Lyrics and Poetry
Discussion Questions:
1. How much do lyrics play a part in songs that you like/don't like?
2. Do you focus on the lyrics/melody or on other aspects of the song when you are listening for the first time?
3. What are your favorite lyrics ever? (Share with the class.)
4. What are the most common aspects of successful lyrics?
1. How much do lyrics play a part in songs that you like/don't like?
2. Do you focus on the lyrics/melody or on other aspects of the song when you are listening for the first time?
3. What are your favorite lyrics ever? (Share with the class.)
4. What are the most common aspects of successful lyrics?
American Song Form / AABA
American song form dates back to the early 20th century. It has been used as a basic form for many years, and most pop songs are at least based on American song form.
At its most basic, each section is 8 measures long (32 bars total). But lots of songs differ from 32 bar standard.
Examples:
That'll Be the Day, by Buddy Holly
Yesterday, by The Beatles
Be My Baby, by the Ronettes (with an instrumental bridge)
Just the Way You Are, by Billy Joel
Good links for more information:
http://songwriting.songstuff.com/article/aaba-song-form
http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/exploring-the-aaba-form-in-songwriting.htm
At its most basic, each section is 8 measures long (32 bars total). But lots of songs differ from 32 bar standard.
Examples:
That'll Be the Day, by Buddy Holly
Yesterday, by The Beatles
Be My Baby, by the Ronettes (with an instrumental bridge)
Just the Way You Are, by Billy Joel
Good links for more information:
http://songwriting.songstuff.com/article/aaba-song-form
http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/exploring-the-aaba-form-in-songwriting.htm