantages. Maybe you’ve just broken up with someone and you aren’t nearly as upset as you expected. Is being alone bittersweet, or maybe entirely sweet, now that you aren’t dependent on anyone else for your happiness?

Write a song about a love triangle where you’re the third wheel. Did you love and then lose your significant other to a new suitor, or were you always on the outside? Have you given up, or are you still determined to find love in the face of rejection?

4) Dear John

Write a song to break up with someone. Do you wish things had gone differently, or was your match doomed from the start? Is it you, or is it me? 

Song Example : Rude by MAGIC!

Write a song about being stranded, either metaphorically or literally. Why are you in this situation? What’s it like not being able to find company of any kind, good or bad?

Song Example : Message in a Bottle by The Police

Write a song about how you no longer can stand to be around a certain group of people. What have they done to force you to choose loneliness? Do you bristle at the thought of being lumped in with them?

8) Ostracized 

9) In space! 

Write a song where you are sent to space. Are you awe-struck or terrified? How does it feel to have thousands of people working on Earth to get you to a place where you’re totally on your own? 

Write a song about returning to nature. What kind of nature appeals to you – a forest, a shoreline, or a mountaintop? How can weather be used to convey the internal conflict that’s driven you away from civilization?

Write a song where you’re with another person, but you can’t quite seem to connect. Is it a new acquaintance or an old lover? Can you feel lonelier with them than when you’re alone?

Song Example : Same Old Lang Syne by Dan Fogelberg

Write a song where you explore the lonely side of mental illness. Why do you feel you’ve gone insane? Are you the problem, or is it everybody else? How do these mental disturbances manifest themselves in your daily life?

Song Example : Zitti E Buoni by Måneskin

Happiness Song Prompts

Write a song about having a party. Who are you inviting? What’s the reason, or is there no reason at all? Is this a night to remember, or a night no one will be able to? 

Write a song about how cracks are showing up in the veneer of happiness. Are you forced to act happy by society or pressure in a relationship? Do you actually have everything you wanted, but still aren’t happy? Was happiness fleeting or never real at all?

Song Example : Shiny Happy People by R.E.M.

Write a song about winning. What have you achieved? Has it been a long road, making your victory all the sweeter? What obstacles stood in your way and how did you overcome them? How does it feel to be a winner?

Song Example : We Are the Champions by Queen

Song Example : Don’t Worry, Be Happy by Bobby McFerrin

Write a song about having fun during a night on the town. Are you with your friends or beau? Are you getting drunk or dancing on the club floor? 

Song Example : Tonight Tonight by Hot Chelle Rae

7) Fame and fortune

8) Nostalgia

Write a song about the good ol’ days. What was so good about the world when you were young? What people, places, and things look a whole lot better through rose-tinted glasses? 

Write a song about how music feeds your soul. Were you lost until you found music? Does having a guitar in your hand or a microphone at your lips make you feel like the king of the world? 

Song Example : Thrift Shop by Macklemore & Ryan Lewis

Write a song where you are in a world of wonder. What do you see? Is the happiness just an illusion or is it really there? Are you inspired to make the real world a bit more magical?

Song Example : Fireflies by Owl City

Sadness Song Prompts

When your heart is broken, it’s raining on your head, and your ice cream falls off the cone, you’re dealing with  sadness . Putting that feeling to music can be cathartic for you and your audience. A thousand careers have been launched on the backs of sad songs.

Write a song about your significant other dying. What do you think about when you wake up in the morning and the bed is empty? How many tears does it take to fill a river? Will you ever laugh again? 

Write a song about your terrible, horrible, no good, very bad day. What did you discover that ruined the day from the start? What went wrong, and how badly did it go? Were you really upset about not having coffee, or were you actually upset about your girlfriend taking the coffee machine when she left you?

Write a song about how school gets you down. Does your crush not notice you? Do your classes bore you? Is the vice-principal always on your case and your parents just don’t understand?  

6) Life’s not what you had hoped

Write a song about how life is letting you down. Did you keep thinking that your situation would improve only to discover you peaked in high school? Did the good times come and go before you had a chance to enjoy them?

7) Unthinkable loss

Write a song about how life for today’s kids will not be as good as when you grew up. Do you cry for your own child’s future? Is there a lake you used to love that’s not polluted or a forest you’d hike that’s burned down?  

Write a song about how a holiday depresses you. Are you alone on Valentine’s Day or tired of the commercialization of Christmas? Are you going to sit on your couch and gorge on chocolate Easter eggs? 

Write a song about how temporary the world around you is. Can a person be happy when they know that happiness will inevitably end? Will chaos always overtake order? Why bother doing anything? 

Jealousy Song Prompts

Write a song about wishing you were with another person who is already in a relationship. In what ways do you compare to the person they’re with, for better or worse? What do you feel when you see the two of them together – murderous rage, deep self-loathing, or a longing to be someone else? 

Write a song disapproving of someone else’s choices? What have they chosen that grinds your gears? Are you really upset about the negative effects the choice causes for your subject, or do you wish they had chosen you instead?  

Write a song about not feeling good enough compared to someone else. What kind of compliments can you give someone else that actually insult yourself? 

Song Example: When You’re In Love with a Beautiful Woman by Dr. Hook and the Medicine Show

Revenge Song Prompts

1) Take it in stride

Write a song about being wronged but you making it right. If you’ve been cheated on, do you destroy their favorite things or spend all their money? Can you tell their new girlfriend what a chump they are? How’s it feel to light his car on fire and walk away without looking back?

Write a song about avenging someone who has been wronged. What’s your connection to the person who needs saving? Are you a real hero, or are you doing it for selfish reasons? 

Song Example : 99 Biker Friends by Bowling for Soup

Write a song where you’re consumed with rage. What lengths will you go to seek recompense? Is your rage directed at one person, or has an entire system broken you? 

Write a song where you enter into a competition and are losing. How will you make it on top by the end? What are some stakes that can make the battle more suspenseful?  

Song Example : The Devil Went Down to Georgia by The Charlie Daniels Band

Write a song about how you’re going to get revenge on a group of people.  

Write a song where you cheat on your significant other. Does cheating bring you the thrill of revenge, or do you feel you’ve sunk to a new low? Is an affair still cheating if they cheated first? 

BONUS: Miscellaneous Song Prompts

Not every song follows a simple plot. There are many songs that use more than one of the above story arcs and there’s just as many that don’t fit nicely into any of the categories at all. Here are some more creative writing prompts for those who want help writing an original song.

Song Example : We Didn’t Start the Fire by Billy Joel

Write a song about writing songs. What’s a good metaphor for songwriter’s block? How’s it feel when the music seems to stream from your brain and fingers effortlessly? 

Write a song with lots of nonsense lyrics? How can lyrical folderol represent a feeling better than actual words? What kind of made-up words can you make memorable with the right melody?

Write a song meant specifically to appeal to the nerds among us. What aspect of pop culture bring out our inner nerd? Is being a nerd completely free of stigma, or does it still retain some of its old insulting connotation?

Song Example : White and Nerdy by Weird Al Yankovic 

Write a song about working a day job. Does it interfere with your musical goals? Is is fun to be ambitious or is it weighing on your soul? 

Write a song that sounds cool but doesn’t actually have any clear meaning. Your song might still have meaning, but can you make one that’s strange enough that a listener can’t be sure? Can you make imagery that’s psychedelic or fantastical?

Song Example : Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds by The Beatles 

Write a song about your experience driving around town. Who do you see? What are the stories of the homeless man or the single mother carrying groceries? Is the city how you remember it?

Songwriter Prompt List Wrap-up

I hope this list was helpful! Whether you were able to read through these prompts all in one sitting or bounced around to find the ones that spoke to you, my recommendation is to actually take ONE songwriting prompt in this list and give it a try!

You can also check out our list of 13 unconventional songwriting exercises for more inspiration.

Lastly, why not bookmark this page so you can come back here any time you need inspiration?

One of my favorite ways to come up with new songs is just sitting down at the piano and playing until an interesting idea captures my imagination. I recommend trying Piano for All to help you take a kernel of a song idea and turn it into a finished masterpiece!

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Song Meanings and Facts

• How To Analyze A Song

How to Write a Song Analysis

by SMF · Published January 8, 2023 · Updated January 12, 2023

English class can be boring sometimes, even for those of us who actually enjoy reading and writing. But occasionally or at least ideally, we will be given assignments that are actually exciting and interesting to work on. One of those can be in the form of analyzing a song.

One of the cool things about songs, as compared to other pieces of literature, is that first of all they tend to be relatively short. Secondly, there is usually a type of universal interest in song meanings (depending on the artist). And third, both classics and contemporary pieces can be enjoyable to research.

For instance, there’s a good possibility that with a song you’re already familiar with, even if it’s one of your favorites, there’s something about its history and composition that you will not be aware of until actually researching it. And yes, research is an important part of song analysis, which is something we will get to later.

Contemporary pieces may not be as historically-rich, but they can be more stimulating to work on since they tend to deal with trending topics, ideas and musicians. Moreover, if your teacher were to assign you a contemporary piece, chances are it’ll be via one of the more-profound artists out there. So in such cases, there can be a lot more to dissect than you initially take for granted. Or in any event, the writing should go smoother since you’re likely already dealing with a celebrity you’re already familiar with.

So with all of that said, here are some proven tips when it comes to successfully writing a song analysis for English class.

1. ADHERE TO THE PRESCRIBED GUIDELINES

You may have heard the old adage about the student who wrote the perfect paper but still received an F because he or she didn’t properly follow the teacher’s guidelines. 

Musicians are amongst the freest artists out there, and when analyzing their works we may be compelled to emulate their carefree styles. But if you are in fact analyzing a song for a class project, then there will inevitably be certain rules to follow in the process. As a formal author, you should remain mindful of these throughout. Your failure to do so, may end up in your penning of a really-dope analysis but one that has to be rewritten or even rejected due to not following the necessary procedure.

2.  CHOOSING THE RIGHT SONG

Perhaps your English teacher is liberal enough to allow you to choose the song of your choice to analyze. It would of course be tempting to work on one by your favorite musician, i.e. an artist you’re already familiar with and have a sound understanding of what their lyrics mean. 

But doing so may not always be the best choice, especially if you have an affinity for musicians who tend to harp on trivial and/or redundant concepts or are under pressure to have the analysis comply to an intimidating word minimum.

In other words, even if you do decide to go with your favorite artist, try to choose one of their deeper, more-substantive tracks to work on. Or even better yet, you may opt to go with certain acts, such as U2 or Nas for instance, whose works are known to be more profound than that of their peers.

Another option is going with a really-popular historical musician whose song may not necessarily be profound per se but has an interesting history behind it. 

“Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin”

One track that comes to mind in that regard is the likes of Michael Jackson’s “ Wanna Be Startin’ Somethin “. On the surface it may not really sound like much is going on, but in reality or at least in theory its lyrics are based on serious familial beef the Jacksons were going through at the time. Moreover, since there’s so much historical information available about Michael himself, that type of info can also be used to flesh the analysis out.

That said, you wouldn’t necessarily want to choose a song that’s too complicated. For instance, you may have a hair-pulling experience attempting to make sense out of a Bob Dylan track, as classic as it may be. And if your teacher assigns you one of such songs by force, that’s something we will get to a bit later.

3.  RESEARCH

One of the biggest mistakes a person can make when analyzing a song is failing to conduct adequate research. Even if the song is by an artist you know like the back of your hand, not taking the time to research it is a big mistake. Research! More Research! Research is one of the main keys.

In some instances, especially when dealing with tracks by less-popular artists or songs that are not considered classics or fan favorites, there may not be any pertinent information out there to be had to begin with. But in many cases, you’d be surprised what can be discovered or theorized about a song if you’re willing to do some digging.

4.  HAVE CONFIDENCE IN YOUR ANALYTICAL SKILLS

In other instances, such as with the aforementioned Bob Dylan, you may find yourself in a situation where there isn’t any pertinent information – or sometimes even theories – to fall back on. There can be other analysts and scholars out there who have speculated on the meaning of the same song, though with none of those ideas having been verified by the artist or other authoritative sources. This may even happen with a track you’re already quite familiar with. 

You go into the analysis thinking you already have the meaning figured out but come out surprised to discover that there’s nothing verifiable out there to back up your conclusions.

Under such circumstances, the analysis must be written nonetheless. This is what we may sometimes refer to as “going out on a limb”. In other words, your understanding of the song, lack of a verifiable meaning considered, may be a little far out and/or such that some people will not agree with your conclusion. 

But then again, so it often is with the artists who write these songs. Therefore, so long as you can form a concise argument, you shouldn’t be afraid to put your own ideas, as unorthodox as it may be, out there, unless the artist or some other authoritative source has stated otherwise. That is to say that in the world of song analyses, the artist’s own explanation always trumps all other interpretations.

