Songwriting Hit Mastery: Lyric Writing, Music Theory from Udemy

What's inside

Learning objectives

New to songwriting? this will be the only course you will ever need!
Songwriting, song structures, ideas and themes, inspired lyric writing, powerful melody construction, memorable chord progressions, writing songs
Have you writing well crafted songs in the shortest amount of time while having the most fun
Learn insider industry tips and secrets that usually take decades to learn.

All the information i wish i had when i started my career as a professional songwriter.
Tips on how to break into the music industry, resources for songwriters and music business essentials
Ways to make money as a songwriter
How to create and execute a plan to further your artistry based on your personal goals

New to songwriting? this will be the only course you will ever need!
Songwriting, song structures, ideas and themes, inspired lyric writing, powerful melody construction, memorable chord progressions, writing songs
Have you writing well crafted songs in the shortest amount of time while having the most fun
Learn insider industry tips and secrets that usually take decades to learn.
All the information i wish i had when i started my career as a professional songwriter.
Tips on how to break into the music industry, resources for songwriters and music business essentials
Ways to make money as a songwriter
How to create and execute a plan to further your artistry based on your personal goals

Syllabus

Students will understand what they will learn in the course, be introduced to the "genie" and do a thought provoking exercise on their journey as a songwriter.

This video will give you a brief overview of what you will learn in this course.

In this video I'll give you an introduction to who I am, some of my accolmplishments as a songwriter and my qualifications as a teacher.

This video talks about the overview of creative process, where the inspiration comes from and the craft that contributes to it.

This lesson goes over the PDF attachment "What Is Your Story". At the end of this lesson and completion of the questions, you should have a 30,000 FT view of your writer journey, the path it's taken you to get to where you are and address some of your personality traits as a writer. It should help give you some perspective on your writer goals to get the most out of this course.

This video is an introduction to writing song ideas and what we'll cover in this section.

We'll dive into where ideas come from and the importance of listening.

This lesson touches on writing great ideas by developing inspired titles, writing honestly and incorporating hope.

This lesson discusses the importance of keeping an idea book and to look at the process of idea mining.

We'll discuss how writing what you know is imperative to authenticity as a songwriter.

As a songwriter, our job is to help artists execute their vision for the song. As performing artists, our job is to know what it is we would and wouldn't say in a song.

I hope you are doing well so far, and are excited about the content! Go here to submit a review and gain access to my free gift for you: https://gleam.io/3ajIO/melissa-peirce-songwriting-hit-mastery

This video discusses the exercises for ideas outlined in the PDF attached.

We’ll discuss the definition of themes, identifying themes and examples of a few themes in songs so that you can identify them and write from them when necessary.

This video discusses an exercise for developing themes to practice writing on demand.

An introduction to song structure— the key parts of a song, their importance and some key definitions of beats and bars to help in the following sections.

This video will discuss in depth each part of a song and it’s function in popular music.

This video is a continuation of the different parts of a song and their functions.

Now that we know the various parts of a song, we’ll go over the most common song structures used in popular music.

We’ll take a look at Irving Berlin’s song checklist. We’ll discuss the points he felt was essential for commercial songwriting, it’s current relevancy and how to incorporate it into our own writing.

Exercises for song structure supported with the attached PDF.

An introduction to basic songwriter chord progressions and a brief explanation of the Nashville number system.

A lesson in the most popular songwriting chord progressions and examples of each.

A lesson of some of the other most used “magic’ chords in songwriting.

Exercises for incorporating hit chord progressions. PDF attached.

An introduction to the crafting tools of well crafted lyric writing and the importance and function of lyrics in a song.

Using one idea and emotion in your song to focus the lyric.

We’ll discuss how to outline your song as a crafting tool, how it can give you a clear direction for the lyric and get you on the same page as your collaborators.

We’ll discuss the advantages to making sure your song is organized into symmetrical sections.

This video touches on the importance of being efficient with your words and stripping out fillers.

