Word-First Approach:
1. Lyrics First: Some songwriters start by crafting the lyrics before adding the music. They might be inspired by a poem, a story, or personal experiences. The lyrics set the tone and themes, forming the foundation for the music to build upon.
2. Melody and Lyrics Together: Songwriter might compose the melody and lyrics simultaneously. This approach allows for a natural fusion where both elements grow and develop together.
Music-First Approach:
1. Instrumental Composition: Songwriters might begin by creating an instrumental piece. This could involve humming a melody and playing around with chords, finding a pleasing musical progression to inspire lyrics that match the musical moods and rhythm.
2. Melody First: In this scenario, the melody comes before the lyrics. Songwriters might sing or hum a tune, later filling in the lyrics that capture the feelings and emotions the music already conveys.
Blending Both Approaches:
Some songwriters find a balance between music and lyrics, alternating between the two. Inspiration can strike at any moment, leading them to create a bridge or an individual section of the song while composing the other element separately.
Ultimately, the order in which words and music come together is a matter of personal preference and creative process for each songwriter. There is no right or wrong way, as the most important aspect is creating a song that resonates with both listeners and the artist themselves.