Introduction to Topline Writing

This course will offer a foundation in writing topline for pop songs. Toplining is the practice of creating and recording the melody and lyric line for tracks that have already been created by beat makers or producers who specialize in creating rhythmic and harmonic structures. The practice has become the industry standard for pop, R&B and hip-hop, EDM, and Latin music genres. This introductory course will focus on techniques for creating a topline for tracks including: writing vocal hooks, placement of lyric concepts, developing melodic motifs through judicious melodic, rhythmic, and note choice; defining sections through melodic contrast, modern pop forms, and basic vocal production techniques. Through a series of weekly exercises, assignments and two complete song projects, students learn how to craft a topline, use a DAW to record their voice, and deliver a finished topline work.