5.  SEARCH OUT A NARRATIVE

Not all songs have a distinguishable storyline, but many do, especially when it comes to certain genres, such as country music. And sometimes, even confusing pieces can be made understandable if you are able to detect a narrative that permeates throughout the lyrics – even if not consistently so – and then focus on that particular aspect of the song.

6.  CONTEXT

This goes back to actually researching the background of a track. Oftentimes, there will be a particular event, person, reality or what you that inspired the songwriter(s) to pen the piece. And if you are able to ascertain the context in which the song was written, that will undoubtedly grant you a better understanding of the lyrics’ meaning.

7.  SONG STRUCTURE

Not all parts of a song are equal. Or rather, let’s say that different parts also serve their own respective purposes. Therefore, it is important to be able to differentiate between the likes of the following:

For instance, the main point of a song is usually relayed through its chorus. And if, via the chorus, you are still unable to ascertain exactly what the track is about, it is in the bridge where you usually find the thesis sentiment reiterated in some way, shape or form.

If you’re tasked with analyzing songs regularly, i.e. if the entire class is based on such assignments, then as time progresses you should be able to distinguish the different parts yourself (if you don’t know how to already). If not, then it is a good idea to resort to websites such as Genius which usually name the different segments.

8.  MAKE SENSE OF POETIC DEVICES

Musicians of all genres (though some more than others) rely quite heavily on metaphors, allegories, abstractions, symbolisms – so on and so forth. Most of the songs out there revolve around topics, such as being in love, which musicians/poets had already worn out even before most of us were born. 

So the challenge of today’s artists isn’t necessarily to say anything new as it is to relay the same old ideas in refreshing ways.

That would be the logical reason why they rely so heavily on poetic lingo as opposed to just stating their sentiments forthrightly. And sometimes, making sense out of these metaphors can be the most-challenging aspect of song analysis, though one that has to be taken seriously rather than ignored or neglected.

8.  ONLY FOCUS ON THE INSTRUMENTAL IF NECESSARY

When it comes to ascertaining a song’s actual meaning, of course the lyrics tend to be exponentially more important than the instrumental. In fact these days, artists are increasingly using this strategy in which for instance they’d drop melancholic wording against an upbeat music.

So perhaps if you have a minimum-word requirement which hasn’t been met after analyzing the lyrics, you may decide to harp on the instrumentals also. Or in some (rare) cases, it may actually be that the music noticeably contributes to the overall meaning, thus necessitating granting the instrumental its appropriate attention.

It is also imperative, at the very least, to make note of the track’s producer. Yes, the instrumental is important to the sound and overall success of the song. But analysts should not make the mistake of thinking that it is on par with the lyrics in terms of understanding what’s being put forth.

Analyzing songs can be one of the more exciting activities you engage in as an English student or perhaps as a writer in general. Music is an art we all have an affinity for, and popular musicians rank amongst the best-known celebrities in the world. So this is a topic that everyone tends to be interested in.

But on the flipside of that equation is the acknowledgement that with universal interest in music comes respective individuals with their own understandings and takes of different artists and songs. 

In fact these days, even the musicians themselves aren’t safe from incessant critiques. So analyzing tracks, as cool as it may be, requires serious research and hard thinking nonetheless. 

Songs may be such that we usually listen to them for entertainment or to take a load off. But making sense of them and presenting our conclusions in an analysis that will be subject to criticism (and grading) can be a weighty scholarly endeavor.

Example of a Song Analysis: “Nothing Else Matters” by Metallica

It has been put forth that “Nothing Else Matters” was originally penned with the addressee being a girlfriend of James Hetfield. But James himself has described it as being “about missing friends at home, being out [on tour] for such a long time”. 

With that in mind, the lyrics of this piece are quite tender, to the point where he further went on to explain that he never meant for them to be made public. But the rest of Metallica was feeling the tune and urged him to record and drop Nothing Else Matters, which proved to be sound advice, considering that this is arguably the biggest hit single in their catalog.

But the easiest way to understand what’s being put forth is to presume that the addressee is a romantic interest. So maybe when Hetfield was missing his people back home, at the top of the list was someone whom he had that type of relationship with.

So the first verse, to some degree, sounds as if he’s missing someone in general, as if their relationship can be one of a number of different types. But the vocalist closes out the passage by saying “forever trusting who we are”, which isn’t necessarily the kind of statement one would make to their mother for instance.  But still, it’s like what he’s generally speaking to is their association being such that it cannot be destroyed by distance.

The second verse maybe can be taken the same way, as in having a general applicability. The vocalist comes off as someone who, up until now, was never able to fully express how he feels about the addressee. And again, making a statement like “[I] never opened myself this way” may not be the type you’d make towards a parent for instance. But that would depend on what type of relationship you had with them beforehand.

In the third verse, James speaks to how edifying his association with the addressee is. In this particular instance, he doesn’t allude to the two of them being separated or anything like that. And again, there isn’t anything like overt-romantic lingo utilized. But with Hetfield dropping lines like “trust I seek, and I find in you”, and “every day for us something new”, it would be hard to imagine that he’s like singing to his bestie.

And with all of that said, it’s really the refrain and chorus which drive home the postulation that this piece may be romantic in nature. In terms of his relationship with the addressee, the vocalist puts forth that “nothing else matters” and goes on to further expound that he “never cared for what they say” or “games they play”. And those are definitely the types of assertions that we most commonly come across in love songs.

In Conclusion

To note, Lars Ulrich is also credited as a writer of this track. So it may very well be that in its original incarnation, “Nothing Else Matters” did speak more to the idea of missing loved ones in general. But a common phenomenon we come across in the music industry is a piece being universal upon conception, but by the time the final product comes out, it does so more as a love song. And that may well be what transpired here, because half of the lyrics read as if the addressee could fall into one of a number of relationship categories and is someone whom the vocalist is missing due to their absence.  Indeed,  Hetfield was surprised  to discover that some people have even this as a bereavement song, with both the mourners and the deceased being males.

Part of aforenoted Hetfield’s astonishment was due to the fact that he even understands that this song is usually interpreted as being about the singer ‘missing his chick’. And as for the actual thesis being relayed, it’s as if the relationship between the vocalist and addressee is a persecuted one, with the former resolving to stay committed regardless (and with no allusions to their being distance between them). That is the type of storyline you will more commonly come across in a romance-based piece.

Top Songs with Deep Meanings

Below is a handful of songs with very deep meanings. These tracks also happen to be members of the list of the most-analyzed songs in history.

• Aretha Franklin’s “Respect”
• Bob Dylan’s “Like a Rolling Stone”
• Elvis Presley’s “Heartbreak Hotel”
• Guns N’ Roses’ “Sweet Child O’Mine”
• John Lennon’s “Imagine”
• Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Goin’ On”
• Michael Jean’s “Billie Jeans”
• Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit”
• Oasis’ “Live Forever”
• Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody”
• Radiohead’s “Creep”
• Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah”
• Sex Pistols’ “God Save the Queen”
• Simon & Garfunkel’s “Bridge Over Troubled Water”
• The Beach Boys’ “Good Vibrations”
• The Beatles’ “Hey Jude”
• Bob Marley’s “No Woman No Cry”
• The Beatles’ “Yesterday”
• The Clash’ “London Calling”
• Prince’s “When Doves Cry”
• The Eagles’ “Hotel California”
• Ray Charles’ “What’d I Say”
• Dire Straits’ “Sultans of Swing”
• The Who’s “My Generation”
• System of a Down’s “Chop Suey!”
• Sia’s “Chandelier”
• Semisonic’s “Closing Time”
• Foster the People’s “Pumped Up Kicks”
• The Beatles’ “Let It Be”
• The Beatles’ “Blackbird”
• Green Day’s “American Idiot”
• Bruce Springsteen’s “Born in the USA”
• Bob Marley’s “I Shot the Sheriff”
• The Smiths’ “There is a Light That Never Goes Out”
• Third Eye Blind’s “Semi-Charmed Life”
• Phil Collins’ “In the Air Tonight”
• ABBA’s “Dancing Queen”
• 2Pac’s “Changes”
• Eminem’s “Lose Yourself”
• Eminem’s “The Way I Am”
• The Smiths’ “How Soon Is Now”
• Joy Division’s “Love Will Tear Us Apart”

It is important to state that there are literally thousands of more songs equally as deep or even deeper than the ones mentioned above. The list is therefore not exhaustive.

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10 ESL Song Activities

Almost everyone loves music. To take advantage of this, consider using songs and music as the basis for new ESL song activities.

Because many popular songs tend to be pretty simple in terms of lyrics, using them can work for any level of ESL student—even beginners.

No matter what level your students are at, there’s a song at their level that is listened to by millions of native English speakers.

So check out this list of ideas for ESL song activities here. I’ve included ten activities, great choices for songs to use and how you can choose your own great songs for your classroom.

10 Effective ESL Song Activities

1. active listening and writing, 2. readalong, vocabulary and grammar, 3. fill in the blank, 4. slang practice, pronunciation, 5. phrase practice, 6. singalong, 7. summarize the song, 8. rewrite the lyrics, 9. lyric challenge, 10. song skits, great song choices for esl activities, intermediate, how to choose your own song for esl activities, why are esl song activities helpful.

Download: This blog post is available as a convenient and portable PDF that you can take anywhere. Click here to get a copy. (Download)

To set up for song ESL song activities , make sure you have a high-quality recording of the song and good speakers to play it on, such as a Bluetooth speaker that links to your smartphone. Try playing the song in your classroom before students arrive to make sure that your equipment is working properly and that the song can be clearly heard even in the back of the room.

If you have video equipment, you can always play the music video version of the song to help students visualize the culture of the song. A video projector will also be useful if you have a lyric video.

Start by playing the song without showing students any of the words. Have them simply listen to try to understand as much as they can on their own. To encourage active listening, have them write down:

• Phrases that they recognize.
• Words that they don’t know the meaning of.
• A couple of sentences to summarize the song’s main idea.

If your students are beginners, they may need to listen to the song a couple of times to accomplish this. By writing down key words and phrases, your students can test themselves and see how they did compared to the actual lyrics. You can then discuss the song with your students and ask them what they understood and see what questions they have.

Next, you can play the song while showing your students the lyrics. This can be accomplished either by playing the song as a lyric video on YouTube or by printing out the lyrics from a website like AZLyrics .

You can then discuss the results with your students. How did they do? Did they understand the meaning of the song? Were there any words that surprised them? What was clarified after they saw the lyrics?

Feel free to play the song with the lyrics a couple of times so that their ears can begin to recognize the words as performed by natives. Songs can be difficult to understand, but by allowing students to concurrently see and hear the words, they will learn how to recognize those phrases aurally.

Prepare a worksheet for your students using song lyrics with key words removed so that they will have to fill in the blanks. Remove important vocabulary words, verbs and/or prepositions . For beginner students, you can make a word bank at the top so that they can see how to spell the words rather than having to generate the words on their own.

See how many blanks they can fill in on their own, and then play the song so that they can check their work. Are there any words that they still can’t understand? Make sure students know the meaning of all new words and understand how they are used in the song. You can then have students practice these key words by writing a few of their own sentences with them.

Songs are a great way to introduce useful slang expressions that are a lot of fun for students to learn. Prior to the lesson, pick out several slang phrases from the song that you wish to teach your students.

To introduce a phrase, have them first try to infer its meaning based on the context in the song . You can then explain its exact meaning and give a couple of examples of how you might use the phrase.

Then have students practice these phrases with a partner, making a short conversation where they include as many of the new slang words as possible. You could even have them write their dialogue down on paper and then read it in front of the class to practice speaking and listening.

This is a very important activity because it can make a huge difference in students’ confidence when speaking English. Pick out key words, phrases and slang from a song you have played for your students to work on for pronunciation . Then say each word or phrase and have students repeat after you.

Pay special attention to problematic syllables and sounds. Depending on your students’ native language, they will struggle with different aspects of English pronunciation. These are the areas to really hone in on.

Don’t simply have them repeat the word and then move on; instead, critique their pronunciation and even explain how they can sound more like you . This may require communicating exactly how your mouth and tongue are forming the word. Have students practice the specific sounds they are struggling with. Make sure they are using appropriate intonation and placing emphasis on the correct syllable.

Have them imitate all aspects of your speech and keep working with them until they can say those key words like a native. When they get the hang of it, you can even introduce different English accents, like American, British and Australian!

Have your students put their pronunciation skills to the test by singing along to the song . No song lesson is complete without a singalong! Your students should strive to sound as much like the singer as possible, which, depending on the singer, can be a pretty amusing exercise . This means paying attention to the pitch and rhythm of the song, as well as the pronunciation of each word.

The many parallels between language and music really come into play here. Since the chorus repeats itself several times, this is a great way to learn new vocabulary through repetition  and commit words to memory.

Sing along as a class and see if there are any brave souls who would like to sing the chorus solo. Split students into groups and have different groups of students sing different parts of the song for an added challenge.

Songs provide great insight about their culture of origin. Some songs are even about specific locations or cultural phenomena. Even a more generic song often speaks profoundly about the worldview of that region.

