Steve Hillier, formerly of Dubstar, has produced a comprehensive guide to writing a song. If you want help with Ideas or are struggling with the Middle 8 you'll find the answers here.
Genre Songwriters are free to write in whatever genre interests them but often choose one or two in which to specialise.
Structure Song structure can give the listener a natural sense of light and shade between the verse and chorus.
Verse Make sure that your verses draw the listener into your song.
Chorus Traditionally, this is where everyone joins in with the performers and sings along.
Melody An audience probably won't bother listening to your song if the melody is weak.
Tempo/rhythm Most popular songs have four beats in a bar with a clear 'left right left right' feel.
Harmony Don't be afraid to use a famous chord sequence as the basis for your song.
Lyrics If you usually 'la la la' along to a strummed guitar, improvising words or vowel sounds can be very helpful.
Beginnings First impressions last and are an indication of whether it's worth paying attention.
Endings You need to make a musically satisfying impact at the end of your songs.
Ideas How is it that artists can move us to tears with the simplest of lines?
Rhyme Rhyming words help the listener to guess which word is coming next and to understand the lyrical message.
Middle 8 A great mid-section will keep your audience interested in the song, like a subtle twist in the plot of a novel or movie.
Hooks It's these that a prospective publisher or record company will be looking for when you play them your songs.
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Steve Hillier, formerly of Dubstar, has produced a comprehensive guide to writing a song. If you want help with 
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