Rhyming is an important part of songwriting – like the glue that holds the whole thing together. But when do you know you’ve rhymed just enough? While there is no set rule, overdoing rhyming in your lyrics might make them sound a tad forced. So, let’s dive into some tips on how often you should rhyme in lyrics.
Pair ‘Em Up:
One of the most classic rhyme methods is pairing up your lyrics in twos. You’ve probably heard this in countless songs – “moon” rhyming with “June,” or “heart” with “start.” This can also be considered an AABB pattern, and It’s a simple and effective way to give your lyrics that musical touch.
The Alternating Game:
If every pair rhyming feels a bit much, no worries! Every other line rhyming is the way to go. So, imagine if “moon” was paired with “heart” in one set, then the next set might pair “June” with “start.” This way, it’s more of an ABAB pattern, which is just as effective as AABB.
Embrace Section Rhymes:
If you want to rhyme in lyrics more, then consider having every line in a single section be one rhyme. It’s a bit of a power move, often reserved for the chorus to drive home the song’s message. Verses usually switch things up every two lines to keep things moving a bit more. But if you’re down to squeeze in more rhymes, be sure to try this out!
Get Internal:
Internal rhymes are like hidden treasures within a line. It’s when two words rhyme within the same line. For instance, “I’ll keep shining bright all through the night.” Here, “bright” rhymes internally with “night.” This is a great way to add more rhymes, especially for rap songs.
Less is More:
Okay, so you’ve got the rhyme fever. But hold on! Imagine a song where every single word rhymes – it might make you want to skip to the next track. So, here’s the trick: read through your lyrics. If they feel a bit like a sing-songy nursery rhyme, it’s time to dial back.
In the grand scheme of things, the rhyme in lyrics is what glues it all together. It’s what hooks listeners and keeps them humming your tunes. Remember, each song has its own rhythm, and the way you rhyme should complement that. So, go on and play with rhyme schemes, create lyrical patterns, and find what suits your song’s personality.
