merely informed by a general idea or theme , but every phrase is utterly dependent on those which come before and after it . Collectively , they are able to convey the narrative structure of plot that seems to be hardwired into humanity : exposition , rising action , climax , falling action , resolution … Each has its place in a story , and we seem to know that intrinsically .
There is a potential wellspring of impact for story songs in our context due to the way we now write songs in general , but since writing story songs is uncommon , it is a well that has largely gone untapped and unexplored . Consider : old hymns did not tend to feature the “ chorus ” and “ bridge ” elements that are so standard to our songwriting constructs now . Hymns were typically just verses that ended in a refrain … But as modern songwriters — with a wider variety of structural sections and dynamic shifts in our toolbox — to write a narrative lyric today brings a lot of interesting possibilities to the table . example of this is Ben Folds ’ “ Carrying Cathy ,” a song which has never failed to make me cry .) A story song like this can utilize a static chorus that takes on new depth and dimension as it is informed by a developing story . Alternatively , there is also the option of allowing each chorus to feature different lyrics and continuing the story through those sections as well . In a song like that , a well-placed bridge could be the moment of the song that zooms out , reflects on the story being told , and ties it all together .
Either approach could be incredibly effective . More traditional , “ hymn-like ” approaches , or newer ideas I haven ’ t touched on here , could be incredibly effective as well .
The point is : stories are important , and storytelling is a crucial thing we do as people .
Let ’ s try doing more of it !
SONGS REFERENCED :
Fernando Ortega : “ Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence ”
Hillsong Worship : “ O Praise the Name ( Anástasis )”
If we write a story song now , and each verse further progresses the story being told , we have the opportunity to cast the chorus in a new light each time we reach it . ( A fantastic
Kevin MacDougall Worship leader , published and recorded songwriter , engineer and producer . macdougall . k @ gmail . com
Ben Folds : “ Carrying Cathy ”