THE GUITARIST’S GUIDE TO WRITING SONGS
Writing for other instruments
A basic understanding of other instruments is essential for any songwriter, and drums and bass are the most important of all...
...And here’s why. In a rock band context, drums and bass play musical roles that the guitar just can’t do. Keyboards or brass/woodwind generally serve chordal and melodic purposes – and the guitar is a dab hand at these. So, while it helps to know a bit about every instrument, a little drums and bass knowledge will give you a foundation to write your other ideas around. Here’s what you need to think about when writing parts for other instruments.