How Dynamics Can Drastically Improve Your Songs
Nov 11, 2025
DYNAMICS!!!!!
dynamics
Dynamics
Did you read all of those differently? Were they whispered, shouted, confident, shy.... ?
Even in writing we can demonstrate one of the most overlooked yet powerful tools in songwriting. It’s a subtle element that can shape how listeners engage with your music.
We’ve all been to an open mic where a song feels flat, where the verse, pre-chorus, and chorus blend together. No matter how strong the lyrics are, if the dynamics don’t shift, the audience loses interest. But then there are the performances that captivate an entire room, you can hear a pin drop.
What makes the difference?
It’s not just the lyrics and melody, it’s how the chords, rhythm, and dynamics guide the journey.
The downside of neglecting dynamics?
Your songs risk sounding monotonous and uninspired. Without variation, every section feels the same, making it hard for listeners to stay engaged. If a song doesn’t create movement and emotional contrast, people tune out, even if the lyrics are great. A lack of dynamics can make even a well-written song feel lifeless and forgettable.
Here are three ways to improve your song dynamics...
-
Vary Your Playing Intensity – Don’t play every section at the same volume. Experiment with softer verses and bigger choruses. This contrast helps highlight emotional shifts and keeps listeners engaged.
-
Change Up Your Technique – Try using your fingers instead of a pick for a warmer tone. Strumming with your thumb gives a different feel than your index finger, and plucking only a few strings instead of all of them can create more nuance.
-
Use Silence as a Tool – A well-placed pause before a chorus or between phrases adds tension and impact. Let your song breathe and give listeners a moment to absorb the emotion before moving forward.
Small, intentional changes in dynamics can turn a song from forgettable to unforgettable. Next time you play, listen beyond the lyrics—let the way you play tell the story just as much as the words.
