Lyrical Story Telling

There was a time when the only way you would hear what was happening in other parts of the world was through the songs sung by traveling minstrels. It was through the minstrel’s musical tales that the legends of iconic characters like Robin Hood, William Wallace and King Arthur grew. It was also these same songs that blurred the lines between historical facts and exaggerate fiction.

Over the years music continued to introduce us to new characters. In later years, these characters tended to be more fictional, but through the mass popularity of some of these songs their names became just as well known as the artists singing about them.

For example, we learnt that Billie Jean is not my girl, and heard a little ditty about Jack and Diane. Ricky was a young boy and rat-tailed jimmy was a second hand hood. We didn’t have to worry about Cecilia breaking our heart, because we later learnt that it was really Stacy’s mom that has got it going on. Mary Anne and Wanda were the best of friends who decided that Earl had to die.We know Tommy used to work on the docks and Gina works the diner all day. Years later Bon Jovi actually brought these characters back, mentioning them in their song “It’s My Life” and I remember when I heard the line ”For Tommy and Gina who never backed down” it was like getting an update on long lost friends.  

You may have noticed, these are all older songs. Do we still see this kind of song writing in today’s music? Is this something that is maybe missing? I don’t want to come across as that old crotchety guy screaming “Today’s kids don’t know how to write music! Back in my day musicians wrote songs that told stories!” I’m asking a legit question. Are we missing this kind of song writing? Has this style been lost? Does today’s music miss that tangible piece that draws us in? The lines and lyrics that captivate our attention and engage us to hear what will happen next? These qualities helped to make a song memorable. In fact, chances are when you read the majority of the lyrics I included in this blog, the song popped into your head. Some possibly even as soon as you heard the main character's name.

Now, I am also willing to fully admit that I could be wrong and if you are aware of any modern songs, more specifically popular modern songs that are chart toppers like the ones that were referenced in this blog, that introduce us to someone and tell us an intriguing story about them, please let me know. I would honestly like to know. As well if you can think of any other older songs that I may not have included in this blog, feel free to share.

As a special treat...here are the videos for some of the songs I was referring too...