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Tom Worth

Ready to Drastically Improve Your Songwriting?

Whether you’ve never written a song in your life, or you’ve been writing for years and want to step up your game…my video course will have you writing songs like the Pro's.

So there are countless books, videos, and classes that teach songwriting. What makes my video course better, or even different? Good question. All of these other sources can teach you how to write a song. What’s a verse, chorus, bridge, etc…and yes, I will certainly teach you all of these things.

Read more

Ready to Drastically Improve Your Songwriting?

Whether you’ve never written a song in your life, or you’ve been writing for years and want to step up your game…my video course will have you writing songs like the Pro's.

So there are countless books, videos, and classes that teach songwriting. What makes my video course better, or even different? Good question. All of these other sources can teach you how to write a song. What’s a verse, chorus, bridge, etc…and yes, I will certainly teach you all of these things.

But in addition to the basics of songwriting, I teach you the basics of PRO songwriting. I’ve been a professional and successful songwriter for over 20 years and in this course I show you the exact method my colleagues and I use to write commercial songs every day. The exact same songwriting method that has been used to write countless #1 hit songs on the pop, country, christian, and rock charts.

I’ll also identify the most common mistakes songwriters make that instantly turn off industry professionals. If you’re currently making these mistakes, I can almost guarantee you won’t have success. Sorry…I don’t make the rules…but I know them, and now you can too.

Enroll now

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • The fundamentals of commercial songwriting.
  • The exact same songwriting process that has been used to write countless #1 songs.
  • The basics and beyond of song structure, melody and lyric writing, rhyme schemes, phrasing and more.
  • How to avoid common songwriting mistakes that instantly label you as an amateur to industry professionals...even if you aren't one!

Syllabus

Introduction

In case you have problems with the download(s), here is the full list of song examples used in this course, in the order they are used.

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These lessons will teach you what you need to know and understand about songs before you even start writing. Many long time songwriters don't know these...so you'll be ahead of the game!
Gatekeepers
Song Sections Part 1
Song Sections Part 2
Song Structure Part 1
Song Structure Part 2
Song Structure Part 3

For questions 2-4, listen to the songs (on youtube, Spotify, etc) and figure out the song structure.  Then check answer to see how you did.

Rhyming
Rhyming Quiz
Why Stars Can Break The Rules...And You Can't
Rhyme Schemes
Phrasing Part 1
Phrasing Part 2
Hooks Part 1
Hooks Part 2

I created this so you wouldn’t have to take notes…I never liked taking notes in school lol.

The Craft Of Songwriting
The Pro Songwriting Process Part 1
The Pro Songwriting Process Part 2
Melody Writing
Lyric Writing Part 1
Lyric Writing Part 2
Music Writing
Pre Chorus
Building Bridges Part 1
Building Bridges Part 2

I created this so you wouldn’t have to take notes…I never liked taking notes in school lol.

Watch Me Write A Song
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
What Next?
Bonus Lecture: What Next - Part 1
Bonus Lecture: What Next -Part 2
Section 5 Notes

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
For those with songwriting experience, it strengthens an existing foundation, providing opportunities to step up their songwriting game
Taught by an experienced and successful songwriter with over 20 years in the industry, which contributes to its credibility
Guides learners through a proven songwriting methodology drawn from industry practices, giving them an edge in understanding how commercial hits are crafted
Beyond the basics, it delves into advanced techniques like avoiding common mistakes that can hinder industry recognition
Provides a thorough coverage of essential songwriting elements, including song structure, melodies, lyric writing techniques, and rhyming schemes

