Why has “Sweeterman” by unknown Toronto rapper Ramriddlz gone viral (it is also rumored that he got signed to a label thanks to this song)?
Why does every other pop song contain the word ‘tonight’ in its chorus?
What I find deplorable is how shallow lyrics have become. “Sweeterman” is a wonderful example. This track went viral, not because of brilliant language, but because of an addictive beat, that smoothly carries his voice. And people – me included – are willing to put aside the aspects they dislike, notably horrible lyrics, about a song in order to appreciate its qualities.
I am quite fond of rap music. I find that the sound engineers and producers have created so much thanks to their computers and synthesizers. A numerous amount of software allows the artist to create a sound that matches his vision of his project perfectly. The problem is where is this advancement in lyrics? I understand that rap music has always had a provocative side, a bragging side and “bad-ass” side. However, it also carried meaning and a message. A lot of aspiring rappers nowadays have lyrics that don’t distinguish them from their competitors. On top of that, some of them have a weak beat. In the end, the lyrics do not save them and neither does the music.
Music is one of the most personal ways of expression. Most musicians base their music and lyrics on their experiences and problems. It allows for a connection with the listener, who wants to feel like a part of the creation. Explaining how rich you are, how many people are attracted to you, and how many cars you have only allows other rich people to relate to you. Besides, even other rich people would say that being rich is not everything. There are emotions, experiences and problems that are universal, and those create a connection.
The lyrics I hear typically on the radio are hardly emotional or meaningful, and they are definitely not political in any way. There was a time when a decent amount of music was not so personal. It had opinions in it, ideas, and rebellion. It spoke against many crimes and injustices. For instance, the music that was produced against the Vietnam War was spectacular. There are so many songs about that. Yet, for this past American war in Iraq/Afghanistan, there are considerably less songs. I remember some from the last couple of years (particularly “Wake Me Up When September Ends”) but not that many.
Sometimes, as in the case of Front Porch Step, I fall on musicians who actually write poetry. Despite what is said about him, I don’t think anybody disagrees about how raw his lyrics are and how fast they make a human connection with an audience. There are other hidden songs on albums of musicians that show so much thought and emotion, and that are one hundred percent relatable to a public. Yet, those songs remain unpopular. The industry would rather make a rap song with no content that becomes the hit single of the album, and close their eyes on a track that may touch people.
If you want good lyrics, you have to go find good lyrics. Music should be an exploration, not an industry handing a catalogue of what they think you should like.
