Alicia Keys Teaches Songwriting and Producing

Armin van Buuren Teaches Dance Music

Carlos Santana Teaches the Art and Soul of Guitar

Christina Aguilera Teaches Singing

Danny Elfman Teaches Music for Film

deadmau5 Teaches Electronic Music Production

Elevate Your Singing and Stage Presence

Hans Zimmer Teaches Film Scoring

Herbie Hancock Teaches Jazz

James Cameron Teaches Filmmaking

John Legend Teaches Songwriting

Joy Harjo Teaches Poetic Thinking

Ken Burns Teaches Documentary Filmmaking

Mariah Carey Teaches the Voice as an Instrument

Metallica Teaches Being a Band

Mira Nair Teaches Independent Filmmaking

Nas Teaches Hip-Hop Storytelling

Questlove Teaches Music Curation and DJing

Reba McEntire Teaches Country Music

Ron Howard Teaches Directing

Sheila E. Teaches Drumming and Percussion 

St. Vincent Teaches Creativity and Songwriting

Tom Morello Teaches Electric Guitar

Werner Herzog Teaches Filmmaking

Will Wright Teaches Game Design and Theory

Yo-Yo Ma Teaches Music and Connection

Listening Comes Before Writing

Mapping Representation

Playing With Song and Poetry

Meet Your Instructor: Mariah Carey

Meet Your Instructor

Choosing Subject Matter

Developing Your Musical Point of View

Making a Movement: “Glory” Song Study

Introduction

Self-Expression

Closing

Continuing Your Transformation

Bonus: Wisdom to Live By

Putting Together an Album

Approaching Your DJ Set

Conclusion

Meet Your Instructor: Yo-Yo Ma

What Is Music For?

Making a Song Your Own

Craft Songs That Resonate

Honoring the Source

Poetry Ancestors

Making Lyrics Your Own

Christina's Inspiration

Student Sessions: Rock Style

Playing With Textures and Tones

Every Song Needs an Epiphany

“Savior” Songwriting Demo: Early Sketches

Student Workshop: Cheyenne

Country Music Overview

Writing Lyrics

Exploring Dynamics: The Song “One”

