Comments on: Music or Lyrics

By: Tim Hall

Tim Hall — Sun, 13 Sep 2015 12:26:43 +0000

There are a few bands who combine great music with intelligent and thought-provoking lyrics. Rush are an obvious one, so are the likes of Big Big Train.

By: John Hunt

John Hunt — Sun, 13 Sep 2015 08:57:08 +0000

With Marc Bolan, it’s both; great, instinctive guitar player, and a great lyricist and composer. Really underrated.

By: PaulE

PaulE — Mon, 07 Sep 2015 13:40:22 +0000

I am definitely a “music first” person – which clearly has an impact on the music I like. It does not feel like a choice, but more an instinct – just the way that I hear music.

I came across this old discussion – some interesting replies

http://www.npr.org/sections/allsongs/2013/05/29/187168874/the-good-listener-whats-more-important-lyrics-or-music

By: Tom B

Tom B — Mon, 07 Sep 2015 12:59:23 +0000

It’s clear which side of the fence I’m on. The Boss may have something important to say, but the music’s so bland that I don’t listen to it and so the message is wasted. By contrast, Led Zep’s lyrics are largely inane but the music’s so good that I do at least listen to the songs but tend to ignore the lyrical content somewhat.
I’m sure you can think of other examples but for me the ultimate combination of exceptional lyrics and music is Fish-era Marillion.