10 tips for songwriting

Ian Yates

  1. Keep it simple.

  2. Use odd chords sparingly - if at all. The chords should add to the song not distract from the melody.

  3. Make time to be creative.

  4. Write from your heart.

  5. Be you. Don't try to copy anyone else - you’re unique.

  6. Read, learn and study. Keep growing, listen to great teachers, read great books.

  7. Great things take time. Usually songs come from a moment of inspiration and then a good period of perspiration.

  8. Write as many songs as you can. 20% rule – only 20% of songs we write are really great songs. For 20 great songs, you need to write 100 songs!

  9. Write for your church setting.

  10. Don’t be under pressure to write songs. Enjoy it; have fun.

Songs from ELS2025
What were your favourite songs from this year's summit? Here is the list of songs we sang at ELS2025
ESWC24 - Song List
We had such a special time at the 2024 Worship Conference - Here is the list of songs we sang and a Spotify playlist.
Worship Conference 2025
Join us for our 2025 Worship Conference. Cultivate a deeper connection to God through worship and community with others passionate about worship.
NEW SONG: Awakening
New song - 'Awakening' written by David Lyon, Ian Yates, and Sam Blake
Songs from ELS2024
What were your favourite songs from this year's summit? Here is the list of songs we sang at ELS2024 + a pre event playlist.

 

Elim Sound Archive