To glean these insights, have students summarize the main idea of the song either by writing a few sentences about it or having a class discussion about the song’s theme .

Do students like the message of the song? How is it similar or different from their own culture? Are there specific experiences they have had that relate to the lyrics of the song?

If there are any cultural elements of the song that are particularly foreign to your students, take the time to explain them. This is a good time to show students the music video of the song so that they can see the culture that it takes place in.

This is a fun challenge to test your students’ songwriting abilities! Put students in small groups and challenge them to rewrite the lyrics using the melody of the song, but changing the words . This is a good opportunity to incorporate other cultural themes or vocabulary into the lesson even if the song isn’t directly applicable.

You can give each group a specific topic or key words that the new lyrics should include. For beginner students, this will be challenging, so you can have them just rewrite the chorus. For more advanced students, you can give one verse of the song to each group so that the entire song is complete but each group is only responsible for one part. Then have each group sing their part to the class.

Many songs have an instrumental or karaoke version on YouTube  to sing along to.

This is a fun memory game that can help students learn the song’s vocabulary. It is a good activity to do after you have already been working with a song for a little while so that students are familiar with the lyrics.

Students will sit in a circle and take turns saying one of the lines of the song . Each student needs to contribute a new lyric, and if they can’t remember any, then that student is out and it goes to the next student. You can check off the lyrics as they name them to keep track of what has been said. Eventually, there will only be one student left and that student is the winner.

Alternately, you can challenge students to memorize the song, and then go around in a circle and have each student say the next lyric in order, attempting to go through the entire song. Any student who doesn’t know the next lyric is out, and the next student has to come up with it. The last student left is the winner!

This activity is a good way to make sure students truly understand the different phrases and vocabulary of the song by using them in real-world communication scenarios . It’s a good final activity because it challenges students’ writing, comprehension and speaking abilities. You will choose specific vocabulary words, verbs and phrases from the song for your students to incorporate into a skit.

Alternately, if your song does not use a lot of commonly spoken vocabulary, you can have your students write a short story instead of a conversation. Divide students into small groups and have them write a short script that incorporates the key words. Beginners can make a simple skit out of a few key words; advanced students can make an elaborate skit with many key words.

Have them perform their skits for the class once they are complete. Look over their skits before they perform to make sure they are using the words properly.

A good song choice varies widely depending on the level of your students and the subject matter of your lesson. Visit this post to see a list of songs for teaching ESL students of different levels , and check out these suggestions to get started: 

For beginner students, you will want a song that uses simple vocabulary words, present tense verbs and clear pronunciation by the singer.

• “The Good Life”  by Three Days Grace has very simple sentence structure and would be a good way to introduce “I want” and “I need” phrases. You could also practice making sentences using “I know” and “I don’t know.” You could even try a classroom discussion on what makes a good life.
• “Feeling Good”  by Nina Simone is another good song for beginners. It has a lot of basic nature vocabulary words and would also be a good way to teach “I feel” phrases.
• “New York State of Mind”  by Billy Joel is a great song for beginners, particularly to teach American culture. It cites several US cities and geographic features and is a great way to talk about the culture of New York in particular.

At this level, you can use songs with a bit more complexity. Showtunes are a good option because they exist within the context of a narrative, which makes for good discussion.

• “Waving Through a Window”  by Ben Platt has a good mix of present tense verbs and present participles, along with simple vocabulary and useful colloquialisms. Plus it has a relevant message about being an outsider that can make for a good classroom discussion.
• “Let It Go”  by Idina Menzel also includes some present tense verbs and present participles, along with plenty of weather vocabulary words. It can also be used to have a discussion about being yourself.
• “What You Own”  by Anthony Rapp and Adam Pascal is a good way to introduce American culture, including the struggles of living in America. It has some great colloquialisms, as well as present participles and imperatives.

You can challenge your advanced students by selecting songs that are at a faster tempo and include a variety of verb tenses, along with colloquialisms.

• “See You Again”  by Wiz Khalifa includes past, present and future tense verbs and is rapped at a fast tempo. It features useful slang expressions and a message of loss and friendship.
• “Roar”  by Katy Perry has a good mix of past tense verbs and present participles. It has a message about standing up for yourself and overcoming obstacles.
• “No Boundaries”  by Adam Lambert has lots of common vocabulary words regarding time and nature. It also uses a variety of verb tenses and talks about achieving your dreams.

If your students are very advanced, you can always have some fun with a challenge song! These move very fast and can help take your students’ listening skills to the next level.

• “Hope”  by Twista is rapped very fast, and is filled with slang and speech that can be challenging to understand. It also features a timely message of hope in the midst of a struggling world.
• “Lose Yourself”  by Eminem is about struggling to make the most of an opportunity. It also has plenty of slang and is a good way to introduce inner-city culture in America. It features different verb tenses, and you can use the censored version to avoid inappropriate language.
• “Nothin’ to Lose”  by Josh Gracin doesn’t have particularly complex lyrics, but it flies! It also includes a variety of verb tenses, plenty of colloquialisms and is a great way to introduce your students to an American Southern accent.

Perhaps the biggest challenge in building a lesson around a song is finding the right song . Besides choosing one that you and your students will enjoy, there are other factors to consider so that your lesson is successful:

• Vocabulary. To choose a good song for a lesson, you will want to pay attention to the song’s vocabulary. It should have some words that your students don’t know yet, but they should know enough to understand the general meaning of the song. This will allow them to learn new words based on context.

It’s also great to find a song that is topical for whatever you are teaching. To search for a song with certain words, use a website, such as Lyrics.com , that allows you to find a song by its lyrics. For example, if you are teaching the days of the week, you can type in the days of the week and Lyrics.com will show you all the songs that include those words in the lyrics. You can then look at the lyrics of each song to see which one has the best vocabulary for your students.

• Grammar. The next important consideration is finding a song with grammar that is appropriate for the level of student you are teaching. If you try to teach a song filled with past and future tense verbs but your students only know the present tense, they’ll be confused and won’t be able to learn a lot of the song’s grammar.

To easily review a song’s grammar, you can use a lyrics website, such as AZLyrics . Simply type in the song and it will show you the lyrics. You can then look and see what kinds of verbs, prepositions and idiomatic expressions are in the song. Since many songs include a mix of verb tenses, look for a song with a good amount of what you are currently teaching.

• Clarity. When you have found a song that is level-appropriate for your students, the next step is for you to actually listen to the song. There are some songs that contain very simple grammar but are nearly impossible even for native speakers to understand due to the speed of the song, the quality of the recording or the accent of the singer. Good lyrics are only part of the equation. The song also needs to be performed in a way that your students will be able to understand.
• Popularity. When in doubt, you can start by looking at songs that are at the top of the charts, because these are typically at the lowest reading level. Websites like YouTube, Billboard and iTunes all have music charts that show what songs are most popular. YouTube even has a Billion View Club  for songs that have been played over a billion times. It’s likely your students will be familiar with these! You can also look at Billboard’s Hot 100 to see the current 100 most popular songs. iTunes Charts also shows the songs and albums that are currently most popular.

If you’re looking for an effective way to teach ESL with great music videos and other video content, then be sure to check out the language learning program, FluentU . The program has a large library of authentic videos made by natives for natives. In each video, there are interactive bilingual subtitles that lets you click on any word to learn more about it.

Music is a language in itself, and experts are now making the case that language is developed as a type of music. Both rely on the use of sounds to express thoughts and emotions, and both require timing, pitch and proper emphasis. Because many of the same skills are used in music and speech, language and music acquisition occur side by side, and language acquisition is aided through music . Here are some other ways that music helps language learning:

• Music makes your lessons fun and relevant. There is no motivator quite like enjoyment. Even students who are struggling to learn English will go above and beyond to learn phrases that are important to them. By teaching a song that your students like, you can ensure they will relate to the lesson and have a desire to learn the words. Who doesn’t want to be able to tell their friends that they know all the words to the new Beyoncé song?
• Music gives your students the opportunity to hear native speakers. Songs are a natural listening activity that students don’t even realize they are participating in! By listening to a song sung by a native English speaker, students will begin to develop an ear for how natives speak. They will begin to recognize different English accents and learn how to pick out phrases that are difficult to understand. 
• Music teaches new words and grammar. By picking a song that is slightly more advanced than your students’ current abilities, you will be able to introduce them to many new words and phrases. You will even be able to show them how grammatical structures are used, such as verbs and prepositions. It’s one thing to hear your teacher tell you about a past tense verb, but something else entirely to hear Taylor Swift using it in a popular song. 
• Music helps your students practice pronunciation. The great thing about music is that you can sing along! This allows students to practice pronouncing words by imitating the singer to sound like a native speaker. This eliminates any guesswork as to how the words should sound. A good song can be enjoyed again and again, which means that students can continue to sing along outside of class for continual learning. Since many popular songs are quite catchy, it might even get stuck in their head, leaving them no choice but to learn the words.

Next time you hear your students talking about the latest Justin Bieber song, you can have some fun and turn it into an in-depth lesson.

Just make sure to choose a song you don’t mind getting stuck in your head!

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Create Your Own Song Analysis Activities

Comprehension

Grade 9, 10, 11, 12

Multiple File Types

About This Product

Empower your students with the skills to analyze literature through engaging song analysis discussions, student activities, and presentations! With this comprehensive resource, all you need to do is select a song and let my template, tasks, and teacher resources pages handle the rest!

Drawing inspiration from Nancy Dean's acclaimed work, " Voice Lessons ," these Song Lessons activities leverage the power of popular music genres such as country, rock, pop, and folk to illuminate the impact of literary devices in literature. This resource effectively employs 5 key literary devices—Details, Diction, Imagery, Point of View, and Tone—to facilitate insightful discussions and in-depth analysis.

Immerse your students in a dynamic learning experience where they explore the synergy between music and literature. This resource equips you with the tools and frameworks to seamlessly integrate these activities into your curriculum. Foster critical thinking and literary analysis while tapping into the universal language of music.

Included with this resource download:

- An introduction with lesson planning advice and the definitions of 5 literary devices (Detail, Diction, Imagery, Point of View, and Tone)

- A song lessons template file. This file includes a fill-in-the-blank song lesson activity and 4 teacher resources pages that include "template-ready" literary devices terms and 50 (!) sample analysis questions. You'll be able to create a song analysis lesson for any song in minutes!

- 5 Create Your Own Song Lesson Assignments that allows students to share their favorite music while also demonstrating their understanding of 5 different literary devices. Each assignment worksheet includes a rubric tied to 2 ELA Common Core standards

- A Song Analysis Presentation assignment that invites students to share their favorite music with their classmates while keeping an academic focus. This presentation project is tied to 3 ELA Common Core standards

Although this resource can be fitted for any secondary Language Arts classroom, it has been carefully designed to work best in grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. The included resources are subtly but specifically tied to Common Core ELA Standards for Speaking and Listening (2, 4, and 5), Reading Literature (1, 2, 4, and 6), and Writing (4). This resource is provided in print-ready, bookmarked, and adjustable PDF files and a PowerPoint template file.

This resource contains 22 pages and 1 editable template tile

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100 Songwriting Prompts to get you in the Zone

Feb 26, 2019 - Rebecca Cullen

Writing songs can be hard, writing good songs even harder. Coming up with songwriting ideas can be tricky, we can get stuck in a rut or face the often inevitable wall that is writer’s block. Like anything we want to develop skills in though, practice undoubtedly makes it easier over time. The more you write, the closer you get to writing that one song that really reaches out.

Whether you see this task as purely for fun, or something to genuinely help you escape your songwriting hiatus and build a lasting, enjoyable habit – here are 100 songwriting prompts and song ideas to play around with.

NB: Don’t over think it, songs are generally much shorter than articles or stories; a few key lines and hopefully some rhymes are all you’re really looking for. And if you don’t like the song at the end – no one ever has to hear it! You’re in control.

• Write a song from the perspective of the last surviving human on the planet.
• Write a song that tells a story about an intoxicated night out.
• Imagine your life if you were a carpenter on a small island – population no more than 500. Your craft is your life. Write a song about an average Monday.
• Many people consume coffee or tea during the first half of their day, and alcohol or other intoxicants during the latter half. Write a song from the perspective of someone who does this in reverse order. (eg: Brandy for breakfast.)
• Consider life within an absolute dictatorship. Write a song about your commute to work.
• Think about the day before yesterday. Write about your feelings and your ambitions for tomorrow (which would have been yesterday).
• Write a song about the things you didn’t do yesterday.
• Write a song about a famous person from history.
• Write a song about all the best cereals there are.
• Write a song comparing the value of material things to happy memories.

“I wish I were one of those people who wrote songs quickly. But I’m not. So it takes me a great deal of time to find out what the song is.” –  Leonard Cohen.

