5 Tips For Writing Hip Hop Lyrics

Unlike some other musical genres, the lyrics in hip hop are particularly important. If you want to become a star... have something new and powerful to say... and if you can do it to a cool new beat, you may well be on your way to the Grammys!

In fact, let me reveal some of my top tips for how to write hip hop lyrics...

1. Say something different
   It bears repeating - say something different. So much hip hop sounds the same - and talks about the same thing! Therefore, by saying something original, you stand out. And standing out is the first step to becoming a star. Of course, that doesn't mean rapping about something that's different... but boring. Topical subjects that are likely to resonate with hip hop fans - your "target market" - are what will do well.


2. Be creative
   Legendary hip hop not only packs a powerful punch in terms of message, but it also does so with flair. Great lyrics are clever - so don't settle for any old words that come into your head. Be creative.


3. Write to the beat
   Also, note the conventions that apply in hip hop. In most cases, good hip hop lyrics rhyme every two to four syllables, with at least one rhyme every two bars (when the snare in the beat or instrumental hits twice). Keep this in mind when thinking of lyrics to make sure the words and beat flow.


4. Revise and improve your hip hop lyrics
   Unless you're a genius (and I'm not saying you're not!) your first stab at the lyrics for your song probably won't be your best. As with writing anything, I suggest you practise these lyrics to the beat you've chosen, and keep revising them until you're happy.


5. Practise with friends
   Finally, practice your lyrics in front of friends (assuming they are hip hop fans) to see what they think. You don't need to add instrumentation, etc to your song at this stage. Just try rapping to the beat, and find out what the feedback is. Based on what you hear - and the extent to which you agree with it - you can modify your lyrics accordingly.

And that's it! Now, don't get me wrong. Writing hip hop lyrics is a simple enough process. But that doesn't mean it's easy. Be patient with yourself and prepared for your first few attempts to be less than your best. But if you keep on writing and practising you're bound to improve.