Songwriting Advice

Things To Write A Song About

things to write a song about lyric assistant

Ever sat staring at a blank page wondering if your next hit song is hiding behind your morning coffee or the sound of rain on your window? Welcome to the quirky, inspiring, and sometimes downright ridiculous journey of discovering what to write a song about. Whether you're a bedroom troubadour, a TikTok sensation in the making, or a musician hustling through endless Spotify playlists, this guide is your backstage pass to a treasure trove of songwriting ideas. Let’s dive into the endless creative universe, armed with wit, passion, and a friendly nudge from Lyric Assistant—your ultimate partner in effortlessly crafting the next chart-topping lyric.

Looking to write your next song? Transform your creative ideas into songs that people will love, and skyrocket your music career with Lyric Assistant. The perfect songwriting assistant. Find out more →

Unleashing the Muse: Why Every Day is a Song Waiting to Be Written

Songwriting is like trying to nail jelly to a tree; inspiration can be slippery and elusive. But instead of chasing a mythical, ever-perfect muse, why not embrace the idea that life itself is churned full of raw, unfiltered material? From the buzz of city life to the echo of old memories, every moment has a story begging to be told—whether through heartbreak, humor, or even a peculiar obsession with avocado toast.

Every emotion has its melody and every mundane task its hidden harmony. Here at Lyric Assistant, we believe that true artistry comes from within. And if you ever find yourself stuck staring at the ceiling, remember that even the slightest quirk of everyday life could spark a catchy chorus or a poignant verse.

What Are Some Ultimate Themes to Write a Song About?

Let's be honest: songwriting isn’t reserved for epic love sagas or dramatic breakups alone. The possibilities are as diverse as your Spotify playlists. Here are some classic and offbeat themes to explore:

  • Love and Heartbreak: From the sweet butterflies of new romance to the bittersweet ache of a breakup, love remains the ultimate muse.
  • Friendship and Camaraderie: Celebrate the gang, that one friend who never judges (or that one who always does).
  • Self-Discovery: Whether it's finding your true self or embracing your quirks, there’s beauty in every journey.
  • Social and Political Commentary: Sometimes your words can challenge the norm, spark debate, or even start a revolution.
  • Nature and the Environment: The rustling leaves, crashing waves, or even the serene silence of a snowy day can be potent song fodder.
  • Modern Life and Technology: From navigating the dating app labyrinth to the bittersweet nostalgia of pre-internet days, modern life is ripe with inspiration.
  • Mystery and Fantasy: Let your imagination run wild—create a world of mythical creatures or a futuristic society that defies the odds.

These themes aren’t just broad topics; they are starting points. Each theme can be deconstructed and reassembled with your unique perspective to create a story that resonates with listeners—particularly Millennials and Gen Z, who thrive on authenticity and innovative storytelling.

Write Lyrics Like a Professional Songwriter

The ultimate songwriting tool that takes your creative vision to the next level! With just a few clicks, you can unleash your inner songwriter and craft a hit that's uniquely yours. Your song. You own it.

Example: Pop, Rock, Rap, Electronic, R&B, K-Pop, Drill...
Example: Happy, sad, inspirational, romantic, gritty...
Example: Love, loss, overcoming adversity, party, faith, personal growth, reflection...
Example: Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Grimes, Beyonce, Billie Eillish, Pink Floyd, BTS ...
A bridge is used to provide a new perspective or shift in your song's mood

Diving Deep Into Personal Experience: When Life Becomes Your Lyric

There’s no secret sauce to songwriting—your own life is the ultimate source of creative inspiration. Think of every triumph, failure, quirky habit, and even the smallest victory as potential lyrics. Your personal experiences are like the hidden verses of your soul waiting to be unveiled.

Maybe that time you got lost on a road trip taught you about the unexpected turns in life. Or perhaps your messy relationship with your pet cat inspired you to pen down a humorous ode to unconditional love (or territorial stares). The key is to observe, internalize, and then express.

