Songwriting Habits: A Song in progress

Today I will explain an example of a song in progress that I am currently working on to show you some of the process used in songwriting.

Step One

I started by experimenting with some chord progressions on the piano until I came up with this sequence: C - Em - F. I was experimenting with using a slightly different arrangement of chords, instead of the usual I, IV, V and used I, III, IV instead.

Step Two

I recorded this piano part on Logic Pro. Then, I fixed any rhythmic mistakes. Using midi to record is really useful for this. I plugged my electronic piano directly into the computer so that it recognised the notes as a midi file, which is software language for the computer as opposed to an audio file. Midi file makes it easier to change the information, whilst in audio recording you have to record the sound exactly how you want it.

Step Three

At first I thought it might be an instrumental piece. But after listening to it a few times I began to hear a melody over the top.

I then started working on the words…which I am still in the process of completing

Step Four

At the same time, I also started experimenting with adding a cello part and drums.

Cello - acting as a bass part and fill-ins at ends of phrases.

Drums - simple rhythmic accompaniment in 3/4 time which has been a challenge.

So this is where I am so far…There has been lots of experimenting with sounds by playing with different apple loops and using Logic sounds, which I will continue to do until the song takes shape.