In the Studio: Writing an Original Rap Song

Case Study: Writing Challenges

Using Your Power and Voice

Hip-Hop Is Our Universe 

Lyrics and Melody

DJing at the White House: Surviving Failure

Bring All the Elements Together

Songwriting With Empathy

Bonus: Special Guest

Craft Songs With Emotion

Basic Tools for Bedroom Composing

Working With Pads and Leads

Tones and Sounds

Sound Palettes

Working With Musicians

Finding Your Rhythm 

Experimenting With Percussion 

Create Unique Soundscapes

Sound Design

Live Microphones

Sound and Music

Sound

ALIENS Egg Chamber Breakdown

Game Demo: Morey

Designing a Sound Aesthetic

Sculpt Immersive Soundscapes

Writing and Revising

Songwriting With Melody

Song Structure

Writing Lyrics: Using Themes & Motifs

Finishing Your Song: Editing

Mastering Vocal Techniques

Duets Part 1: Rehearsal Prep

The Beat

Composing

Meet Your Instructors

Rock Songwriting Fundamentals

Riff Rock Writing: Chorus, Solo, and Arrangement

Start With Melody and Lyrics

Write Melodies That Mesmerize

Music

Teaches Poetic Thinking

Joy Harjo

Teaches the Voice as an Instrument

Mariah Carey

Lessons from Influential Black Voices

Black History, Black Freedom, and Black Love

Teaches The Art of Performance

Usher

Teaches The Art Of Performance

Usher Teaches The Art of Performance

A Documentary by Bess Kargman

Diane Warren: Relentless

Teaches Music for Film

Danny Elfman

Teaches Songwriting

John Legend

Teaches Singing

Christina Aguilera

Teaches the Art and Soul of Guitar

Carlos Santana

Teaches Filmmaking

Werner Herzog

Teaches Producing and Beatmaking

Timbaland

Timbaland Teaches Producing and Beatmaking

Teaches Violin

Itzhak Perlman

Itzhak Perlman Teaches Violin

Teaches Creativity and Songwriting

St. Vincent

Teaches Jazz

Herbie Hancock

Teaches Country Music

Reba McEntire

Teaches Being a Band

Metallica

Teaches Dance Music

Armin van Buuren

Teaches Hip-Hop Storytelling

Teaches Electronic Music Production

deadmau5

Teaches Electric Guitar

Tom Morello

Teaches ʻUkulele

Jake Shimabukuro

Jake Shimabukuro Teaches ʻUkulele

Teaches Film Scoring

Hans Zimmer

Teaches Philosophy

Cornel West

Cornel West Teaches Philosophy

Teaches Music and Connection

Yo-Yo Ma

Teaches Drumming & Creative Collaboration

Ringo Starr

Ringo Starr Teaches Drumming & Creative Collaboration

Teaches Drumming and Percussion 

Sheila E.

Teaches Creativity in Choreography

Parris Goebel

Parris Goebel Teaches Creativity in Choreography

Teaches Music Curation and DJing

Questlove

Teaches Songwriting and Producing

Alicia Keys

https://players.brightcove.net/5344802162001/1cMNiwC9oQ_default/index.html?videoId=6299650677001

Lyricists make great songs through solid rhyme schemes and narrative song structures. Learn <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-song-lyrics' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-song-lyrics","linkCopy":"how to write lyrics","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>how to write lyrics</a> with songwriting tips from music industry legend Mariah Carey.

Mariah Carey on How to Write Lyrics

 A lot of times, people that I've watched evolve in this industry, they have, like, a really strong person behind them that that wants them to be perceived as a producer, no matter what their contribution, and when writing, as well. But, you know, with me, I think they were always more like, oh, people, we want her to know about her as a singer. This is her vibe. This is her look. You know, this is our diva that we're promoting, whatever they used to call me. She's our franchise, like, all these things. If you're in the diva layer, people weren't thinking of you as a producer. I just always wanted to write. I just always wanted to be a part of what the final outcome of the song was, and if I didn't like it, I didn't like it. And at times, I would get into, like, you know, even back then little kind of arguments with the powers that be. And it'd be over something so simple as, like, one little line in the lead vocal that I didn't love. Especially back then, powerful male producers that have been in the game way longer than you, you know, even anyone ever heard of you, it's like, what are you supposed to do? You've got a record company telling you, well, the producer wants it this way. And, you know, so we're going to go with what he wants, and basically whatever he says, he must be a genius because he has all these hits. So you're like, all right, well, I guess I got to deal with it. But for me to still remember it today just shows you how important that is to me. So in terms of, like, people encouraging me as a producer, I don't think people wanted that. I don't think they wanted me to feel that sense of empowerment.

Dubbed “Songbird Supreme” and the “Queen of Christmas,” [Mariah Carey](https://www.masterclass.com/classes/mariah-carey-teaches-the-voice-as-an-instrument) is a celebrated singer-songwriter known for her stunning five-octave [vocal range](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/vocal-range), riff skills, and chart-topping popular songs. Mariah has won five Grammy Awards and sings everything from love songs (“Visions of Love”) to holiday hits (“All I Want for Christmas Is You”). Often writing her own songs, she infuses her works with great lyrics, chugging chord progressions, and infectious melodies.

For the first time in music history, Mariah became the first artist to have their initial five singles reach No. 1 on the *Billboard* Hot 100. “One Sweet Day,” recorded with Boyz II Men, became the longest-running No. 1 *Billboard* song of the 1990s. Her success followed into the millennium: She produced hit song after hit song, broke into film (starring in the Academy Award-winning film *Precious*), went on *American Idol* as a judge, and published a bestselling memoir. The Songwriters Hall of Fame inducted Mariah in 2022.
The art of [songwriting](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-song-lyrics) combines many skills. In terms of music, a songwriter or a songwriting team must tackle song structure, melody, harmony, rhythm, and instrumentation. Beyond these musical components, songwriters must also tackle lyric writing. Many good songs work off a familiar formula: the intro, first verse, chorus, second verse, second chorus, bridge, and then the final chorus. Connecting each part of your song are lyric lines, which tell a story and paint a picture for the listener. “I love songwriting,” Mariah says. “For me, that's my talent. That's what I'm best at.”
Mariah Carey offers step-by-step tips to develop song ideas and write better lyrics. Even beginners can get their creative process moving with these ideas that have inspired some of Mariah’s favorite songs:

1. __Illuminate things that are difficult to articulate__. You can use music to express yourself. “I wrote *Outside* about specific feelings of otherness that I felt as a child,” Mariah says. “For me, it was about being biracial and how that has really become such a . . . I don't know that there's one word that I can use to describe what that’s done to me. It’s sort of the bane of my existence. To be Black and biracial is a very specific thing . . . And especially when you grow up in white neighborhoods, and you go through the different things that I went through, it's been an interesting journey.”
2. __Push yourself to experiment deeper__. Lean into your feelings, and try to find the words to address their complexity and strength. Mariah says, “I think you can have fun choosing the words in your songs; maybe challenge yourself to use words that paint a more vivid picture of what you’re trying to say. These new words might even inspire new stories in your writing.”
3. __Spend time alone__. Reflection by yourself can prove fruitful, and when words strike, write them down. Mariah wrote a song for *Hero*, a 1992 film starring Dustin Hoffman. At the initial meeting for the music, Mariah came up with an idea after learning the movie’s synopsis. “I took a five-minute break to go to the ladies’ room because I took it in, and I was like, it goes like this: ‘Then a hero comes along, with the strength to carry on,’” she says. “It’s just so weird. But sometimes, because I’m never alone, when I get a moment by myself, ideas come to me.”
4. __Turn small memories into big songs__. Mariah’s song “Sunflowers for Alfred Roy” is a remembrance of her late father. “It’s an important song to me . . . he sort of represented, like, this tall, proud sunflower for me,” she says. “I wrote about specific moments in our lives from when I was a little kid. I wrote about things I wanted to say to him.”
5. __Write about the realness__. In songwriting, specificity matters because the more hyperspecific something is, the more relatable it can become. “I’ve chosen to be very specific and real about certain things in certain songs,” Mariah says. “Your personal experiences should come through in your writing no matter how relatable you aim to be.” 
Become a better musician with the [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com). Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Mariah Carey, Herbie Hancock, Christina Aguilera, Sheila E., Timbaland, Tom Morello, and more.
Lyricists make great songs through solid rhyme schemes and narrative song structures. Learn <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-song-lyrics' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-song-lyrics","linkCopy":"how to write lyrics","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>how to write lyrics</a> with songwriting tips from music industry legend Mariah Carey.

Dubbed “Songbird Supreme” and the “Queen of Christmas,” <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/classes/mariah-carey-teaches-the-voice-as-an-instrument' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/classes/mariah-carey-teaches-the-voice-as-an-instrument","linkCopy":"Mariah Carey","category":null}'>Mariah Carey</a> is a celebrated singer-songwriter known for her stunning five-octave <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/vocal-range' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/vocal-range","linkCopy":"vocal range","category":null}'>vocal range</a>, riff skills, and chart-topping popular songs. Mariah has won five Grammy Awards and sings everything from love songs (“Visions of Love”) to holiday hits (“All I Want for Christmas Is You”). Often writing her own songs, she infuses her works with great lyrics, chugging chord progressions, and infectious melodies.For the first time in music history, Mariah became the first artist to have their initial five singles reach No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. “One Sweet Day,” recorded with Boyz II Men, became the longest-running No. 1 Billboard song of the 1990s. Her success followed into the millennium: She produced hit song after hit song, broke into film (starring in the Academy Award-winning film Precious), went on American Idol as a judge, and published a bestselling memoir. The Songwriters Hall of Fame inducted Mariah in 2022.

A Brief Introduction to Mariah Carey

The art of <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-song-lyrics' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-song-lyrics","linkCopy":"songwriting","category":null}'>songwriting</a> combines many skills. In terms of music, a songwriter or a songwriting team must tackle song structure, melody, harmony, rhythm, and instrumentation. Beyond these musical components, songwriters must also tackle lyric writing. Many good songs work off a familiar formula: the intro, first verse, chorus, second verse, second chorus, bridge, and then the final chorus. Connecting each part of your song are lyric lines, which tell a story and paint a picture for the listener. “I love songwriting,” Mariah says. “For me, that&#39;s my talent. That&#39;s what I&#39;m best at.”