This lesson talks about the invaluable crafting tool of killer first lines, some examples and drawing your attention to crafting great first lines.

This lesson discusses imagery, emotion and story as three crucial elements of great lyric writing and how to draw from your experiences to develop great images and emotions.

A continuation on imagery, emotion and story. This video focuses on the element of how a story carries your lyric along.

This lesson dives into the different ways and opportunities you have to support your lyrical hook and elevate your song by making your lyric payoff in all the right places.

We’ll talk about how to write your second verse in a way that takes your lyric to a deeper, more focused place.

This video discusses using consistent emotion and tone in your songs, and using the appropriate points of view in lyric writing.

This lesson touches on different ways to use rhymes through interesting rhymes, inner rhymes and sprinkling in some alliteration (not a rhyme, but felt important in this section with rhymes).

A continuation of rhymes discussion perfect vs. slant rhymes, and some popular rhyming websites songwriters use to help with creative rhyming.

An overview of common rhyme schemes used in popular songwriting.

A recap of what we’ve discussed for lyric writing and some of my personal tips.

This lesson goes into the important craft of re-writing and editing in the lyric writing process.

Some of my favorite book resources for songwriting. Two other great reads not mentioned are: “Steal Like An Artist” by Austin Kleon and “Writing Better Lyrics” by Pat Pattison.

Exercises for practicing the crafting tools we’ve discussed in this section. Supporting PDF attached.

An introduction to the melody section.

Getting started with creating a melody.

We’ll discuss the I,portended of using melody to communicate the emotion of your song.

A brief overview of us using symmetrical melody lines and sections.

Classic melody patterns and examples of how classic songs use motion and intervals to provide familiarity.

How melodic repetition helps make a memorable melody.

How to maximize range in your songs and use it to your advantage according to your objective.

How to lift your melody so your song feels like it soars.

The importance and advantage to using signature licks in your songs.

Using unexpected, stylistic, unique melodies and chords to enhance your melodies.

Using occasional, effective and well placed modulations to create magic moments.

All the different creative tools to build tension and then release to build a gripping melody.

This video will discuss the different ways tempo are used and a brief touch on how time signatures play into your songwriting.

Melody re-writing and editing tips.

In this video, we’ll look at after your song is completed, when to do a rough recording called a work tape, when to do a demonstration of the song and when to copyright.

In this video, we’ll discuss the exercises to help you practice the crafting tools we discussed in the melody section that go along with the attached PDF’s.

This video goes over an exercise for the attached PDF that helps you dissect hit songs and get you critically thinking about all of the sections in this course cohesively. This exercise should help you assimilate all the things you’ve learned so far, and start looking at commercial songs objectively to help you develop and elevate your songwriting.

An introduction to the business of music and what we’ll cover in this section.

A brief look at when collaboration is advantageous.

My tips for creative collaborations.

A brief look at breaking into the music industry as a songwriter.

These are some amazing insider resources for aspiring songwriters who want to bridge the gap of meeting business people and other aspiring songwriters in the music community. There are also some great businesses to follow on social media and some great songwriter podcasts to listen to.

My story of becoming a songwriter and the advice I received along the way that helped shape my career.

A practical look at what daily collaborating looks like along with some stories behind the songs to show a practical application of songwriting and the path a song takes from inception to being commercially released.

A very basic look at what you might expect from a first publishing deal. I am not a lawyer, no two deals are the same, songwriter contracts and expectations are changing all the time along with the business of songwriting—so this video just touches on some of the basic points you might encounter in a first deal in Nashville to illustrate what publishing looks like from a 30,000 foot view. Pop songwriting deals can be very different and this video does not reflect those deals.

An introduction to the different revenue streams songwriters encounter.

A look at mechanical royalties and digital download mechanical royalties.

This video explains often times songwriter’s biggest revenue stream—performance royalties.

This video discusses the world of sync licenses.

