Q&A for How to Write a Rock Song

Yes, you can absolutely start a band with just a guitarist and a singer. The number or type of instruments does not limit your ability to create great music.

Both harmonium and sitar are unconventional choices in rock music. They have very different timbres, so listen to examples of each and decide which best fits the melodies you want to play and your vocal and lyrical style.

Yes, you can certainly form a band without a guitarist. However, since the guitar is a foundational instrument in much of rock music, building your sound around a DJ will require significant creativity.

Chords are more common, and can be easier to sing over as they have a fuller sound with more notes (so you have a bigger range to choose from without sounding out of key), but you can definitely just play individual notes if you prefer.

Yes, very many rock songs - and even punk, metal, and hip-hop - begin on the piano.

Your friends can choose an instrument to learn, such as bass, guitar, or drums. Many successful bands started with members who initially knew very little about their instruments, like The Gories, who developed a unique sound from scratch. Alternatively, band members can contribute in non-musical roles, such as creating visuals, similar to Rob Sheridan's role in How to Destroy Angels, where he influenced the band's overall aesthetic.

Yes, plenty of bassists also write songs. Since you're likelier to make the bass part more interesting than a guitarist or pianist would, your songs would have an edge over a lot of the material out there.

It certainly can. The opening riff of Enter Sandman is at least as much of a hook as the chorus. Other good examples of instrumental hooks are Smoke on the Water by Deep Purple, Plug In Baby by Muse, and Pieces of Truth by Foxboro Hottubs.

Yes, plenty of bands start this way. Nine Inch Nails was only one person (plus touring musicians when required) from the 80s until 2016! Cloud Nothings was also just a one-man band to begin with, and Panic! At the Disco and The Veils were reduced to one member several times.

Yes, a fusion or comeback of grunge and metal is plausible, though it would likely manifest differently. Modern tools and easier music production could lead to the incorporation of pop-rock elements into a new genre, potentially fueled by a societal desire for nostalgic and entertaining music reminiscent of the 90s. While not a certainty, such a development appears increasingly likely, even with pop music's current market dominance.

To promote your band, combine physical flyers at school with digital strategies like QR codes linking to your music and online performances. To find new band members after moving, utilize online music communities and local social media groups for musicians, or attend open mic nights and local jam sessions to connect in person.

You have many options today. If you use an iPhone, GarageBand is a free app with loops and onscreen touch instruments. For other devices, consider various digital audio workstations (DAWs) or mobile apps that offer virtual instruments and samples. Search online for "virtual guitar apps" or "GarageBand alternatives" to find suitable tools.

Yes, you can effectively use an instrumental solo as a song's hook, provided it transitions smoothly into the rest of the track. For example, some alternative rock songs feature a memorable introductory guitar riff; consider "Bleeding Out" by Imagine Dragons for a strong example.