How to Write a Song

Mariah Carey offers step-by-step tips to develop song ideas and write better lyrics. Even beginners can get their creative process moving with these ideas that have inspired some of Mariah’s favorite songs:<ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Illuminate things that are difficult to articulate. You can use music to express yourself. “I wrote Outside about specific feelings of otherness that I felt as a child,” Mariah says. “For me, it was about being biracial and how that has really become such a . . . I don&#39;t know that there&#39;s one word that I can use to describe what that’s done to me. It’s sort of the bane of my existence. To be Black and biracial is a very specific thing . . . And especially when you grow up in white neighborhoods, and you go through the different things that I went through, it&#39;s been an interesting journey.” </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Push yourself to experiment deeper. Lean into your feelings, and try to find the words to address their complexity and strength. Mariah says, “I think you can have fun choosing the words in your songs; maybe challenge yourself to use words that paint a more vivid picture of what you’re trying to say. These new words might even inspire new stories in your writing.” </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Spend time alone. Reflection by yourself can prove fruitful, and when words strike, write them down. Mariah wrote a song for Hero, a 1992 film starring Dustin Hoffman. At the initial meeting for the music, Mariah came up with an idea after learning the movie’s synopsis. “I took a five-minute break to go to the ladies’ room because I took it in, and I was like, it goes like this: ‘Then a hero comes along, with the strength to carry on,’” she says. “It’s just so weird. But sometimes, because I’m never alone, when I get a moment by myself, ideas come to me.” </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Turn small memories into big songs. Mariah’s song “Sunflowers for Alfred Roy” is a remembrance of her late father. “It’s an important song to me . . . he sort of represented, like, this tall, proud sunflower for me,” she says. “I wrote about specific moments in our lives from when I was a little kid. I wrote about things I wanted to say to him.” </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. Write about the realness. In songwriting, specificity matters because the more hyperspecific something is, the more relatable it can become. “I’ve chosen to be very specific and real about certain things in certain songs,” Mariah says. “Your personal experiences should come through in your writing no matter how relatable you aim to be.” </li></ol>

How to Write Song Lyrics: 5 Tips From Mariah Carey

Become a better musician with the <a href='https://www.masterclass.com' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com","linkCopy":"MasterClass Annual Membership","category":null}'>MasterClass Annual Membership</a>. Gain access to exclusive video lessons taught by the world’s best, including Mariah Carey, Herbie Hancock, Christina Aguilera, Sheila E., Timbaland, Tom Morello, and more.

Want to Learn More About Music?

Lyricists make great songs through solid rhyme schemes and narrative song structures. Learn <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-song-lyrics' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-song-lyrics","linkCopy":"how to write lyrics","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>how to write lyrics</a> with songwriting tips from music industry legend Mariah Carey.

Lyricists make great songs through solid rhyme schemes and narrative song structures. Learn <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-song-lyrics' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/how-to-write-song-lyrics","linkCopy":"how to write lyrics","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>how to write lyrics</a> with songwriting tips from music industry legend Mariah Carey.

Mariah Carey singing into a microphone in a sound booth. 

mariah-carey-on-how-to-write-lyrics

Born Usher Raymond IV, but simply known as Usher, the R&B singer has won eight Grammy Awards and captivated audiences for more than twenty-five years. The singer-songwriter calls Prince and Michael Jackson large influences but simultaneously creates his own brand of R&B and hip hop, leading to Billboard-topping songs. 
Whether it’s your first time writing or you want to try something new in your next song, experiment with these music and lyrical ideas from Usher to step out of your comfort zone and pen great songs: 

