The short answer
A custom song (also called a personalized song) is an original song written and recorded for one person, using details from a story you share: their name, your memories, inside jokes and the feeling you want to create. At TributeTunes, you share the story, review and approve the lyrics, and receive three professionally produced versions with different vocal styles, for $24.99.
A custom song isn't a famous song with a name swapped in. It's a brand-new song, with original lyrics and music, built from your story about one specific person. That's why people react the way they do. Gail described the moment her husband realized the song was about him:
"He was surprised to hear it was literally all about him and when the vocalist sang his name in the lyrics his jaw dropped!"
Here's exactly how one gets made.
How is a custom song made?
From story to song at TributeTunes
- You share the story (about 10 minutes). Who it's for, your relationship, the occasion, your story, and choices for genre, tone, tempo, vocals and language.
- We write the lyrics (about 15 minutes). They're emailed to you.
- You review and approve. Edit any line, fix a name, add a detail. Nothing is recorded until you approve.
- We produce your song. Three studio quality versions with different vocal styles, within 24 hours of approval with express delivery.
- You share it. Download the MP3s and lyric sheet, send a gift link, or release it on streaming services.
What do you need to provide for a custom song?
Only the story. You don't need to write lyrics, rhyme or know anything about music. The song form asks for:
- Who it's for and your relationship (wife, dad, best friend, coach and more)
- The occasion
- Your story: names, habits, memories and places, up to 1,200 characters
- Genre: Pop, Rock, Country, Hip Hop, Jazz, Folk, Electronic, Reggae, Classical, Blues, R&B or Other
- Tone: Upbeat, Romantic, Funny, Sentimental, Inspiring or Relaxing
- Tempo: Slow, Medium or Fast
- Vocals: male or female
- Language: English, Spanish or French
Our guide on how to write the story for a custom song shows exactly what to include.
What do you get with a custom song?
- Three studio quality versions with different vocal styles, so you can pick a favorite or keep all three
- A custom lyric sheet to view, download, print or frame
- A song page where you can download, share and send a gift link
- The Perfect Note Guarantee: if something isn't right, tell us within 24 hours of delivery and we'll adjust it
- Optional streaming release on your choice of Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music or YouTube Music
Madailein described the three-version surprise in her review:
"They even send you three different versions of the song so that you can pick your favorite one. They made the lyrics fit just perfectly and wrote them into the genre I chose. They made ME cry, and I'm the one gifting it lol."
Here's what a finished custom song sounds like:
Why is a custom song a meaningful gift?
Because it's proof you paid attention. Most gifts say "I thought of you." A song with their nickname, the story of how you met and the joke only the two of you get says "I know you." Sanj called it "the perfect gift for the guy who has everything he wants." It's also a gift that lasts: people play their songs on anniversaries, in the car, and at family gatherings for years.
How much does a custom song cost?
At TributeTunes, $24.99 for three studio quality versions and a lyric sheet. Express delivery within 24 hours of approving your lyrics is $4.99 more, and streaming release is optional. Artist marketplaces typically start around $179, and freelance songwriters often charge $200 to $500. See our full custom song price guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is a custom song?
A custom song is an original song written and recorded for a specific person, using details you share such as their name, memories and inside jokes. It has new lyrics and music, not a famous song with a name inserted.
Do I have to write the lyrics?
No. You share your story in plain sentences and the lyrics are written for you. You review them and can change any line before the song is recorded.
How long does a custom song take?
At TributeTunes, lyrics arrive in about 15 minutes. With express delivery, the finished song arrives within 24 hours of approving the lyrics.
Can I choose the singer and style?
Yes. You choose the genre, tone, tempo, male or female vocals and the language. You also receive three versions with different vocal styles.
Can I share and play my custom song anywhere?
Your song comes with a personal license: you can keep it, share it with friends and family, and play it at personal events like birthdays, weddings and memorials. It isn't licensed for commercial use. See our terms of use for the details, including streaming release.
Hear samples for every occasion, see how our process works, or start your song.
