Create and edit a song

BetterSongbook stores songs as structured ChordPro, so chords, lyrics, sections, and song keys stay useful in the reader.

Create a song

1. Open Songs.
2. Select the + button labelled Create or import song.
3. Enter the required Title and Artist.
4. Add the lyrics and chords in ChordPro source.
5. Review the live Preview.
6. Select Publish to library.

Your work is autosaved as a draft while you edit. If you leave and return, BetterSongbook restores the draft when possible.

Format the ChordPro source

Put chords immediately before the lyric where they should appear:

[C]Amazing [G]grace

Use directives on separate lines. For example:

{key: C}
{start_of_verse: Verse 1}
[C]First line of the verse
{end_of_verse}

Select Formatting tips in the editor for a quick reference.

Set the original key

Add a {key: ...} directive when you know the original key. If no key is declared, BetterSongbook may suggest one based on the chords. You can confirm the suggestion or choose a key manually.

Edit an existing song

From Songs, open the song's actions menu and select Edit. Add a short Change summary to help other workspace members understand the revision, then select Publish to library.

Publishing an edit creates a new revision. Earlier revisions remain available in Revision history.