text: is it true if  you want to learn how to write music u have to study it? i want to be an r&b singer. i asked this dude does he know how to write he said yes then i said maybe you can teach me then he said u have to study it for years i just freaked out it depends on what you mean by "study."  if you are dillegent, it will not take you years.   also, you probably don't need formal training - there are numerous cd rom and other types of music literature tutorials out there if you look around.  good luck!