Other than production, what do you think is the most common problem with songs you have heard at Artist Weekly? For example, is it song structure, melodies, lyrics ... ? There are many things that could be included in a "common problems list," so how about each member that posts a reply specify the one problem area they believe is the most common. Since we are all listening to the same songs but through different ears, it might be interesting.
For me, it's lyrics. I couldn't count the number of times I have started a song only to find myself shaking my head in disbelief after a minute or so. I hear things like, songs with potential being destroyed by boring, childish rhymes and lines. I hear the same old phrases being used over and over and over again. I hear sappy prose that makes me queezy and so on.
Having said that, remember that this is my perspective of the related songs; it doesn't necessarily mean the lyrics are bad, but it is the way I personally hear them. To me, poor lyrics is a very common problem.
I have a theory on that: Most songwriters start out learning an instrument and then graduate to writing songs. Although their musicianship and music writing skills might be mind-blowing, it doesn't make them a writer, a lyricist. If you took a group of any 100 songwriters and pulled aside the ones that were both good lyricists and good music writers, the number that were pulled aside would be small. And so, we end up with a problem of poor lyrics in many songs. Here's the kicker: Although some people realize they are not strong in this area, many do not even realize they have a problem. I know, that's where Artist Weekly comes in, letting whomever know their lyrics, well, suck.
Okay, so that's me. I think lyrics are the biggest problem. How about you?
There are a few artists that might want to consider collaborating with a lyricist. Unfortunatly, not many of them have expressed a desire for a lyricist to help them (at least not in the forums).
I would give a close second to the lack of diversity within the work of one songwriter. It seems quite common with songwriters here (and even with established songwriters) that all their stuff sounds the same. I'm really in no position to be critical, but it is what it is. There is a point where I see another song by "Artist A" and I just don't click with the enthusiasm I used to have.
And I agree with the lack of diversity, 100% I'm no expert either, but I don't think that matters. All we're doing is stating how we perceive things and that can be a big help whether you're an expert or not. Also, everyone should know that I didn't start this topic to by critical of the songs here or anywhere. It is just meant to get you to take a look at your songs and say, "I wonder if that's me?" Do my lyrics suck? Do many of my songs sound similar or follow similar themes? You get the idea. As we are all well aware, learning to be a good songwriter is a process that involves many things. Hopefully this will get at least some people to stand back and take an objective look at their songs and the comments they receive. It's worth doing.
I think ego has to be number 1. Poor songs and Alpha egos, heard it, rated it.
For me, production "shouldn't" be an issue, but it is. Fact is better production often comes under the heading of better tunes. The person submitting wants to and has the means to present the work under the best available light. Then you may have many, such as myself, who have the means, but do not spend the time it takes, and don't always know what it takes.
I have heard tunes that, had they no production, would be no tune what-so-ever. So, yes, I attempt to tune out the glitches in musicanship, the singer/songwriter who pushes the vocals low in the mix, the occasional misspelled word and try to get a handle on the overall effect of the song.
But all the while I do have a guide line..."if the electricity were turned off could this song still be performed?"
Quite frankly, I can't say it loud enough. So here it goes with caps lock down
I'M WILLING TO HOOK UP WITH A LYRICIST. I NEED A LYRICIST!!!
Of course, i have to like the lyrics too (and not just because you think you're a great lyricist).
but again.
I WANT TO CONNECT WITH A LYRICIST or MULTIPLE LYRICISTS.
send me an email
ztar_dude @ yahoo . com
And if I don't I like your lyrics then be ready for that too.
And if you think I can't write music then no need to send me your lyrics.
So check my stuff out first.
I'm really open to write in any genre. so don't be deterred by my lack of song posts. Just many of my songs aren't ready yet. I'm into Metal to old swing jazz to rap (if it's interesting enough.)
I love my dog 'cause he's all right, Oh how I wish I could see him tonight, But I know that that is wrong, So just instead I wrote the words to this song, How I hope you like them, It took me a long time to do this job.
Thanks Coffee ... I spent 5 days on that beautiful piece. If you want to print it out and frame it you have my permission. In fact, I'm so generous I will give you complete resale rights.
Steve ... You know I wrote that 'specially just for you. I'm so glad you still love me. See you at the shelter.
Acutally, seriously, I agree with Karnik, Lyrics are a big problem for most writers. I have close friend that was divorced, every song he now writes has crying, death and divorce in it. He definitely needs a lyricist, and some pills.
As an example of production overtaking marginal songwriting-take last weeks winner : great production, nice voice, catchy tune. Lyrically almost non-existent.