So grab a journal, spill your innermost thoughts, and let your experiences guide your creative spark. The beauty lies not in perfection, but in the authentic portrayal of what it means to feel, dream, and persist.

The Art of Storytelling: Crafting a Narrative That Connects

Songwriting is storytelling with a soundtrack. The stories you tell can be drawn from real life or spun from sheer imagination. It's about creating relatable narratives that transport your audience to a moment, a memory, or a fantasy world.

Consider how music icons use their lyrics to create vivid scenes—each line a brushstroke in an auditory painting. Use literary devices like metaphors, similes, and clever wordplay to transform everyday observations into memorable, multilayered narratives.

A great narrative not only tells a story but also evokes emotions, leaving your audience humming along and lost in thought. So whether you’re writing about a heart-rending farewell or a whimsical dream, let your narrative be the soulful journey that guides your melody.

Finding Inspiration in the Rhythm of Life

Inspiration can strike in the most unexpected moments—during a midnight stroll, a heart-to-heart with a friend, or simply a soothing moment with your favorite cup of coffee. Trust that these fleeting moments hold the potential to elevate your songwriting to new heights.

There’s beauty in the chaotic cadence of city sounds, the distant hum of an old record, or the pulsating beat of a festival crowd. The universe is full of sonic snapshots waiting for you to catch them, convert them into lyrics, and let them sing.

For those days when your muse seems to have hit snooze, try mixing up your routine. Venture out to a new café, take a detour on your daily walk, or simply allow silence to envelop you before the next creative lightning bolt.

Embracing Universal Emotions: The Heartbeat of Every Song

No matter your background, certain emotions resonate across generations and cultures. Joy, sorrow, anger, and hope—these feelings are the universal language of music. Writing about such emotions not only anchors your song in reality but also creates a deep connection with your audience.

Millennials and Gen Z, in particular, appreciate vulnerability and self-expression. Tap into those raw, unfiltered emotions. Whether it’s the euphoria of a new love affair or the sting of a lost opportunity, these sentiments are the lifeblood of soulful lyrics.

Don't shy away from complexity—celebrate it. After all, life isn’t always black and white. Sometimes, it’s a dizzy swirl of all colors at once, and that is the vibrancy that truly defines a memorable song.

Modern Life as a Muse: The Beat of the Digital Age

In a world dominated by smartphones, social media, and digital trends, modern life itself offers endless lyrical inspiration. Think about the irony of capturing heartfelt intimacy through screens, the bittersweet charm of curated lives, or even the paranoia of viral fame.

The digital age is a canvas painted with memes, viral challenges, and internet romances that are as ephemeral as they are real. These elements not only serve to inspire witty, contemporary lyrics but also offer a mirror to the times we live in.

Use your lyrics to reflect on the paradox of connectivity in an increasingly isolated world. Touch upon the anxiety that comes with constant updates, or the serendipitous joy of an unexpected DM from a long-lost friend. In these modern narratives, authenticity is your greatest hit.

From Heartbreak to Hope: Navigating the Spectrum of Relationships

Relationships—whether fleeting or deep—are fertile ground for songwriting. The rollercoaster of connections, the bittersweet taste of lost love, and the sweet nostalgia of friendships gone by all provide ample material for crafting relatable, moving lyrics.

Why does a broken heart often yield the most memorable ballads? Because each heartbreak speaks to our shared human experience. It’s not about dwelling in sadness but transforming pain into art. That raw vulnerability is what strikes a chord with listeners who’ve been there, done that, and perhaps even got the band T-shirt.

Experiment with contrast in your lyrics: juxtapose the cold emptiness of a breakup against the hopeful promise of new beginnings. This push-and-pull dynamic not only enriches your song but also gives your audience a glimpse into the layered emotions of love.

Exploring Social and Political Themes: Voices of Change Through Music

More than just a source of entertainment, music has historically been a powerful tool for social change. Songs have rallied movements, challenged the status quo, and given voice to the unheard. If you’re passionate about social justice, environmental issues, or political quirks, let those sentiments fuel your songwriting.

