I have been writing RnB music as a Singer/Songwriter ever since I was 15 years old but I started to learn and express my deep emotions more till I turned 26 since I met Husband who is a Music Producer. I had a lot of inspirational to write with its emotional depth, captivating melodies, and heartfelt lyrics. In 2016 thats when I recorded my first music ‘Feel So Good ” produced by Tony Sway which was filmed downtown Seattle USA. I remember during the process of the recording I didn’t feel to good to even record, I had a sore throat with laryngitis at the time so my vocals were very raspy and very nasal but with a few effects during the recording process it still became a hit song and sounded amazing with over 88,044 views on Youtube.
Crafting an R&B song offers a fulfilling and delightful journey. It’s an opportunity to channel your emotions, narrate a tale, and produce a sonic work of art.
If you’re looking to elevate your songwriting game here are some tips:
The Soulful Journey of Crafting Music as an R&B Singer-Songwriter
There’s something undeniably powerful about R&B – the sultry melodies, the heartfelt lyrics, and the emotional depth that can resonate with anyone, regardless of age or background. As an R&B singer-songwriter, diving into this rich genre has been an enlightening journey, and here’s a look at the making of my music.
The Beginning – Sparks of Inspiration
Every track starts as a mere idea, a whisper of a melody, or a fleeting emotion. For me, inspiration can strike anywhere – from mundane daily activities to profound life experiences. The key is to remain open and receptive. Whether it’s the rhythm of raindrops or a poignant personal memory, the birth of a song is as mysterious as it is magical.
Lyrics – The Heart of R&B
R&B, at its core, is about raw emotion. And while the melody can set the mood, it’s the lyrics that tell the story. Crafting lyrics is akin to baring your soul on paper. Every word, every line has to be authentic, evoking emotions that can tug at the heartstrings of listeners.
Often, I’ll start with a single line or emotion and build around it soon as I hear the first melody in a beat. There’s a delicate balance between being vulnerable enough to share personal experiences and creating a universal story that others can relate to.
Melody – Setting the Tone
While lyrics are the heart of a song, melody is its soul. An engaging melody can transport listeners, providing them with an emotional experience that’s both unique and familiar. Crafting the perfect melody is a dance between intuition and skill. I often sit next to my husband when he plays the piano, and thens when my first lyrics to mind or even when he plays in the kitchen I grab my note pad and starting writing quickly
Collaboration – Breathing Life into Music
No artist exists in isolation. Collaborating with other musicians and producers has been integral to refining my sound. Every individual brings their own flavor and expertise to the table, turning a simple tune into a layered, rich auditory experience.
Feedback and Iteration – Pursuit of Perfection
The first draft of any song is rarely the final version. I cherish feedback from fellow artists, and sometimes even fans. Their perspectives help me refine my music, making it better with each iteration.
Final Thoughts
Music, especially R&B, is an ever-evolving journey. As a singer-songwriter, every song is a piece of my soul, a glimpse into my inner world. And while the process can be arduous, there’s no greater joy than sharing my creations with the world, hoping to touch lives, one song at a time.
How do you structure an R&B song?
1. Dive Deep into Emotion: R&B is rooted in raw emotion and personal experience. Reflect on your experiences, feelings, and stories you want to tell. This emotional authenticity is key to creating relatable R&B tracks.
2. Start with a Hook or Chorus: This is the catchy part of the song that listeners often remember. Create a simple yet strong melodic line, and layer it with evocative lyrics. Think of the hook as the central message or feeling of your song.
3. Develop Your Verses: The verses should unfold the story leading up to the chorus. Given that you’re a singer-songwriter, you have the freedom to play with your narrative style. Whether you choose a linear storytelling approach or opt for a more abstract path, ensure your verses build up to and complement your chorus.
4. Melodic Structure: R&B often utilizes smooth transitions and flowing melodies. Consider using major and minor seventh chords for a soulful touch. While playing your instrument (e.g., guitar or piano), experiment with various chord progressions until you find one that resonates with the emotion you’re aiming to convey.
5. The Bridge: This section offers a change in the song, both melodically and lyrically. It provides a fresh perspective or an emotional climax before the final choruses.
6. Vocal Dynamics: R&B is known for its vocal richness. Incorporate vocal techniques like runs, falsettos, and belts to add depth and dynamic range to your song. Even if you write with the intention of having someone else sing it, consider the voice’s capabilities and nuances.
7. Rhythm and Groove: A defining feature of R&B is its rhythm. Your song should have a groove that makes listeners want to sway or move. Play around with different rhythms until you find the perfect fit for your song.
8. Collaboration: While you might be a solo singer-songwriter, collaborations can add depth to your R&B tracks. Working with a skilled producer or other instrumentalists can introduce fresh musical perspectives. Like for me I was lucky to have my very own in house Producer who is now my Husband.
9. Revisit and Revise: After laying down the initial structure and lyrics, take a break. Return with fresh ears and refine your song, tweaking areas that don’t feel quite right.
10. Gather Feedback: Share your creation with trusted friends or fellow musicians. They can offer valuable insights, helping you polish the song further.
Conclusion: Writing R&B as a singer-songwriter is a journey of emotional exploration and musical experimentation. Embrace your unique voice, stories, and style. Remember, while guidelines are helpful, the best R&B songs often break the mold. Trust your instincts and let your heart lead your songwriting process.
Lets make a hit song!
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