• Remember your last argument – write a song from the other person’s point of view.
• Write a song about the city you’re currently in.
• Set your alarm slightly earlier than it needs to be, have your note book and whatever else you may need by your bed, then write a song the very moment you wake up – make this be the absolute first thing you do. Try to spend at least twenty minutes writing the song before you get on with the rest of your day.
• Make a song where each line starts with the next letter in the alphabet (from A-Z)
• Write a song that would fit as the opening track to your favourite film.
• Base your song on your favourite fictional character.
• Take your favourite food and make a song about it, without using the actual name of the food.
• Use the chord progression from another song, but play it backwards.
• Write a song about your first year in high school.
• Write a song that explores why humans wear clothes.

Remember, some of these songwriting ideas are just for fun, some are a little more serious and emotionally rooted – whichever it is, you’re in control, and any one of the songs could end up meaning far more than the prompt alone can imply.

• Pick up the nearest book, turn to a random page, read the first paragraph and write a song about what you find there.
• Put yourself in the position of a dog who can’t find his way home – write a song from his perspective. Don’t mention that you’re a dog.
• Write a song about the possible need to experience true sadness in order to appreciate real joy.
• Write a Birthday song. A brand new birthday song that we can all replace the classic with.
• Write a song about someone you love, without using the word love.
• Think of a time when you felt terrified – try to write a song that would calm someone who was feeling that same way.
• Imagine you’ve reached a point in your life where you’re homeless, stuck in a foreign town, you don’t speak the language or know anyone, and you have no possessions. Write a song that details that experience.
• Write a song that summarizes or references a bunch of your personal favourite songs.
• Look around the room for something that comforts you – write a song purely about that thing.
• Write a song about a topic of expertise you have – whatever the subject, just roll with it.

• Write a song asking for help with something that’s been troubling you.
• Write a song to your enemy about forgiving them.
• Write a song using only 12 different words.
• Make up a melody on the spot, then add lyrics to it based on what your eyes are drawn to as you look around the room.
• Choose a planet other than Earth and write a song about living there with your family.
• Write a song about everything you did yesterday.
• Think of a country you’ve never visited and write a song about how you imagine it to be.
• Write a sequel to one of your old songs.
• Write a song about something you have privately always regretted.
• Write a song about the last mainstream news story you heard.

If you’re struggling with a certain songwriting prompt, just move on to a different one – the challenge is to write something you’re happy with, so choose song ideas that interest or engage with you.

• Write a song in cave-man speak.
• Write a comeback or reply song to someone else’s song.
• Think back to the worst book you ever read, or the worst movie you ever saw, and write a song about it.
• Get a stopwatch or timer ready and set it to just ten minutes – write a song in full, with two verses, and a hook. If you manage it, time another five minutes and write a middle 8. No cheating – when the timer stops, the song is over!
• Write a song about the most pointless food you’ve ever tried.
• Write a song using only two chords.
• Consider a song about someone specific, then re-write it as if they were a totally different kind of person – for example, if the song celebrates their kindness, have yours berate them for their evil ways.
• Play a riff or hum a melody on the spot, don’t overthink it, just make up a tune – then stick with that and turn it into a song about living in the moment.
• Write a song without ever referring to any people – not yourself, or ‘you’, or ‘they’, ‘he’, etc.
• Remember someone you knew who was a bully – write them a song.

Don’t fret too much on any of these, practicing your songwriting is key if you want to improve, but it’s also important to actually enjoy the process. Writing songs can be a fun or even therapeutic way to spend your time. 

• Write an entire song using only single-syllable words.
• Write a song about healthcare.
• Write a song about about cruelty.
• Write a song about your dream day – what you’d do, where you’d go, who you’d share it with.
• Write a song in a major key about something that’s worrying you.
• Write a song in a minor key about something that made or makes you laugh.
• Write a song where each line starts with the next letter of the alphabet, starting with ‘A’.
• Imagine you were an astronaut who had floated away from their spacecraft – write a song about that isolation and helplessness, or however you might feel.
• Picture a society without money, where we simply trade independently – write a song about a day in the life.
• Write a song about running a 200 mile race.

Had any major breakthroughs yet? Or are you just skipping through the list out of sheer curiosity? Get involved!

• Write a song about your great, great grandparents falling in love.
• Whoever you voted for in the last election, write a song celebrating an opposing party’s strengths.
• Write a song about a psychedelic awakening.
• Pretend you’ve bought a one way ticket, alone, to the other side of the world – you’ve made no plans upon arrival. Write a song detailing what you do when you get there; how you feel, what your options are, what’s around etc.
• Write a song about the last day of your life.
• Drum out a rhythm on the nearest hard surface and write a song or rap over the top of it.
• Take one of your favourite songs and re-write all the lyrics to be about life alone on a deserted island.
• Whatever subject you studied last, try to write a song about the key facts or principles you learned.
• Write a song that says all the things you’ve never been brave enough to say to people.
• Set the timer for one hour and get to work writing the best possible song about how you’re feeling today. Aim to write the best possible song, but more importantly – make sure to finish the song, whatever it seems to sound like, within that one hour. Record your work if you can. When the time’s up, the song is done.

• Try to think of the saddest or most heartbreaking story or event you ever witnessed – write two different songs about it, one in a major key, one in a minor key.
• Write a song about cheese.
• Write a song about the difference between people aged 50+, and people aged under 35 right now.
• Imagine your country as being completely under the control of the government – every move we make is monitored and our good behavior used to stack up societal points – write a song from the perspective of you, the citizen.
• If we didn’t need or crave love in our lives, what would we do differently? Tell me in a song.
• Focus on your breathing for five full minutes – try to keep it even, a few seconds in, and a few seconds out. At the end of the five minutes, pick up your instrument of choice and start writing your song.
• Imagine going out to work and to do your daily tasks while completely drunk – like, blatantly, unmanageably drunk. Write a song about that day.
• Write a song as if you were just being born into this world, it’s your very first hour on Earth (for some reason you already speak fluent English).
• Try to remember a time you messed up in a big way. Write a song about how you might have done things differently, and how that would have impacted your life as it is now.
• Write a song about the next big revolution in the world.

Spend some time with a few different prompts – choose one and take it away for a while, work on melodies, chord progressions, rhyme schemes and hooks. Then narrow it down to the best bits and roll with it for three to four minutes – or however long you want the song to last…

• Write a song about life without language.
• Write a song about the struggles of fame and having everybody know who you are and want a photo with you, everywhere you go.
• Using either fiction or genuine experiences, write a song about using fitness or some epic athletic feat to overcome personal turmoil or difficulty.
• Write a song about the global shift to electric vehicles.
• The next time you’re about to watch something on YouTube, TV or Netflix, have a reminder by the device to instead sit down and spend the time writing a brand new song.
• Write a song about building a bizarre new business from scratch. Whatever comes to mind.
• Write a song using a specific scale for the melody – only work up from the start and back as if you were practicing the scale. This can also help sometimes when learning scales, make a little poem-song out of it.
• Write a metaphorical song about love and hate battling it out on the front line.
• Consider a bunch of societal timeline expectations that have affected you and write a song about these – eg. People expecting you to be married or own a house or have a certain type of job by a certain age.
• Write a song that makes you cry when you perform it.

“For me, songwriting is something I have to do ritually. I don’t just wait for inspiration; I try to write a little bit every day.” –  Sean Lennon.

• Write a song that makes you laugh when you perform it.
• Write a song about a young person working their way up in politics right now – they still hold their values highly, they’re smart, educated, thoughtful and caring, but are about to enter the shark tank.
• Write a song about how much everybody loves themselves online.
• Print out a paragraph or two of text from your favourite book, then cut up the words individually and shuffle them around to make a new and mysterious song.
• Imagine a future where people choose robots as their life partners. Write a song about your partner. Include pros and cons.
• Take a piece of classical musical and write some lyrics to it – either using an existing melody or over the top.
• Write a song about someone you lost.
• Write a song about someone you’re afraid to lose.
• Write a song about what you’d do if you knew you would live for 500 years. (You’re the only one)
• Write a song about your life so far – the main events, the turning points, the direction you’re currently heading in. The hook should be the resolve – something emotionally hopeful regarding who you are or your future.

“For a songwriter, you don’t really go to songwriting school; you learn by listening to tunes. And you try to understand them and take them apart and see what they’re made of, and wonder if you can make one, too.” –  Tom Waits.

How are you getting on?

Got any songwriting prompts or even songwriting tips of your own that might help other artists? Let us know in the comments!

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11 responses to “ 100 Songwriting Prompts to get you in the Zone ”

Great list, Rebecca. Not really a prompt, but the thing that helped me get out of a songwriting rut was becoming part of the FAWM community. It’s an annual songwriting challenge that took me from being a 5 – 10 songs per year writer into a 100+ songs a year writer. It’s pretty much over for this year, but I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to hone their skills. They also have another challenge called 50/90, which runs July – October. They’re completely free (although you can donate and receive various perks). Best online community I’ve ever been part of.

I need to get involved with that & write a little something up on here – sounds like such a great idea & community! Thanks Pete.

Use scrabble letters A to G and grab a random selection without looking, drop them on a table or the floor, use this as your chord structure.

Take your pulse, use this as your song tempo.

Throw a dice and use the number to select how many chords are in your song.

Use the same chords for your verse and chorus but play them differently.

Write a melody on an instrument you are unfamiliar with.

Close your eyes, let’s your hands fall on your instrument and play, keep the first thing that happens.

Excellent tips, thanks Vin – have you made any songs using these? Would be keen to hear them.

Wow, this is a good list. This kind of small ideas and “hooks for an idea” can be very precious when trying to get your songwriting mood on. Thanks!

Thanks Pete for the FAWM info..have joined.

This is very helpful and creative. Thank you!

Thanks for the inspiration! I’m going to try the Boggle Word Game where you make as many words as you can after shaking the dice.

No worries, sounds like a fun plan – let us know what you come out with?

Amazing prompt list you shared. Took to almost half of them!! Thanks

That’s great to hear! Would love to listen to some of the songs you got out of it 😀

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20 Creative Songwriting and Composing Prompts Courtesy of ‘Every Song Ever’

Nick Millevoi

+ Improve your songwriting with Soundfly! Explore our range of courses on  emotional chord progressions ,  basic songwriting technique ,  songwriting for producers , and many more. Subscribe for unlimited access  here .

Ben Ratliff’s Every Song Ever: Twenty Ways to Listen in an Age of Musical Plenty is my favorite book I’ve read in the past year. In each chapter, Ratliff details a new way to approach listening based on a specific aesthetic characteristic complete with song lists. He goes into ways of listening based on various musical, philosophical, and practical concepts and suggests listeners consider elements of musical performance like speed, repetition, dynamics, improvisation , etc.

It’s an incredible exercise in active, engaged listening practice. At the end of each chapter, Ratliff curates excellent playlists that had me listening to tons of new sounds, as well as considering familiar sounds in new ways. That exercise alone has inevitably made me a better music fan. But how could we use the same type of approach to become better songwriters and more creative composers ?

Since reading Every Song Ever , I’ve started creating lists of writing prompts for my students. These tiny writing challenges offer different approaches to composing new material and can help get you out of a creative block or make your practice time a bit more fun! Best of all, they can apply to any level of musicianship.

These prompts are simply a bunch of jumping-off points. This is in no way a comprehensive list, and you’ll probably find plenty more ideas to explore once you dig in. If any of these aren’t working for you, just move on to another one that does. I’ve also listed examples of songs that make use of a handful of these compositional tactics to get you started.

Are you ready? Here’s what to do.

• Print this page.
• Cut out each creative prompt, and put them all in a giant jar.
• Next time you practice or brainstorm, pick one or several prompts from the jar and play!
• Try to finish the entire idea and not stop halfway through.

Some examples:

The Carter Family —  “Wildwood Flower”  and Television —  “Friction”

The Velvet Underground —  “Heroin”

A contrafact is a new melody composed over another song’s chords. Johnny Smith’s “Walk Don’t Run” is a contrafact of the jazz standard  “Softly, as in a Morning Sunrise.”

The Boredoms —  “Acid Police”

Seu Jorge —  “Life on Mars”

The Stooges —  “Search and Destroy”

Ocrilim —  “Annwn Part I”

David Bowie —  “Ashes to Ashes”

+ Work 1:1 with a Soundfly Mentor with  the Headliner’s Club , our month-long personalized learning program, and develop a plan to achieve your goals with the help of a professional musician, engineer, educator, or music industry veteran!  What would you like to improve?

An Albatross —  “We Are the Lazer Vikings”

Yes —  “Close to the Edge”

(If you want some great examples of this, head to Ian Gordon’s exploratory “What Happens When You Mess with the Keys of Iconic Movie Theme Songs” for a laugh.)

I could keep going, but 20 prompts seems like a good place to stop. And I don’t want to hog all the ideas, so here’s your challenge: Share this article, or print it out just for yourself. Come up with 10 prompts of your own, and put them all in a jar and select one or a couple at random next time you sit down to rehearse with your instrument or write a new song. 