Write about the triumphs and struggles of society—how communities come together against adversity or how a single voice can spark profound transformation. With lyrics that confront the chaos of the modern world, you can inspire listeners to think, act, and perhaps even join a cause.

Remember, every revolution starts with a rhythm. Your words have the power not just to capture the mood of an era but to ignite a spark that resonates far beyond the confines of a stage.

Tapping into the Fantastic: Fantasy, Sci-Fi, and Surrealism in Songwriting

Ever wondered what it would be like if your favorite song was set in an intergalactic kingdom or a dreamscape where reality melts away? Embrace the bold and the bizarre by venturing into the realms of fantasy, science fiction, and surrealism.

These themes allow you to break free from the limits of everyday experience. Create stories of mysterious voyages, mystical encounters, or temporal shifts that defy logic. Your lyrics can be as imaginative and otherworldly as your mind allows—an escape that offers both you and your audience a chance to dream beyond the mundane.

The beauty of exploring fantastical themes is that it connects with an innate desire for wonder. It serves as a reminder that, however chaotic reality might be, there exists an endless universe of possibilities just waiting to be sung.

The Role of Everyday Life: Finding Magic in the Mundane

Not every song needs to be an epic saga. Sometimes, the simplest moments—like the smell of rain on concrete or the clink of coins in a jukebox—carry profound meaning. Ordinary moments can be transformed into extraordinary lyrical gems with the right twist.

Embrace the humor and irony of daily routines. Write about the awkward dance of a first date, the quiet solitude of a midnight stroll, or even the unexpected delight of finding money in an old coat pocket. There’s beauty in the mundane, and with a little imagination, you can turn everyday life into a lyrical masterpiece.

This approach resonates especially with younger generations who are all too familiar with the small, often overlooked details that make life unique. Unlock that hidden magic and let it fuel your creativity.

Getting Creative with Prompts and Tools: Jumpstarting Your Songwriting Process

Stuck in a creative rut? Sometimes all you need is a little nudge in the right direction. Creative prompts, word association games, or even a random image can be the spark that ignites your next song. Tools like Lyric Assistant are designed to help you overcome that dreaded writer’s block and streamline your creative process.

Experiment with different songwriting exercises: set a timer, pick a random object, or choose a song title and see where it leads. Collaborate with friends—or even strangers online—to see how different perspectives can transform a solitary idea into a collaborative masterpiece.

Don’t be afraid to break the rules. In the realm of songwriting, spontaneity and experimentation are often the catalysts for brilliance. Mix genres, play with structure, and let your creative instincts run wild. Whether you’re basking in the glow of an epiphany or laboring through a challenging session, every step is progress.

Tapping into Pop Culture: Writing a Song for the Social Media Age

In the age of trending topics and viral challenges, pop culture offers an ever-replenishing source of inspiration. Write a song about that bizarre TikTok dance trend, the latest meme that took over your feed, or even the rollercoaster ride of fame in the influencer era.

Pop culture is where art meets the zeitgeist—it’s edgy, dynamic, and constantly evolving. Use your lyrics to comment on the fleeting nature of viral fame or to satirize the absurdities of modern celebrity. These contemporary narratives can be as impactful as timeless ballads, especially for listeners who crave relevance and wit.

By tapping into shared cultural moments, you not only craft lyrics that are instantly relatable but also create a sonic snapshot of the current social landscape—a time capsule of music and memory.

Overcoming Creative Blocks: Tips for Keeping Your Songwriting Flowing

Even the most prolific songwriters hit roadblocks. When the creative well seems to have run dry, know that it’s perfectly normal. Here are some fun, unconventional tips to break through the block:

  • Change Your Scenery: Step away from your usual workspace and find inspiration in a new environment, whether it’s a quirky café or a peaceful park.
  • Collaborate: Sometimes a fresh pair of eyes—or ears—can bring a brand-new perspective to a stalled idea.
  • Free Write: Just let the words pour out without worrying about structure or rhyme. You can always refine it later.
  • Take a Break: A brisk walk, a quick workout, or even a power nap might be all you need to reset your creative muscles.
  • Dive into Music You Love: Revisit your favorite tracks, explore new genres, or simply lose yourself in the vibe of an album that moves you.

