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The Lyricist

This course will help you to write memorable, catchy lyrics employing effective rhymes and compelling imagery. It explores the relationship between poetry and song; the role of repetition in songwriting; techniques for rhyme and rhyme-schemes; the features of effective rap; the features of stories which make lyrics memorable, and the importance of originality and authenticity in lyrics.

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What's inside

Learning objective

How to write lyrics with compelling imagery, catchy rhyme and strong storytelling

Syllabus

Introduction

This short introductory video explains the aims and content of the Lyricist course

Understand the overlap between lyrics and poetry

Poetry and Song

Understand the roles of repetition in song lyrics

Joy in Repetition

Learn to use rhymes effectively in your lyrics

Rhymes on Point

Learn how not to suck at writing rhyme-schemes

Rhymescheming

Learn some of the features of effective rap

Rap and Freestyle

Make sure you have something to say

The Power of Stories

Learn how to make a song your own

Does Originality Matter

Learn to write authentic lyrics

The King's English

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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 Lyricist with these activities:

Review Poetic Devices

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Familiarize yourself with common poetic devices to enhance your lyric writing skills before the course begins.

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Identify key poetic devices.
Find examples of each device in existing songs.
Practice using these devices in short writing exercises.

Read 'How to Write Songs' by Cathy Dennis

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Gain insights into the songwriting process from a seasoned professional.

View Memories & Musings on Amazon

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Read the book, taking notes on key concepts.
Apply the techniques discussed in the book to your own writing.

Analyze Song Lyrics

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Deepen your understanding of lyric writing by dissecting the work of successful songwriters.

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Choose three songs from different genres.
Analyze the rhyme scheme, imagery, and storytelling techniques used.
Write a short essay comparing and contrasting the lyrics.

Four other activities

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Rhyme Scheme Exercises

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Improve your ability to create effective rhyme schemes through targeted practice.

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Select a topic or theme.
Write a short verse using AABB rhyme scheme.
Rewrite the verse using ABAB rhyme scheme.
Experiment with more complex rhyme schemes.

Write a Song

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Apply the concepts learned in the course to create your own original song.

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Choose a topic and develop a story or theme.
Write the lyrics, focusing on rhyme, imagery, and storytelling.
Develop a melody or chord progression to accompany the lyrics.
Record a demo of your song.

Lyric Feedback Session

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Share your lyrics with peers and receive constructive criticism to improve your writing.

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Find a partner or group of fellow lyricists.
Share your lyrics and provide feedback on each other's work.
Focus on rhyme, imagery, storytelling, and originality.

Read 'Writing Better Lyrics' by Pat Pattison

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Deepen your understanding of the technical aspects of lyric writing.

View Pat Pattison's Songwriting: Essential Guide to... on Amazon

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Read the book, completing the exercises provided.
Apply the concepts learned to your own writing.

Career center

Learners who complete The Lyricist will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Reading list

We've selected two 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 Lyricist.

Pat Pattison's Songwriting: Essential Guide to...

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Focuses specifically on the art of rhyming in songwriting. It provides a step-by-step guide to understanding different types of rhymes and how to use them effectively. It valuable resource for songwriters who want to improve their rhyming skills and create more memorable lyrics. This book adds more depth to the course's rhyming modules.

Pat Pattison's Songwriting: Essential Guide to...

Paperback

Pat Pattison's Songwriting: Essential Guide to...

Kindle Edition

Memories & Musings

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Offers practical advice from a successful songwriter. It covers various aspects of songwriting, including melody, lyrics, and structure. Reading this book will provide a solid foundation for understanding the craft and developing your own songwriting techniques. It valuable resource for aspiring lyricists.

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Effort

2 total hours

Via

Udemy

Instructor

Patrick Cootes

Language

English

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