Just as Noel Gallagher told Guitar in May 1996 “The music side of it is easy – it’s the lyrics I can’t stand writing”. I have to agree to that and generally in my own experience I’ve never felt comfortable doing it. So I recently decided to put an end to that. I had two choices, either I stop writing lyrics completely (ie find someone else to do that for me or stick to instrumental songs) or I learn to do it. I opted for the latter and after a bit of investigation and a visit to a Denmark St music shop I bought books on lyrics writing and a rhyme dictionary. I’ll probably post a review if I think they are worth reading.

I believe that generally music creation consists of breaking a few rules to make yourself sound different and stand out while still sounding somehow familiar. In order to achieve that first you have make an effort and learn the current rules, that’s why I think a good book on lyrics writing can be of help.

If you don’t want to invest on a rhyme dictionary straightaway you can use the many that you’ll find on the internet. Some of them are more useful than others.

Here’s some general advice to lyrics writing:

• Note down interesting rhymes on the songs you usually listen to, that might give you ideas. Particularly if, like me, you’re trying to write lyrics in a language which is not your mother tongue
• Write down anything that comes to your head. It could be a line, a topic to write about, a rhyme, a potential title, anything
• Don’t throw anything away, even if you think it’s rubbish

I’d like to read your comments and tips on the subject