as language itself . Some lyrics will make clear that they need musical accompaniment that is driving and straightforward . Others will tell me that a more mysterious and ethereal approach would be better . As with songs which begin with a musical idea , it just depends . But when a lyrical passage is already communicating something clearly , we want music to heighten and strengthen that communication , not to get in its way .
In either case , it ’ s all about finding the tone of a piece , and learning to honor it .
When the spirit of a song comes into focus , it becomes much easier to celebrate it and play to its particularities . And as it turns out , that ’ s a huge part of writing a memorable song . Memorable songs are not disparate pieces smashed together haphazardly ; their different elements have a tonal consistency to them . Because of this , they elevate each other when combined . A string of words elevates a choice in chord or melody , and a musical motif elevates a piece of poetry . But only if they all want to reach in the same direction .
It makes sense , then , that one of the first things I should do when I have an idea I like is to distill it to its essence . If I can find its essence , I can then make sure everything else I put into the song serves that essence - the tonal core of what it wants to be .
So , the kernel of encouragement to be found here is something like this : Don ’ t go through the motions of writing until you ’ ve sat still for a moment and listened to the faint voice at the heart of the song as it sings to you … and tells you what the song aspires to be . Perhaps the greatest hurdle to unique and exceptional songwriting is forgetting this very step . Forgetting to listen first , so the song ’ s essence can draw you towards something singular - even as you utilize various techniques and disciplines .
Too many songs end up being an exercise in throwing ideas together at random . Words create worlds of thought , and music creates worlds of feeling , but they never truly combine to construct something bigger and more powerful . They never lead to what the famous quote above describes in how a song can make
people feel thoughts . They lack the cohesion and purpose necessary to accomplish such a thing .
So , don ’ t do the work until you ’ ve stilled yourself and listened .
The song is already singing .
You ’ re just going to help it get louder .
It ’ s generally considered to be a good quality to have as a person if you “ say what you mean and mean what you say ,” and I think something like that applies to songwriting craft as well .
Make sure you play what you sing and sing what you play .
Kevin MacDougall Worship leader , published and recorded songwriter , musician and podcast producer . macdougall . k @ gmail . com