09-18-2011, 12:19 AM
I have seen a lot of disdain towards songwriters, but I think I understand why. In much the same way that traditionalist musicians look at rock-n-rollers as 'hiding' behind amplification and effects, songwriters can hide behind melody, melismatics and accompaniment. Instrumental breaks, production and repetition can make simple, short lyrics into great big songs. Thus, the songwriter need only share part of the listener's attention while the melody, rhythm and charismatic band singer 'sell' the words to the audience.
On the other hand, poets don't have to write melody lines, understand tempo, time notes (its not the same) or regulate key signatures or changes. Poetry doesn't have the advantage of these elements nor the complexity of them. Just like 'electric' rock bands have to understand the effects equipment and old-time, bluegrass bands don't.
Songwriting is different, imo, but poetry must be a cousin.
On the other hand, poets don't have to write melody lines, understand tempo, time notes (its not the same) or regulate key signatures or changes. Poetry doesn't have the advantage of these elements nor the complexity of them. Just like 'electric' rock bands have to understand the effects equipment and old-time, bluegrass bands don't.
Songwriting is different, imo, but poetry must be a cousin.