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néomí
by Gary E. Andrews - 07/24/26 08:58 PM
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Joined: May 2008
Posts: 4,195 Likes: 1
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OP
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When you write a song, particularly when you write the lyrics first, do you know what the tempo will be?
I have noticed that the more I write, the more I am aware at the onset of the tempo I want for the song.
Tom
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Joined: Nov 2006
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It depends on the type of song and genre. Sometimes I write with a tempo in mind. Sometimes the lyrics and meter dictate the tempo...eg a slow ballad or an upbeat pop song. Some songs can be played with different arrangements and tempos. Compare my version of Scott Campbell's "Champion" to others on the challenge thread for an example of a song that can have many different arrangements and tempos. Sometimes when working a song the tempo has to be adjusted to find the optimum rate. A minus or plus 10% change can make the song sound completely different.
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Joined: Apr 2006
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Sometimes yes, sometimes no. 
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Joined: Feb 2005
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Tom: I usually have a rough idea about the tempo. Naturally, when the actual recording session takes place... a little tweaking is usually required. (Sometimes, a lot of tweaking!) Dave http://www.ShowCaseYourMusic.com/DaveRice
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Joined: Apr 2001
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JPF Mentor
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When Arlen and Yarburg wrote "Somewhere Over the Rainbow," it was written as an uptempo piece. When it got slowed down, then it became the classic we all know. If it was never changed, it might have never been the hit it was.
You've got to know your limitations. I don't know what your limitations are. I found out what mine were when I was twelve. I found out that there weren't too many limitations, if I did it my way. -Johnny Cash It's only music. -niteshift Mike Dunbar Music
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Joined: Dec 2008
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Usually I have an idea of the tempo. However, when I start recording I'll make some minor changes in tempo (usually bumping it up a notch or two).
As far as slow, medium, or fast; yes, definitely I know from the onset.
But then it's always interesting thinking about how a song of mine would sound in a different tempo ala "Breaking Up is Hard To Do" (Neil Sedaka).
Best, John
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Joined: May 2008
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One thing I have notices recently is how a little change in tempo makes a big difference. When I started writing, I was not really aware of the tempo but now whenever I write a song, I have a pretty clear idea of the tempo in my head.
I am influenced now by the posts here that most songs written are slow, and most songs that get recorded and played are fast.
Tom
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