What Are Some Music Lovers?

Music lovers come in all shapes and sizes, each drawn to different elements of the genre that speaks to their hearts. But before we dive into the distinct categories of music enthusiasts, it's crucial to dispel a common misconception. People who turn on the top 40 stations are not music lovers in the deep, meaningful sense. They tune in for the tunes, but not necessarily to dive into the nuances and emotions that true music aficionados seek. In this article, we will explore the three distinct components of music that often attract music enthusiasts: lyrics, instruments, and theory.

Lyrical Enthusiasts: The Word-Minded

There's a peculiar breed of music lovers who can quote song lyrics as if they were their own poetry. These individuals are truly lyrical enthusiasts. They recall song lyrics with such accuracy that a simple label on a box of cereal can trigger a recitation of words that moved them in meaningful ways. For them, song lyrics go beyond mere sounds; they are vehicles for emotional connection and life-altering advice.
To retain and recite vast amounts of lyrics, one must have a deep, meaningful connection with the artist or songwriter. These lyrics often serve as a bridge between the listener and the storyteller, creating a profound emotional impact. Lyrics are not just words; they are the soul of the song, and this group of music lovers finds immense value in these emotional connections.

Instrumentalists: The Sound Aficionados

Music is not just about the lyrics; it's also about the instruments that create the melodies and rhythms. Those who are in love with the talent contributed by instrumentalists are a different breed of music lover. They appreciate the intricate arrangements and the creative expressions that instruments provide.
The guitar, in particular, is a masterclass in sound manipulation. When played by a skilled artist, a guitar can produce a sound that, to the listener, is nothing short of a miracle. The relationship between the artist, the guitar, and their equipment is akin to a dialogue between individuals. When an artist uses their guitar as an extension of their self, incorporating their talent, grit, and soul, the result is truly moving.
The drums hold a special place in the heart of many music enthusiasts. Even though the range of sounds produced is more limited compared to the guitar, playing complex patterns, rhythms, and polyrhythms requires a significant amount of talent and creativity. For these instrumentalists, the technical and creative aspects of playing the drums are what make them appreciate the genre.

Theorists: The Technically Daunting

Finally, there are the music theorists, who admire the technical and creative aspects of music. While the first two categories may outnumber these enthusiasts, they represent a significant portion of music lovers who appreciate the intricate theory behind the songs.
Understanding the timing and rhythm used in a song can be fascinating. Playing a polyrhythm using 7/8 or 3/4 timing is a remarkable achievement, requiring a deep understanding of musical theory. The technical complexities of music theory, whether it's time signatures, arrangements, chords, equipment, or technique, are what interest these theory enthusiasts.
While these enthusiasts may not be able to identify specific elements of the theory during the songwriting process, they are capable of recognizing the technical and creative talents involved in producing a high-quality song. They can appreciate the significance of certain theories and how they contribute to the song's overall quality.

In conclusion, while lyrical enthusiasts, instrumentalists, and theorists represent different aspects of music, each plays a vital role in the appreciation and understanding of the genre. These three categories encompass a wide range of music lovers, each with their unique passion and appreciation for the art of music.