Writing a song with a guitar can be intimidating or difficult. But that's not always the case! In this guide, I'll teach you how to write a song step by step using your guitar.

1.Create a chord progression

Creating a chord progression is child's play. Why? Because every chord progression in music has already been created and used. It may seem strange, but it's true. It would be a mistake to try to create an original progression, especially if you're a beginner.

When you're starting out, it's best to take a chord progression that's easy to play and use.

Here is a very well-known progression that has been used in thousands of songs:

Key C major: C / G / Am / F (looped)

Here are the guitar positions: 

This progression is often called the “magic progression” because it allows you to adapt to a large number of melodies.

There's also a minor variation: instead of starting with the C chord, we start with Am.

This gives us: Am / F / C / G (looped)

If you wish, you can also play this same progression but in different keys. Here are some examples:

• In the key of G major: G / D / Em / C
• In the minor mode: Em / C / G / D
• In the key of A major: A / E / F#m / D
• In the minor mode: F#m / D / A / E

Tip: If you want to change the key while keeping the same chord positions, you can use a capo. 

These chords can be played at any rhythm and tempo! Let your imagination run wild.

2. Find the theme of your song

Now that you've chosen chords to write a song with your guitar, it's time to choose a theme.

Will your song be joyful, romantic, or nostalgic? You can let the chords you play carry you away and choose a theme accordingly.

For example, major key progressions are more upbeat and positive. Minor key progressions are sadder and more introspective.

Take the time to feel the emotion it evokes; it helps a lot.

3. Create a melody

The melody you're going to sing is the most important part of your song. This is often where things get tricky for beginners. Unfortunately, there's no magic method for creating a good melody when you're just starting out.

Let your inspiration flow as you play the chords on your guitar and start humming a tune you find interesting. 

Even if no one understands what you're singing, it doesn't matter for now. The important thing is to try to convey emotion through your singing.

If you want a much more professional sound, you'll need a lot of practice.

Here's a video of Ryan Tedder, the singer of One Republic, trying to create a melody over simple chords. He shares lots of tips you can use.

4. Write the lyrics

Now that you've created your chord progression and melody, it's time to write the lyrics for your song.

Focus on the message you want to convey while respecting the theme you've chosen.

To help you, use your melody. You'll see that there are often words that naturally stand out from it.

Here too, it takes a little practice to make your lyrics match your melody.

But don't be too hard on yourself, because writing a song with a guitar can be a complicated exercise when you're just starting out.

5. Structure your song

Now it's time to structure your song. Most songs have very basic structures, so you too should try to keep it simple.

Remember, simplicity often works best!

Standard structure: verse / chorus / verse / chorus / bridge / chorus.

You can also start with the chorus: chorus / verse / chorus / verse / chorus / bridge / chorus.

Here are some well-known songs that use basic structures. You can use them as inspiration for your own structure.

• Ed Sheeran - Photograph
• Oasis - Wonderwall 
• Taylor Swift - 22 
• Lady Gaga - Shallow
   

6. Record your demo

Now that your song is ready, it's time to record it! You can simply use your phone or free computer software to do this.

Your goal isn't perfection, but to capture the emotion while it's still fresh.

This demo will help you memorize the structure and melody and listen back to see what might need to be changed.

Don't hesitate to play it to friends and family to ask for their feedback.

7. Choose an instrumental

If you need an instrumental beat with professional guitars, we have plenty in our catalog, which you can find by clicking here: https://www.mavrickpopbeats.com/buy-pop-beats

Any questions? Don't hesitate to use the comments section.