MayDo you need to understand the lyrics to enjoy the song?
April 12th 2008 13:40
I've often thought that the best way to enjoy a song is to learn what the lyrics are (or at least be able to see what they are), and dissect them for their meanings. Best examples of this would have to be: "The Special Two" by Missy Higgins; "Bleeding Love" by Leona Lewis; and even "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor. Of course, the music production plays a role as well, but you can't deny that these songs have lyrical meaning that appeals to the masses (which means that even the stereotypical macho guy secretly enjoys turning up the radio when these songs come on).
However, what if you can't understand the lyrics?
I’m no expert, but I’ve been known to listen to music sung in languages other than English. In fact, one of my favourite events in the music calendar is the annual Eurovision Song Contest. Of course, Eurovision is as much about the loud and colourful performances as it is about the music. But there is a whole universe of music out there in different genres and languages. Of the little that I hear from that whole universe of music, it's not difficult to appreciate the work that goes into producing the song, as well as the skill of the singer. Whether it be an impressive riff or an emotive voice, music really can be regarded as a universal language. You might not understand it, but you're sure not going to stop listening to it.
However, what if you can't understand the lyrics?
I’m no expert, but I’ve been known to listen to music sung in languages other than English. In fact, one of my favourite events in the music calendar is the annual Eurovision Song Contest. Of course, Eurovision is as much about the loud and colourful performances as it is about the music. But there is a whole universe of music out there in different genres and languages. Of the little that I hear from that whole universe of music, it's not difficult to appreciate the work that goes into producing the song, as well as the skill of the singer. Whether it be an impressive riff or an emotive voice, music really can be regarded as a universal language. You might not understand it, but you're sure not going to stop listening to it.
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Comment by the world of gaye
batty
Family Madness
bright lights greedy city
REFLECTIONS
THE WINDMILLS OF MY MIND
Comment by Julia Hughan
The Nashville Sound
Comment by May
Music Dime
Julia, I'm not a big fan of hip hop in general, but there are some songs out there with excellent producers who just somehow bring irrelevant sounds together to make an impressive beat. I definitely hear you!
Comment by the world of gaye
batty
Family Madness
bright lights greedy city
REFLECTIONS
THE WINDMILLS OF MY MIND
gaye
Comment by Julia Hughan
The Nashville Sound
Comment by May
Music Dime
Julia, I can't agree with you more!