- Jackie Marx
THE ESSENTIAL LYRIC FRAMEWORK
Updated: Jan 15
From a Sheila Davis workshop in 1988.
A. GENUINE IDEA
about believable people
that expresses a clear attitude or emotion
substantial enough to be set to music
that strikes a common chord
that puts the singer in a favorable light
with its situation built-in
that millions will want to hear again
A MEMORABLE TITLE
that is identifiable after one hearing
that resounds with one meaning
that summaries the essence of the lyric's statement
A STRONG START
that pulls the listener into the song
that establishes the who, what, when, and where in the first few lines
A PAYOFF
that develops an idea from something, through something, to something
that arranges elements in some meaningful sequence
tha draws some conclusion--either stated or implied
AN APPROPRIATE MUSIC FORM
that supports and enhances the lyric's purpose
that delivers the desired effect.