How to Write Music That Stands Out: From Classical Forms to TikTok Trends


In a world where thousands of new tracks are released every day, how do you make your music stand out? Whether you’re writing a symphony, a pop song, or a 30-second TikTok loop, the challenge is the same: capturing attention and leaving a lasting impression.

The good news is that many of the techniques used by today’s chart-toppers have roots in centuries-old traditions. By combining classical forms with modern creativity, you can write music that feels both fresh and memorable.

Lessons from Classical Forms

Classical composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Haydn used structure to keep listeners engaged. Even if audiences didn’t know the technical terms, they could sense when themes returned or when contrasts created drama.

Key lessons include:

  • Motifs and Repetition: Short, recognisable ideas (like Beethoven’s “da-da-da-dum”) make music memorable.
  • Contrast: Juxtaposing loud/soft, fast/slow, or major/minor adds variety and energy.
  • Development: Expanding a small idea into something bigger keeps music evolving.

These tools are just as relevant today as they were 200 years ago.

Hooks and Earworms in Popular Music

Modern pop music relies heavily on hooks — simple, repeatable musical ideas designed to stick. Think of the chant-like chorus in Dua Lipa’s Don’t Start Now or the hypnotic beat in Billie Eilish’s Bad Guy.

While the production is modern, the concept is timeless: memorable motifs, rhythmic drive, and clear structure.

The Rise of Short-Form Music

With platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels, music now competes for attention in seconds. A strong opening hook is more important than ever. Many viral tracks begin with the chorus or a distinctive sound to grab listeners immediately.

But short-form doesn’t mean shallow. Some creators are using the challenge of brevity to craft incredibly inventive, tightly focused ideas — much like a composer writing a miniature or étude.

Tips for Writing Music That Stands Out

  1. Start with a Strong Motif
    Keep it short, simple, and memorable. If you can hum it easily, you’re on the right track.
  2. Balance Repetition and Surprise
    Repetition gives familiarity; surprise keeps listeners interested. Try repeating a phrase but changing one note, rhythm, or harmony.
  3. Think About Energy Flow
    Whether your track is 30 seconds or 5 minutes, shape the energy with rises and falls. Build tension, then release it.
  4. Experiment with Texture and Timbre
    The choice of sounds is part of what makes music distinctive. Explore contrasts between acoustic and electronic, sparse and dense textures.
  5. Learn from Different Genres
    Jazz improvisation, classical structure, pop hooks, and EDM drops all offer valuable ideas. Borrow widely to find your own voice.

Final Thoughts

Writing music that stands out isn’t about reinventing the wheel — it’s about using time-tested techniques in fresh, creative ways. From classical motifs to modern social media hooks, the principles remain the same: be clear, be memorable, and above all, make your music feel alive.