watching the black bird die

As I've mentioned before it does not suffice to count notes or syllables if you try to find a text that matches a particular tune. You have to observe the stresses as well. One method to achieve this is to write a nonsense text first that may serve as a template for your lyrics. If you come up with a sensible text from the start it's all the better, but that won't happen too often.

Alex has send a new tune and also gave additional information as to its structure (that I couldn't make out at first). It goes: verse, pre-chorus, chorus_1, chorus_2, verse, pre-chorus, chorus_2, short instrumental interlude, chorus_1, chorus_2. The second chorus has one additional note at the end and is supposed to have a slightly different text.

Normally, I'd begin with the chorus when writing lyrics. The chorus is supposed to convey the main message or predominate mood of the song. The verses then add a story or some detail to the theme. If you have a bridge this might add a little twist or different perspective so as to make the song a little more exciting.

As for Alex' song I've just listened to the parts several times and put down some dummy text in chronological order. This is what I've got for the verses:

and I'm watching the black bird sing
and I'm watching the black bird die
and I'm watching the black bird sing
but
I do not think I will have to cry anymore
I will not have to cry anymore
cry anymore
oh no-ho
(lines 3 to 5 also fit for the pre-chorus)

These lines are not supposed to make any sense, they're just my template for the verses. I've already noted similar nonsense to serve as a template for the chorus.

Next I will have to come up with an idea as to what the song is supposed to be about. I'll then begin filling out the voids starting with the chorus. At the moment I don't have a clue. Alex' music is some kind of smooth pop, happy, easy-going party stuff which I always have difficulty coming up with sensible ideas for. Blues is simpler: she's gone, I'm going, I'm in love with a girl I cannot reach, etcetera - plenty material for stories.