What Are Seventh Chords?
As a beginning musician and songwriter you will start out learning triad chords (chords with 3 notes). The next step is now learning about seventh chords, what they are and how to use them to play and write music. Seventh chords are chords that have…
Defining Parallel VS. Relative Modes
For many people modes can seem a bit confusing. At least it was for me when I first learned about them. I kept thinking, “Are they scales of their own? But then why does the major scale have modes in it? Are they their own…
How to Write Songs Using Modes
Modes are the key to making songs that evoke complex emotions. When you make a song only in a Major or Minor key, the emotions might be a bit limited to sounding happy or sad. But modes give you access to a much wider emotional…
Chord Function: The Compass to Flowing Chord Progressions
If you’ve ever tried to write a song you might have run into the problem that your chords or powerchords don’t seem to connect well. They might sound like they don’t flow into each other, or maybe you are having trouble making transitions that flow…
5 Ways Songwriters Spice Up Boring Chord Progressions
You’re probably writing a new song and putting some chords together or even using a standard chord progression. The problem you’re having is that the chord progression sounds basic, like a stock photo, but in song form. Let me first say that there is nothing…
How to Arrange a Rock Song for a Full Band
Arrangement is a big topic, but we’re going to try to look at it as simple and practical as possible. There are a few best practices when it comes to writing rock songs and arranging all the elements so everything sounds clear and organized, both…
What are the 4 Main Types of Chords?
When it comes to chords, at the most basic level, we have what is called Triads. They are made up of 3 notes played simultaneously, and there are different types of triad chords which have very distinct sounds. The four main types of chords are…
How to Teach Yourself Songwriting: Main Concepts & Resources
Finding someone to teach you songwriting can be difficult. It’s definitely not as easy as finding a guitar teacher or a singing teacher. Because of this, you might want to learn how you can teach yourself songwriting. But since you don’t know what you don’t…
5 Occasions When You Should Write a Song
As inspiration will ebb and flow, it can really help to know when it is a good time to write songs. Let me share a few times I have found it best to write songs. These may help you get the creativity flowing so you…
How Often Should You Write a Song?
Many people may think that writing songs and being creative is a talent you are born with. While there are definitely talented musicians out there that seem to have a gift for it, songwriting is as much a skill as any other craft. And It…