What’s more important?

Written By Phil Pallen
 

One of the top 5 most ridiculous questions asked of any songwriter is, “What’s more important - music or lyrics?"

If one would really think about what they are asking, they just wouldn't. The answer of course, is 'neither and both.' It depends on so many variables that one simply could not exist without the other.

This is the question that I am most frequently asked when I sit on panels at music conferences, and I used to dread it. That is, until I saw the movie “Music and Lyrics’ written by Marc Lawrence, and starring Drew Barrymore and Hugh Grant. This movie is a spot-on about the act of co-writing.Drew (Lyrics) adamantly explains to Hugh (Music) why words prevail.

Now when I'm asked this question (after having seen the film a dozen or more times), I answer using the following quote:

Hugh:

“Lyrics are important. They're just not as important as melody.”

Drew quips back:

”I really don't think you get it. A melody is like seeing someone for the first time. The physical attraction. Sex .But then, as you get to know the person, that's the lyrics. Their story. Who they are underneath.

It's the combination of the two that makes it magic."

 
Phil Pallen

I'm Phil Pallen, a brand and AI strategist who has spent 15 years helping small businesses figure out who they are, say it clearly, and show up consistently. About six years ago, I started creating content on the side as a way to teach strategy and tools to people who wanted to build their brands themselves. That side project now makes up 80% of what I do, and it has given me hands-on experience with hundreds of tools, partnerships with over 150 brands including Adobe, and a clear sense of what actually works for small businesses.

I have delivered keynote speeches on five continents, written AI for Small Business, and created Brandmasters, a private membership community for small business owners serious about their brand.

I am not just someone who talks about this stuff. I live it, test it, and teach it every day.


Find me at philpallen.co or @philpallen on social media.

https://www.philpallen.co
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