Remember, creativity isn’t a switch that you can just turn on; it requires nurturing, patience, and sometimes a little bit of silliness. Embrace the process with humor and curiosity, and soon enough, the inspiration will flow like your favorite tune.

Studio Vibes and Creative Rituals: Making the Process Fun

Creating a dedicated space for your music can transform songwriting from a chore to a cherished ritual. Whether you're a bedroom beat-maker or you have access to a full-blown home studio, cultivating an environment that fuels your creativity is key.

Deck out your creative corner with objects that spark joy and inspiration—a quirky poster, colorful LED lights, or even a collection of vintage vinyl records. These personal touches not only elevate your mood but also set the stage for endless lyrical possibilities.

Develop rituals that signal to your brain it’s time to get creative: brew your favorite cup of coffee, play a specific playlist, or even adopt a unique “writer’s seat.” This consistency can transform the art of songwriting into an experience as enjoyable as jamming with your closest friends.

Leveraging Digital Tools and Community Resources

In the digital era, inspiration meets innovation. Tools such as Lyric Assistant empower you to translate your fleeting ideas into structured, evocative lyrics. Embrace technology as your creative co-pilot—experiment with digital audio workstations, collaborate with fellow artists online, and tap into songwriting communities that celebrate the raw beauty of shared expression.

Don’t underestimate the power of feedback. Online forums, social media groups, and virtual jam sessions provide platforms to share your work, gain insights, and refine your craft. It’s a collaborative world out there, where every comment, critique, or quirky emoji can guide you closer to that perfect line.

Integrate these digital tools with traditional songwriting methods to break new ground. The fusion of technology and creativity is not just a trend—it’s a revolution in how music is written, shared, and experienced.

Resources and Community Support: Your Next Steps

Now that you’re brimming with ideas on what to write a song about, it’s time to take action. Dive into online communities, connect with fellow songwriters on platforms like SoundCloud, Bandcamp, or even Reddit’s /r/Songwriting. These communities are treasure troves of feedback, collaboration opportunities, and creative challenges that can elevate your songwriting.

Check out our curated list of resources to keep your creative fires burning:

  • Lyric Assistant: Your go-to tool for effortless lyric generation and creative prompts.
  • Online Songwriting Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and Skillshare offer courses that help refine your craft.
  • Writing Prompts and Challenges: Follow social media accounts dedicated to daily songwriting prompts or join online challenges to push your boundaries.
  • Local Open Mics and Workshops: Nothing beats the energy of a live audience or a collaborative creative workshop.

Engage, learn, and grow within these communities. Embrace every critique as a stepping stone, and celebrate every lyric that comes from the heart. The path of a songwriter is as communal as it is individual—each connection, each shared story, adds layers to your creative arsenal.

Your Journey to the Heart of Songwriting

At the end of the day, songwriting is both an art and an adventure—a journey of self-discovery, creative exploration, and unabashed vulnerability. Every theme, every emotion, and every quirky idea is a note in the grand symphony of your life. Whether you’re pouring your soul into a ballad about lost love or penning an upbeat anthem about the chaos of urban life, let your words be as bold and dynamic as you are.

Remember that inspiration is everywhere—in the quiet moments of reflection, the bustling energy of a city street, and even in the playful banter of friends. Your voice, unique and unapologetic, is a powerful instrument capable of transforming everyday moments into art that resonates with the heart and soul of countless listeners.

Embrace every line you write, every chord you strum, and every note you create as part of your individual legacy. This guide is just one of many stepping stones on your creative journey. With passion, determination, and a bit of fun along the way, your next song might just be the one that sparks a movement, heals a broken heart, or becomes the anthem of a generation.

So go ahead—take that leap of faith, trust your unique voice, and let the world see the magic that unfolds when your life becomes the song.

