Do you want to become a rap singer? Try these tips to write better texts and avoid common mistakes.
Steps
Method 1 of 1: Write Your Texts
Step 1. Expand your vocabulary
If you are going to write rhymes, it is important that you have a wide choice. Read books and articles that are written correctly and subtly. If you come across a word you don't know, look for it.
Step 2. Develop your ear for rhythm
As you work on your vocabulary, try to read certain passages aloud and notice your natural cadence. Also try reading texts written in metrics, to train your sense of rhythm and timing. This will help make the way you sing your lyrics smoother and more enjoyable to listen to.
- Try saying words naturally and then in metrics. Do you notice the difference?
- It may seem pointless to you, but a great way to train your metrics is to read and repeat aloud poems by Greek and Latin authors written in metrics.
Step 3. Focus
You should write your lyrics with a goal that goes beyond rhyming. Rhymes are the glue of your lyrics, but the substance is in the message. What do you mean? When you talk to other people, what topics are you interested in and passionate about?
Whichever topic you choose, talk about your experiences - writing about your life will give the text credibility
Step 4. Write
Texts can come to your mind anywhere - at home, at work, at school, in the bathroom or while you sleep. Write everything that comes to your mind without censoring yourself and without worrying about the form. When you no longer know what to write, you will be grateful for those notes.
Step 5. Create catchphrases
A catchphrase is that part of the song that sticks in your head and makes you want to listen to the song again. For a lot of rap songs it's usually the chorus. It doesn't have to be long, but it should have a catchy rhythm and should be fun to hum along.
For many writers, the chorus is the hardest part to do. Don't be discouraged if you take time to write one - it's better to wait for a good chorus than settle for a bad one
Step 6. Memorize your lyrics
After you've completed the final draft of your text, memorize each word. When you sing your song you shouldn't read the lyrics.
Step 7. Download an audio editing program
If you are a beginner singer, get Audacity. It is free, easy to use and works well. If you have a Mac, you can use GarageBand, which should already be installed on your system. If you become an expert, you can switch to more expensive and professional programs.
Step 8. Re-evaluate your song by accompanying the lyrics with a backing track
Choose a base to sing on. You can search for basics on Youtube. A good strategy is to write most of the rhymes and only then adapt them to the base. A common mistake is to try to write rhymes on a base and end up with "writer's block" because you are trying to be creative and adapt what you write at the same time.
Step 9. Record your song
Use a microphone and your audio editing program and start recording. Upload your backing track to the program and record your song over it. Sing with passion or you will look like a robot!
Step 10. Record your song again
It will take you some time, but the second or third registration may be better than the first.
Step 11. Choose the best version
Now that you have multiple versions to choose from, choose the best one and delete the others.
Advice
- Don't be mad if someone doesn't like your songs. Other people will like them, and in most cases, they will outnumber your detractors.
- Insist. Having a successful career can take a long time, use it to improve your skills and write more and more beautiful texts.
- Let your friends read your texts. Listen to their opinions, and if they have any suggestions, write them down. When you write again, take into consideration the advice of friends. Read your texts again and think about possible changes.
- You won't always have to write your lyrics. Many rap singers are able to improvise. Improvising on a good basis can give you new ideas, and listening to other singers improvise can inspire you.
- Many rap singers use imperfect rhymes where the words resemble each other but don't rhyme. Try incorporating them into your lyrics and hear how they sound.
- Make sure the first verse is impactful and allows you to set up some good rhymes.
Warnings
- Don't censor yourself and don't limit your potential just because you're afraid of offending someone with your lyrics. But make sure you convey an understandable message. Never write lines that could be interpreted as reckless hatred.
- You can come up with things in your lyrics, but be careful not to make explicit references to someone or groups of people.
Sources
- Download your basics from Beat Brokerz.
- LyricalGods is a site that allows you to do rap competitions with singers from all over the world, or publish your own improvisations to receive comments from other users. A great site to improve your skills.
- Rap Lyric Battle Forum Learn to write lyrics and read the opinions of many experienced singers.
