1. Data Collection and Preprocessing
The first step is to gather a large dataset of K-pop song lyrics. These lyrics are collected from various sources such as online databases, music streaming platforms, or fan sites. The lyrics are usually written in Korean, but English phrases are often included, as is common in K-pop.
Preprocessing includes:
- Tokenization: Breaking down the lyrics into smaller units like words or phrases.
- Normalization: Converting words to their base forms, dealing with different forms of the same word (e.g., "run" and "running").
- Language Handling: Since K-pop songs mix languages, the system needs to handle both Korean (Hangul script) and English.
The heart of a lyrics generator is the language model. This could be a type of neural network like GPT (Generative Pre-trained Transformer) or LSTM (Long Short-Term Memory) networks. These models are trained on the lyrics dataset to understand the structure, patterns, and themes that are common in K-pop songs.
- Language Understanding: The model learns how sentences are constructed, how themes like love, youth, or self-expression are discussed, and how emotions are conveyed.
- Pattern Recognition: K-pop lyrics often follow particular structures, such as verse-chorus-bridge. The model picks up on these structures to create coherent lyrics.
Once the model is trained, it can generate new lyrics based on input prompts. For example:
- Theme-based Input: The user might specify a theme like "love" or "empowerment." The generator would then use this theme to craft relevant lyrics.
- Seed Words or Phrases: Users can input specific words or phrases (e.g., "heartbreak," "shine bright"), and the model will build the song around those cues.
- Style Adaptation: If the generator has been trained on specific K-pop artists or subgenres (like ballads, hip-hop, or bubblegum pop), it can adapt the style and tone accordingly.
After the initial generation, there may be some cleanup involved:
- Grammar and Syntax Correction: Since models can sometimes produce imperfect sentences, post-processing ensures the lyrics flow naturally.
- Rhyming: If necessary, the generator can tweak words to maintain rhyme schemes or meter typical of K-pop songs.
- Language Polishing: Ensuring that mixed language usage (Korean and English) is fluid and appropriate.
Most lyrics generators allow customization. Users can adjust:
- Length of the song: Whether they want a short chorus or a full verse.
- Mood or emotion: Whether they want something upbeat or melancholic.
- Artists' Style: Some advanced models let users specify a style similar to a particular K-pop group or artist.
If a user asks for a song about "self-confidence" with a "bright" mood, the generator will:
- Recognise the theme (self-confidence) and the mood (bright).
- Generate a structure (verses and chorus) that matches typical K-pop formats.
- Create lyrics that convey self-confidence using upbeat language, integrating English where it fits.
- Post-process the lyrics to ensure coherence, appropriate rhymes, and smooth language transitions.
Some lyric generators might even include:
- Melody suggestions: Provide rough melody ideas based on the lyrics.
- Integration with music production: Allowing musicians to turn generated lyrics into fully produced songs with music generation tools.