Those words fell out of my mouth last week when I was speaking to a songwriting group about my process. It wasn’t in my notes. It wasn’t something that I planned to say. It’s not even something I’m convinced of on most days despite the front I maintain.
This is one of the most powerful and beautiful things I’ve ever read about songwriting. So much of it rings true about my own process; I’ve never quite realized the fear I have of songs - the fear of their power - until now. I labor over lyrics and phrasings until the 11th hour, fully aware of their imminent permanence.
Your writing is so compelling and engrossing, and, as a listener of your music, it is clear the care with which you handle your songs. Amazing piece, Mel. 🙏
Stubborn? You? There needs to be a knee-slappin' emoji. My father had a number of clichés he liked to let loose when appropriate; two of which seem contradictory and yet somehow weren't: 'Don't let perfect be the enemy of good' and 'Good enough never is." Cheers Belle...we await the new album...
My father, born in working class England, was unrelentingly proper - stiff upper lip and all that! For most of his life, he would have bridled to hear himself referred to with the folksy moniker 'Pops'. Father in public; Dad at home were the acceptable terms. The wall began to crumble when daughters-in-law started arriving on the scene. Then he became a grandfather and suddenly he was Poppa to most and Uncle Froggy to some. The wall came tumbling down.
Your mastery of words combined with emotions they invoke always makes me smile and usually makes me cry. Anxiously awaiting the new album and if all goes as planned I’ll see you Saturday.
This is one of the most powerful and beautiful things I’ve ever read about songwriting. So much of it rings true about my own process; I’ve never quite realized the fear I have of songs - the fear of their power - until now. I labor over lyrics and phrasings until the 11th hour, fully aware of their imminent permanence.
Your writing is so compelling and engrossing, and, as a listener of your music, it is clear the care with which you handle your songs. Amazing piece, Mel. 🙏
Ah! Thank you so much. I feel the same about your work, 100%.
The fear is real. So weird. So true.
Stubborn? You? There needs to be a knee-slappin' emoji. My father had a number of clichés he liked to let loose when appropriate; two of which seem contradictory and yet somehow weren't: 'Don't let perfect be the enemy of good' and 'Good enough never is." Cheers Belle...we await the new album...
I agree with your pops! Thanks for always showing up here. 🙏🏻
My father, born in working class England, was unrelentingly proper - stiff upper lip and all that! For most of his life, he would have bridled to hear himself referred to with the folksy moniker 'Pops'. Father in public; Dad at home were the acceptable terms. The wall began to crumble when daughters-in-law started arriving on the scene. Then he became a grandfather and suddenly he was Poppa to most and Uncle Froggy to some. The wall came tumbling down.
Your mastery of words combined with emotions they invoke always makes me smile and usually makes me cry. Anxiously awaiting the new album and if all goes as planned I’ll see you Saturday.
Whoa. That is very exciting.
We’ll see you there! Can’t wait!
Amazing! Thank you.
"I fear them" You've expressed the dread of creation so perfectly. Thank you. I needed this today.
David
I’ve heard this response from so many creatives! And here I thought it was just me…
Love this! Music is life!