Songwriting FAQs: Your Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you navigate the creative process of songwriting, whether you’re a budding musician or a seasoned lyricist:

1. What are some common themes I can write a song about?

Popular themes include love and heartbreak, friendship, self-discovery, social and political commentary, nature, modern digital culture, fantasy, and even the quirky aspects of everyday life. The key is to write about something that resonates with you on a personal level.

2. How do I overcome writer’s block when I have a great idea but can’t find the right words?

Try free writing, experimenting with creative prompts, or collaborating with other songwriters. Changing your environment or taking a break can also help clear your mind and spark new ideas.

3. Can digital tools like Lyric Assistant really help improve my songwriting?

Absolutely. Digital tools are designed to provide creative prompts, generate ideas, and even offer structural guidance. They can serve as a great starting point or even a way to refine and elevate your existing ideas.

4. Is it important to write about personal experiences in my songs?

Personal experiences add authenticity to your lyrics. Even if you choose to tackle broader themes, infusing your own emotions and memories makes the song more relatable and impactful.

5. What if I want to incorporate humor into my songwriting?

Humor is a fantastic way to engage listeners, especially if it reflects your unique personality. Don’t be afraid to mix funny observations with deeper emotions—it creates a balanced, multifaceted song.

6. How do I ensure my song resonates with both Millennials and Gen Z?

Focus on authenticity, incorporate modern references, and address themes that are relevant to their experiences. Blending humor, vulnerability, and contemporary issues helps your music strike a chord with younger audiences.

7. How can I get feedback and improve my songwriting skills?

Join online communities, take songwriting courses, and perform at local open mics or virtual jam sessions. Feedback from peers can provide valuable insights and help refine your craft.

8. What role does storytelling play in songwriting?

Storytelling is crucial—it transforms simple lyrics into an experience. A well-told story creates a deeper connection with listeners by evoking emotions and painting vivid images.


Your Next Steps: Embrace the Songwriter Within

Every great song starts with an idea, a spark of inspiration waiting to be fanned into full-blown artistry. Whether you’re diving into themes of love, heartbreak, modern life, or the surreal, remember that your creativity is your superpower. Embrace every moment—be it the mundane or the magical—and let it guide you to craft lyrics that truly resonate.

At Lyric Assistant, we’re committed to empowering songwriters with the tools, resources, and support needed to channel their innermost thoughts into memorable music. From innovative digital aids to vibrant community forums, we invite you to explore, experiment, and evolve your songwriting craft in an ever-supportive space built just for you.

So, get out there and write that song. Transform every heartbeat into a melody, every thought into a lyric, and every moment into an opportunity to connect with the world. Your journey as a songwriter is a continuous adventure—with every word you write, you’re closer to capturing the essence of life in song.

Remember, inspiration is everywhere. Let your unique voice be heard, and trust that your next big hit is just a lyric away. Embrace the challenge, enjoy the process, and celebrate every creative victory along the way.

Write Lyrics Like a Professional Songwriter

The ultimate songwriting tool that takes your creative vision to the next level! With just a few clicks, you can unleash your inner songwriter and craft a hit that's uniquely yours. Your song. You own it.

Example: Pop, Rock, Rap, Electronic, R&B, K-Pop, Drill...
Example: Happy, sad, inspirational, romantic, gritty...
Example: Love, loss, overcoming adversity, party, faith, personal growth, reflection...
Example: Kendrick Lamar, Drake, Grimes, Beyonce, Billie Eillish, Pink Floyd, BTS ...
A bridge is used to provide a new perspective or shift in your song's mood
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About Toni Mercia

Toni Mercia is a Grammy award-winning songwriter and the founder of Lyric Assistant. With over 15 years of experience in the music industry, Toni has written hit songs for some of the biggest names in music. She has a passion for helping aspiring songwriters unlock their creativity and take their craft to the next level. Through Lyric Assistant, Toni has created a tool that empowers songwriters to make great lyrics and turn their musical dreams into reality.