Love songs don’t have to be gooey, open-mic gaucheries. In canny hands, the amorous tune can be an elegant way to publicly express affection (or lure in your next conquest). Songwriter Jason Mraz is a master of the form: His folkie, reggae-inspired single “I’m Yours” has sold more than 5 million copies. Had to help someone get lucky, right? We asked Mraz for tips on how to write a hit love song, even if you’re not blessed with the soulful voice of a crooner.

1/ Feel the pain
Love songs are a way of dealing with longing. If your feelings are unrequited, no problem. But if everything is hunky-dory between you and your paramour, create some separation to help conjure the creative moxie.

2/ Personalize the lyrics
Use real details or you’ll end up with a hash of clichés. (Mraz’s tune “Coyotes” references a newspaper clipping sent to him by an estranged crush.) “Otherwise, it’s just a Hallmark card,” Mraz says.

3/ Don’t be too personal
“The world loves to eavesdrop and pretend it’s them,” Mraz says. The song has to have broad appeal. His lyrics about coyotes double as a universally understood metaphor for loneliness.

4/ Go big (musically)
Catchy songs have melodies that sweep high to low. Think “Sweet Caroline” or “All You Need Is Love”—brass-heavy, with a handful of tricks still used today. If it sounds familiar, you’re on the right track.

5/ End with a bang
Make sure the finish has some emotional punch—simple and resonant. On “I’m Yours,” Mraz closes by wailing the song’s title and tagline. “Bring it all home,” he says. “That’s what the love song is all about.”

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