How To Write a Three-Chord Song

In this video, I am "writing' a simple song using just THREE CHORDS -- the I (1), IV (4) and V (5) Chords of the C scale. 

Instructions on what I am doing are below the video.  Please watch the video several times so that you can "see" what it is I am actually doing and will be able to emulate it.  All of this information is explained in more detail in Chord Piano Is Fun.

All I am doing, is playing each chord in BLOCK form with the left hand, while I create a melody with the right.

I am using the "A-A-B-A" musical form.

The chord progression in the A sections is I-IV-V-I, (1-4-5-1),  and in the B section it is IV-V-IV-V (4-5-4-5).

The ONLY notes that I am using in the melody, are the notes in each chord that is being played.  So, when I am playing the I (1) Chord with my left hand, I am ONLY using the notes of that chord in my right hand.

I am making sure that I create repetition -- either with the notes themselves, the rhythms, or both.  This makes a song much more "listenable."

I am using a variety of note lengths -- quarter notes, eighth notes, and half notes.  You can make the rhythms as simple or as complex as you would like. 

Each SECTION of this song consists of TWO MEASURES EACH.  You can make the song as long as you would like, but try to keep the sections consistent in length.  Not necessary, but a good way to start.

I am beginning the song on the I (1) Chord and ending the song on the I (1) Chord.

I hope you decide to try it!  If you don't understand the lingo, please consider purchasing a copy of Chord Piano is Fun!

God bless and have fun!

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