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  • Lilia McDonald

Songwriting Tip #4: Song Titles and Where to Find Them



1. Grab a book of any kind, whether it be your favourite fictional novel, a dictionary, or even a phone-book. Proceed in opening that book to a random page and point your finger to any word or phrase you first see. This exercise appears silly, but trust me, some of those #words might just elicit a profound or clever #song #title that strongly resonates with you. So what's there to lose?

2. Listen intently to a conversation you or others may be having. A close friend of yours may unknowingly say something absolutely brilliant that'll work as a song title. Also, using a conversational tone in a song title often sounds more natural, therefore easier to relate with.

3. Watch a television show or movie and pay close attention to the dialogue. The characters could possibly utter a witty statement or two, or deliver an intense monologue with words either striking you in the heart or chilling you to the bone.

4. Test out a reverse method: forgo naming your song for a short while and simply write out your song lyrics first until the song feels somewhat complete. Next, scan your lyrics, look for any repetition and/or figure out the overall message you're aiming for. With enough trial and error, this can help stir an idea for a song title that you eagerly seek.

5. If all else fails, take a walk outside. I'm not telling you to give up but bring yourself to notice things you might not have given a second thought in the past. Perhaps traffic signs or names of department stores might be of assistance. And while doing your personal shopping at a local grocery store, take note of the brand names or slogans scrawled across cans or bags. A song title is bound to be discovered somewhere, anywhere.

Happy hunting and happy songwriting! Now go get 'em by the heartstrings!

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