And hey, if you’re feeling confident, post some of these songwriting and composing challenges, or the resulting pieces you create, in the comments below!

One last thing. I always like to remind my students that you don’t have to like everything you write. But, I strongly encourage you to finish writing it and meet your goal. Then you can decide if you like it or not.

You might come around, or you might find a way to make something more interesting. If not, you can always just write something else .

Get 1:1 coaching on your songwriting from a seasoned pro.

Soundfly’s  community of mentors  can help you set the right goals, pave the right path toward success, and stick to schedules and routines that you develop together, so you improve every step of the way.  Tell us what you’re working on , and we’ll find the right mentor for you! 

Nick Millevoi is a Philadelphia-based guitarist and composer whose music draws upon the influences of avant garde jazz, modern classical, and rock and roll to create a personal sound. He currently leads Desertion Trio/Quartet, whose debut album, Desertion, was released in May 2016 on ShhPuma/Clean Feed. Nick is a member of Chris Forsyth & the Solar Motel Band, Archer Spade, and Hollenberg/Millevoi Quartet, which specializes in the music of John Zorn. His music has been released on labels such as Tzadik, New Atlantis, and The Flenser. (Photo by Ryan Collerd.)

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Classroom Resources

High school and college lesson plans.

Seeking Poems, Sharing Connections: Initiating Activity (Variation 1)

Seeking Poems, Sharing Connections: Initiating Activity (Variation 2)

Seeking Poems, Sharing Connections: Midpoint in Unit

Seeking Poems, Sharing Connections: Culmination/Extension

Introduction to Poems in Translation

Listening for Tone

Passing Poetry On, Part I

Passing Poetry On, Part II

Poetry and Loss, Part I

Poetry and Loss, Part II

Reading Poems Aloud, Sound and Meaning

Student Favorite Poem Videos

Terms for the Tools of Poetry

Middle school lesson plans.

Favorite Poems: Ours and Others’

Learning the Lines

Poetry and Culture

Students as Editors

Veterans Day or Memorial Day Poetry Lesson

Elementary school lesson plans.

Family Introduction to the Favorite Poem Project

Favorite Poem Response Board

Friday Fishbowl

Poetry Circle

Sharing with Parents

Student Videos in Their Own Voices

The Favorite Poem Project seeks to improve poetry’s place in American classrooms by encouraging active, engaging poetry lessons that emphasize a direct, vocal connection to poems. These lessons were developed by teachers as part of their participation in the Favorite Poem Project K-12 Summer Poetry Institute hosted annually for over a decade by Boston University.

In keeping with the goals of the Favorite Poem Project, the lessons presented here focus on appreciating poetry—reading, discussing, and enjoying poems—rather than on the writing of original poetry. Several of the lessons emphasize pleasure in the words and sounds of poems as a place to begin—reminding students that poetry is art, and that it is satisfying and exciting to discover a poem that enthralls you and to say it in your own voice. If poetry is first presented in classrooms as something to seek out and enjoy, rather than something to pick apart, label and decipher, students are more likely to become interested in developing a deeper understanding of meaning in poems, in looking more closely at forms, in learning the tools poets use and the terms that identify those tools.

Many of these lessons make use of the Favorite Poem Project video segments available for free on this website. The FPP anthology An Invitation to Poetry is a great addition to these lessons for any poetry educator.

Though the lessons below are organized by grade level, many of them could easily be adapted for students in higher or lower grades.

School Events

Getting Ready: A Year-Long Template

Community Poetry Day

Favorite Poem Project Assembly

Poetry Lesson to Favorite Poem Event

Seeking People’s Stories

Poetry on the PA

The “Guess-Whose Favorite” Bulletin Board

Family Poetry Night

Asking students, as the Favorite Poem Project asks people in general, to read poems aloud and say something personal about them demonstrates that those processes can be joyous rather than intimidating or dry. To recite a poem aloud fulfills a natural need, stimulated by the pleasurable, moving experience of the poem.

There are different approaches to organizing a Favorite Poem Project reading, but the goal remains the same: autonomous, individual connection with a work of art, and the ability to communicate that connection by speaking the poem in one’s own voice and by saying something about it in one’s own words.

Favorite Poem Project readings tend to create an atmosphere of respect and attention, as students listen to their peers share poems that mean something to them. The format for a reading within a single classroom is simple: each student reads a poem and says a few sentences about why this particular poem is important as a personal choice. (Our advice is to rule out written statements or notes: the only piece of paper allowed would be the text of the poem itself.) It may seem risky, but our inclination is to allow all sorts of material such as song lyrics, nursery rhymes, or anything that has found its way into print. If the student chooses to start with the words of a silly song—even in a defiant or teasing spirit—the requirement to say something to one’s peers about the importance of the choice can lead to the fulfillment of the educational goal.

For the students’ in-class reading, photocopies can be useful, but there is much to be gained from careful listening, with no text to rely on, and for welcoming the idea that a poem or parts of a poem can be heard over again, the way one plays or sings a favorite song more than once.

The anthology assignment (detailed elsewhere in this guide) is good preparation for a Favorite Poem Project reading, perhaps at the end of the term, with students choosing one poem from their collection to share with the rest of the class. It may be beneficial to have a Favorite Poem Project reading early in the term, and then again toward the end, with students choosing a different poem each time. Perhaps their tastes or interests will have changed over the course of the semester. Another option would be to begin each class with one or two students presenting a favorite poem.

A more ambitious step, beyond an in-class Favorite Poem Project reading, would be to organize an evening event inviting others from the university community to participate—several students, the high school principal or university president, custodial staff, administrators, professors of various subjects, maybe a coach. Another approach would be to extend the reach even further, finding readers from the broader community, the city or town—a mayor or alderman, a grade school student, a radio or TV personality, a doctor or banker or librarian. Students might get involved in tracking down readers and helping put together such an event. Many schools, colleges, and universities have presented events of this kind with wonderful results.

By involving the school community, or reaching out to the broader community, a Favorite Poem Project reading can help build important ties between a school and the community that supports or contains the school. For more information about planning an event that involves the community, visit Host a Reading . These readings demonstrate that poetry is part of life as well as an object for study. They create the opportunity to learn something more about poetry from people who take pleasure in it—not only or primarily scholars or poets, but anyone who loves a poem.

The above is an excerpt from the comprehensive classroom resource for instructors written by Robert Pinsky, Maggie Dietz, Todd Hearon and Jill McDonough that accompanies the t extbook edition of the Favorite Poem Project anthology An Invitation to Poetry .

Different from lesson plans for the classroom, these school event ideas can be a wonderful addition to the year, or a great tradition to organize regularly. Below are specific ideas for a variety of school events, designed by teachers who’ve written to us about their successes: 

55 Music Writing Prompts To Inspire Your Songwriting

• April 11, 2023

Music writing prompts are an excellent way to stimulate creativity and improve writing skills. Whether you are an aspiring songwriter or a student looking to improve your writing abilities, music writing prompts can help you explore different genres, instruments, and musical themes. These prompts can also challenge you to think critically about the impact of music on our lives, history, and culture.

There are many resources available online that offer a variety of music writing prompts. For example, some websites offer prompts that are designed for specific age groups, such as elementary school students or high school students. Others offer prompts that are geared towards specific genres or musical styles, such as jazz, rock, or classical music. Some prompts may focus on the lyrics of a song, while others may focus on the melody or rhythm.

Music writing prompts can be a valuable tool for anyone looking to explore their creativity and improve their writing skills. By using these prompts, you can challenge yourself to think outside the box and explore new ideas and themes. So whether you are a seasoned songwriter or a beginner, consider using music writing prompts to help you reach your full potential.

The Basics of Music Writing Prompts

Music writing prompts are designed to inspire and guide songwriters in their creative process. These prompts can come in many forms, such as a single word, phrase, or a set of instructions to follow. The main purpose of a music writing prompt is to provide a starting point for the songwriter to develop their ideas and create a finished song.

Writing prompts can be used to explore different aspects of songwriting, such as melody, chord progression, structure, and rhythm. They can also be used to challenge the songwriter to step outside of their comfort zone and try new things.

Exploring Songwriting Fundamentals

To create a successful song, it is important to have a solid understanding of the fundamentals of songwriting. This includes having a strong melody, interesting chord progressions, and a well-structured song.

A melody is the main musical idea of a song and is often the most memorable part. It is important to create a melody that is catchy and easy to remember. Chord progressions are the series of chords that accompany the melody and provide the harmonic foundation for the song. A well-structured song has a clear beginning, middle, and end, and takes the listener on a journey.

Music writing prompts can help songwriters explore these fundamentals and develop their skills. They can also provide inspiration and guidance for the creative process.

Music writing prompts are a valuable tool for songwriters looking to develop their skills and create new and interesting songs. By understanding the basics of songwriting and exploring different writing prompts, songwriters can create memorable and successful songs.

Themes and Emotions in Music Writing

Conveying emotion through lyrics.

One of the most powerful ways to connect with listeners through music is by conveying emotions through lyrics. Whether it’s love, sadness, anger, or any other emotion, a well-written song can evoke strong feelings in the listener. For example, a song about lost love can bring up feelings of nostalgia and regret, while a song about freedom can inspire a sense of empowerment and hope.

To convey emotions effectively in lyrics, it’s important to use vivid and descriptive language. Metaphors and imagery can be particularly effective in creating a strong emotional impact. For example, a song about loneliness could use the metaphor of a rainstorm to convey the feeling of isolation and sadness.

Incorporating Universal Themes

Another way to create powerful music is by incorporating universal themes that resonate with listeners. Themes like love, friendship, and the journey of life are all topics that people can relate to on a deep level. By tapping into these universal themes, songwriters can create music that speaks to a wide range of people.

Incorporating nature imagery is also a powerful way to create universal themes in music. For example, a song about the ocean could evoke feelings of tranquility and peace, while a song about a storm could convey a sense of chaos and turmoil.

55 Music writing prompts

Here are 55 music writing prompts to inspire your songwriting:

• Write about the first concert you ever attended.
• Describe the emotions you feel when you hear your favorite song.
• Create a character based on a song you recently heard.
• Imagine a world where music is forbidden and tell a story about it.
• Write a letter to your favorite musician expressing what their music means to you.
• Develop a story where the main character communicates only through song lyrics.
• Describe a scene in a cafe where the background music changes the atmosphere.
• Write a song that tells the story of your life so far.
• Create a playlist for a character in a novel and explain the song choices.
• Write about how a particular song can transport you to a different time or place.
• Imagine a conversation between two instruments.
• Write a story about a musician who discovers a secret song.
• Describe the process of falling in love using musical terms.
• Write a poem where each line is inspired by a different song.
• Create a fictional band and their rise to fame.
• Write about the impact of a song heard at a pivotal moment in your life.
• Describe the colors and images you see when you close your eyes and listen to music.
• Write a story about someone hearing music for the first time.
• Compose a song that could be the theme for a movie about your life.
• Write about a memory associated with a specific melody.
• Describe the feeling of playing an instrument to an audience for the first time.
• Create a story inspired by the title of a song.
• Write about a character whose mood changes with the music they listen to.
• Imagine a society where music is the currency and tell a tale of wealth and poverty.
• Write a dialogue between two fans with opposing views on a music genre.
• Describe a futuristic instrument and the sound it makes.
• Write about the breakup of a famous band from a member’s perspective.
• Create a story where music is the magic that powers the world.
• Write a song about an unsung hero in your community.
• Describe the experience of a sound engineer during a live performance.
• Write about the journey of a lost piece of sheet music.
• Create a tale of two lovers who communicate through song.
• Write about the rediscovery of a long-forgotten genre of music.
• Describe the emotions of a conductor leading their first symphony.
• Write a story where a melody is a clue to a mystery.
• Imagine a character whose life changes after attending a music festival.
• Write about an instrument that plays itself.
• Describe a city where the architecture is inspired by musical notes.
• Write a song from the perspective of the ocean.
• Create a story about a dancer who can only move to one song.
• Write about the silence between the notes in a piece of music.
• Describe a character who can see music as colors.
• Write about a lullaby that has been passed down through generations.
• Create a tale about a music box with magical properties.
• Write about a character who can predict the future through song lyrics.
• Describe the bond between a singer and their microphone.
• Write a story set in a world where music is the wind.
• Imagine a character who heals with melodies.
• Describe a duel between two musicians with different styles.
• Write about the creation of a new national anthem.
• Create a story where the seasons are defined by different musical movements.
• Write about a character who can mimic any sound they hear.
• Describe a space where the acoustics are perfect.
• Write a song about a historical event that moved you.
• Imagine a character who builds an instrument out of unconventional materials.
• Write about the experience of composing a film score.

Creative Inspiration and Overcoming Challenges

Finding inspiration in everyday life.

Songwriting prompts can come from anywhere, and musicians often find inspiration in the most unexpected places. Listening to music, observing the world around them, and even performing mundane tasks with their hands can spark an idea for a song. Lonely moments, feelings of hate or love, love letters, love at first sight, falling in love, breakups, passions, promises, constants, crossroads, and even death can all be sources of inspiration.

