What makes a song good? - Writers Forum

Damian_Rucci · 02-12-2008, 12:07 PM

What makes a song good?

I bet everyone has a totally contrasting view on that. I for one, have to say I like songs that have deep meanings hidden in the songs. Also, ones that seem like the person actually meant it, not just threw some words together and called it a song.

What about you? What do you think makes a song good?

Tom · 02-12-2008, 03:54 PM

There are many thing I believe make a song good.

For one the actual song, I mean the musical notes etc, for the lyrics to work really well there has to be a contrasting tune to help it flow. Also, I think like you said Damian, hidden meanings are very attractive, but overall the song and how it expresses the mood of a person, as one person will be more subjected to listen to a song which is similiar to what they are feeling.

Tom.

Damian_Rucci · 02-12-2008, 05:00 PM

I agree that it needs good musical notes as well. Because some songs have great lyrics but the music is just bad

nia mora · 02-12-2008, 07:54 PM

to me, a good song should trigger a strong emotion because i can relate to it some how. not just the lyrics but the notes and overall tone of the song.

StephenP2003 · 02-12-2008, 10:04 PM

For the masses: Any song with lyrics and melody that can be easily remembered either in whole or in part. Lyrics must have surface meaning and be easy to duplicate vocally by the average person.

For people like me: Something done musically that shows a not-so-off-the-wall technique that is done better than others -- in addition to lyrics that make me say "good point" or "perfect metaphor." I hate lyrics that cannot be immediately understood on some level. It's a song, not a poem.

T.W. North · 02-12-2008, 11:28 PM

There's a difference between liking a song and liking the lyrics for me so I'll say what I like for both:

Songs - Well, it actually really really depends. I still find it hard to tell what exactly it is that I like, because sometimes things I'd think I wouldn't like I suddenly find myself addictd to. One thing is definitely the rhythm, it has to stick. Catchiness isn't enough (often somethin that is catchy can annoy me). For the heavier stuff it's the power in the guitar and the beat that goes with it (plus it CANNOT be lackluster at all). For the softer stuff, emotion is a big key to it. Really there isn't anything but emotion in softer songs so if you're going to make an album of soft songs, you'll bore me.

Lyrics - Emotion. If I can hear the emotion in the lyrics without the vocals, they are damn good lyrics that are very easily spoiled. Also, the bigger meaning. Memento Mori by Kamelot is a testament to this - best lyrics I've ever heard. If the chorus is catchy, that's a plus too. But I beg you, NOT CLICHE.