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in The Basics Of Pro Songwriting with these activities:
Practice Scale Exercises
Develop dexterity and fluency in playing scales, which are the building blocks of melodies.
Browse courses on Scales
Show steps
  • Find a scale exercise online or in a book.
  • Practice the scale slowly and accurately.
  • Gradually increase the speed of your practice.
Review the Course Materials
Refresh your memory and solidify your understanding of the course materials.
Browse courses on Song Structure
Show steps
  • Go back and review the lecture notes.
  • Re-watch the video lectures.
  • Do practice exercises to test your understanding.
Read the Music Theory Book
Get a foundational understanding of musical concepts and techniques that will be used throughout the songwriting process.
View Harmony on Amazon
Show steps
  • Acquire the book and read the introduction.
  • Read Chapter 1: Scales and Intervals.
  • Read Chapter 2: Triads and Seventh Chords.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Watch YouTube Videos on Songwriting
Gain insights and learn from experienced songwriters and producers.
Browse courses on Songwriting
Show steps
  • Search for YouTube videos on songwriting.
  • Watch videos that cover topics you're interested in.
  • Take notes and apply the tips you learn to your own songwriting.
Write a 12-Bar Blues Song
Apply the principles of songwriting to create a complete song in a common and accessible genre.
Browse courses on Songwriting
Show steps
  • Learn the basic 12-bar blues chord progression.
  • Write a melody that fits the chord progression.
  • Write lyrics that tell a story or express an emotion.
Co-Write a Song with a Peer
Collaborate with another songwriter to develop a unique and diverse song.
Browse courses on Collaboration
Show steps
  • Find a peer who is also interested in songwriting.
  • Discuss your ideas and come up with a concept for the song.
  • Write the song together, dividing the tasks of melody, lyrics, and chords.
Tutor a Beginner Songwriter
Reinforce your own songwriting knowledge by teaching it to someone else.
Browse courses on Teaching
Show steps
  • Find a beginner songwriter who is looking for guidance.
  • Share your knowledge of songwriting techniques and principles.
  • Provide feedback on their work and help them improve.
Enter a Songwriting Competition
Challenge yourself and gain exposure by submitting your songs to competitions.
Browse courses on Songwriting
Show steps
  • Research and find a songwriting competition that aligns with your style.
  • Write a song that meets the competition's requirements.
  • Submit your song and wait for the results.
Contribute to an Open-Source Music Project
Apply your songwriting skills and contribute to a collaborative music project.
Browse courses on Collaboration
Show steps
  • Find an open-source music project that interests you.
  • Join the project and start contributing your skills.
  • Collaborate with other musicians and developers to create something unique.

