A Songwriting Primer: (ca1970--present)

Expert Primer on Songwriting: Concepts, Genres, Techniques, and Notable Songwriters

Songwriting is an art that has been evolving over time. From the 1970s to the present, songwriters have been exploring different concepts, genres, and techniques to create music that resonates with audiences across the globe. In this primer, we will delve into these aspects of songwriting and highlight notable songwriters who have made an impact in the industry.

Concepts

Songwriting involves exploring different concepts to create music that resonates with listeners. One of the most important concepts in songwriting is storytelling. Through storytelling, songwriters can capture their experiences and emotions, and convey them to their audience in a relatable and engaging manner. This concept has been explored by songwriters such as Bob Dylan, who used his music to tell stories about social injustice and political turmoil.

Another concept in songwriting is authenticity. Songwriters who are authentic create music that is true to themselves, and this allows them to connect with their audience on a deeper level. This concept has been explored by songwriters such as Joni Mitchell, who wrote songs that were honest and personal, and spoke to the experiences of women in the 1970s.

Genres

Genres are another important aspect of songwriting. Over the years, songwriters have explored different genres to create music that is diverse and innovative. One of the most popular genres in songwriting is pop. Pop music is characterized by its catchy hooks, upbeat melodies, and relatable lyrics. Songwriters such as Max Martin have made significant contributions to the pop genre, with his work with artists such as Britney Spears and Katy Perry.

Another genre that has been explored in songwriting is rock. Rock music is characterized by its use of electric guitars, heavy drums, and loud vocals. Songwriters such as Bruce Springsteen have made significant contributions to the rock genre, with his music that explores themes such as working-class struggles and the American dream.

Techniques

Songwriting also involves exploring different techniques to create music that is unique and memorable. One of the most important techniques in songwriting is melody. Melody is the main theme of a song and is created through a combination of rhythm, harmony, and tone. Songwriters such as Paul McCartney have created memorable melodies that have become timeless classics.

Another technique in songwriting is the use of hooks. Hooks are catchy phrases or melodies that are repeated throughout a song. Songwriters such as Michael Jackson have used hooks to create music that is memorable and easy to sing along to.

Notable Songwriters

Over the years, there have been many notable songwriters who have made significant contributions to the music industry. One of these songwriters is Carole King. King is known for her work in the 1970s, where she wrote songs that spoke to the experiences of women during that time. Her album Tapestry, which was released in 1971, is considered one of the best albums of all time.

Another notable songwriter is Bruce Springsteen. Springsteen is known for his work in the rock genre, where he has explored themes such as the struggles of working-class Americans and the American dream. His album Born to Run, which was released in 1975, is considered one of the greatest rock albums of all time.

Concepts:

One important concept in songwriting is the use of metaphors. Metaphors are figures of speech that compare two things that are seemingly unrelated to create meaning. Songwriters such as Leonard Cohen have used metaphors to create music that is poetic and deeply meaningful. In his song Suzanne, Cohen compares the feeling of falling in love to "tea and oranges that come all the way from China." This metaphor creates a vivid image in the listener's mind, allowing them to connect with the song on a deeper level.

Another concept in songwriting is the use of irony. Irony is the use of words that convey the opposite of their literal meaning. Songwriters such as Alanis Morissette have used irony to create music that is witty and thought-provoking. In her song Ironic, Morissette sings about situations that are not actually ironic, but rather just unfortunate coincidences. This use of irony creates a sense of humor and lightheartedness in the song, despite the serious themes it touches on.

Genres:

Another genre that has been explored in songwriting is country music. Country music is characterized by its use of acoustic instruments, such as guitars and banjos, and its focus on storytelling. Songwriters such as Dolly Parton have made significant contributions to the country music genre, with her music that explores themes such as love, loss, and the struggles of everyday life. Parton's album Coat of Many Colors, which was released in 1971, is considered one of the best country albums of all time.

Techniques:

Another technique in songwriting is the use of repetition. Repetition involves repeating a word or phrase multiple times throughout a song to create emphasis and impact. Songwriters such as Bob Marley have used repetition to create music that is powerful and uplifting. In his song Get Up, Stand Up, Marley repeats the phrase "get up, stand up" throughout the chorus, encouraging listeners to take action and stand up for their rights.

Another technique in songwriting is the use of contrast. Contrast involves juxtaposing two contrasting elements to create a sense of tension and drama. Songwriters such as Adele have used contrast to create music that is emotional and powerful. In her song Someone Like You, Adele contrasts the feelings of nostalgia and acceptance, creating a sense of tension and bittersweetness in the song.

Notable Songwriters:

Another notable songwriter is Prince. Prince is known for his work in the pop and funk genres, where he explored themes such as love, sexuality, and spirituality. His music was characterized by his use of falsetto vocals, virtuosic guitar playing, and genre-blending. His album Purple Rain, which was released in 1984, is considered one of the greatest albums of all time.

Another notable songwriter is Taylor Swift. Swift is known for her work in the country and pop genres, where she has explored themes such as love, heartbreak, and personal growth. Her music is characterized by her storytelling abilities, catchy melodies, and relatable lyrics. Her album 1989, which was released in 2014, is considered one of the best pop albums of all time.