What is Topline?
Also called: toplining, topliner
A topline is the vocal melody and lyrics written on top of an existing instrumental or beat. A topliner is a songwriter who specializes in writing them.
In a lot of modern pop, dance and hip hop, the track is made first and then one or more topliners write the melody and words, often in a single session. Several toplines may be written for the same track before one is chosen.
Toplining is songwriting, so topliners usually receive a share of the composition. Agreeing the splits in writing, with a split sheet, avoids disputes later.
A good topline works with the track's rhythm and leaves room for the production, rather than competing with every part.
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