The lyrics and the Listener

Writing Lyrics for a song can be a deeply personal and emotional experience. Particularly, when the lyricist shares the "nakedness" of their most inner thoughts. Lyricists that "give themselves" to the sincerity of their story, must be willing to reveal their innermost thoughts, conceptions and desires. In essence, they are willing to remove the vale that shields them from the world, hence laying bare that which is personal. On the other hand, the listener is forever interested in knowing "the story," and consequently, developing an appetite for the understanding and connection to that story.  Learning how to "connect" with the listener regardless of genre is paramount. Connecting with the listener is the single main ingredient to writing a successful song. Fortunately, there is this wonderful thing called, music, to help accomplish this precious ingredient. Instead of exclamation marks, there are crescendos or an effective "hook" that retains the main gist of the story. Moreover, there is this chorus thing that reiterates the theme of the song.  All in all, it is just another example how music is a supreme communicator. Thereupon, when writing a "happy song", keep it happy or when writing a song of drama, drown in the drama, and so on. In concert, find the connection that explains the true meaning and don't hold back. Deliver a credible story whether it is derived from your own personal experiences, your perceived experiences, or simply from your imagination. Imagination is the hallmark of fictional story telling. It is a glorious gift to be able to become the person and/or situation that you are imagining. Within the lyrics, the lyricist can relish in this precious gift of imagination. In some cases, it is the only way to reach that connection to a person who really has experienced that journey. Moreover, developing this connection between your imaginary subject and those who can identify with that connection creates a unique and compelling song.  It is a skill and gift worthy of dedication and understanding.

So, imagine or tell the untold. Live and share the sensations from happiness to sorrow. Under all circumstances, write with a purpose and be true to your feelings. Remember lyrics can be simple and the meaning obvious or clandestine. Be overwhelmed with creativity, joy and mystery. Always offer a message, a resolve, or a conclusion. Learn to satisfy the listener by thinking as the listener and deliver. Ultimately, it is this connection made between the lyricist, singer, and musician to the listener, that creates the "forever bond" found in the greatest of songs. Sometimes the simplicity of the lyrics is the best truth.

Till next time, be safe, be happy, Kia