Burt Bacharach: A World-Class Composer or Sweet Nonsense?

The question of whether Burt Bacharach should be considered a world-class composer, given that his songs are often described as saccharine and overproduced, is a matter of subjective opinion. While some argue that his music is merely elevator muzak, others appreciate his ability to create unforgettable melodies and concise, coherent pieces of art. This article delves into the intricacies of Bacharach's songwriting and compares it to contemporary pop composers like Taylor Swift, examining the nuances that make Bacharach's works stand out.

Contrasting Perspectives on Burt Bacharach

There are those who view Burt Bacharach's music as nothing more than saccharine and overproduced, leading to a feeling of nausea. They may consider his work to be dated elevator muzak and even believe that contemporary pop music writers, such as Taylor Swift, are a step above him in composition. However, this viewpoint often stems from a lack of appreciation for the complexities that go into Bacharach's melodies and harmonic structures.

Personal Experience with Bacharach's Melodies

From a personal standpoint, Bacharach's melodies can be grating, much like a cinder caught under a heavy door on the concrete floor of an echoing cellar. The sudden high or low notes, along with strange chords that sound harsh and inappropriate, can create uncertainty and discomfort. An example is the song "What’s It All About Alfie," which might be better titled "What’s It All About Bertie." The seemingly random and meandering melody, as performed by Cilla Black, appears almost miraculous in its memorability despite her young age at the time of the recording.

Recognition and Melodic Genius

Despite the criticism, Bacharach's longevity in the music industry is a testament to his enduring talent. His ability to construct concise, memorable melodies that remain ingrained in the public consciousness is unparalleled. For instance, his song "Walk on By" features a memorable response, making it a masterpiece that remains fresh and engaging. This skill in creating unforgettable motifs allowed Bacharach to produce a large number of such songs, almost on an industrial scale.

Comparing Bacharach and Taylor Swift

When comparing Burt Bacharach to contemporary pop writers like Taylor Swift, it's important to focus on the composition rather than production values. While Swift may be admired as a songwriter, she has yet to match Bacharach's ability to create simple yet unforgettable motifs. For instance, Swift’s compositions often rely heavily on formulaic structures and arrangements, whereas Bacharach’s songs are more tightly constructed and coherent.

Modern Songwriting and Bacharach's Techniques

The modern songwriting landscape often emphasizes production values and commercial success over the intrinsic quality of the composition. In this context, Bacharach's songs often seem to pack many ear-pleasing musical devices into a very small space. While some might find this saccharine, others appreciate the intricacy and the ability to create a powerful emotional response.

Concluding Thoughts

While Bacharach's music may not appeal to everyone, the subjective nature of music appreciation means that opinions will vary. Bacharach’s ability to construct concise, memorable songs remains a testament to his talent, even as contemporary pop composers continue to refine their craft. Whether his music is sweet nonsense or an enduring piece of art is a matter for each listener to decide for themselves.