Career center

Learners who complete The Basics Of Pro Songwriting will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Songwriter
A Songwriter crafts lyrics and melodies for songs. They may work with musicians to create complete songs, or they may work independently. This course can help aspiring Songwriters understand the fundamentals of songwriting, including song structure, melody, and lyric writing. It can also help them avoid common mistakes that can hinder their success.
Music Producer
A Music Producer oversees the recording, mixing, and mastering of music. They work with musicians, engineers, and other professionals to create high-quality recordings. This course can help aspiring Music Producers understand the basics of songwriting, which can be helpful when working with Songwriters and other musicians. It can also help them identify common mistakes that Songwriters make, which can help them avoid these mistakes in their own work.
Musician
A Musician plays musical instruments and performs music. They may work as solo artists, or they may work with bands or orchestras. This course can help aspiring Musicians understand the basics of songwriting, which can be helpful when writing their own music. It can also help them understand the songwriting process, which can be helpful when collaborating with other musicians.
Music Teacher
A Music Teacher teaches music to students of all ages. They may work in schools, private studios, or community centers. This course can help aspiring Music Teachers understand the basics of songwriting, which can be helpful when teaching their students about music. It can also help them identify common mistakes that Songwriters make, which can help them avoid these mistakes in their own teaching.
Music Therapist
A Music Therapist uses music to help people improve their physical, emotional, and mental health. They may work with people of all ages and backgrounds. This course can help aspiring Music Therapists understand the basics of songwriting, which can be helpful when creating music for their clients. It can also help them understand the songwriting process, which can be helpful when collaborating with other musicians.
Audio Engineer
An Audio Engineer records, mixes, and masters audio. They work with musicians, producers, and other professionals to create high-quality recordings. This course can help aspiring Audio Engineers understand the basics of songwriting, which can be helpful when working with Songwriters and other musicians. It can also help them identify common mistakes that Songwriters make, which can help them avoid these mistakes in their own work.
Record Producer
A Record Producer oversees the recording, mixing, and mastering of music. They work with musicians, engineers, and other professionals to create high-quality recordings. This course can help aspiring Record Producers understand the basics of songwriting, which can be helpful when working with Songwriters and other musicians. It can also help them identify common mistakes that Songwriters make, which can help them avoid these mistakes in their own work.
Tour Manager
A Tour Manager plans and coordinates tours for musicians. They work with musicians, agents, and other professionals to ensure that tours run smoothly. This course can help aspiring Tour Managers understand the basics of songwriting, which can be helpful when working with Songwriters and other musicians. It can also help them identify common mistakes that Songwriters make, which can help them avoid these mistakes in their own work.
Music Critic
A Music Critic writes about music for newspapers, magazines, and websites. They review concerts, albums, and other musical releases. This course can help aspiring Music Critics understand the basics of songwriting, which can be helpful when writing about music. It can also help them identify common mistakes that Songwriters make, which can help them avoid these mistakes in their own writing.
Music Journalist
A Music Journalist writes about music for newspapers, magazines, and websites. They interview musicians, review concerts, and write feature articles. This course can help aspiring Music Journalists understand the basics of songwriting, which can be helpful when writing about music. It can also help them identify common mistakes that Songwriters make, which can help them avoid these mistakes in their own writing.
Talent Manager
A Talent Manager represents musicians and other entertainers. They negotiate contracts, book gigs, and handle other business affairs. This course can help aspiring Talent Managers understand the basics of songwriting, which can be helpful when working with Songwriters and other musicians. It can also help them identify common mistakes that Songwriters make, which can help them avoid these mistakes in their own work.
Music Publisher
A Music Publisher represents Songwriters and other music creators. They license music for use in films, television shows, and other media. This course can help aspiring Music Publishers understand the basics of songwriting, which can be helpful when working with Songwriters and other musicians. It can also help them identify common mistakes that Songwriters make, which can help them avoid these mistakes in their own work.
Music Lawyer
A Music Lawyer represents musicians and other entertainers in legal matters. They draft contracts, negotiate deals, and protect their clients' rights. This course can help aspiring Music Lawyers understand the basics of songwriting, which can be helpful when working with Songwriters and other musicians. It can also help them identify common mistakes that Songwriters make, which can help them avoid these mistakes in their own work.
Music Educator
A Music Educator teaches music to students of all ages. They may work in schools, private studios, or community centers. This course can help aspiring Music Educators understand the basics of songwriting, which can be helpful when teaching their students about music. It can also help them identify common mistakes that Songwriters make, which can help them avoid these mistakes in their own teaching.
Music Librarian
A Music Librarian catalogs, preserves, and provides access to music collections. They may work in libraries, archives, or museums. This course can help aspiring Music Librarians understand the basics of songwriting, which can be helpful when cataloging and preserving music collections. It can also help them identify common mistakes that Songwriters make, which can help them avoid these mistakes in their own work.

Reading list

We've selected 12 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in The Basics Of Pro Songwriting.
Collection of essays and articles on the art of songwriting. It provides a unique perspective on songwriting from one of the most respected drummers and lyricists in rock music.
Motivational guide for creatives who want to overcome fear and resistance and do their best work. It provides a powerful framework for understanding the creative process and the challenges that all creatives face.
Is an insightful look at the music industry and the creative process behind some of the most popular songs of all time. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the world of songwriting and the challenges and rewards of writing a hit song.
Comprehensive guide to songwriting, covering everything from the basics of music theory to the art of crafting lyrics. It valuable resource for both beginners and experienced songwriters.
Collection of songwriting tips and advice from Grammy Award-winning songwriter Dean Martin. It provides valuable insights into the creative process and the techniques used by successful songwriters.
Classic guide to lyric writing, providing insights into the creative process and the techniques used by successful lyricists. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to improve their songwriting skills.
Guide to writing effective lyrics. It provides a clear and concise explanation of the different techniques used by lyricists to create powerful and memorable lyrics.
Valuable resource for songwriters who want to improve their understanding of chord progressions. It provides a clear and concise explanation of the different types of chord progressions and how they can be used to create effective songs.
Creative guide for songwriters who want to overcome creative blocks and improve their songwriting process. It provides a series of exercises and prompts to help songwriters access their creativity and write more meaningful songs.
Comprehensive guide to music theory, providing a clear and concise explanation of the different elements of music. It valuable resource for songwriters who want to improve their understanding of music theory and apply it to their songwriting.
Creative guide for anyone who wants to live a more creative life. It provides a series of insights and exercises to help readers overcome fear, embrace their creativity, and live a more fulfilling life.
Practical guide to the business of songwriting. It provides advice on how to get your songs heard, how to negotiate contracts, and how to protect your intellectual property.

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