What To Write A Song About? 107 Prompts For Songwriters

What To Write A Song About? If you are seeking inspiration for songwriting and aiming to craft songs that resonate and generate income, payoffsong.com provides the ultimate resource. Discover 107 prompts tailored to ignite your creativity and guide you toward composing hits that not only capture hearts but also boost your earnings.

Are you ready to dive into the world of songwriting, create catchy tunes, and turn your passion into profit? Payoffsong.com is your go-to destination for comprehensive insights, tips, and opportunities in the realm of music monetization, offering resources to help you navigate the world of music licensing and copyright. Let’s explore how to pen songs that touch souls and line your pockets, unlocking the full potential of your musical talents.

1. Love Songs: Prompts to Capture the Heart

Love songs are a cornerstone of the music industry, celebrated for their ability to convey universal emotions. From the joy of new romance to the complexities of long-term relationships, exploring different facets of love can inspire unique and relatable compositions. Writing love songs is an art that connects with listeners on a deeply personal level, making it a powerful tool for songwriters.

1.1. Specific Love Song Scenarios

Write a love song: Start with the basics and let your creativity flow.
Love song to a current or former lover: Explore personal experiences to create an authentic and heartfelt piece.
Love song to a desired or imaginary lover: Unleash your imagination and craft a song filled with longing and idealization.
Love song from someone else to his or her lover: Step outside your perspective and tell a love story from another’s viewpoint.
Love song about an unusual kind of love: Challenge conventional themes by exploring unique relationships and connections.
Love song about a complicated kind of love: Dive into the intricacies of love, addressing challenges and emotional depths.
Love song without the word ‘love’: Use metaphors and imagery to convey love without explicitly stating it.
Love song without the word ‘you’: Focus on the emotions and experiences of love, avoiding direct references to the subject.

2. Break-Up Songs: Prompts for Emotional Release

Break-up songs provide a cathartic outlet for both the songwriter and the listener, capturing the pain, anger, and acceptance that come with the end of a relationship. These songs often resonate deeply, offering solace and understanding to those experiencing similar emotions. Exploring the nuances of break-ups can lead to powerful and relatable compositions.

2.1. Diverse Break-Up Perspectives

Happy break-up song: Celebrate the freedom and relief of ending a toxic relationship.
Sad break-up song: Express the grief and sorrow of loss and separation.
Conflicted break-up song: Explore the uncertainty and mixed emotions that accompany a difficult decision.
Terrified break-up song: Capture the fear and anxiety of ending a relationship despite its problems.
Sudden break-up song: Describe the shock and disbelief of an unexpected end.
Song about wanting someone back: Express the longing and regret of a lost love.
Song about not wanting someone back: Celebrate the independence and strength gained from moving on.
Song about being unsure if you want someone back: Explore the ambivalence and confusion of lingering feelings.

3. Relationship Songs: Prompts to Examine Connections

Relationship songs go beyond romantic love, delving into the dynamics of friendships, family bonds, and other interpersonal connections. These songs explore the complexities of human interaction, offering insights into respect, understanding, and communication. By examining the various facets of relationships, songwriters can create pieces that resonate with a wide audience.

3.1. Key Relationship Themes

“I’ve never met anyone like you before”: Celebrate the uniqueness and impact of a special connection.
“Show me some respect”: Address the importance of mutual regard and boundaries in relationships.
“I don’t care”: Explore apathy or indifference in a relationship context.
“I don’t want to know”: Express a desire to avoid difficult truths or painful information.
“Baby, what’s wrong?”: Show concern and willingness to understand a partner’s struggles.
Song that says hello: Capture the excitement and anticipation of a new beginning.
Song that says goodbye: Reflect on endings and the emotions they evoke.

4. Story Songs: Prompts to Narrate Experiences

Story songs transport listeners into different worlds and perspectives, using narrative to convey emotions and messages. These songs can tell tales of real people, fictional characters, or even personal experiences, providing a rich tapestry of human life. Crafting compelling story songs requires attention to detail, character development, and emotional resonance.

4.1. Character-Driven Narratives

Song about someone interesting: Highlight the unique qualities and experiences of a compelling individual.
Song about someone misunderstood: Offer empathy and understanding to a marginalized or overlooked person.
Song about someone you dislike: Explore the complexities of negative feelings and perspectives.
Song about someone you know personally: Draw from personal experiences to create an intimate and relatable story.
Song about someone in the news: Reflect on current events and their impact on individuals.
Song about a fictional character: Reimagine and explore the story of an existing character.
Song about you from someone else’s perspective: Offer a unique and insightful look at yourself through another’s eyes.

