How I Write a Hook for a New Song (6 Steps)

Writing a memorable hook is essential for creating a song that resonates with listeners. Here's my step-by-step process to ensure my hooks are catchy and stand out:

Assumptions: 

  • You have a Beat or Instrumental
  • Potential Idea or direction you'd like to take the track
  • The Ability to activity write and record.

Key Factor: Ability to hear my voice live. Eliminated my personal head voice from the equation. Why is this a key? I found that if I write without hearing how it sounds through a mic it doesn’t sound great when I go to record, I become less inspired due to the song not sounding how I anticipated…

Step 1: Skatting/Freestyle/Mumbling/Humming

The first step is to let your creativity work its magic. Skat, freestyle, mumble, or hum along with the beat. This phase is about experimentation, so nothing is set in stone. Try unique phrasing, tonal changes, key changes, use your voice as the instrument and get weird and enjoy the experience. 


Step 2: Documenting/Brainstorming

Next, document any lines or ideas that catch your attention. Even if they’re only mildly interesting, write them down. You never know which ones might turn into gold.


Step 3: Trimming

Once you have about 5-8 potential lines, start trimming. Keep only the ideas that excite you. However, do not discard possibilities just because you’re not sure how exactly they will fit. Extras lyrics can always be incorporated into bridges or alternate hooks later.


Repeat steps 1-3 as needed until you have something substantial to work with.


Step 4: The First 4 Bars (Structuring)

Focus on your first 4 bars. Your opening phrases should be memorable. What you say in the following lines is less important than how you say it. this is a point where memorability and repetitive can get confused please proceed with caution. 

Possible Examples:

A - Memorable line

B - Vibe Builder

A - Memorable line (slightly different if possible)

B - Expanded Vibe Builder

or 

A - Memorable line

B - Vibe Builder 

B - Vibe Builder

C - Transition Line

Vibe Builders and Transition Lines can both be Non-lyrical (i.e. hums, laughs...) 


Step 5: Decision Time

Now, compare your lines to your initial idea and ask:

  • Does this direction make sense?
  • Is this unique and creative?
  • How can I make it memorable without being repetitive? 
  • Do I enjoy this?

If you like your answers, move forward. If not, delete what you have and start fresh. This keeps creativity flowing and avoids writer’s block. which is contrary to what most people would believe, nothing is worse for creativity then writing yourself into a corner that just doesn't work.


Step 6: Expand the Hook

For the next 4-6 lines, repeat steps 1-5. Use your unique ideas to add depth to the song’s lyrics and expand on the established vibe. You may be able to repeat the first 4 lines at this point but i would always recommend changing or tweaking it in some way shape out form.


Understanding Your Goals

Remember, these steps won’t work perfectly every time, but they may improve your success rate. If a song isn’t working, move on. Creativity should feel natural, not forced. Live your life and come back with a fresh perspective if needed.


Conclusion:

Writing hooks can be challenging, but with these steps, you can create something memorable and unique. Love what you make, and make what you love. Happy songwriting!

By following these steps, you can enhance your songwriting process and create hooks that stand out. Keep experimenting, and don’t be afraid to start fresh when necessary. Creativity and inspiration are key to producing great music.

Video Version: https://youtu.be/CHGXrUrg0Fg

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