1. __Being open aids the creative process__. The [songwriting](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/songwriting-prompts) process requires [emotional vulnerability](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/emotional-vulnerability) to get the creative juices flowing. “To be vulnerable is a great thing,” Usher says. “*Confessions* probably was the first time that I allowed myself to be completely vulnerable. *Here I Stand* was the second time I was completely dedicated and vulnerable in my conviction of where I was at the time.”
2. __Collaboration can bring about new ideas__. “Collaboration starts with the admiration and appreciation of an artist or a producer’s work,” Usher says. Their artistry may unlock your own, so reach out to musicians you admire. Ask them to meet up for a [brainstorming](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-brainstorm-creative-ideas) session, swap samples, and see if an opportunity exists to feature one another in your songs. Collaborating is an excellent way to get out of a songwriting rut.
3. __Inspiration can come from everyday life__. Song topics vary wildly: love songs, breakup songs, party songs, and so much more. Real-life situations often inspire artists’ work. “The source of inspiration always comes from the [most] real places,” Usher says. “The most incredible songs come out of that: As a father, I was writing songs to my children, [and] I was writing songs for my marriage.”
4. __Prioritize what makes you unique__. There is only one you, and that’s what people want to hear: Don’t feel pressure to repeat others’ sound or music [style](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/singing-styles). Celebrate what makes you stand out and bring that to the table. “Individuality is everything in artistry,” Usher says. “You have to figure out what your [brand](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/personal-brand-tips-from-kris-jenner) is.”
5. __Turn hard times into hit songs__. In the song “Raymond vs. Raymond,” Usher riffs on the Oscar-winning film *Kramer vs. Kramer*, starring Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep, about a couple’s divorce. “I’ve talked to you about being able to pull references or ideas to create the story. ‘Raymond vs. Raymond’ did come at the face of a very tumultuous and difficult time in my life,” Usher says. “I pulled from *Kramer vs. Kramer* and created ‘Raymond vs. Raymond.’ You know, it’s difficult when you're walking away from a relationship, but it’s also enlightening; you pull from some of the bad things that have happened.”
Before taking the stage, you must prepare for the performance. Learn Usher’s approach to gathering inspiration, [vocal health](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/vocal-health), planning for performances, and capturing audiences when you sign up for the [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com/). 
Music industry titan Usher finds inspiration for songwriting everywhere. Learn Usher’s tips for navigating a songwriting rut, combating writer’s block, and writing personal songs. 

Music industry titan Usher finds inspiration for songwriting everywhere. Learn Usher’s tips for navigating a songwriting rut, combating writer’s block, and writing personal songs. 

Inspiration for Songwriting: 5 Tips From Usher

Born Usher Raymond IV, but simply known as Usher, the R&amp;B singer has won eight Grammy Awards and captivated audiences for more than twenty-five years. The singer-songwriter calls Prince and Michael Jackson large influences but simultaneously creates his own brand of R&amp;B and hip hop, leading to Billboard-topping songs.

A Brief Introduction to Usher

Whether it’s your first time writing or you want to try something new in your next song, experiment with these music and lyrical ideas from Usher to step out of your comfort zone and pen great songs: <ol class="mc-m-4"><li class="mc-my-4"> 1. Being open aids the creative process. The <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/songwriting-prompts' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/songwriting-prompts","linkCopy":"songwriting","category":null}'>songwriting</a> process requires <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/emotional-vulnerability' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/emotional-vulnerability","linkCopy":"emotional vulnerability","category":null}'>emotional vulnerability</a> to get the creative juices flowing. “To be vulnerable is a great thing,” Usher says. “Confessions probably was the first time that I allowed myself to be completely vulnerable. Here I Stand was the second time I was completely dedicated and vulnerable in my conviction of where I was at the time.” </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 2. Collaboration can bring about new ideas. “Collaboration starts with the admiration and appreciation of an artist or a producer’s work,” Usher says. Their artistry may unlock your own, so reach out to musicians you admire. Ask them to meet up for a <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-brainstorm-creative-ideas' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-brainstorm-creative-ideas","linkCopy":"brainstorming","category":null}'>brainstorming</a> session, swap samples, and see if an opportunity exists to feature one another in your songs. Collaborating is an excellent way to get out of a songwriting rut. </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 3. Inspiration can come from everyday life. Song topics vary wildly: love songs, breakup songs, party songs, and so much more. Real-life situations often inspire artists’ work. “The source of inspiration always comes from the [most] real places,” Usher says. “The most incredible songs come out of that: As a father, I was writing songs to my children, [and] I was writing songs for my marriage.” </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 4. Prioritize what makes you unique. There is only one you, and that’s what people want to hear: Don’t feel pressure to repeat others’ sound or music <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/singing-styles' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/singing-styles","linkCopy":"style","category":null}'>style</a>. Celebrate what makes you stand out and bring that to the table. “Individuality is everything in artistry,” Usher says. “You have to figure out what your <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/personal-brand-tips-from-kris-jenner' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/personal-brand-tips-from-kris-jenner","linkCopy":"brand","category":null}'>brand</a> is.” </li><li class="mc-my-4"> 5. Turn hard times into hit songs. In the song “Raymond vs. Raymond,” Usher riffs on the Oscar-winning film Kramer vs. Kramer, starring Dustin Hoffman and Meryl Streep, about a couple’s divorce. “I’ve talked to you about being able to pull references or ideas to create the story. ‘Raymond vs. Raymond’ did come at the face of a very tumultuous and difficult time in my life,” Usher says. “I pulled from Kramer vs. Kramer and created ‘Raymond vs. Raymond.’ You know, it’s difficult when you&#39;re walking away from a relationship, but it’s also enlightening; you pull from some of the bad things that have happened.” </li></ol>

