Becoming a lyricist is not as simple as one might think. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to be able to write lyrics that are good enough to be sung by someone else.
Here are some steps you can take to become a lyricist:
-Find your voice. Try writing about different things and see what sticks with you. If you don’t feel like you’re writing about something important, then it’s not going to work out for you!
-Write from personal experience. This will help you connect with listeners on an emotional level, which is what makes people keep listening!
-Don’t give up! You might not make it right away, but if this is something that means a lot to you, don’t give up! You’ll get there eventually!
How To Become Lyricist
A lyricist is a writer who works with composers in the music industry to create lyrical poetry to be used for songwriting. Lyricists work in a specialized niche of writing. If you’ve been thinking about becoming a lyricist, you’ll benefit from learning about trends in the industry. In this article, you’ll learn the steps to take to become a lyricist.
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What does a lyricist do?
Lyricists can work in a freelance or full-time capacity. Freelance lyricists pitch song lyrics to production companies and media agencies. If someone is hired as a lyricist full-time, they work for a specific production company writing lyrics to songs that can be used by several artists.
Songwriters and lyricists differ in that songwriters generally compose both the music and the lyrics, whereas lyricists only write lyrics to a song and a composer puts together the melody. Lyricists collaborate with other writers, songwriters and musicians to create songs. On a typical lyricist day, you may have a writing session where two or more people collaborate over the course of hours to write song lyrics together, then a break for lunch and another session where a second song is composed.
How to become a lyricist
If you’re considering becoming a lyricist, follow these steps:
- Consider relevant education.
- Write songs and create a portfolio.
- Look for freelance opportunities to sell lyrics.
- Grow your network.
- Search and apply for lyricist jobs.
1. Consider relevant education
There’s no required degree to become a lyricist. If you can distinguish traditional poetry from good lyrics, you’re on your way to honing the language skills you need to be successful. However, if you are considering a college education, a fine arts degree in writing or poetry will help you develop the skills necessary to be a strong lyricist. You may also seek a music degree if you want the skills to create lyrics and melodies. A strong understanding of music is essential in this role.
Related: How to Get a Job After College
2. Write songs and create a portfolio
Next, you’ll need to write. Lyricists write lyrics, so anyone who wants to excel in this position should have a lot of lyrics to show for it. That means making time to write the lyrics to songs and store them in a portfolio. In today’s technology-driven world you can use a website or CMS editor to store your portfolio of lyrics, or you can use a database or simply send them in PDF format. However you choose to showcase your work, it’s important to have lyrics that you can show people when you pitch or apply for jobs.
3. Look for freelance opportunities to sell lyrics
With lyrics put together and ready to go, it’s time to start looking for opportunities to sell. You can do this by using websites that connect freelancers with sellers. These websites allow freelancers to bid on jobs for a small finder’s fee. You can also search your local and online classifieds to find freelance opportunities. If you work within a certain niche, search keywords like “love ballad lyrics” or “rock song lyrics” when looking for freelance gigs.
4. Grow your network
The music industry is highly competitive and a great way to become a part of it is to know people who can help you boost your career. Luckily, even if you don’t live in a city known for music production, business social networking sites make it easy to connect with people who have the same interests you do all over the world. Growing your network before advancing in music might make a key difference in your career.
Related: Increase Your Chance of Getting a Job
5. Search and apply for lyricist jobs
You can use Indeed Job Search to apply for lyricist jobs around the U.S. These jobs are likely going to be rare, but they do exist. If you want to get a full-time job as a lyricist, it’s advisable you spend some time freelancing first which will help you gain the experience you need and grow your network with industry professionals.
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Lyricist FAQs
Before starting your career as a lyricist, you should read the answers to these frequently asked questions:
What skills should a lyricist possess?
A lyricist should develop the following skills to be successful in the profession:
- Artistic ability: Lyricists are writers and musicians—they should be skilled at this craft.
- Organization: For anyone who has to self manage, organization is key.
- Following directions: Lyricists will likely be given a description of the kind of song they must create and should be able to follow it.
- Open to feedback: Sometimes changes might occur and work needs to be edited. Lyricists should respond positively to feedback and make changes as needed.
- Understand the basics of music: Knowledge of concepts melody, harmony, rhythm, chords and more.
What’s required to be a successful lyricist?
To be a successful lyricist, you should have the ability to do the following:
- Remote work: Be able to work remotely and be successful at collaborating and meeting deadlines.
- Networking: Networking is an essential skill to boost your career. Aspiring lyricists should practice networking to develop this skill.
- Scheduling: Freelancers need to be able to schedule work and stay organized.
- Writing daily: Lyricists write every day and need to be able to sit at a computer for a long time without getting uncomfortable or distracted.
What’s the fastest way to find work as a lyricist?
The fastest way to start working as a lyricist is to freelance. Finding a full-time job in the profession is far rarer than gig work. Luckily, several websites exist to connect users with gigs, including Indeed Gigs. Using the internet, you can connect with lyricist freelance work that will help you build a portfolio and secure future clients.
