How to Write a Song Without an Instrument

Writing music without an instrument might sound limiting, but there are countless ways to bring your ideas to life without needing to strum a guitar or play piano chords. Even kids can learn how to write songs!

Songwriting without an instrument can allow you to focus more on melody, lyrics, and the overall emotion of the music. There are many alternative methods for writing music without picking up an instrument. Whether you are new to songwriting or looking for new techniques, this guide will help you write songs even without playing an instrument.

Use Your Voice as an Instrument

For decades, musicians have used their voices as instruments in their compositions. There is even an entire genre called “A Capella” that is devoted to using voices as instruments!

A great example of this in pop music is Billie Eilish’s song “Ocean Eyes.” In this track, Eilish uses humming as a foundational element, creating a dreamy atmosphere. Another great example of this is “Hide and Seek” by Imogen Heap. She has made many incredible songs just by layering her vocals and adding effects; she has even become famous from this! This method will allow you to experiment with different harmonies and add depth to your song.

Use Technology

Many free or affordable apps allow you to create beats without traditional instruments. Apps like Groovepad and Soundtrap offer beats, loops, and virtual instruments to explore styles that match your lyrics or mood. For more in-depth composition, accessible digital audio workstations (DAWs) like GarageBand or BandLab let you experiment with instruments, loops, and effects. Even if you do not have tech skills, simple beat patterns or chord progressions can provide a good structure for your song. This is how a lot of music is created and how many producers create beats for artists.

Find an Instrumental on Youtube

Writing to a track on YouTube can be an excellent way to create music without any instruments or production tools! Many producers upload high-quality instrumentals of different genres, from hip-hop to indie pop, which can be used for your lyrics and melodies. Search for the genre or mood you want, and try singing or rapping along to test your ideas. If there is a specific artist you want to sound like, type in their name.

For example, “Taylor Swift Type Beat” will return many productions that sound like Swift. Plus, if you find a track that inspires you, you could reach out to the producer for collaboration or licensing options.

Collaborate with Other Songwriters

Collaborating with other songwriters or producers can open up new possibilities and help bring your musical ideas to life, even if you do not have access to an instrument of your own. These collaborators will most likely play an instrument and can write the chord progression for your song! This would result in both of you being co-writers. Working with other songwriters allows you to exchange lyric or melody ideas, giving you new perspectives and feedback that can strengthen your song.

Take Songwriting Lessons

Songwriting lessons can be incredibly helpful if you are working without an instrument. A teacher can guide you through melody creation, lyrical phrasing, and structure, helping to bring your ideas to life. They might even accompany you with their instrument, allowing you to focus on your lyrics and melody!

Writing music without an instrument is a creative exercise that allows you to focus on lyrics, melody, and emotion without worrying about anything else. Tools like your voice, technology, and collaboration can unlock unique ways to bring your musical ideas to life. Writing without an instrument can help you tap into your creativity and discover new techniques for crafting songs.