Creating works for hire and discussing their advantages and disadvantages.

This video illustrates a mind mapping exercise for the attached PDF. This exercise incorporates all the sections we’ve discussed in this course and lays out how to set some practical goals. This video and exercise illustrates how to creatively expand and how to set practical business goals to work toward— all put together in a way easy to tackle on a daily and monthly basis.

A heartfelt thank you for your commitment to this course and for trusting and allowing me to be a part of your creative growth. Congratulations on completing this course! I am here for you on your creative journey and check email daily. Remember that you are a uniquely amazing creative being!

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Explores insider industry tips and secrets, offering knowledge that typically takes years to acquire, potentially accelerating career development

Taught by a songwriter with over 20 years of industry experience, which may provide valuable insights into the realities of the music business

Includes exercises for each section, which reinforces learning and encourages practical application of songwriting techniques

Covers core music business topics such as collaborating and networking, which are essential for success in the music industry

Discusses revenue streams for songwriters, which helps learners understand how to monetize their creative work

Requires learners to dissect hit songs, which may help them develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of commercial songwriting

Reviews summary

Songwriting craft and industry business

According to learners, this course offers a look into songwriting from an industry professional's perspective, covering both the creative craft and essential business aspects. Students can expect to delve into techniques for writing compelling lyrics and developing memorable melodies, alongside understanding song structure and basic music theory. It also aims to provide insider tips on breaking into the music industry, networking resources, and how songwriters earn income. The course includes over 70 video lessons and PDF exercises designed to build practical skills.

PDF exercises support learning.

"The attached PDF exercises are great for putting what you learn into practice immediately."

"I found working through the exercises essential for applying the concepts."

"Having exercises tied to each section helps reinforce understanding."

"They provide a structured way to develop my songwriting skills."

Effective methods for lyrics and melody.

"The crafting tools for lyric writing provided concrete methods to improve my words."

"I found the sections on melody construction particularly helpful for making my songs stick."

"Learning about common chord progressions and their use in hits was very insightful."

"The exercises help solidify the techniques taught in the videos."

Covers both creative writing and business.

"I love that this course doesn't just teach writing but also the business side of things."

"It's comprehensive, covering both the art of songwriting and the necessary industry knowledge."

"The blend of creative techniques and business realities is exactly what I needed."

"This course bridges the gap between writing songs and understanding how to make a career out of it."

Tips on career, deals, and income.

"The information on breaking into the industry and networking resources is invaluable."

"Understanding how songwriters make money and what a publishing deal looks like was enlightening."

"These are the practical tips about the music business that are hard to find elsewhere."

"I feel more prepared to navigate the industry after this section."

Learn from a songwriter with hits.

"Learning from someone who has actually achieved hit songs is incredibly valuable."

"The instructor's background provides a real-world perspective often missing in other courses."

"I appreciated hearing the 'how I did it' stories and the practical application examples."

"Insights from a pro are gold for understanding the industry side."

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 Songwriting Hit Mastery: Lyric Writing, Music Theory with these activities:

Review Basic Music Theory

Show steps

Strengthen your understanding of music theory concepts like scales, chords, and key signatures, which are essential for songwriting.

Browse courses on Music Theory

Show steps

Review scales and key signatures.
Practice identifying intervals.
Study basic chord construction.

Read 'The Songwriter's Idea Book'

Show steps

Generate new song ideas and overcome writer's block by using prompts and exercises from a popular songwriting book.

View The Songwriters Idea Book: 40 Strategies to... on Amazon

Show steps

Obtain a copy of 'The Songwriter's Idea Book'.
Work through several prompts and exercises.
Apply the techniques to your own songwriting.

Chord Progression Practice

Show steps

Reinforce your understanding of chord progressions by practicing common and 'magic' chord progressions on an instrument.

Show steps

Select a set of common chord progressions.
Practice playing the progressions in different keys.
Experiment with variations and embellishments.

