Writer’s block is real—especially when you’re trying to write something that feels meaningful, honest, or new. Whether you’re staring at a blank notebook or looping the same four chords with nothing to say, a good prompt can break the cycle and get the creativity flowing again.
Here are some songwriting prompts for when you’re stuck, ranging from emotional deep-dives to playful experiments. Use them to spark ideas, write a verse, or even inspire an entire song.
1. Write a letter you’ll never send
Turn a letter into lyrics. It could be to someone you miss, someone who hurt you, or even to your younger self. Let the emotion guide the tone—whether it’s tender, angry, regretful, or hopeful.
2. Tell the story of a single moment
Zoom in on a single scene: waiting for a text, sitting in the car after an argument, walking home in the rain. Describe what happened with as much detail as possible—what you saw, felt, heard. Let that moment unfold in song.
3. Use someone else’s perspective
Write from the point of view of someone else—a friend, a stranger, a historical figure, or even a fictional character. This is a great way to explore new emotions or tell a story you wouldn’t normally tell.
4. Pick a colour and build a world around it
Choose a colour and write about what it makes you feel. Does “blue” mean sadness or freedom? Does “red” mean love or danger? Use imagery and metaphor to bring it to life.
5. Start with a question
Open your song with a question you don’t know the answer to. It could be as simple as “Do you still think of me?” or as deep as “What does it mean to be enough?” Let the rest of the lyrics explore or attempt to answer it.
6. Describe a dream (real or imagined)
Use a literal dream you had, or make one up. Dreams can be surreal, symbolic, or emotionally intense—perfect ingredients for lyrics. Let the dream logic shape your structure or mood.
7. Take inspiration from a text
Grab a random line from a book, poem, or old journal entry and use it as your opening lyric or chorus. Don’t overthink it—just follow wherever the words lead you.
8. Write a “what if” song
Start with a “what if” scenario: What if I never left? What if we tried again? What if I disappeared? These can lead to hypothetical, emotional, or imaginative songs that feel wide open.
9. Use a word you’ve never sung before
Challenge yourself to include a word or phrase you don’t normally use in songs. It could be something mundane like “laundry” or something poetic like “astronomy”. It’ll push your writing into new territory.
10. Write backwards from the ending
Imagine the final scene of your song—what’s the last thing you want to say? Then work your way backwards, line by line, building the song in reverse. This can reveal unexpected pathways.
Songwriting isn’t about being perfect—it’s about being honest, curious, and open to the process. Use these prompts as jumping-off points, not strict rules. You might surprise yourself with where they lead.
