How do you write a song for a specific artist?

1 Research the artist

The first step is to do some research on the artist you are writing for. Listen to their previous songs, albums, and live performances. Pay attention to their genre, tone, mood, themes, lyrics, melodies, and vocal range. Try to understand what makes them unique and what their fans love about them. Also, check their social media, interviews, and biographies to learn more about their background, influences, stories, and values. This will help you to write a song that reflects their identity and connects with their audience.

2 Write the hook

The hook is the catchy part of the song that grabs the listener's attention and makes them want to hear more. It can be a phrase, a melody, a riff, or a combination of them. To write a hook for a specific artist, you need to consider their style, genre, and message. For example, if you are writing for a pop artist, you might want to use a simple and memorable hook that repeats throughout the song. If you are writing for a rock artist, you might want to use a powerful and energetic hook that showcases their guitar skills. If you are writing for a rap artist, you might want to use a clever and witty hook that expresses their attitude.

3 Write the verses and chorus

The verses and chorus are the main parts of the song that tell the story and convey the emotion. They usually follow a structure that alternates between them, such as verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus. To write the verses and chorus for a specific artist, you need to use the hook as a guide and expand on the idea. You also need to use words, rhymes, and rhythms that match their genre and voice. For example, if you are writing for a country artist, you might want to use descriptive and relatable words that paint a picture of their life. If you are writing for a R&B artist, you might want to use smooth and sensual words that create a mood of romance. If you are writing for a metal artist, you might want to use harsh and aggressive words that evoke a feeling of anger.

4 Write the bridge

The bridge is the part of the song that breaks the pattern and adds some variation. It can be a different chord progression, melody, rhythm, or lyric. It usually comes before the final chorus and serves as a climax or a contrast. To write a bridge for a specific artist, you need to think of a way to surprise and impress the listener. You also need to keep the artist's genre and voice in mind. For example, if you are writing for a jazz artist, you might want to use a complex and sophisticated bridge that showcases their improvisation skills. If you are writing for a reggae artist, you might want to use a simple and groovy bridge that invites the listener to dance. If you are writing for a punk artist, you might want to use a loud and rebellious bridge that challenges the status quo.

5 Record a demo

A demo is a rough recording of your song that you use to present it to the artist, producer, or publisher. It does not have to be perfect, but it should capture the essence and potential of your song. To record a demo for a specific artist, you need to use the appropriate instruments, sounds, and effects that suit their genre and style. You also need to sing or rap the lyrics with the right pitch, tone, and expression that match their voice and personality. You can use a home studio, a professional studio, or an online service to record your demo, depending on your budget and preference.

6 Deliver your song

The final step is to deliver your song to the artist, producer, or publisher. You need to follow their instructions and expectations, such as the format, the deadline, and the feedback. You also need to have a clear and fair agreement on the rights, royalties, and credits of your song. You can use a contract, a split sheet, or a verbal deal to secure your songwriting agreement, depending on your relationship and trust. You should also be prepared to make some changes or revisions to your song, based on the artist's input and vision.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?