Visual art, dreaming, sports, holidays, the beach, the sunset, and outer space can also inspire musicians to create something new. Sometimes, it’s the small details that make all the difference. A favorite food, a dog, a sibling, an anniversary, a river, a kiss, or the absence of someone can all be used as a starting point for a song.

Tackling Writer’s Block and Creativity Slumps

Despite having access to a vast pool of song ideas, songwriters can still experience writer’s block or creativity slumps. When this happens, it’s important to remember that it’s a normal part of the creative process. Technology can be a helpful tool for overcoming these challenges, as it allows musicians to experiment with new sounds and techniques.

Journaling and talking to others can also help spark new ideas. Sometimes, all it takes is a change of scenery or a new perspective to get the creative juices flowing again. Songwriting prompts can also be used to jumpstart the writing process. For example, writing a song using only two chords or creating a song based on a specific theme can help break through a creative block.

Finding creative inspiration and overcoming challenges is a crucial part of the songwriting process. Musicians can draw inspiration from everyday life and use technology and song prompts to overcome writer’s block and creativity slumps. With the right mindset and tools, any musician can turn their ideas into a song that resonates with listeners.

Practical Applications and Exercises

Songwriting prompts for practice.

When it comes to writing songs, it can be challenging to come up with fresh and unique ideas. However, with the right prompts, you can jumpstart your creativity and produce some fantastic music. Here are some practical songwriting prompts that you can use to inspire your next hit:

• First Date: Write a song about your first date. What did you feel? What did you do? What was your impression of your date?
• Celebrity Crush: Write a song about your celebrity crush. What do you like about them? What would you do if you ever met them?
• Betrayal: Write a song about betrayal. How did it feel to be betrayed? What did you do in response?
• Teenage Angst: Write a song about teenage angst. What are some of the challenges that teenagers face? How do they cope with them?
• Self-Loathing: Write a song about self-loathing. What are some of the things that you don’t like about yourself? How do you deal with them?
• Diss Track: Write a diss track about someone you don’t like. What are some of the things that you don’t like about them? How do you express your dislike?

Collaborative Writing and Feedback

Collaborating with other songwriters can be a great way to come up with new ideas and improve your writing skills. Here are some exercises that you can use to collaborate with other writers:

• Religion: Write a song about religion with a partner. What are some of the different beliefs that people have about religion? How can you express these beliefs through music?
• Toxic Relationship: Write a song about a toxic relationship with a partner. What are some of the challenges that people face in toxic relationships? How can you express these challenges through music?
• Writing Songs: Write a song with a partner. What are some of the different approaches that you can take to writing songs? How can you use feedback to improve your writing skills?

These practical applications and exercises can help you improve your songwriting skills and come up with fresh and unique ideas. Whether you’re writing about teenage angst or a toxic relationship, these prompts can help you express your thoughts and emotions through music.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can music be incorporated into creative writing exercises.

Music can be used to inspire creative writing by encouraging students to write about the emotions and experiences that music evokes. Teachers can ask students to listen to a song and write a story or poem based on the lyrics or the emotions that the music conveys. Alternatively, students can create their own lyrics or melodies to express their own emotions or experiences.

What are some engaging music-themed writing activities for middle school students?

Middle school students can be encouraged to write about their favorite music genres, artists, or songs. They can write album reviews, song analyses, or even create their own playlists. Teachers can also ask students to write stories or poems based on a specific genre or song, or to create their own lyrics or melodies.

What prompts can help students write about their personal experiences with music?

Students can be asked to write about their favorite concert, their first music lesson, or the first time they heard a particular song. They can also write about the emotions that music evokes in them, or the memories that music brings back. Teachers can also ask students to write about the role that music plays in their lives, or the ways in which music has influenced their personal growth.

In what ways can songs be used as inspiration for writing assignments?

Songs can be used as inspiration for writing assignments by encouraging students to analyze the lyrics, the melody, or the emotions that the music conveys. Teachers can ask students to write about the themes or messages in a particular song, or to create their own lyrics or melodies based on a song. Songs can also be used as prompts for creative writing exercises, such as writing stories or poems based on the emotions or experiences that the music evokes.

What are some interesting topics for high school students to explore in music class writing prompts?

High school students can be asked to write about the history of a particular music genre, the evolution of a specific artist’s career, or the cultural significance of a particular song or album. They can also write about the social or political messages in music, or the ways in which music reflects or shapes society. Alternatively, students can create their own music videos or album covers and write about the creative process.

How can adults use music as a catalyst for their writing projects?

Adults can use music as a catalyst for their writing projects by listening to music that inspires them and writing about the emotions or experiences that the music evokes. They can also use music to set the mood or tone for their writing, or to create characters or settings based on the themes or messages in a particular song. Alternatively, adults can write about the history or cultural significance of a particular music genre, or create their own lyrics or melodies based on a song.

I'm Ben, a data engineer who adores journaling. My passion for recording life experiences inspired me to develop Otto's Journal, an online diary app. Join me as I blend data and storytelling in the ever-changing tech world, making journaling more accessible and exciting.

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Making Music Song Analysis Easy with these 5 Simple Steps

We all know that teaching song analysis to your middle school and general music students can be a bit of a rollercoaster. But it can also be one of the most rewarding experiences, especially when you can see when they “get it”! 

Music students in grades 6-9, are at a crucial age for musical and literacy development, and they benefit immensely from understanding the intricacies of music song analysis, especially through the lens of the Elements of Music. 

The challenge, of course, is to keep them engaged throughout the process. The good news is that there is a solution for you. In this blog post, you will be guided through the steps to make song analysis not just accessible but also enjoyable for your students, all thanks to these fantastic music song analysis teaching resources.

Are looking for other ways that you can keep your music students engaged in the music classroom, then grab yourself a FREE copy of the 25 page eBook called – 5 Simple Ways to Makeover your Music Curriculum here

Prior Preparation

Preparing your students for the exciting task of conducting their own song analysis requires laying a solid foundation in music terms and vocabulary. To kickstart this process, make certain that you’ve taught your music students the necessary terminology that is crucial for their achievement in music classroom song analysis. For an in-depth guide on teaching music terms to your students, feel free to delve into the details offered in this blog post.

Link to the Teaching Music Terms Blog Post

Step 1 – Starting with Song Analysis Worksheets

Before you even think about starting any sort of song analysis with your students, you first need to decide a few things.

• What Elements of Music will you focus on?
• What is the Music Topic that you are studying?
• What do my students already know?
• What sort of music do my students enjoy listening to?
• What are the literacy skills of my students?

Once you have your answers to these questions, it will make the rest of the song analysis process much easier!

The answers to these questions are like the foundation stones for your analysis journey. They bring structure to the learning process, helping your students get a grip on those fundamental music concepts. 

Once you have decided on where to start and what music to focus on for your song analysis, you might need some resources to help and guide you and your students through the process. 

No need to reinvent the wheel! Check out our Music Song Analysis Project Bundle . In this Bundle of Elements of Music Song Analysis resources, you’ll find task descriptions, marking rubrics, biography graphic organizers for research, and guided song analysis worksheets covering each of the Elements of Music –  Melody, Rhythm, Timbre, Harmony, Texture, Structure/Form, Dynamics, and Tonality. It’s like having a complete toolkit for song analysis right at your fingertips.

Link to the Song Analysis Bundle here

Step 2 – Picking the Right Song for Analysis

Choosing the right song for analysis can make a world of difference for both you and your music students. The song you select can either ignite that spark in your students or leave them scratching their heads. It’s crucial to find songs that align with your curriculum and engage your students. 

To find the right music for analysis, first research a few options for your students, play them in class and then ask them to vote on which one they would like to study during the song analysis process. HINT when you start this with your students, choose songs that are more simple in nature, it will be much easier for your students to “hear” the answers to the song analysis questions.

Step 3- Classroom Modeling of Song Analysis

Incorporating a classroom modeling of the song analysis process means giving your students a live demo of how it’s done. It’s a hands-on approach that makes the song analysis process tangible and easier for them to know what to do when they start to work independently. Whether you’re diving into melody, rhythm, or tonality, our teaching resources provide support for classroom modeling. It’s all about making it more accessible for both you and your students.

To model the song analysis process follow these steps

• Choose an Element of Music and set of questions to use for the song analysis.
• Choose a song to study.
• Show your students the song analysis questions and discuss what each question means. Check for understanding of any terms that they might be struggling with.
• Discuss possible music terms that could be used for each question. You might want to record these music terms somewhere for your students to refer to and use. 
• Play the music and let your students listen for the answers. You might need to play the music a couple of times, even if it is only a small section of the music.
• Discuss the answers to the questions and model a correct response with your students by recording it for all students to see.
• If needed, listen to the music again and check the answers to each song analysis question.
• Discuss the answers and check for student understanding.

Step 4 – Setting Students Up for Success with Song Analysis Samples

Once you have modeled the song analysis process with your class, you will need to think of other ways to set your students up for success. One way is by providing them with song analysis samples. It is important to give your students a wide variety of samples, both good and bad! Through the study of song analysis samples, your student will hopefully find their own ‘aha’ moment that can boost their confidence. The Song Analysis Bundle comes with sample analyses, but, with AI and tools like CHAT GPT, you can easily create other samples for your students to use.

Step 5 – Independent Song Analysis Listening Assignment

Now that you have walked your students through the song analysis process, it is time for them to complete their own independent song analysis assignments. This is where your students will put their newfound song analysis skills to the test. They get to express their understanding of the Elements of Music through analysis. The Song Analysis Bundle resource even offers ideas for assessing and evaluating their work, making your job a little easier!

Teaching song analysis does not need to be an uphill battle in your music classroom. With the right resources and teaching approach, it can be the highlight of your middle school music appreciation curriculum. Our teaching resources, including the Music Song Analysis Project Bundle, are classroom tested and have been tailor-made to simplify the process for both you and your music students. Whether you’re starting with the listening and song analysis worksheets, picking engaging songs, using the song analysis writing samples, modeling in the classroom, or setting independent assignments, you’ll find everything you need included on the bundle. 

Until next time

Happy Teaching

Julia from Jooya

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Playlist for Holden: Character Analysis With Music and Lyrics

• Resources & Preparation
• Instructional Plan
• Related Resources

Compiling a playlist for a friend or a special occasion is a familiar activity for most students. This minilesson invites students to think of a literary character as a peer, creating an authentic connection between literature and life. While the lesson uses The Catcher in the Rye as an example, the activities could be centered on the primary character of any novel. Students choose a perspective on the character (from options suggested by the teacher) and work in small groups to identify scenes in the novel that reflect their view. They then select songs appropriate for the character and write a rationale for each song chosen, including supporting evidence from the text. When students present their completed playlists in class, their classmates inevitably make observations that increase everyone's insights into the character and the novel.

Featured Resources

• Playlist for Holden Assignment : This handout outlines the assignment: selecting a playlist, writing a personal letter, and writing a one-paragraph rationale for each song included on the playlist

From Theory to Practice

• Asking students to critically analyze popular music in light of character and themes from a novel requires sophisticated skills, including the ability to understand literary figures in the context of contemporary life.
• Viewing literature through contemporary culture and current events can help reframe the literary experience for students.
• Probing the identity of a literary character in terms of popular songs and popular culture may help students understand their own motivation and identity.
• Music and identity are closely intertwined among many adolescents.

Common Core Standards

This resource has been aligned to the Common Core State Standards for states in which they have been adopted. If a state does not appear in the drop-down, CCSS alignments are forthcoming.

State Standards

This lesson has been aligned to standards in the following states. If a state does not appear in the drop-down, standard alignments are not currently available for that state.

NCTE/IRA National Standards for the English Language Arts

• 1. Students read a wide range of print and nonprint texts to build an understanding of texts, of themselves, and of the cultures of the United States and the world; to acquire new information; to respond to the needs and demands of society and the workplace; and for personal fulfillment. Among these texts are fiction and nonfiction, classic and contemporary works.
• 2. Students read a wide range of literature from many periods in many genres to build an understanding of the many dimensions (e.g., philosophical, ethical, aesthetic) of human experience.
• 3. Students apply a wide range of strategies to comprehend, interpret, evaluate, and appreciate texts. They draw on their prior experience, their interactions with other readers and writers, their knowledge of word meaning and of other texts, their word identification strategies, and their understanding of textual features (e.g., sound-letter correspondence, sentence structure, context, graphics).
• 5. Students employ a wide range of strategies as they write and use different writing process elements appropriately to communicate with different audiences for a variety of purposes.

Materials and Technology

• Computers with Internet access and media player application installed (optional)
• iPods or other media players (optional)
• List of suggested popular songs with lyrics (optional)
• Playlist for Holden Assignment
• Assessment for Playlist for Holden: The Songs
• Assessment for Playlist for Holden: The Letter

Note: The LitTunes website links classical literature and poetry with popular songs. It is listed here as a source of ideas and inspiration for teachers, rather than as a resource for students. Although the site makes some very nice correlations, “classic rock” is overrepresented in comparison with other musical genres. Also, be forewarned that many of the links to YouTube videos may be dead.

