Robin's Blog

Writing Lyrics

Written by Administrator

Writing Lyics

The most common barrier to lyric creation is the way in which the words in a song are perceived by the writer. Too often preconceptions about content and delivery eclipse the flow of ideas, as writers tend to obsess about subject matter, word choice, and rhyme schemes rather than the arguably more relevant issue of how effectively the lyrics communicate emotion (or otherwise elicit a response). This is not to say aesthetics are unimportant, as a flowing, measured arrangement of syllables is conducive to rhythmic and melodic delivery. Rather that through the application of phrasing and melodic improvisation, almost any writing can become lyrics! The degree to which we are moved by singing often has little relation to the actual words in a song. How many times have you read written lyrics to a well-liked song only to find that they appear nonsensical?

As long as the vocalist sings convincingly and with feeling, the content of the lyrics needn’t impede the enjoyment of the song. “Jingles”, (short, catchy tunes that incorporate product description into song lyrics for advertising) are another example. One might think signing “all natural, nine grain bread with no preservatives” would be awkward, but with the right separation of syllables, it can even be made to rhyme in a roundabout way:

All natural, nine-grain bread

With no preser-vatives

“Bread” and “preservatives” don’t rhyme poetically, but with a little creative inflection on the part of the singer the last syllable in the word “preservatives” can be made to share similar vowel characteristics with “bread”. Simply pronounce “preservatives” with a short “e” in place of “i”, and you have your “lyrical” rhyme!

Many other long and short vowel sounds are somewhat interchangeable, even more so if you add accents, slang, and other colloquialisms. “Grow” and the word “you”, “scream” and “tame”, “trip and “left”, are more examples of vowel sounds that can be made to be lyrically compatible.

Try to write everyday, or at least regularly! We only find the diamonds by digging through the coal….

Some Ideas about Performance

Written by Administrator

Most of us have heard the term “stage presence” before, but what does it mean? One description would be that the actions of the performer whether playing, singing, or moving, communicate feeling and a sense of focus to the audience. Depending on an individuals’ role in the band, different things can be done to forge a connection with the crowd.

The lead vocalist is often referred to as the bands’ “front”: the person who represents the overall character of the music, and verbally communicates with the audience while singing, introducing songs, or filling any “dead” space in the show. One thing to keep in mind while performing this task is not to fall into the habit of looking at the microphone as you hold it in front of your mouth. Doing so can give you a cross-eyed appearance that may not be noticeable past the first few rows of seats, but will certainly show up on video. Try to look out at the crow periodically as you sing. If you find that making actual eye contact is distracting, try to look at the tops of peoples’ heads, which will give the audience the same sense of connection.

A variety of possible movements are available to a guitar or bass player. However moving your body and/or instrument while you play takes practice, especially during difficult musical passages. Always ensure your attempt to entertain doesn’t cancel out by causing mistakes! Many players have a tendency to keep their eyes riveted to their neck-hand fingers as they play. While an audience can appreciate that you’re focused on your playing, keep in mind they want to be included in the experience. Be sure to look up from your guitar and remind the crowd you’re with them. If it’s uncomfortable to look away from your hand, time your glances at the audience with simpler chords or notes that don’t require so much attention.

Drummers are sometimes overlooked with regard to stage presence, and it doesn’t help to be stuck behind a stationary (and usually bulky) set of drums. Drumming does involve the widest range of physical movement of any of the typical instruments in a rock band however, and many drummers emphasize this as a means of creating a more dramatic performance. It might not be necessary to bring your hand all the way over your head as you hit the snare drum, but it’s certainly more entertaining! Twirling sticks, as well as throwing and catching them are also time-honored means of creating stage presence.