Empathy is a critical skill for songwriters to have. It’s the ability to understand and share the feelings of others, and it’s what allows us to connect with our listeners on a deeper level. Whether you’re writing from your own perspective or someone else’s, empathy is what helps your songs feel authentic and meaningful. Here are three tips for writing a song from someone else’s point of view:
1. Do your research
When writing a song from someone else’s point of view, it’s important to gather as much information as you can about the person or perspective you’re writing from. This might involve reading books, watching movies or documentaries, or speaking with people who have firsthand experience with the subject matter. The more you know, the more authentic and convincing your song will be.
2. Consider the point of view
As you begin to write your song, think about the point of view of your character or subject. Are you writing from the first person (using “I” or “me”), the second person (using “you”), or the third person (using “he,” “she,” or “they”)? Each point of view has its own strengths and limitations, and choosing the right one for your song can help you create a more powerful and effective story.
3. Get inside the head of your character
As you write your song, try to get inside the head of your character or subject and see the world through their eyes. Use language and imagery that reflects their perspective and experiences, and avoid language or imagery that might be inappropriate or offensive.
By following these tips and practicing empathy in your songwriting, you’ll be able to write powerful and meaningful songs from someone else’s point of view. Whether you’re writing about a fictional character, a real person, or an abstract concept, the ability to understand and share the feelings of others is what makes your songs resonate with listeners. So the next time you’re writing a song from someone else’s perspective, remember to use empathy as your guide and see where it takes you.
