How to Write Indie Songs

Co-authored by Tanisha Hall

Last Updated: May 14, 2024 References

Not all indie songs feature the same instruments or lyrical styles. Here are some suggested features of typical indie bands.

Steps

Download Article

^{[1]
X
Research source}
You could use a drum set, some shakers. The tempo should be upbeat, but not too fast. The song you are writing will most likely invoke emotions of happiness among listeners.

Advertisement
3
Decide what the song will be about. There are buckets of songs out there that are written about love, longing, life... well actually, there are buckets of songs written about anything. It doesn't really matter if the topic itself is unique and indie. You just have to find a way to present it that is interesting and thought provoking. So choose a topic that is close to your heart and begin.^{[2]
X
Research source}
- Brainstorm. Take a blank piece of paper and title it with the topic of your choice, then write down as many thoughts, lines, words and ideas that come to mind. Lyrics brainstorming should be an unedited, unfiltered version of all your thoughts regarding the song topic. A really important aspect to brainstorming for writing an indie song is to think of metaphors. Interesting, thought provoking and obscure metaphors will do.
- The good thing about writing an indie song is that the verses don't need a concrete structure to be considered good. They don't even have to rhyme. Have a thesaurus handy to find interesting words you can use that have a nice ring to them. Instead of focusing on having a catchy chorus like in pop, make the chorus
4
Make the main tracks. These will be guitars (either acoustic or electric; if you use electric, it's best that you don't use distortion), a nice but simple bassline, and the main vocals.^{[3]
X
Research source}
- Another cool thing about indie music is that you can get away with using those $2 mini instruments that are most likely intended for a child. So feel free to use kazoo's, those little egg shakers, and even recorders to accompany the main tracks. And if your budget is especially low, go on ahead and just whistle the main melody of your song, it works just fine.
5
Write about anything you want, as long as it isn't depressing. You can go free verse, but try to rhyme. Your lyrics should be happy, and personal. A good way to start thinking of lyrics is to think of your childhood.
- You don't even have to have a good voice, as long as your lyric structure is O.K. and as long as it sounds unique.
- You should also have some back up vocals to accompany your voice. Something a lot of artists do is record their voice twice on two different tracks.
Taylor Swift, Singer-Songwriter

You can find inspiration everywhere. "Sometimes I write about my own life. And sometimes I write about situations I see my friends going through. Sometimes I write about a scene I saw in a movie. I take inspiration from all different places."
Take out the unnecessary details that don't really fit until the writing flows. If taking out a line ruins the flow, then replace it with a vague sentence that doesn't mean much, but sounds like it could mean everything.^{[4]
X
Research source}
Perfect the chorus, change the blank words to be stronger and make them more effective. Change any bland words such as walking to ambling or any other word you can think of. Add paradoxes and oxymorons to make your song more interesting.^{[5]
X
Research source}
Instead of singing some lines, say them if they require emphasis.
The instruments you choose have a strong effect on the mood of the song, so choose wisely.

Become a Song Writer with this Expert Series

Have you ever wanted to write or sing a hit song? It might look like other people are overnight successes, but truthfully they've been working at it for a long time. These expert articles will help you build your skills and become an accomplished song wri

Be a Singer Songwriter

4

Write a Pop Song

5

Put a Tune to Song Lyrics

6

Record a Song

Community Q&A

Search

Add New Question

Question

Do I have to grow a goatee if I want to write Indie pop?

Missabell16

Community Answer

No! You can if you want, but there are no restrictions or requirements. Be you.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 10 Helpful 50
Question

How do I sing and sound indie?

Community Answer

It all depends. Indie isn't such a style of music as a category of artists. Many indie artists, however, use very analog-sounding effects. Look to OK GO for inspiration.

Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
Thank you for your feedback.
If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
Yes No

Not Helpful 4 Helpful 23