For this session, we learnt about the basics of form within songs, which is how a song is structured, considering the the order of various sections (1). I already knew about the basics of each section (verse, chorus, bridge, pre-chorus), but it was interesting to see the differences in 3 different areas (music, lyrics, form). Analysing other trends like the “Tonight” ending to a chorus (2). The part of the lesson that I found the most helpful was the writing of the song at the end. We approached the songwriting process a little bit different in comparison to last week. We started with a general theme and some words related to that theme, happiness. We then came up with a chord progression and each came up with a different part of the song. I was responsible for the bridge, where I decided to change the chord progression to create contrast between it and the verse/chorus. It was very fun to play with 4 different guitars and hearing them layer in a complex way was very nice to hear. Finally, we were able to utilise one of the members in our group who can rap. Overall, I was very happy with what we are able to accomplish within the given time.
Song Chords:
F, Am, Dm, Bflat
See the sun on the skyline
Got my wine-stained glass
But if I lose my balance darling
Well then you know I’m falling apart
Rap Verse
I don’t wanna be myself thought the night
Dropping Falling looking pretty sad on the sky
I been fucked up last night love and Fight
Party too crazy feeling sad not my type
I be falling apart
part part part
I be falling apart
part part part
I be falling apart
part part part
I be falling apart
part part part
Bridge
B flat, f, C, G
But every night it’s the same old shit as before
And I just wanna get out
But every night I come back to party again
When am I gonna wake up to
(1) Rotumah, Grayson. “Form” Workshop presented at the course Song Writing and Performance 1A, Hartley Building, University of Adelaide, March 7, 2022
(2) David Bennet Piano, “Why does the chorus end with ‘Tonight’?”, Jun 18, 2019
Songwriting Journal 