Usher’s 5 Songwriting Tips

Before taking the stage, you must prepare for the performance. Learn Usher’s approach to gathering inspiration, <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/vocal-health' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/vocal-health","linkCopy":"vocal health","category":null}'>vocal health</a>, planning for performances, and capturing audiences when you sign up for the <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/","linkCopy":"MasterClass Annual Membership","category":null}'>MasterClass Annual Membership</a>.

Find Your Light

Music industry titan Usher finds inspiration for songwriting everywhere. Learn Usher’s tips for navigating a songwriting rut, combating writer’s block, and writing personal songs.

Music industry titan Usher finds inspiration for songwriting everywhere. Learn Usher’s tips for navigating a songwriting rut, combating writer’s block, and writing personal songs. 


Usher posing in front of a dark background. 

inspiration-for-songwriting

In fine art, filmmaking, photography, [graphic design](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-graphic-design), and other visual mediums, composition speaks to the arrangement of design elements in a given canvas, image, or screen. The composition combines specific elements—such as color, texture, and [positive or negative space](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/positive-and-negative-space)—that offer a clear visual hierarchy, drawing attention to the central or various parts of the image.
Graphic design composition combines individual elements with a structure to communicate information effectively. Graphic designers can use the basic principles of composition to make ads, website designs, and other marketing materials to build an effective [brand positioning strategy](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-create-a-brand-positioning-strategy) or [marketing campaign](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/direct-marketing). Using compositional principles gives visual weight to an image, telling the audience where to look, what to read, and how to feel. 

In addition to eye-catching graphic elements to communicate a message, there must be cohesion within the details, so audiences clearly understand the graphic and its goal. Graphic designers often work in apps such as Adobe Creative Cloud to establish a [visual hierarchy](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/visual-hierarchy) and strong composition for graphic design projects.
Several different elements are the building blocks that combine to make a good composition. The most important elements include:

