Need a step-by-step song order tutorial? Some tips on how to get the most out of your song? We got you!
When submitting your order we encourage you to stick to the most important details that will help your artist craft your song's lyrics when filling out the order form. Below you'll find step-by-step instructions on how to place your order! You can keep track of what step you're on by clicking the top of the submission form to see your completed questions.
STEP #1: Who's the song for?
First, we need to know who this song is for and their relationship to you! Please include the song recipient’s name and who they are to you. If the box to mention their name is checked, the artist will weave their name into the lyrics. If you check this box, please provide the correct pronunciation of the name so we know what to say. If the box is not checked, the artist will make sure to not mention their name in the lyrics.
If you’re unsure whether or not to include the pronunciation, it’s always better to include it.
For example:
David is pronounced: DAY-vid
Aretha is pronounced: uh-REE-tha
Vancouver is pronounced: van-COO-vur
STEP #2: Is this for a special occasion?
We'll also need to know what the song is for and if you'd like the special occasion mentioned in the song. Is it their birthday? Do you want the artist to say "Happy Birthday"? If so, click mention the occasion. If not, do not check that box and the occasion will not be mentioned in your song.
STEP #3: Song Characteristics
SELECT A GENRE
We currently offer nine genres: Country, Singer-Songwriter, Acoustic Pop, Folk, Rock, R&B, Rap/Hip-Hop, Spanish and Christian.
Please note, that the artist you select will create your song based on the example you listen to when choosing that artist. In each genre offered, we have artists that cover that entire genre spectrum but that does not necessarily mean the artist you picked can create across the full spectrum of genres themselves.
For example, if an artist you picked does country, the sub-genre and style of country they do will be similar to the song example that helped you pick them. If they sound like pop country, chances are they probably aren't the best fit if you want a traditional country sound.
Take a look at our full genre breakdowns here
SELECT A VOCAL STYLE
Once you pick the vocal style, you’ll be asked to choose some vibes to inspire the feel and style of your song. You’ll be able to select up to two different vibes! Keep in mind how well the moods work together as well.
SELECT A VIBE
Here is the list of available vibes:
Heartfelt - Heartfelt songs highlight your emotional moments, stories, and feelings in a sincere way.
Comical - These songs highlight your funny stories and memories in a playful yet tasteful way.
Romantic - This features emotionally intimate lyrics, often with a slower tempo.
Reflective - Reflective songs focus on the past memories, stories, and details you provide.
Uplifting - These songs highlight your messages of encouragement and inspiration.
Somber - These songs use an emotional and serious tone, often with a slower tempo.
Happy - Happy songs are bright, positive, and sure to bring a smile.
Lighthearted - Lighthearted songs are fun, carefree, and whimsical, with a lively bounce.
SELECT A TEMPO
Next, you’ll get to pick a tempo for your song! The tempo indicates the beats per minute or speed that your song is performed. This can heavily influence the feeling of your song! For example a slow-tempo songs would be ideal for a slow dance or ballad. But an up-tempo song would have plenty of energy for a celebration or anthem!
Keep in mind: A slow-tempo romantic song has a whole different vibe than an up-tempo romantic song, so please make sure to select your preference. If you do not have a preference, the default is “No Preference” and your artist will use their expertise to form the tempo based on all of your other selections to make the best song possible.
STEP #4: Have you decided on an artist?
Every artist sounds different and that’s part of the beauty of music! Genres contain many different variations, sub-genres, and styles. What may be a country song to you, may not be a country song to someone else. Our artists don’t change their sound and style from song to song, so what you hear on our site will be very similar to what each artist will produce if they were to create your song. Artist’s sample songs give you a style/vibe preview before you purchase. We have 7 different genres and plenty of artists ready to create! Each one of our artists has their own unique style, so we strongly recommend choosing your artist yourself.