To me it was a perfect example of well produced fluff. Nothing new, nearly every line in the song a recycled idea, but it won here. Okay winning here means only that you won here, but still! Musta been a slow week!
Coffee Anon wrote: Lyrics are a big problem for most writers.
Hang on, I got this soda coming out my nose!!!
Last weeks winner was qualified, I think. I liked the whole feel of it. Granted the verbage was a bit recycled, but overall it was very good. Maybe not a number 1 position...but they don't let me makes those decisions.
Hell, come on, Paris Hilton reached #6 with whatever that is of hers...oh, sorry. My anger management courses are starting to piss me off!!!!
Well jack obviously i disagree with that. Qualified based on production value maybe, but lyrically? Recycled is a good word. Nothing against Shayreen, if she produced it then maybe she gets the credit anyway. Otherwise, to me it was lovely wrapping paper on an empty box.
I agree. It was one of few songs that did not make me want to puke and did not require anything of me just to enjoy the listen:) A rare occasion indeed.
The biggest pet peeve I have is the tempo at which so many people write and/or record their songs. Does everyone compose their songs on a computer or workstation, or what??!?
First, pick a sound that you want. That sound should include a VERY SPECIFIC METER AND TEMPO. Waaaaaaaaaayy too many of the songs submitted for listening and peer comments are set around the same speed, usually 76 to 100 bpm, and too often, this is the wrong tempo for the song that was written. Many songs would benefit from taking the tempo from adagio to allegro. It's funny that sometimes that's all you need, but dang, folks. Try something new.
Second, be PRECISE when you record your song. There's nothing worse than wondering if someone's beat is an 8-beat, 16-beat, or boogie shuffle. I listened to one song today where it wasn't clear if it was a shuffle beat or straight 16ths. It was muddy guitar work, confusing, and it just made the song sound bad. Be precise, or get precise musicians to record your song.
Third, too many poor lyric choices. Avoid cliches. God, please . . . avoid them. WAAAYY to many of them. If you write a song with even one tiny cliche, and that cliche is not creatively used, find a way to get rid of it. Also avoid lyrics that sound like they should be in poetry books. Phrases like "Oh how I wish" make me want to puke. Seriously. Before you put your lyrics to music, as a discerning MUSIC FAN to read through them and get their honest, unbiased opinion. If they tell you it's deader than a filleted salmon, rewrite it or chuck it.
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Take Care . God Bless . Rock On . Zach . The TuneHead
The biggest pet peeve I have is the tempo at which so many people write and/or record their songs. Does everyone compose their songs on a computer or workstation, or what??!?
First, pick a sound that you want. That sound should include a VERY SPECIFIC METER AND TEMPO. Waaaaaaaaaayy too many of the songs submitted for listening and peer comments are set around the same speed, usually 76 to 100 bpm, and too often, this is the wrong tempo for the song that was written. Many songs would benefit from taking the tempo from adagio to allegro. It's funny that sometimes that's all you need, but dang, folks. Try something new.
Second, be PRECISE when you record your song. There's nothing worse than wondering if someone's beat is an 8-beat, 16-beat, or boogie shuffle. I listened to one song today where it wasn't clear if it was a shuffle beat or straight 16ths. It was muddy guitar work, confusing, and it just made the song sound bad. Be precise, or get precise musicians to record your song.
Third, too many poor lyric choices. Avoid cliches. God, please . . . avoid them. WAAAYY to many of them. If you write a song with even one tiny cliche, and that cliche is not creatively used, find a way to get rid of it. Also avoid lyrics that sound like they should be in poetry books. Phrases like "Oh how I wish" make me want to puke. Seriously. Before you put your lyrics to music, as a discerning MUSIC FAN to read through them and get their honest, unbiased opinion. If they tell you it's deader than a filleted salmon, rewrite it or chuck it.
Nothing personal, but Right Back At You Dude. Take your own advice.
The road to musical hell is paved with good intentions. There has to be talent to give a proper voice to those intentions. I think most people could stand a little songwriting 101 lesson. Childish lyrics, poor construction, out of tune instruments, and on and on. I truly think an artist has to learn the basics before they can break free from the rules, but it seems that too many just go right for the rule-breaking with disasterous results.
Very good point BC. I know your not talking about me though! but seriously i think the days of serious teeeth cutting are over. I think there are way to many shortcuts and there is a huge lack of foundation. ha? peace D
Since when was foundation ever needed with popular music? What is foundation in that sense and how exactly does it make a good song or good song writer?
