Some songs tell a story. Other songs are kind of like word vomit. Some lyrics are super sneaky with meanings hidden behind metaphors and similes. What type of songs do you like to write? What styles do you think you were a bit more versed in?
I'd like to go over some common ways that writers approach lyrics. These ideas won't really dive into the melodic side of things, the lyrics are their own beast in the world of creativity!
Narrative storytelling in songwriting involves crafting lyrics that tell a coherent and compelling story, complete with a clear beginning, middle, and end. This approach often includes detailed characters, settings, and events, making the listener feel as though they are following along with a short film or a novel in musical form.
For instance, "The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia" by Vicki Lawrence recounts a dramatic and suspenseful tale involving betrayal, murder, and justice. The song's narrative structure keeps the listener engaged, eager to find out what happens next.
Stream of consciousness lyrics capture the spontaneous flow of thoughts and emotions, often without a structured narrative. This allows for a more abstract and poetic expression, where the lyrics might jump from one idea to another in a way that mimics natural thought processes.
Leonard Cohen’s "Hallelujah" is a prime example of this style. The song weaves together religious imagery, personal reflection, and varied emotional states, creating a rich tapestry of ideas and feelings that resonate on a deep, almost subconscious level.
The emotional expression approach focuses on conveying a specific emotion or set of emotions with great intensity and depth. Lyrics in this style often use vivid imagery and metaphors to evoke feelings in the listener, making the emotional experience the central theme of the song.
Adele’s "Someone Like You" is a poignant example, where the lyrics powerfully express the pain and longing of lost love. The raw emotion in her voice, combined with the evocative lyrics, creates a deeply moving and relatable experience.
Lyrics that provide social commentary address important social, political, or cultural issues, often with the intent to provoke thought, raise awareness, or inspire change. This style can be powerful and impactful, as it speaks to the listener's sense of justice and empathy.
Bob Dylan's "Blowin' in the Wind" is an iconic song in this genre, posing rhetorical questions about peace, freedom, and human rights. Its simple yet profound lyrics have become anthems for civil rights and anti-war movements.
A character study in songwriting involves delving deeply into the life, thoughts, and experiences of a particular character. This method provides a detailed portrait of the character's psyche, motivations, and circumstances, making them come alive for the listener. "
Eleanor Rigby" by The Beatles is an excellent example, offering a poignant glimpse into the lonely life of its titular character. The song's detailed narrative and haunting imagery leave a lasting impression of Eleanor’s solitary existence and the broader theme of human isolation.
This lyrical approach emphasizes creating vivid images and sensory experiences through words, often without following a traditional narrative structure. The focus is on evoking strong visual or sensory impressions that immerse the listener in the song’s atmosphere. "
Blackbird" by The Beatles uses this technique masterfully, with its simple yet powerful imagery of a blackbird taking flight, symbolizing freedom and resilience. The descriptive language paints a clear picture, allowing listeners to visualize and feel the scene being described.
Conceptual or thematic lyrics are centered around a specific theme or concept, exploring different facets of an idea or telling a series of related stories. This style choice can give a song or an entire album a cohesive and unified feel.
Pink Floyd's album "Dark Side of the Moon" is a quintessential example of this style, as it delves into themes of conflict, greed, time, and mental illness. Each song on the album contributes to the overarching concept, creating a powerful and immersive listening experience.
The conversational approach to songwriting involves crafting lyrics that mimic the flow and tone of a conversation, either between the singer and another person or as an internal monologue. This style creates an intimate and personal feel, making the listener feel as though they are part of a private exchange.
Carly Simon's "You’re So Vain" exemplifies this approach, with its direct and candid lyrics addressing a former lover. The conversational tone adds a layer of realism and relatability, drawing listeners into the personal drama being recounted.
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