Preparation

• Choose a fictional character familiar to students to be the focus of the lesson. The lesson will be most effective if the students are studying a novel that is focused on a single primary character. The example used here is Holden Caulfield from J.D. Salinger’s novel Catcher in the Rye , a universally recognized iconic character, but the lesson activities would be equally effective with a major character from any novel.
• If students will be choosing their playlists in class, make sure they can access the suggested websites on their computers. Note that for access to iTunes, each computer must have the iTunes software installed.
• Make a copy for each student of the Playlist for Holden Assignment .
• Decide whether you are going to devote time to the playlist in class or have students complete it as homework. Schedule access to school computers and/or set due dates for assignments accordingly.
• Statement 1: Holden Caulfield is an insightful, wise adolescent who points out and analyzes many of the flaws of our society.
• Statement 2: Holden Caulfield is more hypocritical than insightful. He says one thing and then does another, and he relies upon cynicism and sarcasm in addressing the flaws of society.

Student Objectives

Students will

• Analyze a fictional character (through dialogue, plot, conflict, and resolution)
• Evaluate lyrics and music of popular songs for appropriate thematic connections with the character
• Apply evidence from the text to support their selections
• Ask students to think about each statement on the board and to decide which they feel is the more accurate assessment of Holden Caulfield (see Preparation, Step 5). Have them write a short list of reasons for their choice.
• Under their list of reasons for choosing Statement 1 or Statement 2, ask students to compile a list of two or three scenes from the book that support their choice, making note of the page number for each scene.
• After students have worked individually to write rationales and identify scenes from the book (with their corresponding page numbers), ask them to announce their perspective (siding with either Statement 1 or Statement 2) and form a group with two to three other students (four students maximum per group) who share the same view.
• Have each group select a group leader and then have students share their rationales with their group. The group leader compiles the lists of reasons and scenes into a single list, ferreting out weak choices and adding any new ones suggested during the discussion.
• When all groups are ready, each group’s list is presented to the class by the group leader. Encourage students to comment upon the relative merits of the evidence provided. Note: This is a good introduction to the project, as it allows students a chance to develop individual opinions of Holden, as well as to think of the moments within the novel that may have shaped those opinions. Once students have discussed their thoughts about Holden in their groups and you are comfortable with their understanding of the character, move on to the larger project.
• Have students move back to their original seats. Distribute the Playlist for Holden Assignment handout and go over the instructions.
• Discuss the handout step by step to clarify expectations.
• Have students begin brainstorming for songs they may wish to use; ask students to write down lists of songs and some possible related scenes.

Note: Session 2 may follow directly after Session 1.

• Have students return to their groups from Session 1. Students will work together to create the rationale, the letter, and the playlist, with one student acting as the leader for each assignment. The group leader begins by describing the overall process and explaining possible difficulties or differences of opinion within the group. The group leader then compiles a playlist agreed upon by group members and ensures that the correlations for each song are well-substantiated through textual evidence.
• A second member of the group leads the letter writing, and a third member of the group crafts the rationale. (The fourth member of the group, if there is one, helps with the rationale or the letter.)
• When all groups have finished their playlists, rationales, and letters, have each group present their work to the rest of the class. The student in charge of the rationale presents Holden’s playlist, along with evidence from the book for each song selected. The student in charge of writing the letter reads it to class.
• After each presentation, invite students from other groups to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of songs on the playlist, citing compatible or contrary evidence from the book. Also invite students to comment upon the suitability of the letter to Holden.

Students who are more visual may prefer to tell Holden’s story in graphic novel format. See Holden Caulfield—The Graphic Novel handout for a description of this project. Assessment for Holden Caulfield—The Graphic Novel can be used to evaluate this project.

Student Assessment / Reflections

Use the rubrics Assessment for Playlist for Holden: The Songs and Assessment for Playlist for Holden: The Letter to evaluate the projects. You can either evaluate the projects as a whole, with each member of the group receiving the same grade, or, if you prefer, assign individual grades based upon the primary responsibilities of each student during the project.

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Music Worksheets & Printables

107 Song Prompts for When You’re Really Stuck

by Ed Bell | May 24, 2018

Songs prompts, oh, song prompts.

If I’m honest, I have mixed feelings. I don’t really do writing by numbers. I get nervous around anything for songwriters that sounds like spoon-feeding. And I think the most important thing a songwriter – well, anyone – can learn is to think for themself.

That’s why most of the content on the site is about the big, fundamental ideas every songwriter should know about. (Including this article  about how to come up with your own song ideas.)

But, you know, sometimes songwriters feel stuck in a rut . Sometimes songwriters aren’t sure  where to begin . Sometimes songwriters need a burst of inspiration to get them back on track.

And if that sounds like you, I have some good news: I made you a big list of songs you can write. Specifically, 107 songs you can write.

Do I hate myself for doing it?

Maybe a little.

But will it help you out if you’re not sure where to go next? If you’re ready for a new challenge or two? If you’re looking for some new inspiration in your life?

So we’re good.

If you’re new to the site I recommend you read my article on how songs tell stories , and how a song’s style, idea and hook work together before you do anything else. They’ll help you get the most out of the song prompts I’m about to share with you.

Otherwise, have a browse. See which song prompts inspire you. Go write some songs, live your dream, change the world.

And remember: these ideas aren’t gospel. You can use the song prompts as is. You can make changes to the song prompts. You can ignore the song prompts entirely and go where your curiosity takes you. Do what’s right for you, compadre. Life is yours for the taking.

[  THE 107 SONG PROMPTS  ]

• Write a love song. Any love song.
• Write a love song from you to a current or former lover.
• Write a love song from you to a desired or imaginary lover.
• Write a love song from someone else to his or her lover.
• Write a love song about an unusual kind of love.
• Write a love song about a complicated kind of love.
• Write a love song that never uses the word ‘love’.
• Write a love song that never uses the word ‘you’.

Break Up Songs

• Write a song where you break up with someone and you’re really happy about it.
• Write a song where you break up with someone and you’re really sad about it.
• Write a song where you break up with someone and you’re conflicted about it.
• Write a song where you break up with someone but you’re terrified of doing it.
• Write a song where you break up with someone suddenly after learning something new.
• Write a song where someone broke up with you and you want them back.
• Write a song where someone broke up with you and don’t want them back.
• Write a song where someone broke up with you and you’re not sure if you want them back.

Relationship Songs

• Write a song that says ‘I’ve never met anyone like you before.’
• Write a song that says ‘Show me some respect.’
• Write a song that says ‘I don’t care.’
• Write a song that says ‘I don’t want to know.’
• Write a song that asks ‘Baby, what’s wrong?’
• Write a song that says hello.
• Write a song that says goodbye.

Story Songs

• Write a song that tells the story of someone you think is really interesting.
• Write a song that tells the story of someone you think is misunderstood.
• Write a song that tells the story of someone you really dislike.
• Write a song that tells the story of someone you know personally.
• Write a song that tells the story of someone you read about in the news.
• Write a song that tells the story of an existing fictional character.
• Write a song that tells a story about you, but from someone else’s perspective.

Personal / Artist Songs

• Write a song that introduces us to you as an artist.
• Write a song that introduces us to someone else as an artist.
• Write a song based on your key life philosophy.
• Write a song that tells us something nobody else knows about you.
• Write a song about a major event in your life.
• Write a song about a major change in your life.
• Write a song about what you want in life.
• Write a song about your biggest hope in life.
• Write a song about your biggest disappointment in life.
• Write a song about growing up in your particular neighborhood.

‘I Am’ Songs

• Write a song that says ‘I’m happy.’ (And tell us why.)
• Write a song that says ‘I’m sad.’ (And tell us why.)
• Write a song that says ‘I don’t know.’
• Write a song that says ‘Nothing’s gonna stop me.’
• Write a song that says ‘Something awesome is coming.’
• Write a song that says ‘I’ve been holding myself back all this time.’
• Write a song that says ‘I’m ready to start a new chapter in my life.’
• Write a song that says ‘I need help.’
• Write a song that says ‘I never saw that coming.’
• Write a song that says ‘I was right all along.’

Public Service Announcement Songs

• Write a song that makes people feel happy.
• Write a song that makes people laugh.
• Write a song that makes people want to dance.
• Write a song that makes people say ‘I love you’ more.
• Write a song that motivates people.
• Write a song that encourages people to be themselves.
• Write a PSA song of your choice – think ‘Always Wear Sunscreen’.

Other Story Songs

• Write a song from a parent to their son or daughter.
• Write a song from a son or daughter to their parent.
• Write a song for two friends.
• Write a song for two enemies.
• Write a song for two siblings.
• Write a song for two lovers.
• Write a song about getting married.
• Write a song about eloping.
• Write a song about moving to a new town.
• Write a Christmas song.
• Write an Easter song.
• Write a Kwanzaa song.
• Write a Hanukah song.
• Write a ‘We make a great team’ song.
• Write a ‘What would I do without you?’ song.

Start with a Lyrical Hook (Title)

(For a recap on how lyrical hooks work, check out this article .)

• Write a song with a one-word hook – think ‘Jealousy’, ‘Hello’, ‘Fever’.
• Write a song with a two-word hook – think ‘Bad Romance’, ‘Space Cowboy’.
• Write a song with a hook that’s a phrase – think ‘No Good at Goodbyes’.
• Write a song with a hook that’s a complete sentence – think ‘I’m Outta Love’.
• Write a song with a hook that’s a question – think ‘Where Is the Love?’.
• Come up with a totally original word or phrase – think ‘Love Foolosophy’, ‘Ghetto Gospel’ – and make that your hook.
• Take the lyrical hook of an existing song, change one word and make that your hook.
• Take the lyrical hook of an existing song, make that your hook BUT write about a completely different story or situation.

Start with a Melody

(For a recap on how to write a great melody, check out Episode 11 of our series On Songwriting on the video page .)

• Write a perky melody, figure out a song story that fits it, then write that song.
• Write a simple melody, figure out a song story that fits it, then write that song.
• Write an expressive melody, figure out a song story that fits it, then write that song.
• Write a melancholy melody, figure out a song story that fits it, then write that song.
• Write a melody that repeats a single rhythmic motif, figure out a song story that fits it, then write that song.

Start with a Groove

(For a recap on how to match your groove or musical style with your song’s story, check out this article .)

• Write an upbeat groove, figure out a song story that fits it, then write that song.
• Write a melancholy groove, figure out a song story that fits it, then write that song.
• Write a funky groove, figure out a song story that fits it, then write that song.
• Write a weird-sounding groove, figure out a song story that fits it, then write that song.
• Write a chilled-out groove, figure out a song story that fits it, then write that song.
• Write a groove based on two alternating chords, figure out a song story that fits it, then write that song.
• Write a groove based on a simple three- or four-chord progression, figure out a song story that fits it, then write that song.
• Write a groove based on a chord progression from an existing song, figure out a song story that fits it, then write that song.
• Set a drum loop playing then freestyle lyrics over the top until that gives you a song idea. Then write that song.

Miscellaneous

• Write a song about life on other planets.
• Write a song about your pet rock Ignacio.
• Write a song about the Northern Line Extension to Battersea.
• Write a song about the life and death of Hildegard von Bingen .
• Write a song about a sweet potato that looks like Michael Caine.
• Write a song that never uses the letter ‘m’.
• Write a song that has a 60-second sackbut solo.
• Write the song you’ve always wanted to write.
• Write the song you’ve just decided you wanted to write.
• Write the song you’ve never wanted to write.
• Write the song you still don’t want to write.
• Write the song you’re totally petrified to write.
• Just write something . Anything. Anything you like.

Feel free to add your own song prompts in the comments below. And if, one day, you manage to write all 107, well, I’ll buy you a taco.

Happy writing!

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15 BEST Songwriting Exercises (Something for Everyone!)

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Songwriting exercises are an excellent way to boost your creativity and improve your songwriting skills. 

Whether you’re a seasoned songwriter or just starting out, the right songwriting exercises can help you break through writer’s block, hone your lyric and melody writing abilities, and develop your musical ideas. 

One of the most effective songwriting exercises used by renowned songwriters is to write a song about a specific emotion. They choose an emotion that resonates with their realities and then try to capture its essence in both their lyrics and melody. 

Following exercises like this will help you develop your ability to convey emotions through music and lyrics; it can also lead to some powerful and meaningful songs. Another great exercise is to write a song in a different genre than you normally write in. 

Exploring a different genre helps you open new creative dimensions and explore new horizons in the aspects of lyricism, melody, rhythm, and even harmony. 

The key here is: if you usually write folk music, try writing a rock song. If you’re a pop musician, try writing a country tune. This exercise will not only help you broaden your musical horizons but also challenge you to think outside of your comfort zone and push your creative boundaries. 

