Arguments can be made for putting a pen to paper and making up a song out of your heart. Certainly you can tell any story through a song if its created. But to take a real life experience and find a way to convey it to listeners in a way that not only captures their attention but makes them feel like they lived it to, to me, is the most creative form of vocal art.
I came to this topic while listening to a playlist I have on YouTube that combines outlaw country, new country, and classic rock. Have you ever listened to this live version of Hootie and The Blowfishs' "let her cry"? Song live by Darius Rucker, the lead singer and the original song writer of this song.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lQ9ZtoiHkJo
He takes the lyrics he originally wrote about a relationship he had and changes them up a little to let you really feel his pain. Darius Rucker even to this day sings about parts of the relationship he sings about here.
What about Bob Dylans' "the times they are a changing"? Ever heard it live? First time I did it sent chills down my spine, I felt as though I was with him.
I feel like outlaw country and singers like Hank Williams Sr., Jr., Jamey Johnson, Johnny Cash, and George Jones write the songs from the "heart". Songs that depict certain times, feelings, and may not be what main stream listeners want to hear. I feel when your singing songs about what you feel and your not worrying about the money, that is when the best music is made.
Some songs I feel convey the message:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u2V4UUjYBsA&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vsQzw_Ax8Cw (** my personal favorite because he grew up in Danby, Vermont which is 15 minutes from my home town)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MiMdb2MnYr8
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_mRFWQoXq4c (my favorite artist of all time)
very cool post!
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