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Lyric Completion Check List

Theme

1. A lot of people can relate to the song idea
2. The song has a unique or fresh approach
3. The idea of a song is believable
4. The song doesn’t confuse the listener with too many themes or details that don’t lead to

the hook
5. The characters are interesting or believable

Form

6. Is the first line original and catchy
7. Is the song form appropriate to the story and the song style
8. Does the story progress logically
9. Does the bridge add a new dimension to the plot

10. In the verse / chorus format, is the chorus the logical conclusion to all the verses
11. Is the title a synopsis of the story
12. Did I repeat the title enough so that a listener would know the title after one listening

Lyrics

13. Plain every day language that connects with average people
14. Ensure that verse lyrics primarily describe events and situations
15. Ensure chorus lyrics primarily describe reactions and emotions

16. Avoid being unnecessarily wordy
17. There is a memorable title or hook
18. There is a strong opening line that grabs the listeners attention
19. The lines are concise and every word counts
20. Focus on one main idea
21. Is the message universal

22. Is the setting clearly defined
23. Does the story progress logically
24. Is there a clear emotional tone
25. Does it use unique imagery

26. Does it use correct pronouns
27. Is the verb tense consistent
28. Does it answer who what where when and how questions
29. Is the language consistent
30. No lines draw too much attention to themselves

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