Four other activities

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Show all seven activities

Attend a Songwriters' Open Mic Night

Show steps

Network with other songwriters and get feedback on your songs by attending an open mic night.

Show steps

Find a local songwriters' open mic night.
Prepare a song to perform.
Attend the event and perform your song.
Network with other songwriters.

Write a Song Based on a Common Theme

Show steps

Practice writing songs based on common themes like love, loss, or hope to improve your ability to connect with listeners.

Show steps

Choose a common song theme.
Brainstorm ideas and lyrical concepts.
Write the lyrics and melody.
Refine and edit the song.

Read '6 Steps to Songwriting Success'

Show steps

Learn practical techniques for crafting hit songs by studying a popular songwriting guide.

View This Business of Songwriting on Amazon

Show steps

Obtain a copy of '6 Steps to Songwriting Success'.
Read the book and take notes on key concepts.
Apply the techniques to your own songwriting.

Dissect Hit Songs

Show steps

Improve your understanding of song structure, melody, and lyrics by dissecting several hit songs and analyzing their components.

Show steps

Choose several hit songs from different genres.
Analyze the song structure and arrangement.
Examine the melody and chord progressions.
Study the lyrics and themes.
Write a report summarizing your findings.

Career center

Learners who complete Songwriting Hit Mastery: Lyric Writing, Music Theory will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Songwriter

A songwriter crafts original musical compositions, including lyrics and melodies, and this course is designed to help hone those skills. Songwriters use their creativity and musical knowledge to create new songs for themselves or for other artists. Taking this course allows aspiring songwriters to learn the practices used by professional songwriters, specifically about structuring songs, creating memorable chord progressions, and crafting elevated lyrics. It also provides valuable insights into the music business such as networking, collaboration, and income generation streams, providing an aspiring songwriter a well rounded understanding of the profession.

See salaries and explore the career path for Songwriter

Lyricist

A lyricist is a writer that specializes in creating the words for songs, a craft that this course directly seeks to improve. Lyricists work to effectively capture emotions and themes using language and rhythm. This course can be highly beneficial for aspiring lyricists as it dives deep into the tools of lyric writing, focusing on how to create inspired and impactful lyrics. The course also provides practical exercises and insights, specifically into how to craft memorable lines and compelling verses, and how lyrics fit into the overall song structure, thus preparing a lyricist to excel in their craft.

See salaries and explore the career path for Lyricist

Composer

A composer is responsible for the original creation of musical works, often by orchestrating melodies and harmonies. This course directly relates to the work of a composer, by assisting learners in developing skills in writing music. The course will benefit those exploring composing by offering instruction on chord progressions, basic music theory, and song structure. A composer will also benefit from learning about the music industry, collaboration, networking, and income streams for writers. Through these lessons, this course helps an aspiring composer learn the practical skills of the trade.

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Music Producer

A music producer oversees the creative and technical aspects of a recording project, and this course may be useful for music producers who want to broaden their skills. While this course does not cover the technical side of music production, it will provide a producer with a greater insight into the songwriting process. A more skilled music producer can contribute more effectively to the songwriting, arrangement, and direction of a song. The course will also provide business insights, networking tips, and financial revenue streams for a producer who works closely with songwriters, making them a more effective member of the team.

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Music Arranger

A music arranger adapts existing musical compositions for specific instruments or ensembles, enhancing the original work. This course helps an arranger by developing their understanding of song structure and harmonic progressions. This course teaches the basics of hit song structures, chord progressions, and melody creation. This knowledge can be useful to a music arranger who needs to understand the underlying compositional elements of songs to create effective arrangements. This course may be useful in the career of a music arranger.

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Music Supervisor

A music supervisor selects and licenses music for film, television, video games, and other media, and this course may provide relevant knowledge. Music supervisors need to understand song structure, lyric content, and the overall feel of a song. This course, with its emphasis on understanding song structure, themes, chord progressions, and lyrical crafting, can therefore help a music supervisor to better evaluate the quality of a song. The course’s instruction on how songwriters make money can also inform a music supervisor's decisions. Knowledge of professional songwriting principles may help a music supervisor in their work.

