EDITOR'S LENS: …Of lyrics and other elements in ‘cooking’ good music

 Music is thought to be one of the most difficult terms to define, partially because beliefs about music have changed dramatically over time with more variations and ideas about what music should be.

In recent years, conversations about components or elements of a good song have become relevant, particularly with its dynamism.

The predominant argument focuses on the insignificance of lyrics and their contributions in creating a hit song.

On the Graphic Showbiz X Dialogue series last week, Ghanaian musician, Article Wan, supported the claims, imploring that lyrics should not be the focus of music since they do not really matter in recent times.

He argued that there has been a shift in the appreciation of lyrics, suggesting that while there is still recognition for profound wordplay, it is not as prevalent as it was with previous generations.

For proponents of such theories, including Article Wan, music is a universal language and its audiences don’t necessarily have to understand the message when good beats are at play.

While Graphic Showbiz agrees with Article Wan and his sort, it is equally worth mentioning that lyrics are very instrumental in composing a good music.

It is easy for one to argue that lyrics don’t matter when Article Wan’s ‘Solo’, Stonebwoy’s ‘Putuu’, Big Shaq’s ‘Man’s Not Hot’, Patapaa’s ‘One Corner’, Shatta Wale’s ‘Freedom’, and ‘Kpuu Kpaa’ by Wisa Greids became hits at the expense of songs that were rich with deep lyrics.

However, songs by veterans such as Amadzeba, Kojo Antwi, Amakye Dede, Daddy Lumba have stood the test of time and continue to draw huge inspiration mostly for their lyrics. 

In this regard, Graphic Showbiz equally advocates major elements such as lyrics, melody, instrumentation, arrangement and production techniques to be at play in music composition.

To our esteemed musicians and songwriters, let us continue to push the boundaries of creativity, and create music that is timeless and resonates with audiences far and wide.

Let us pay heed to all lyrics, melody and beat, and let us celebrate music in all of its glory.