1. __Color palette__: One of the most striking elements of your design, color helps establish a mood for your composition. When light waves strike an object and reflect back to the optic nerve in a human’s eyes, the sensation they perceive is color. Artists and designers use [color](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/color-in-art-explained) to depict and describe the subject and to portray mood, light, depth, and point of view. Designers use the [color wheel](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/color-theory-basics-understanding-the-color-wheel) and the tenets of color theory—a set of guidelines for mixing, combining, and manipulating colors—to create color schemes.
2. __Form__: The way a shape or physical configuration occupies space is form. Instead of creating form through a three-dimensional physical shape, designers create the appearance of form on a flat surface by using light, shadow, the formation of an object’s contours, empty space, and surrounding objects.
3. __Line__: Line refers to the way that two points in space connect. Diagonal, vertical, or horizontal lines can direct the eye toward a certain point in your composition. Designers can employ lines to create a symmetrical or asymmetrical [balance](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/balance-photography-explained) in designs.
4. __Shape__: A [shape](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/shape-in-art-explained) is a two-dimensional area with a surrounding outline. Graphic artists can use elements, including line, color, value, and shadow, to give a shape the appearance of a three-dimensional shape. There are three types of shapes: organic shapes, which occur naturally in the world; geometric shapes, which are angular and mathematically consistent; and abstract shapes, which represent things in nature but aren’t perfectly representative.
5. __Space__: Using space properly can help others view your design as you intended. White space or negative space is the space between or around the focal point of an image. Positive space is the space that your subject matter takes up in your composition. The spacing of your design is essential because a crowded [design layout](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/grids-in-design) can overwhelm the viewer’s eye.
6. __Texture__: Designers use texture to express how an object (image or text) feels. Words to describe texture may be rough, ribbed, smooth, thorny, soft, and more. Texture can provide a sensory component to your design.
7. __Typeface__: [Web designs](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-become-a-web-designer), ads, and print materials often combine images and text. The kind of [typography](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/typography-design-guide) you use should stem from brand guidelines and be easily legible—and well-written—to create a compelling message.
8. __Value__: In design, [value](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/value-in-art-explained) refers to the lightness or darkness of a color. The values of a color comprise gradients, a series of variations on one hue that range from the lightest to the darkest. Artists can use the various values of color to create the illusion of mass and volume in their work.
Get a [MasterClass Annual Membership](https://www.masterclass.com) and let David Carson be your personal tutor. The prolific and decorated designer—who’s been lauded as the “<a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/film-101-how-to-become-an-art-director' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/film-101-how-to-become-an-art-director","linkCopy":"art director","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>art director</a> of the era”—reveals his processes for going off the (design) grid, implementing typography in new and interesting ways, innovative uses of photography and collage, and so much more.
A successful graphic design composition combines visual elements to <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication","linkCopy":"communicate","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>communicate</a> a clear message. Learn about the principles of design and the key elements of compelling graphic design compositions.

A successful graphic design composition combines visual elements to <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication","linkCopy":"communicate","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>communicate</a> a clear message. Learn about the principles of design and the key elements of compelling graphic design compositions.

Graphic Design Composition: 8 Graphic Design Elements

In fine art, filmmaking, photography, <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-graphic-design' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-graphic-design","linkCopy":"graphic design","category":null}'>graphic design</a>, and other visual mediums, composition speaks to the arrangement of design elements in a given canvas, image, or screen. The composition combines specific elements—such as color, texture, and <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/positive-and-negative-space' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/positive-and-negative-space","linkCopy":"positive or negative space","category":null}'>positive or negative space</a>—that offer a clear visual hierarchy, drawing attention to the central or various parts of the image.

What Is Composition?

Graphic design composition combines individual elements with a structure to communicate information effectively. Graphic designers can use the basic principles of composition to make ads, website designs, and other marketing materials to build an effective <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-create-a-brand-positioning-strategy' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/how-to-create-a-brand-positioning-strategy","linkCopy":"brand positioning strategy","category":null}'>brand positioning strategy</a> or <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/direct-marketing' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/direct-marketing","linkCopy":"marketing campaign","category":null}'>marketing campaign</a>. Using compositional principles gives visual weight to an image, telling the audience where to look, what to read, and how to feel. In addition to eye-catching graphic elements to communicate a message, there must be cohesion within the details, so audiences clearly understand the graphic and its goal. Graphic designers often work in apps such as Adobe Creative Cloud to establish a <a href='https://www.masterclass.com/articles/visual-hierarchy' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://www.masterclass.com/articles/visual-hierarchy","linkCopy":"visual hierarchy","category":null}'>visual hierarchy</a> and strong composition for graphic design projects.

What Is Graphic Design Composition?

A successful graphic design composition combines visual elements to <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication","linkCopy":"communicate","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>communicate</a> a clear message. Learn about the principles of design and the key elements of compelling graphic design compositions.

A successful graphic design composition combines visual elements to <a href='https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication' target='_blank' class='mc-text--link' data-mc-segment-trigger='true' data-mc-segment-event-type='Article Page Click' data-event-obj='{"textTag":"p","href":"https://masterclass.com/articles/robin-robertss-tips-for-effective-communication","linkCopy":"communicate","category":"automated-link"}' automatic='true'>communicate</a> a clear message. Learn about the principles of design and the key elements of compelling graphic design compositions.

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