Take a look at all of our available artists below:
Artists: http://www.songfinch.com/artists
Playlists: https://www.songfinch.com/playlists
If you know which artist you want to work with, you can select "I already know who I want". Then, on the next screen, you'll be allowed to identify your top 3 artist preferences.
When submitting your artist choices, you'll be presented with the artist’s name and the genres they perform in. Please select which genre you want your chosen artist to perform your song in! We ask for three artist choices so we are prepared with options in case your first choice artist is not available. Please see the example below on how to select your artist and genre. You can select multiple artists in different genres. Once you choose your artist, you'll be taken to the "tempo/mood" selections.
If you do not have an artist preference in mind, select "Help me find the perfect artist" and provide some characteristics for the type of song you're looking for. This will help us narrow down which artists we think fit your vision of the perfect song so we can recommend them on the next page!
Our top recommendations
Once you submit your song characteristics you'll be shown six artists that match the selections you've expressed on the previous page! You can listen to these artist's example songs and select which one you want to complete your song. If you don't find your perfect match on this page you can view more artists or ask our Music Supervision team to pick an artist for you!
STEP #5: Tell us your story
Write your story like you’re telling it to someone you’ve never met before and try to avoid listing things without any context. Be thorough and take your time! The details and context you provide help your artist add depth, emotion, and meaning to your song.
We've limited the story text boxes to 750 characters as we don't need a ton of information to write you a fantastic song. Each Songfinch song is about 2:30-3:30, which includes two verses and a repeated chorus, so we don't need pages of information. You can also purchase a third verse at checkout if you want more details in your song!
Please keep in mind we can’t accept external links like Word Docs, PDFs, or Webpages, etc so include all of your song information within the text boxes provided.
There are a number of prompts to choose from so use your best judgment when providing us with your story. We also have thought starters and storytelling tips to help guide you in the right direction!
STEP #6: Any important details?
In the next section, share with us up to three details that are integral to your song. We'll be sure to have your artist include any details mentioned here word-for-word in your song! All other details are used to help craft your song's lyrics but are not guaranteed to be explicitly mentioned in your lyrics. Please limit each line to one detail with a short sentence of context.
Tips:
Make sure it makes sense
After you finish a response, re-read it from the perspective of a stranger. Be sure to include enough context so your artist understands what you’ve shared. Make it extra clear by including pronunciations too.
Avoid making a list
Without context, a list of random places, dates, and things could end up sounding like one of those goofy parody songs. If you only say, “Pepperoni, Pineapple, and Sausage”, that could be your go-to pizza order or the names of your three dogs. Context is key!
Include descriptive details
“I remember the crackling sound of the fire while sleeping under the stars” hits differently than “We went camping.” Think about all of the senses, and give your artist a peek into what your memories feel like. Please keep in mind, that if you request an artist to use a certain instrument we cannot guarantee it will be used.
Now, you can review and edit your submitted details before checking out. Use this time to double-check your spelling, submit pronunciation guides, and review the details included. Anything within your submission can make the song unless otherwise noted by you. If something is misspelled or mistyped, the artist will use what is written. Please be sure to include the pronunciation of any tricky words, names, or places so your artist knows what to say!
STEP #7: Rush Orders, Add-Ons and Gift Boosters
Before being able to checkout and choose your delivery date, you are required to select the box below. By checking this box, you understand that no changes can be made to your order once it is submitted.
All songs are delivered on the selected date by 11:59pm CST. We cannot deliver your song sooner than the date selected at checkout. Rush fees start at $25 USD for 6-day delivery and go up to $75 USD for 4-day delivery.
You can add an Extra Verse, song add-ons, or artist gratuity to your order before checking out! You can also order any of these add-ons after your song has been delivered. All store prices are in USD, if you are located outside of the US you will be charged in your country's currency.
If you need to get in touch with our Customer Success please reach out HERE! They are online 9:00 am – 5:00 pm CST, 7 days a week.
We can't wait to write your song!