Tips for Writing Rap Lyrics

Are you writing rap lyrics for the first time? Do you need help getting that snap in the lyrics that gives rap its classic punch and rhythm? Try following these simple tips for spot on rap lyrics that will grab the attention of your listeners.

Cop an Attitude
Half of the power of rap music is the attitude; to write great rap lyrics, you have to have an attitude that says you are the man, you have the right answer, you are the best person to deliver this message and you know it.

Rap music is inherently competitive and boastful; it originated with DJs competing for applause from dancers in dance clubs. You must both write the lyrics and deliver the rap with this attitude or the rap will fall flat.

Stick to the Rhythm
Don't mess with the rhythm at all; instead make your lyrics fit the beat perfectly. As soon as you try to force words that don't fit into a rhythm, you will lose your listener's respect. Make the lyrics crisp. Practice them out loud to make sure they fit the beat just right. If a word trips you up, ditch it for another, more suitable word that you won't stumble over.

Make it Rhyme
Use rhyme and alliteration whenever possible for an impressive rap. You may need to pull out a thesaurus to find just the right word.

Get Clever
One of the most powerful pieces in rap is a clever or humorous line. Look for opportunities to show off your wit and intelligence through humor.

Speak Street Smart
Use a combination of street lingo and impressive vocabulary words to garner respect.

Listen to the Masters
You'll want to listen to how other DJs and MCs rap with music and find out how to follow the beat in the same way. However, you don't want to mimic anyone. Be super careful not to copy anything you've ever heard before-originality is a key requirement of all raps. Just learn how to match a beat by listening.