5. Personal/Artist Songs: Prompts for Self-Expression

Personal songs allow artists to connect with their audience on a deeper level, sharing their values, experiences, and aspirations. These songs offer a glimpse into the artist’s identity, creating a sense of authenticity and vulnerability. Writing personal songs can be a powerful way to build a loyal following and express your unique voice.

5.1. Introspective Themes

Song that introduces you as an artist: Define your artistic identity and vision.
Song that introduces someone else as an artist: Celebrate and showcase another artist’s unique talents.
Song based on your key life philosophy: Share your core beliefs and values with the world.
Song that tells us something nobody else knows about you: Reveal a hidden aspect of yourself to create intrigue.
Song about a major event in your life: Reflect on significant moments and their impact.
Song about a major change in your life: Explore the challenges and opportunities of transformation.
Song about what you want in life: Express your aspirations and dreams for the future.
Song about your biggest hope in life: Share your optimism and vision for a better world.
Song about your biggest disappointment in life: Reflect on setbacks and lessons learned.
Song about growing up in your neighborhood: Capture the essence of your upbringing and community.

6. “I Am” Songs: Prompts to Explore Identity

“I Am” songs are powerful declarations of self, allowing artists to express their emotions, beliefs, and intentions. These songs can be uplifting, introspective, or motivational, offering listeners a glimpse into the artist’s inner world. Writing “I Am” songs can be a cathartic and empowering experience, helping you define and express your true self.

6.1. Declarative Statements

“I’m happy” song (with explanation): Express joy and share the reasons behind your happiness.
“I’m sad” song (with explanation): Acknowledge and explore the roots of your sadness.
“I don’t know”: Reflect on uncertainty and the acceptance of the unknown.
“Nothing’s gonna stop me”: Declare your resilience and determination.
“Something awesome is coming”: Express anticipation and excitement for the future.
“I’ve been holding myself back all this time”: Recognize self-imposed limitations and the desire to overcome them.
“I’m ready to start a new chapter in my life”: Embrace change and new beginnings.
“I need help”: Acknowledge vulnerability and the need for support.
“I never saw that coming”: Reflect on surprise and unexpected events.
“I was right all along”: Celebrate validation and the triumph of intuition.

7. Public Service Announcement (PSA) Songs: Prompts for Social Impact

PSA songs use music as a vehicle for positive change, raising awareness about important issues and inspiring action. These songs can promote happiness, laughter, motivation, or self-acceptance, contributing to a better world. Writing PSA songs requires a focus on clear messaging, emotional impact, and a genuine desire to make a difference.

7.1. Positive Messages

Song that makes people feel happy: Uplift listeners with joyful melodies and lyrics.
Song that makes people laugh: Use humor to bring levity and joy to your audience.
Song that makes people want to dance: Create an infectious rhythm and beat.
Song that makes people say “I love you” more: Encourage expressions of affection and connection.
Song that motivates people: Inspire listeners to pursue their goals and dreams.
Song that encourages people to be themselves: Promote self-acceptance and authenticity.
PSA song of your choice: Address a cause or issue that you are passionate about.

8. Other Story Songs: Prompts to Explore Relationships and Scenarios

This category offers a diverse range of prompts to explore various relationships and scenarios, from family dynamics to cultural celebrations. These prompts encourage songwriters to step outside their personal experiences and create narratives that resonate with a broader audience. By exploring different perspectives and situations, you can create songs that are both engaging and meaningful.

8.1. Diverse Perspectives and Scenarios

Song from a parent to their son or daughter: Express love, guidance, or reflection.
Song from a son or daughter to their parent: Share gratitude, understanding, or reconciliation.
Song for two friends: Celebrate the bonds of friendship and loyalty.
Song for two enemies: Explore conflict, resolution, or understanding.
Song for two siblings: Reflect on shared history, rivalry, or support.
Song for two lovers: Capture the highs and lows of romantic relationships.
Song about getting married: Celebrate love, commitment, and new beginnings.
Song about eloping: Capture the spontaneity and intimacy of a secret union.
Song about moving to a new town: Explore the challenges and opportunities of relocation.
Christmas song: Share the joy, traditions, and spirit of the holiday season.
Easter song: Reflect on themes of renewal, hope, and resurrection.
Kwanzaa song: Celebrate African heritage, unity, and community.
Hanukah song: Share the story, traditions, and spirit of the Festival of Lights.
“We make a great team” song: Celebrate collaboration, synergy, and shared success.
“What would I do without you?” song: Express gratitude, dependence, and deep connection.

