Behind the Scenes: Marie Ella's Songwriting Process

Songwriting is a beautiful blend of creativity and emotion. It is a journey that takes you through various stages of inspiration, reflection, and expression. As a songwriter, I often find myself lost in the process, discovering new ways to convey feelings and stories through music. In this post, I will take you behind the scenes of my songwriting process, sharing insights and tips that can help you understand how songs come to life.

Finding Inspiration

Inspiration can strike at any moment. It might come from a conversation, a book, or even a walk in nature. For me, inspiration often comes from personal experiences. I believe that the best songs are those that tell a story, and my life is full of stories waiting to be told.

When I feel stuck, I like to change my environment. A new setting can spark fresh ideas. Sometimes, I sit in my school cafeteria, listening to the chatter around me. Other times, I take a long walk with my dog, Dika, around the neighborhood lake. The key is to stay open to the world around you. You never know what might inspire your next song.

The Writing Process

Once I have an idea, I start writing. I usually begin with a concept or a theme. This could be anything from love, family, and health to friendship and adventure. I jot down words and phrases that come to mind. It is important to let your thoughts flow freely at this stage.

After brainstorming, I focus on the structure of the song. Most songs follow a common format: verses, chorus, and bridge. The verses tell the story, the chorus captures the main message, and the bridge adds a twist or a new perspective.

Here is a simple breakdown of the structure:

• Verse 1: Introduce the story or theme.

• Chorus: The catchy part that sums up the song.

• Verse 2: Continue the story, adding depth.

• Chorus: Repeat the main message.

• Bridge: A different angle or emotional shift.

• Chorus: End with a strong finish.

  
  
  
  

Crafting Lyrics

Writing lyrics is one of the most challenging yet rewarding parts of songwriting. I aim for my lyrics to be relatable and authentic. I often use metaphors, imagery, and Philosophy to paint a picture in the listener's mind.

For example, instead of saying "I am sad," I might write "The rain falls like my tears." This creates a vivid image and evokes emotion.

I also pay attention to the rhythm and flow of the words. Lyrics should feel natural when sung. I often read my lyrics out loud to check how they sound. If something feels off, I revise it until it flows smoothly.

Melodies and Chords

Once the lyrics are in place, I start working on the melody. I usually play around with different chord progressions on my piano or guitar. The melody should complement the lyrics and enhance the emotion of the song.

I often experiment with different tempos and styles. Sometimes, a slow ballad works best, while other times, an upbeat tune fits the mood. It is all about finding the right sound that matches the message of the song.

Collaborating with Others

Collaboration can be a game-changer in the songwriting process. Working with other musicians or songwriters can bring new ideas and perspectives. I enjoy co-writing with my twin, my parents, or fellow artists.

During a collaboration, we often bounce ideas off each other. One person might have a great hook, while another has a powerful verse. Together, we can create something unique that we might not have achieved alone.

Recording and Production

After finalizing the song, the next step is recording. This is where the magic happens. I usually start with a simple demo, just me and my piano. From there, I add layers, such as drums, bass, guitar, and other instruments.

The production process can be lengthy, but it is essential to bring the song to life. I work closely with producers and sound engineers to ensure the final product matches my vision.

Performing the Song

Once the song is recorded, it is time to share it with the world. Performing live is one of my dreams and goal as a songwriter. I think that there is something special about connecting with an audience through music.

I imagine each performance as an opportunity to share my story and connect with others. The energy from the crowd can be incredibly inspiring and, I know, will motivate me to keep creating.

The Importance of Feedback

Feedback is crucial in the songwriting process. I often share my songs with family, trusted friends, or fellow musicians before releasing them. Their insights can help me see things from a different perspective.

Constructive criticism can be tough to hear, but it is essential for growth. I take their feedback seriously and use it to improve my songs.

Staying True to Yourself

Throughout the songwriting process, it is important to stay true to yourself. It can be tempting to follow trends or write what you think others want to hear. However, the best songs come from genuine emotion and personal experiences.

I always remind myself to write for me first. If I am passionate about a song, it will resonate with others. Authenticity is key in connecting with your audience.

Embracing the Journey

Songwriting is a journey filled with ups and downs. There will be moments of inspiration and times of frustration. It is essential to embrace the process and enjoy the ride.

Every song I write teaches me something new. Whether it is about my craft or myself, I grow with each experience.

Final Thoughts

The songwriting process is unique for everyone. What works for me may not work for you, and that is perfectly okay. The important thing is to find your own voice and express yourself through music.

I hope this glimpse into my songwriting process inspires you to explore your creativity. Remember, every song starts with a single idea. So, grab your pen and paper, and let the music flow.

A songwriter capturing thoughts in a notebook during the creative process.