Have you ever thought about the rhythm of words in a song? That’s where lyrical phrasing steps in. The way your lyrics are phrased and the words are structured can make or break your song’s impact. So, let’s take a look at some helpful tips on how to harness lyric phrasing in your songwriting!
The Art of Length
Check the length of each line you’re crafting. While there’s no strict rule, lines that are too long can feel like a marathon for your listener. Shorter lines, on the other hand, keep things breezy and tend to work with most types of songs. Longer lines can be used at times, especially fast-paced rap songs and ballads, but be weary to not make them draw on for too long.
Balancing Act
Just like juggling, balancing the lengths of your lines is crucial. If you have one super short line surrounded by longer ones, it’s like throwing off your rhythm. Generally, lines within the same section should be somewhat similar in length. For example, maybe your verse will have longer lines than your chorus!
The Singability Factor
Lyric phrasing isn’t just about how words look on paper – it’s about how they sound when sung. Long, complex words can trip up your vocal delivery and disrupt the song’s flow. So, opt for words that roll off the tongue effortlessly.
Pause and Play
Think of phrasing as musical punctuation. Just like commas and periods in writing, pauses in lyrical phrasing create moments of impact. Let your words breathe, allowing your listeners to digest the emotion. A well-placed pause can add depth, emphasize a thought, and make your audience hang on to every word.
In a nutshell, lyric phrasing brings your lyrics to life. It’s what makes your song feel like a journey, guiding listeners through emotions and stories. While these tips are here to guide you, remember there is no hard set rule to how to write music. Go with your gut, and see what comes out! Happy writing!