9. Start with a Lyrical Hook (Title): Prompts to Grab Attention

Starting with a lyrical hook can be a powerful way to craft a memorable song. A strong hook serves as the centerpiece of the song, drawing listeners in and making the message stick. These prompts encourage songwriters to focus on creating catchy, impactful titles that capture the essence of their song.

9.1. Hook-Driven Themes

One-word hook song (e.g., “Jealousy,” “Hello,” “Fever”): Create a song centered around a single, powerful word.
Two-word hook song (e.g., “Bad Romance,” “Space Cowboy”): Combine two words to create an intriguing and memorable title.
Phrase hook song (e.g., “No Good at Goodbyes”): Use a common phrase to capture a relatable emotion or situation.
Complete sentence hook song (e.g., “I’m Outta Love”): Create a song with a declarative and impactful statement.
Question hook song (e.g., “Where Is the Love?”): Pose a thought-provoking question to engage listeners.
Original word or phrase hook song (e.g., “Love Foolosophy,” “Ghetto Gospel”): Invent a unique term to create intrigue and originality.
Change one word in an existing lyrical hook: Reimagine a familiar phrase to create a new context.
Use an existing lyrical hook but write a different story: Borrow a catchy title while crafting a completely new narrative.

10. Start with a Melody: Prompts for Musical Inspiration

Melody is the backbone of a song, carrying the emotional weight and captivating listeners. Starting with a melody can unlock new creative pathways, allowing the music to guide the lyrics and story. These prompts encourage songwriters to explore different melodic styles and find the perfect match for their song.

10.1. Melody-First Approach

Perky melody: Write a light-hearted and upbeat song.
Simple melody: Create a straightforward and accessible song.
Expressive melody: Craft a song filled with emotion and depth.
Melancholy melody: Write a song with a somber and reflective mood.
Melody with repeating rhythmic motif: Use a consistent rhythm to drive the song.

11. Start with a Groove: Prompts for Rhythmic Foundation

The groove of a song sets the tone and makes listeners want to move. Starting with a groove can provide a solid foundation for your songwriting, allowing the rhythm to inform the lyrics and melody. These prompts encourage songwriters to experiment with different grooves and find the perfect rhythmic backdrop for their song.

11.1. Groove-Focused Themes

Upbeat groove: Write an energetic and positive song.
Melancholy groove: Create a reflective and somber song.
Funky groove: Craft a groovy and danceable song.
Weird-sounding groove: Experiment with unconventional rhythms and sounds.
Chilled-out groove: Write a relaxed and laid-back song.
Groove based on two alternating chords: Simplify the harmony and focus on the rhythm.
Groove based on a simple three- or four-chord progression: Create a familiar and accessible sound.
Groove based on a chord progression from an existing song: Borrow a familiar structure and add your own twist.
Freestyle lyrics over a drum loop: Use improvisation to generate new ideas.

12. Miscellaneous: Prompts for Creative Exploration

This category offers a collection of unconventional and imaginative prompts designed to push songwriters beyond their comfort zones. These prompts encourage experimentation, humor, and a willingness to explore the unexpected, resulting in truly unique and memorable songs.

12.1. Unconventional Themes

Song about life on other planets: Explore science fiction and imagination.
Song about your pet rock Ignacio: Infuse humor and whimsy into your songwriting.
Song about the Northern Line Extension to Battersea: Find inspiration in everyday life and infrastructure.
Song about the life and death of Hildegard von Bingen: Explore history and biography.
Song about a sweet potato that looks like Michael Caine: Embrace absurdity and creativity.
Song that never uses the letter ‘m’: Challenge your vocabulary and writing skills.
Song that has a 60-second sackbut solo: Incorporate unique and unexpected musical elements.
Write the song you’ve always wanted to write: Fulfill your artistic dreams and ambitions.
Write the song you’ve just decided you wanted to write: Embrace spontaneity and inspiration.
Write the song you’ve never wanted to write: Step outside your comfort zone and challenge your preferences.
Write the song you still don’t want to write: Confront your fears and limitations.
Write the song you’re totally petrified to write: Overcome your inhibitions and explore difficult topics.
Just write something: Start with a blank page and let your creativity flow.

