Why Editing Your Song Lyrics is Just as Crucial as Editing a Novel


written by Melanie Naumann

Ever wondered why your favorite songs resonate so deeply? It's not just the melody —it's the art of editing lyrics.

If you've ever poured your heart out into penning down lyrics, you know the feeling of satisfaction when those words align perfectly with the melody in your mind.


But hold on just a second before you think your job's done!


Just like a novelist doesn't call it quits after the first draft, neither should you.


Crafting lyrics isn't just about stringing together a bunch of words that fit the tune.


It's about storytelling, emotion, and connection.


And that's why editing your lyrics is as crucial as when you're editing a novel.


Picture this: you've got this amazing melody stuck in your head, and you jot down the first lyrics that come to mind.


Sure, it might capture the essence of what you want to express, but is it the best you can do?


Probably not.

Every great song, just like every great novel, needs refinement. It needs to be edited so it can become the best it can possibly be.

That first draft?


It's like the rough sketch of a masterpiece.


It's there to give you a glimpse of your vision, but it's far from polished.


And that's where editing comes in.


Think about it. You wouldn't send out a half-baked novel to your publisher, would you? No way!


You'd revise, tweak, and refine until your story is as powerful as it can be so that it hooks the audience, keeps them engaged, and delivers a meaningful takeaway that leads to a feeling of catharsis.


Well, the same goes for your songs.


Editing your lyrics isn't about changing for the sake of change.


It's about honing in on what truly matters.

Great songwriting is about crafting a meaningful progression, a captivating experience for your listeners while taking them on a journey and delivering on the promise your song's beginning gave them.

Sure, it might take some time.


But trust me, it's worth it.


Because when you put in the effort to edit your lyrics, you're elevating your song to a whole new level.


You're turning something good into something great.


And hey, I get it.


Editing can be daunting.


It means confronting your work, admitting that maybe it's not as perfect as you thought.


But here's the thing: nobody's first draft is perfect.


Not even the one of your favorite songwriter.


So don't be afraid to dive back into your lyrics, armed with a red pen and a willingness to make them better.


Because that's what separates the amateurs from the pros.


It's not just about writing songs—it's about crafting them, molding them, until they're the best they can be.


So the next time you're tempted to call it quits after that first draft, remember this: your song deserves better.


Give it the time and attention it deserves, and I promise you won't be disappointed.


Happy editing, fellow songwriters! Let's make some magic.

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Thanks for reading,

Melanie.


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