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How to Write a Song Lead Sheet

A song lead sheet is a written bare-bones representation of a song's harmonic and melodic structure. Jazz players often use lead sheet for improvisation, as a guide to where to go in the song. Other musicians may use a lead sheet when they know a song's basic rhythmic structure but aren't familiar with the chord changes. Composers may use a lead sheet to write an initial version of a composition. Lead sheets aren't difficult to make and can serve many purposes in the music world.

Things You'll Need

  • Blank music paper
  • Pencil
  • Paper
  • Guitar or
  • Piano
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Instructions

    • 1

      Start with a blank piece of music staff paper or even a sheet of notebook paper. If you don't intend to write melody notes for the lyrics, notebook paper is sufficient. Title the lead sheet with the title of your song. Include a key signature and time signature on a lead sheet written on music staff paper, especially if you will write lyric melody notes out.

    • 2

      Strum chords on a guitar or play them on a piano. Sing the lyrics and as you do, listen for when the chords change. The idea is to notate the chords as close to the actual place in the song lyric where the chord changes. Write down the first lyric line, then write the appropriate chord above the lyric.

    • 3

      Separate the music according to vocal lines, unless you're using music staff paper and writing individual notes above the lyrics to dictate melody. In that case, separate the lyrics into measures according to the time signature of the song. For notebook paper, leave enough room above each line of lyrics to ensure you can place the chords so they'll be easily read. Use an extra space to separate verses from the chorus or bridge.

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