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Vocal Coach

A vocal coach provides instruction to singers on techniques, performance, and interpretation, and this course might be useful in their work. A vocal coach may understand their student's needs better by learning about songwriting techniques from this course. They would also benefit from additional knowledge of song structure, melody, and lyric writing. By taking this course, a vocal coach becomes a more well rounded resource for their students, offering an additional understanding of the craft of songwriting.

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Music Educator

A music educator teaches the art and science of music to students of all ages, and this course may be beneficial to their teaching. A music educator who takes this course will gain a deeper insight into the craft of songwriting, which they can then pass on to their students. This course's lessons on song structure, lyric writing, and melody creation will be invaluable for an educator seeking to understand how songs are made. The business and networking resources could also be useful for a teacher looking to build a robust music program.

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Session Musician

A session musician is a musician who is hired to perform on recording projects, and this course may be of incidental use to their work. While not directly related to performance, this course might help a session musician by developing their understanding of songwriting. Session musicians who take this course may be able to better understand the intent and structure of the songs they are hired to perform. This may also make them more effective in collaborating with the songwriters they work with. This course may be useful to a session musician.

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Music Journalist

A music journalist writes about various aspects of music, and this course may be of incidental use to their work. While not directly applicable, a music journalist who takes this course may gain more insight into the craft of songwriting, which could enhance their critical analysis and reporting. By learning about the elements of songwriting as discussed in this course, they will be better able to understand the processes that musicians go through to create music. This may also enhance a music journalist's ability to conduct well informed interviews with songwriters.

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Artist Manager

An artist manager guides and directs the careers of musicians and performers. A deeper understanding of the creative process of songwriting, as taught by this course, may be useful for an artist manager. By gaining knowledge of song structures, lyric writing, and the music business, an artist manager can provide more informed advice to the talent they represent. The course’s business and networking resources could also be helpful to an artist manager who is involved in career development for their artist. This course may be useful for an artist manager.

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Creative Director

A creative director oversees the visual and stylistic aspects of creative projects, and this course may be of indirect use in their work. While a creative director might not write songs, this course may help them understand the creative processes of musicians and songwriters with whom they collaborate on projects. They can better appreciate the effort required to make a song, leading to more effective collaboration. The course knowledge of song structure, lyric writing, and melody creation may also inform their creative direction. This course may be somewhat helpful to a creative director.

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Content Creator

A content creator produces engaging content for various platforms, both online and offline, and this course may be helpful to some content creators. While content creation can cover many topics, a content creator who seeks to create content around music will find this course particularly valuable. By learning the techniques of songwriting this course teaches, a content creator can create more engaging and informed content on the subject. The business and networking resources in the course might also provide them with an advantage. This course may be useful for a content creator.

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Talent Scout

A talent scout identifies emerging talent in the music industry and this course may be useful to them. By gaining relevant knowledge of the different facets of songwriting, a talent scout can improve their ability to evaluate the quality and potential of a songwriter. By learning about song structure, lyric writing, and the music business aspects of the songwriting craft, they will gain an advantage in the field. A talent scout can use the course information to more accurately identify songwriters who are ready for commercial success. This course may be useful for a talent scout.

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Music Publicist

A music publicist promotes artists and their music to the public, and this course may be somewhat helpful to their career. By taking this course, a music publicist gains a deeper understanding of the songwriting process and can therefore better understand the work of the musicians they represent. This can help them improve their ability to effectively communicate the creative process of their clients to the media. The course knowledge of song structure, lyric writing, and melody creation may help to inform their marketing messages. This course may be useful to a music publicist.

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Songwriting Hit Mastery

Lyric Writing, Music Theory

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Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Songwriting craft and industry business

Activities

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