In certain ways, writing songs is like writing jokes.
You start with your setup, or your verse. You tell a story which draw your listeners in. Then you hit them with your punchline, or your chorus. That’s your big emotional highpoint of the joke / song.
But here’s the difference…
When we write songs, we don’t hit the punchline and then move on to the next joke. With songwriting, we have to write a 2nd verse that leads right back into the same punchline- and we have to write it so well that it’s an even MORE powerful emotional moment- then maybe we write a bridge and do it again!
That’s hard.
And it’s no laughing matter.
God Bless,
Brent
Learn How To Make Your Songs More Cut-Worthy!
Man vs. Row invites you to be a part of an exclusive Google Hangout I’ll be hosting on Thursday, October 23, from 8pm-9pm Central. In this live event, I’ll teach from my new book, “Cut/able: Lessons In Market-Smart Songwriting.” Not only will you receive a FREE copy of “Cut/able” with your ticket, I’ll answer YOUR questions face-to-face as we discus how YOU can make your songs more market-smart. Space is very limited, so click on the image below to find out more! (Or click here.)
Become an MvR VIP!
If you like this blog and don’t want to miss a single post, or if you want special discounts on Man vs. Row products and services, become an MvR VIP! Simply enter your email in the “Become an MvR VIP” section on this page. It’s either in the upper righthand corner or down below. Also, please share this blog with anyone you think would benefit from it. I appreciate it when you share it on Twitter, Facebook, and anywhere else. Thanks!
Brent’s Twitter: @Razorbaxter
Brent Baxter Music: http://www.brentbaxtermusic.com
Brent’s Instagram: Man_vs_Row
Spot on right.
And of course: as long as the chorus (punchline) doesn’t try to knock me out with volume only…and zero melodic or lyrical power. There are a few tunes that double (or more) the volume…and get a channel change from me.
Good post and thoughts as usual. Have Fun!
ML
Hmm, i am not sure on this….i know my bridges are an oblique way to look at the story from a different perspective than the verse of chorus…so let’s think this thru…
the verse is the story line….so i guess the chorus is the emotional center and heart of the song…yea, that makes sense, whatcha think?