Writing Great Songs

Rewriting Songs: Top Tips and Tactics to Enhance Your Songwriting

As a songwriter, you may find yourself stuck in a rut with a song that isn’t quite hitting the mark. It’s natural to feel frustrated, but instead of giving up on the song altogether, consider rewriting it to take it to the next level. Here are some top tips and tactics to help you with the rewriting process.

1. Start with a fresh perspective: Sometimes all you need is a fresh perspective to see your song in a new light. Take a break from the song and come back to it with a clear mind. Try to approach it from a different angle, such as changing the key, tempo, or rhythm.
2. Focus on the structure: The structure of a song can have a big impact on its overall impact. Experiment with different song structures, such as verse-chorus-bridge or AABA, and see which one works best for your song.
3. Rewrite the lyrics: Lyrics are often the most important aspect of a song, so it’s crucial to get them right. Play around with different rhyme schemes, metaphors, and word choices to see how they affect the overall feel of the song. Try to convey the emotion and message of the song in a way that resonates with your audience.
4. Rearrange the melody: Sometimes, rearranging the melody can breathe new life into a song. Experiment with different melodies, harmonies, and chord progressions to see which ones work best for your song.
5. Collaborate with others: Collaborating with other musicians and songwriters can be a great way to get new ideas and inspiration. Work with a co-writer or producer to help you with rewriting, and be open to feedback and suggestions.
6. Embrace the editing process: Rewriting a song can be a daunting task, but it’s important to embrace the editing process. Be willing to cut out parts that don’t work, and refine the parts that do. Remember, rewriting is about making the song better, not just making changes for the sake of it.
7. Don’t be afraid to start over: Sometimes, a song doesn’t work, no matter how much you try to rewrite it. Don’t be afraid to start over from scratch and approach the song from an entirely new perspective.
   
   Rewriting a song can be a challenging process, but it can also be a rewarding one. By following these tips and tactics, you can take your songwriting to the next level and create songs that truly resonate with your audience. Remember, the key to successful rewriting is to stay true to your vision while being open to new ideas and perspectives.

See also our tips on Song Editing to take your song to the next level