How to Write a Metal Song: 13 Steps
1.Know Your Genre
Metal is a diverse and intricate genre of music. Familiarize yourself with its various subgenres (thrash, death, black, heavy, etc.) and understand the different musical elements, styles, and techniques associated with each.
2.Get Inspired
Listen to your favorite metal bands and dissect their music. Understand how they structure their songs, write lyrics, and create intensity.
3.Choose a Theme
Select a theme or subject matter for your song. Metal themes can range from personal struggles to political commentary, from fantasy worlds to philosophical concepts.
4.Write the Lyrics
Start penning down the lyrics for your song. Make sure they reflect the chosen theme and maintain consistency throughout the song. Use powerful and evocative language that connects with the listener emotionally.
5.Develop a Song Structure
Create a song structure (intro, verse, chorus, bridge, outro) that accommodates your lyrics and allows for dynamic changes throughout the song.
6.Create Riffs
Experiment with various guitar riff ideas that convey the essence of your song’s theme and compliments its structure.
7.Layer Drums
Design heavy drum patterns that not only give rhythm to the song but also add intensity and complexity to your composition. Experiment with double bass drumming for added epicness.
8.Add Basslines
Write basslines that follow or complement your guitar riffs while also serving as an essential backbone for your track’s rhythmic foundation.
9.Compose a Guitar Solo
Craft an impressive guitar solo that showcases both your technical prowess as well as fits seamlessly into the overall vibe of your composition.
10.Include Vocals
Choose whether you want clean vocals, harsh vocals (growls, screams), or a combination of both styles depending on your subgenre preference and what fits best with the story you’re trying to tell through your music.
11.Experiment with Dynamics
Incorporate dynamic changes within your song by fluctuating between soft, melodic sections and aggressive, heavy passages. This will keep the listener engaged and give your song a unique, distinguished feel.
12.Record and Edit
Once you’ve finalized your composition, it’s time to record your track using a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) or home studio setup. Mix and edit accordingly to achieve the desired sound.
13.Share Your Metal Masterpiece
Share your completed metal song with friends, family, or fans online through social media platforms, SoundCloud, YouTube, or even submit it to local metal festivals.
Now that you have a basic understanding of writing a metal song, dive into the creative process and create your own unique fusion of heavy riffs, pounding drums, and powerful vocals. Keep honing your skills and exploring new techniques to grow as a musician while you carve out your distinct niche in the world of metal music.