Songs with Excellent Lyrics but Mediocre Instrumentals
Music is a form of art that combines lyrics, music, and instrumental arrangements to create a listening experience. Sometimes, however, the lyrics of a song can be so powerful and captivating that the music fails to live up to the promise of the words. In this article, we will explore several popular songs that have excellent lyrics but are let down by their instrumentals. We will also consider how these aspects influence the overall impact of the music.
Bob Dylan’s “Subterranean Homesick Blues”
Bob Dylan’s “Subterranean Homesick Blues” is a prime example of this phenomenon. While the song lacks a traditional melody, the lyrics are explosive and filled with imagery and social commentary. The rawness and blunt delivery of the lyrics make the listener feel like they are experiencing a social rebellion live on stage. This song demonstrates how powerful lyrics can stand on their own, even without a memorable instrumental backdrop.
Angel Olsen’s “Creator Destroyer”
Another example of impactful lyrics in an otherwise uninspiring instrumental context is “Creator Destroyer” by Angel Olsen. While the beat of the song is relatively simple and may not immediately grab the listener's attention, the lyrics deliver a strong message about self-empowerment and environmental awareness. The power of the instrumental, which primarily consists of a repetitive rhythm, is somewhat eclipsed by the emotional weight and depth of the lyrics.
Neil Young’s Vocal Quandaries
Neil Young is a renowned songwriter, and his track “Afterlife Part 2” by Young Pappy is no exception. However, the musician's vocals sometimes detract from the overall musical experience. Despite the quality of the lyrics, Young’s voice can be off-putting for many listeners. This song highlights the tension between lyrical content and vocal performance. The lyrics are thoughtful and evocative, making the listener consider themes of loss and transcendence. However, the beat is not particularly strong, and the instrumental backing is relatively simple.
Elton John’s “Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding”
Elton John’s “Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding” is another example where the lyrics point towards potential greatness. These melancholic songs tell a moving and brooding story, but the instrumental arrangement lacks the punch required to make the song a true classic. The lyrics are so powerful that they could have mesmerized audiences, but the simple piano and subtle organ work do not give the piece the dynamic energy it needs to fully resonate.
“My Funny Valentine”
The classic jazz standard “My Funny Valentine” is a wonderful example of pure instrumentation with sublime backing. However, when the lyrics take over, the song can become a cringe-worthy experience. The lyrics, written by Ned Washington, are clever and humorous, but the repetitive and somewhat clichéd lines can become grating. The instrumental part of the song is so beautiful that it almost overshadows the less impactful lyrics, leading to a mixed listening experience.
The Doors – Vocal Challenges
The Doors have several songs that exemplify the struggle between lyrical depth and instrumental appeal. While their music is undeniably amazing and their lyrics offer rich narrative commentary, the lead singer’s vocal delivery can be off-putting. Removing their voice and playing the instrumental alone often reveals the power and complexity of the music. Songs like “Riders on the Storm” suffer from the vocal performance, which detracts from the full potential of the music.
In conclusion, the interplay between lyrics and instrumentals is a crucial element in music. While songs like Bob Dylan’s “Subterranean Homesick Blues” stand out for their powerful lyrics alone, other songs can suffer when the instrumental arrangement fails to match the depth and emotion of the lyrics. This article has explored a few examples that highlight this interesting dynamic, demonstrating how music can be profoundly influenced by both the words and the accompanying sounds.