Listening to the Lyrics

While I’ve intermittently listened to Myke Hurley’s podcasts since he still worked in banking, I had never listened to InquisitiveDavid Sparks talking about Jazz and Kind of Blue. In the last few years I have learned to enjoy Jazz, and it is all David’s fault.

Second was Guy English and Bruce Springsteen’s Nebraska. It was a great discussion and I was surprised to learn how similar parts of my life were to Guy’s.

The most astonishing part was when Guy explained the reason I have to know a song’s lyrics.

My wife is someone who enjoys the beat, rhythm, and feeling of music. I appreciate those as well, but I focus on the lyrics.

I remember when Reagan’s campaign used “Born in the USA” without permission. Back then, Bruce wasn’t as open with his presidential endorsements. Over the years, Bruce made a point of explaining the anthemic sonic assault was completely opposite the lyric’s sentiment.

That Reagan and othe politicians use the song to promote their campaigns proves how well the music “hides” the lyrics. As a kid, this rocked my world. Ever since, I made a point of reading the lyrics and liner notes when listening to a new album.

To this day, I don’t play any music for someone else unless I know damn well what it’s about.