Joey Sachi’s Top 4 Songwriting Tips
Joey Sachi’s Top 4 Songwriting Tips
Chords can be altered: Try not to overthink chord progressions when starting a song. You're not bound to the first chords you write, even if you come up with a fantastic topline that fits perfectly. One helpful tip I received is to borrow a chord progression from a song you already know and love—after all, chord progressions are often shared! Then, transpose it to a different key, instantly giving it a fresh twist. See where that takes you!
Planning is key: Having a song concept or theme in mind is incredibly helpful for me when I start writing. I keep a dedicated notebook where I brainstorm and jot down anything that comes to mind. Even having specific vocabulary or phrases I want to use makes it easier to shape my lyrics later on.
Don’t get stuck on lyrics: When I start working on a topline, my initial approach is to sing through with simple sounds like 'la' or use some playful, cheesy lyrics. This approach gives me the freedom to focus purely on the melody. Once I've settled on a melodic line that resonates, I go through and start to replace the placeholders with lyrics!
Backup vocals are your greatest ally: Ad Libs' and backup vocals are your friends—adding them in is sometimes like sprinkling magic dust over a track! Including different layers and unlocking harmonies creates depth in my music. If any ideas come to mind when you’re writing a song, always quickly record them on your phone using voice memos!