13. Turning Songwriting into a Lucrative Career

Songwriting can be more than just a passion; it can be a viable career path. To turn your musical talent into a lucrative endeavor, consider the following strategies:

13.1. Monetization Methods

Music Licensing: License your songs for use in films, TV shows, commercials, and video games. According to the National Music Publishers’ Association (NMPA), licensing revenue has steadily increased, providing substantial income for songwriters. In July 2023, NMPA reported a 12% increase in licensing revenue compared to the previous year.
Royalties: Collect royalties from streaming services, radio airplay, and public performances. Organizations like ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC ensure that songwriters receive compensation for the use of their work.

13.2. Strategies for Success

Network: Connect with other musicians, producers, and industry professionals to expand your opportunities.
Promote: Showcase your work online through platforms like SoundCloud, Spotify, and YouTube to reach a wider audience.
Collaborate: Work with other artists to create unique and marketable songs.
Legal: Understanding music law is a must, especially when you want to protect your song.
Stay Updated: Keep current with trends in the current music marketplace.
Professional Development: Continue education and refine your songwriting.

14. Payoffsong.com: Your Gateway to Music Monetization

Payoffsong.com is dedicated to helping songwriters like you transform their passion into profit. Our platform offers a wealth of resources, including:

14.1. Comprehensive Information

Licensing guides: Detailed information on music licensing, copyright, and royalty collection.
Monetization strategies: Proven methods for earning income from your songs.

14.2. Community Engagement

Expert connections: Opportunities to connect with industry professionals and other songwriters.
Collaboration opportunities: Find partners to create and market your music.

14.3. User-Friendly Interface

Easy navigation: Simple and intuitive design for seamless browsing.
Mobile accessibility: Access our resources anytime, anywhere.

14.4. Call to Action

Ready to take your songwriting career to the next level? Visit payoffsong.com today to explore licensing opportunities, learn about copyright, and connect with a community of passionate music creators. Your journey to monetizing your music starts here! For more information, visit our office at 1601 Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028, United States, or call us at +1 (323) 469-2211. Explore the possibilities at payoffsong.com.

15. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

15.1. What should I write a song about?

Focus on your passions, personal experiences, or current events. Draw inspiration from love, loss, joy, or social issues. The best songs come from authentic emotions and stories.

15.2. How do I come up with unique song ideas?

Try freewriting, brainstorming, or using song prompts. Listen to different genres of music and explore new perspectives. Don’t be afraid to experiment and think outside the box.

15.3. How can I make my songs more marketable?

Focus on creating catchy melodies, relatable lyrics, and high-quality production. Understand your target audience and tailor your songs to their tastes. Collaborate with other artists to broaden your reach.

15.4. What is music licensing, and how does it work?

Music licensing is the process of granting permission for someone to use your copyrighted music. This can include sync licenses for film and TV, mechanical licenses for reproduction, and performance licenses for public performances. Licensing agreements generate revenue for songwriters and copyright holders.

15.5. How do I protect my songs from copyright infringement?

Register your songs with the U.S. Copyright Office and join a performing rights organization (PRO) like ASCAP, BMI, or SESAC. These organizations track and collect royalties for public performances of your music.

15.6. What are the best platforms for promoting my music?

Utilize social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to share your music and connect with fans. Use streaming services like Spotify and Apple Music to distribute your songs to a wider audience. Consider using online music promotion services to boost your visibility.

15.7. How can I improve my songwriting skills?

Take songwriting courses, attend workshops, and practice regularly. Seek feedback from other songwriters and industry professionals. Study the work of successful songwriters and analyze what makes their songs effective.

15.8. What are the key elements of a successful song?

A successful song typically includes a catchy melody, relatable lyrics, a strong hook, and effective arrangement and production. It should also evoke emotion and connect with listeners on a personal level.

15.9. How important is collaboration in songwriting?

Collaboration can be highly beneficial, bringing new perspectives, skills, and ideas to the songwriting process. Working with other artists can also expand your network and open up new opportunities.

15.10. How can payoffsong.com help me with my songwriting career?

payoffsong.com offers resources, information, and opportunities to help you monetize your music. Explore our licensing guides, connect with industry professionals, and discover new ways to earn income from your songs.