In this article, we have compiled a list of 15 best songwriting exercises that everyone can try out. It doesn’t matter if you are a seasoned pro, a beginner or a total novice trying to awaken the sleeping songwriting demon in you, you will definitely find this useful. 

Table of Contents

First…What is Songwriting?

Songwriters often follow specific techniques and methods to produce compelling and memorable songs. 

While some artists, like John Mayer, may seem to drop new ideas over a great melody line effortlessly, the reality is that every successful songwriter has their own complex and meticulous songwriting process.

Songwriting begins with a spark of inspiration, which can come from various sources such as personal experiences, emotions, or storytelling. 

One crucial aspect of songwriting is lyric writing, as impactful lyrics can elevate the overall quality of a song. Music producers often prefer hiring songwriters who possess a solid songwriting process rather than those who randomly throw lyrics over musical ideas. 

However, songwriting is not just restricted to lyric writing , it also includes melody writing, chord writing, designing harmonies, structure, story, and other aspects of a song. Some of these aspects may overlap with composition and music production as well. 

What is Not Songwriting?

There is much confusion regarding what songwriting is and what it’s not. To clear all misconceptions, let’s discuss what’s not songwriting. 

What is the Difference Between a Lyricist And a Songwriter?

The terms “lyricist” and “songwriter” are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference between the two roles in creating songs. 

A lyricist is a person who specializes in writing the lyrics or words of a song. They are primarily responsible for crafting the poetic and emotional content that conveys the song’s message, story, or theme. The lyricist focuses on the words and how they fit rhythmically and thematically with the music.

In this sense, a songwriter is responsible for both the song’s words and melody. For example, if a lyricist writes a piece of poetry for a song, a songwriter will be responsible for how that poetry fits the meter, what melody will suit it best, and other musical aspects. 

What is the Difference Between a Music Producer and a Songwriter?

A songwriter is primarily responsible for creating a song’s lyrics and/or music. They focus on the artistic and creative elements of the composition, crafting the melodies, chord progressions, and lyrics that form the song’s foundation. 

Songwriters can be individuals who write both the lyrics and music (singer-songwriters) or those who specialize in one of these aspects (lyricists or composers).

Their responsibilities may include selecting the right studio and musicians, guiding the performance, suggesting arrangement changes, overseeing the recording process, and making creative decisions about the final product’s sound.

It’s worth noting that there can be some overlap between the roles, as some songwriters may also take on the role of a producer for their own music, or a producer may collaborate closely with the songwriter during the recording process to ensure the song’s artistic vision is realized.

When Does Music Production Become Songwriting?

A music producer becomes a songwriter when they do not just make decisions about the sonic aspects of the song but also take care of compositional aspects like writing chords, melodies, bass lines, etc.

Is Beatmaking Part of Songwriting?

Beatmaking is considered songwriting when the beatmaker makes decisions about the drum patterns, time signature, tempo, chords, melodies, harmonies, and other songwriting aspects. If they just choose the right samples, synths, plugins, etc., that would not be considered songwriting. 

Hence, one core job of a beatmaker which is to choose the right sounds (sampling and sound designing), is not considered songwriting, but the other core job, which is to design and program drum patterns, beat structure, basslines, etc., is considered songwriting. 

In this sense, beatmakers can be songwriters because they are responsible for composing the song’s instrumental part. Their creative input in shaping the beat or instrumental track significantly influences the overall feel and impact of the song.

15 Best Songwriting Exercises

1. freestyle writing.

Freestyle writing aims to tap into the subconscious mind and allow ideas and emotions to flow freely onto the page. This technique often generates raw and authentic material, helping you overcome creative blocks and access new and unexpected lyrical content.

2. Object-Based Songwriting

In the “Object-Based Songwriting” exercise, you select an object and then delve into its memories, emotions, and stories, whether a photograph, an old letter, a keepsake, or any other meaningful artefact. 

It involves choosing an object, exploring emotions and memories about it, and then allowing your mind to wander freely over that, eventually coming up with melodies, lyrics, and other song ideas. 

Object-Based Songwriting is a profound way to create music and a therapeutic exercise that allows you to process your feelings, preserve memories, and share meaningful stories through your art. It adds depth and authenticity to the song, making it an intimate and relatable experience for you and your listeners.

3. Melody First

The interplay between melody and lyrics creates a seamless and cohesive union, enhancing the song’s impact. The melody’s emotional power transcends language barriers, enabling a broad audience connection. 

Throughout the process, you can fine-tune the melody and lyrics, refining them until the song reaches its full potential.

4. Backwards Song

Songwriters embark on this creative journey by developing the song’s structure, chord progression, and musical arrangement before crafting the lyrics and melody to fit the existing framework.

The process begins with creating a unique and compelling chord progression or instrumental arrangement. This is the foundation upon which the entire “Backwards Song” is built. You can first establish a distinct and captivating atmosphere, rhythm, and flow by focusing on the musical structure.

Crafting lyrics in reverse can be an exciting challenge, as it demands a careful selection of words and themes to match the pre-established musical elements.

By reversing the typical songwriting process, artists can breathe new life into their compositions, infusing them with an element of surprise and intrigue.

5. Re-write your favourite song

The “Re-write Your Favorite Song” exercise is a creative challenge that involves stripping the original lyrics from your favourite song and replacing them with new ones of the same syllable count. 

This process encourages you to explore their unique voice, adapt to existing melodies, and experiment with different themes. Crafting new lyrics while maintaining the same syllable count becomes an intriguing puzzle that sparks unexpected ideas and emotional depth. 

Improvising a fresh melody over the existing arrangement adds a personal touch, transforming the song’s meaning and showcasing your musical versatility. 

This exercise hones songwriting skills and opens doors to reinterpreting familiar songs and infusing them with authenticity and passion. It is a valuable tool for growth, self-discovery, and expanding creative horizons.

6. Write a 10-minute song

You must delve into your emotions as the lyrics unfold, drawing from personal experiences or imaginative narratives. The time pressure fosters inventive wordplay and memorable hooks, concisely capturing the chosen theme’s essence.

During the recording phase, artists embrace imperfections and the magic of live takes. Whether solo or collaborating, the goal is to capture the song’s authentic essence within 10 minutes.

The challenge’s pressure often leads to unexpected breakthroughs and unique musical choices, as creativity thrives under limitations. Learn to let go of perfectionism, focusing on capturing the raw energy and soul of the song instead of polished outcomes.

While the 10-minute song may not be a finished product, it is a valuable starting point. You can later revisit and expand upon emerging ideas, refining and honing them into fully developed compositions.

7. Associated Words

First, choose a specific topic or theme you wish to explore. It could be anything from love and nature to freedom and perseverance. The chosen topic serves as the focal point for the following creative exploration.

With the topic in mind, brainstorm freely, and allow your thoughts to roam and associations to emerge naturally. You can then jot down words and phrases that come to mind, building an extensive network of connections around the chosen theme.

Furthermore, this exercise is a vocabulary builder, enriching your linguistic toolkit. Associating words expands your word choices, making your writing more vivid and impactful. 

Collaborative songwriting sessions can benefit greatly from this exercise. When multiple songwriters contribute to the brainstorming, the pool of associated words multiplies exponentially, leading to richer and more diverse ideas.

8. Song structure analysis

Song structure analysis involves deconstructing existing songs to understand their organizational framework. By studying various songs from different genres, you gain insights into effective songwriting techniques, helping you craft your compositions more skillfully.

Deconstructing successful songs teaches you how to build engaging narratives, create memorable hooks, and maintain listeners’ attention. You also explore the balance between verses and choruses to keep the song flowing seamlessly.

Additionally, this exercise aids in comprehending the role of lyrics and melody in complementing each other. Analyzing the emotional build-up within a song can help you master the art of storytelling through music.

For example, here is a breakdown of the song structure of a Taylor Swift hit:

9. Random phrase generator 

Numerous sources offer songwriting challenges and exercises that can be adapted for this purpose. Websites like yonamariemusic.com provide songwriting exercises, including “Freestyle Writing,” where songwriters write or perform words and melodies that come to their heads without forethought, exploring unfamiliar instrumentals to challenge their creativity.

Additionally, you can explore the concept of “Automated Generation of Song Lyrics using CFGs” as discussed in researchgate.com . Though it mainly focuses on an automated lyric generator, you can use similar techniques to experiment with combinations of words and phrases, generating unexpected and intriguing lyrical content.

Furthermore, you can also benefit from AI tools, such as AI video generators or AI companions, as outlined on synthesia.io. These tools offer unique perspectives and inspiration for crafting song lyrics from unconventional angles.

10. Melodic dictation

By honing this skill, you can develop a deeper understanding of musical structures, chord progressions, and tonal centres, which are crucial elements in crafting captivating and harmonically rich songs.

This eliminates the need for trial-and-error experimentation and enhances the efficiency of turning your musical ideas into tangible compositions.

Secondly, melodic dictation expands your musical vocabulary. By identifying and analyzing melodies in other songs, you can adapt interesting musical elements to your own compositions. This process broadens your creative toolkit and allows you to experiment with melodic motifs and structures.

Improving ear training through melodic dictation also benefits you as a musician playing in bands or collaborating with others. It enables better communication and understanding of musical ideas between bandmates, leading to more cohesive and harmonious performances.

11. Five Radios at Once

To employ the “Five Radios at Once” technique, find a quiet space where you won’t disturb others, and then gather five different radios or devices capable of playing music. Tune each radio to a different station or playlist, ensuring they cover various genres and styles.

As you immerse yourself in this chaotic symphony, you may encounter unexpected chord progressions, unique melodies, or fascinating rhythmic patterns.

Embrace the randomness, have fun with it, and let the diverse musical elements influence your creative flow. 

12. Play a brand-new instrument

Start by familiarizing yourself with the basics of the chosen instrument, learning a few chords, or experimenting with its unique sounds. Allow yourself to play freely without worrying about creating a polished composition. The goal is to explore the instrument’s capabilities and let its tones inspire you.

As you experiment with the new instrument, keep a recording device handy to capture any interesting musical phrases, melodies, or chord progressions that emerge. These raw ideas will serve as a foundation for your songwriting process.

Embrace the novelty and challenges that come with playing a brand-new instrument. The unfamiliarity can lead you to approach songwriting from a different perspective, breaking free from routine patterns and enriching your creative expression.

Remember that the exercise is not about mastering the instrument immediately; it’s about sparking creativity and opening new pathways for songwriting. Embrace the learning process and let the instrument guide you to unique musical discoveries. 

13. Chorus Prompts

14. use chat gpt as your songwriting companion.

With tools like Chat GPT, you now have an additional songwriter that you can go back and forth with to rotate and brainstorm different ideas. Using Chat GPT as a songwriting technique involves leveraging artificial intelligence to generate ideas, lyrics, and themes for songs. 

Chat GPT is an AI language model that can assist you when you encounter creative blocks or need inspiration. By interacting with Chat GPT, you can receive surprisingly effective suggestions and prompts to overcome challenges in their songwriting process.

15. Eminem’s Dictionary-chugging exercise 

This exercise helped him build a vast vocabulary and improve his technical brilliance as a rapper. He used these words to create clever and intricate rhymes during freestyle rap “battles,” which played a significant role in his education in hip-hop.

If you want to know more about Rap songwriting, you can watch the following video:

Various songwriting exercises, such as freestyle writing, object-based songwriting, melody-first approach, and even the unconventional “Backwards Song,” encourage you to think outside the box, break free from conventions, and explore uncharted musical territories.

Embracing spontaneity, embracing novelty by playing a new instrument, and leveraging technology like AI with Chat GPT as a songwriting companion can enrich the songwriting process with fresh perspectives and limitless possibilities.

Overall, the 15 best songwriting exercises presented here are versatile and impactful tools aspiring and experienced songwriters can employ to fuel their creativity, overcome challenges, and unleash their full potential as artists. 

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• Materials & Challenges
• Project ideas

My favorite song

Learning objectives and competencies

Field and method, activities and behaviors, social communications, personal realm.

The project “My favorite song” is well suited as an introduction to a new learning group. With this opener that’s based on everyday life, you’ll get an overview of your children’s and teens’ musical passions and can see what sort of and to what degree they already possess digital and musical skills, plus you’ll see which competencies can be fostered. The children and teens start out by researching background information on the Internet about their own favorite band and then they introduce a song of their favorite bands to each other. Together as a group, the various music styles are discussed and categorized, so that the collected songs can be mapped to their respective styles. Split into groups, the children and teens then have a look at the video platform YouTube with the question in mind: What should we be aware of when setting up our own YouTube channel? In the last step, a YouTube channel will be set up for the group, and all the previously discussed songs will be loaded into the playlist.

The end of the project is transferable to other subjects, for example, it can be used in English class. In this way, classes could also gain knowledge about the various specific genres, for instance, the children and teens could put together a collection of well-known jazz artists. Another possibility would be to put together a channel of videos from all the children and teens who play music.

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