The beginner's guide to writing a hit song. Ever wanted to write your own song? Ever wondered what you love about some songs but hate about others? Whether you start with lyrics, tune, chords or rhythm, Write Songs from Scratch guides you through all aspects of songwriting - what makes one lyric good whilst another awful, what makes a memorable tune, and so on. An accompanying CD demonstrates how it's done, with eight sample songs recorded by top artists. And, when you write your own chart-topper, Write Songs from Scratch provides advice on how to approach the music industry and protect your copyright. Written by an expert songwriter and recorded by top artists, Write Songs from Scratch is fabulous for any aspiring songwriter.

01. The basics - 02. Your favourite songs - 03. The songs on the CD - 04. Getting going - 05. Writing your ideas down - 06. Getting started - 07. Words - 08. Tunes - 09. Chords - 10. Rhythm - 11. Arranging your song - 12. Songwriting in practice - 13. The Songs - 14. Starting with rhythm: Boyfriend - 15. Starting with a melody: I can't live without you - 16. Starting with a lyric: Something to believe in - 17. Starting with a texture: You take me away - 18. Starting with a chord progression: Baby my heart - 19. Starting with a melody: You tore out my heart - 20. Starting with a lyric: Too much fun - 21. Starting with a rhythm: Get your groove on - 22. What next? - 23. Performing and publishing - 24. Protecting yourself - and others - 25. Index