Oxford University Press

Author: Jack Perricone
Format: Book
Subject: Songwriting Text

• Explains techniques used in dozens of hit songs
• Includes hundreds of musical and technical examples
• Emphasizes loop-based and riff-based songwriting
• Features a comprehensive companion website with audio examples referenced throughout the book

In Great Songwriting Techniques, veteran composer and teacher Jack Perricone shares years of experience in the art, science, and pedagogy of songwriting to teach readers the craft. Whether they write for a small group of friends or in the hopes of creating a smash hit, aspiring songwriters can learn how to focus on topics essential to their success in this competitive field; every songwriter must be aware of audience, thick-skinned enough to handle rejection and competition, and most importantly have the confidence to master the craft of composing and producing. Perricone teaches readers to accomplish this through a targeted series of lessons on key elements of songwriting from building blocks like melody, harmony, and rhythm to more advanced topics like lyric placement and tone texture.

Chapters explore loop-based harmonic patterns, tone tendencies, form, function, and lyric writing, all in service of preparing the aspiring songwriter to be a master of prosody and keen in understanding the relationship between words and music. The volume includes examples of exceptional songwriting from well-known artists such as Irving Berlin, Prince, Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder, Justin Timberlake, and Taylor Swift.

Contents:

• THE BASICS
  • Chapter 1. BEGINNING A SONG
  • Chapter 2. INTRODUCTION TO MELODY
  • Chapter 3. RHYTHM AND RHYME
  • Chapter 4. TONE TENDENCIES
  • Chapter 5. SETTING LYRICS TO MUSIC/SETTING MUSIC TO LYRICS
  • Chapter 6. SIMPLE BUT INTERESTING
• TONAL ENVIRONMENTS
  • Chapter 7. TRADITIONAL MAJOR/MINOR ENVIRONMENT
  • Chapter 8. The BLUES, ROCK, R&B AND MODAL ENVIRONMENTS
• LARGE CONSIDERATIONS
  • Chapter 9. DEVEOPMENTAL TECHNIQUES
  • Chapter 10. THE MELODIC OUTLINE AND THE MELODIC STEP PROGRESSION

Endorsments:
"This book is nothing short of an in-depth instruction manual for writing great songs. Both newbies and diehard songwriting nerds will be delighted by the wealth of concepts and practical exercises for internalizing those techniques which will no doubt lead to some great songs. The examples from across popular music history make it easy and fun to understand even the most complex ideas." - Bleu, Songwriter and Producer of Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, Michelle Branch, Disney's Legend of the Neverbeast

"Jack Perricone is the greatest songwriting teacher I've met in my 30+ years in the music business. This book is a masterpiece that every serious songwriter needs to read. The crucial craft taught here will help people instantly love and remember your songs. And every technique you learn inspires you to write another song to use it." - Derek Sivers

"There's something for every level of songwriter here, from novice to hit writer. Go as deep as you dare, then Jack Perricone will lead you down a path you were afraid to take, and you'll become a better, more inventive writer for the trip. Of course, read it through, but then use its sections as co-writers and reference resource to make your songs even better. Also, be sure to do the activities he suggests. You'll be amazed at what happens next. Thanks, Jack." - Pat Pattison, Professor, Berklee College of Music, and author of Writing Better Lyrics: The Essential Guide to Powerful Songwriting