Don’t Write Songs Without Something to Say

Posted by on May 17, 2011 in Christian Lyrics, Songwriting | 2 Comments

“I’m writing a song.”

“Awesome! What’s it about?”

“Hmm…I guess it’s just a praise and worship song with positive, yet arbitrary ‘God’ words.”

Not good enough. Music is a language of communication. Don’t abuse it just because music makes everything sound better. Don’t waste your words. Don’t just sit down and decide you’re going to write a song. Make sure you have something to say first. This is arguably the biggest reason for the shallowness of most Christian musical fare today. They are songs written without anything specific to say. They are simply broad, yet vaguely accurate songs about God. Ones that don’t move us to change, because they don’t change the way we see ourselves or our relationship with Him.

2 Comments

  1. Kevin
    May 17, 2011

    I get what this blog is trying to say in many of the posts, and don’t entirely disagree with all that is being said. However, do not mistake cynicism for wisdom. In order to speak into the calling of the Church, one must of course show great love for her. The tone of most of these blogs (granted, I’m generalizing here) show neohipster arrogance. If you truly want to edify and inspire musicians and songwriters within the body of Christ, be careful you do not take on the role of the accuser. Be known what you are for, not what you’re against.

    (by the way, this obviously wasn’t a direct reply to this particular post…just the site in general).

    All that said, keep writing. Songwriters in the church need to know not to be satisfied with the CCM status quo, and for that I commend you.

  2. Eric
    May 17, 2011

    Kevin,

    I appreciate your note. I do struggle with neo-hipster arrogance, but sincerely wish for this community to help build better art, and not just tear down what’s bad.

    Thanks for the reminder! I’m trying.

    Eric