The Songwriters Guide to Finishing Your Songs Strong!

As songwriters, we all know that exhilarating yet daunting feeling of staring at an unfinished song. Whether you’re fine-tuning lyrics, building out a second verse, or deciding if your song even needs a bridge, it’s crucial to approach each step methodically and creatively. Here’s a comprehensive guide, inspired by an interactive workshop, to help you finish every song with confidence and clarity.

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1. Revisit Songs That Stick

Start by identifying your songs or ideas that resonate most with you. If a title or a melody immediately brings back the vibe or emotion of your song, it’s likely worth finishing. Trust your instincts—songs that stick in your memory often have a compelling hook or story.

Pro Tip: If you’ve written hundreds of songs, trust the ones you recall most vividly. There’s a reason they stand out.

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2. Edit and Expand

Once you’ve chosen a song to revisit, dive into editing. Here’s how to approach key areas:

• Verse 1: Paint a vivid picture. Use specific imagery to draw listeners in. For instance:
  • “I saw your new friend in line for the bathroom / She’s kind of pretty in your cheap lipstick.”
• Pre-Chorus: Set up your chorus with a strong emotional or narrative lead-in. For example:
  • “Did I block you or didn’t I bother? / Do I still want you tonight? I wonder.”

Keep your edits concise but impactful. If a line doesn’t serve the narrative or melody, don’t be afraid to cut or tweak it.

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3. Chorus: The Heart of the Song

The chorus should be the payoff. It’s where your main hook lives and where your song’s emotional weight shines. Make it memorable and singable:

• Example:
  • “Could be maybe if you’re wearing that dress / Never know, baby, might do something we’ll regret.”

Focus on simplicity and repetition to make it catchy. Avoid overcomplicating this section.

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4. Second Verse: Stay in the Moment

Your second verse should build on the narrative or emotional thread of the first. Use it to add depth without deviating from the story. For instance:

• “You put your hand on her hip like you own her / And, baby, I remember how that feels.”

Stay in the present moment to maintain the energy and momentum of the song.

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5. Bridge: A New Perspective

The bridge is your opportunity to introduce contrast. Whether it’s a shift in melody, mood, or lyrical perspective, make it dynamic and fresh.

• Example:
  • “Do I want to take you home, let you break me? / Do I want to let you drive me crazy?”

Keep it short and impactful, using the bridge to lead seamlessly back into the chorus.

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6. Demo the Song

Once the structure is solid, create a basic demo. It doesn’t have to be an expensive polished production—even a simple guitar/vocal work tape can capture the essence of your song.

Pro Tip: Focus on clarity and emotion in your demo. This will help you (and potential collaborators or listeners) hear the song’s potential.

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7. Collaborate and Refine

Don’t hesitate to seek feedback from trusted peers or pro mentors like the staff at SongTown. A fresh perspective can elevate your song and fix blind spots. For example, a group discussion might lead to swapping a line like:

• “She’s kind of pretty in your cheap lipstick,”
  • to:
  • “She’s kind of pretty wearing your lipstick.”

Every tweak matters in perfecting your song’s impact.

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8. Keep It Fun

Remember, songwriting should be enjoyable. Experiment, take risks, and embrace the messy process of creating something meaningful.

Closing Note: Finishing a song is as much about discipline as it is about creativity. Stay open to edits, trust your instincts, and always aim to serve the song.

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With these steps, you’ll not only finish your songs but also strengthen your craft as a songwriter. Now, go turn those ideas into unforgettable music!

~Marti Jane