4 Methods for Writing Out-of-the-Box Lyrics

Want to break out of boring lyric-writing habits and stale cliches? In this video, I show you 4 specific methods (with step-by-step instructions and examples) for how to write unconventional, abstract, quirky lyrics that work.

Resources mentioned in the video:

[Anya-ipfd]

In my word ladders I’ve stopped using the ‘stuff in the room’ (gets old after one or two goes), and instead I grab a book, turn to a random page, and then write down the first 10 nouns I read

[NewFalconerRecords]

I'm the complete opposite. I naturally write obscure and unusual lyrics but struggle to give my songs a more focused and clear narrative. I always keep in some of the best weird lines though, when they fit. But I always avoid cliches, and never ever use the word "baby".

[PhumlaniNxala]

you dont know how many lives you impact with your teaching,
my name is Phumlani from South Africa, thank you

[PeterSykesMusic]

IMO Probably the best YT channel for songwriting. Thanks Keppie!

[thenightranger]

The second segment reminded me of one of my personal proudest slang rhymes, which was concrete and heartbeat.

One of my favorite weird methods that I use is to sing your existing lyrics in a different or less-enunciated voice, and use the power of mishearing words to come up with more interesting lyrics. There are so many times where I’ve misheard lyrics that were either more interesting or more emotional than the actual words, so using that has been helpful in my own work from time to time.

[recoveringcollecting]

As an ever learning human being (artist), I wanted to share some gratitude and say Thank You for making this video. It's reminded me, again, that creating is about having fun. That's priceless, and to hold firmly at the front of my mind. Keep It Simple, Awesome stuff, have a great day!

[mdmorris]

My current favourite is another Tweedy-inspired technique. I take a title, put it in a box in the middle of the page, and then free-associate from the words in the title. Great technique, takes you some weird places. Word ladders also work brilliantly with adjectives and nouns from subjects completely unrelated. Yesterday, my list was winter adjectives and dance nouns…arctic ballet…hmmm…right…there’s a title for the first technique!

[losalamos]

As always an awesome and practical video and so nice to hear an Aussie voice 😊

[dextercox]

I need to learn more about lyrics, you are very helpful. I start off really good, then I stop for a day or so. I get back to it, it starts being more of a story. After that I feel like I have to start a whole new one. (As of right now, take a daybreak. Look back at it tomorrow.)

[NigelG-ol]

Thank you for taking the time to make these videos.

[schoontube]

Thanks! I struggle with this. These are excellent ideas. And you’re an outstanding teacher. You explain things clearly, and you are genuinely enthusiastic and positive about songwriting. 🎖️

[mrgarciaii]

Thank you! You helped me write my first song!

[BrianOboylemusic]

I’m a regular watcher .. thanks for the help… still feel stuck in cliche land but I stick to the process, lately I write songs with the intent on throwing them away just to finish one without any pressure or expectation of it being heard

[Mytro]

Thank you for this gift to help with the current road block that is now in front of me. You are a gem!

[RafaJams]

“As birds outside go supernova”….Beautiful!

[mattstorch]

This exercise led me to write these lyrics. Definitely outside of the box from my conventional / typical writing style. It was a very refreshing exercise that I will continue to use. Thank you!

Your picture speaks to me as the stereo chatters
The dog is drinking from a cup
My wife is on a chair outside by the pool
Mumbling about nothing that matters
The voice ​in my head roars like a speaker
And I sigh out the window like some kind of fool
I need someone to talk to beside's this plant
Could it be that I've lost my cool.

[mariadelimant]

Thank you so much for the content you post (and the pdf's you provide!)

I've been following your channel for a while now as I've been getting more and more into songwriting and it's been an amazing source for guidance, practice and learning. Keep up the fantastic work!! ❤

[Humanumikey]

This so so fun. I’m gonna get addicted to this.

[snowdada]

This is a fabulous lesson. I love words! Thank you!

[GrooveMasterAcademy]

That is some great information..Thank you for sharing it!