Green Vegetables
31, Jul, 2010

Writing Catchy Melodies

Written by writeasong.org   

A well written melody can make or break a song. A melody can either be written before the lyrics or the lyrics can be written with the melody to follow. The more popular way to write a song today is to get the lyrics down and then come up with the melody.When starting out with writing a melody consider working from an instrumental solo or guitar riff. A good instrumental solo or a well thought out guitar riff can be a good base for a catchy melody. Take the solo and from there write a melody that will compliment that solo. A catchy melody is what grabs the listener’s attention and intrigues them to take enough interest in the song to listen to the lyrics. The melody is usually the tune that the chorus goes along with. It usually goes hand in hand with the hook.

The best way to write an effective melody is to consider and dabble in the concept of music theory a little. Being familiar with music theory is like having the answer key to some of the catchiest melodies in the music industry today. This will help you analyze the catchy melodies of other songs that inspire you or songs that are interesting and original. Typical successful melodies all have a thematic theme. If the notes used to put a catchy melody together reference each other then the melody is easily repeatable. Repeating a catchy pattern in different ways with in the melody is what makes it stick in the listeners head. repetition in moderation is important as well, too much repetition can also confuse the listener.Well thought out repetition is present in many popular and successful songs in rotation today as well as many years ago.

A catchy melody needs to be one that the listener can relate and tap their foot to. Nostalgia can also be helpful in creating a popular mass appealing melody. Sometimes musicians sample old melodies that would trigger excellent memories in the listeners mind. Making your melody original is crucial though because you want people to think of your song, not another song that it sounds a little too much like. This is a difficult part of song writing but also very important. A catchy melody is the first thing people hear and what they will remember. Making a lasting impression in your listener will give your song mass appeal and an unforgettable factor.