How to Use Spoken Word and Narration

Overview

Not every part of a song needs to be sung. Sometimes a spoken intro, narration, or spoken-word section adds more character and storytelling. With OpenMusic, you can create this effect by writing lyrics that feel like real speech and clearly separating spoken parts from sung sections, so the system understands the difference.

Write spoken sections like real speech

Spoken parts work best when they sound conversational. Avoid stiff or overly complex sentences that people wouldn’t naturally say out loud.

Too formal: “The protagonist subsequently commenced their journey.”

More natural: “And just like that, I started walking.”

A good habit is to read spoken lines aloud before generating. If they sound natural in conversation or narration, they usually translate well into spoken vocals.

Clearly separate spoken and sung parts

Make it obvious where speech begins and ends.

  • Use simple labels for clarity, such as:
    • “Intro (spoken)” for opening narration
    • “Spoken word” between verses
  • Keep spoken lines grouped together, then clearly start a new labeled section for sung parts.

Example structure: “Intro (spoken): This is the story of a night I’ll never forget.” “Verse 1 (sung): Under the neon lights, we started to dance…”

Clear structure helps spoken and sung sections feel intentional rather than accidental.

Use short, focused spoken phrases

Spoken word is most effective when it is concise.

Good uses:

  • A short line before a drop
  • A brief story moment between choruses
  • Simple rhythmic spoken poetry

Avoid:

  • Long paragraphs without pauses
  • Very fast or complex wording

You can also think in rhythmic lines, such as: “Every night I wonder / what tomorrow brings” “The room falls silent / and everything slows down”

Create contrast with spoken sections

Spoken lines are powerful when used to contrast musical sections.

  • Story-driven songs: Use narration to set context, then let sung parts carry emotion.
  • Intros and outros: A short spoken opening or closing can frame the song.
  • Dramatic breaks: Drop the music, add a quiet spoken line, then bring the track back in.

By combining natural wording, clear structure, and short phrases, you can mix spoken word and singing in OpenMusic songs in a way that feels cinematic and deliberate.