Play a favorite rock song. Notice which parts of the song engage the listener. Diagram the structure of the song by writing down the lyrics. The basic structure of a rock song consists of an introduction, verses, a bridge, the hook and a chorus.
Strum the favorite song and melody on the guitar or hum it. Adjust the melody by changing the notes on the guitar. Play or hum the altered version. Repeat the process of transposing notes until the song becomes an entirely different melody.
Decide whether the overall tempo, or speed of the song, is fast, slow or moderate. Identify the mood of the music to augment the songwriting process. For example, music can be introspective, melancholy, whimsical or upbeat.
Improvise with words as chords are played to begin composing lyrics. Free-associate using words that fit the mood, tempo and direction of the melody. It does not matter if the song does not yet make sense.
Write an introduction, three verses, a bridge and the chorus. It may be helpful to use the form of a brief narrative story, such as Lou Reed's "The Dirty Boulevard," or a poem such as the Rolling Stones' "Shattered." Decide whether the song is to be written in rhyme.
The introduction is the brief melody that precedes the song. The bridge is a short harmonic interlude, which differs slightly from the main melody and can also include lyrics. The bridge is played at the middle of the song as the transition to closing the song.
Connect the catchy part of the melody, known as the groove or the hook, with words to create the chorus. The chorus repeats key lines of the song and melody between the verses. Complete the song by using this structure, introduction, first verse, chorus, second verse, chorus, bridge, third verse and chorus. End the song by repeating the chorus, or conclude with an instrumental of the melody.
Record the melody and lyrics on a voice recorder or note the music and lyrics on a lead sheet. A lead sheet is the written notation of the song, including music notes, chords and lyrics.
Take the song to the band once the lyrics and melody are established. The song can also be revised by the band.
Play chords of the melody on the guitar while singing the entire song for the band. Give the band members lead sheets, or explain which chords are going to be used if playing by ear.
Rehearse the song with the musicians until the melody and lyrics are established. Use distortion or effects pedals if it enhances the song.