The Importance of Writing Your Own Original Lyrics
The field of music is vast and varied, and how original lyrics contribute to the success of a musical piece can greatly affect both the artist's creative expression and their financial return. Whether you are creating music for commercial gain or artistic expression, the significance of penning your own lyrics is multifaceted. This article explores the reasons why it is crucial to write original lyrics and delves into the realities of sharing royalties and credit.
Monetization Considerations
One of the primary reasons musicians write their own lyrics is to earn royalties. Performance royalties, often referred to as mechanical royalties when a song is recorded and distributed, are directly tied to the original author of the music and lyrics. If you cover a song written by someone else, you do not receive these royalties. Instead, they go to the original songwriter, unless you have a license to use the song.
However, if you are looking to monetize your music and have a budget to spend on co-writing, it is important to understand how royalties are split. For instance, if you are in a four-piece band, the owner and creator of the music and lyrics will share the royalties equally with the other band members. But if the vocalist is the only person responsible for the lyrics, they might receive a larger share due to their unique contribution.
Artistic Expression
From an artistic standpoint, original lyrics allow a singer to express unique thoughts, feelings, and stories. Original music and lyrics can be deeply personal and reflective of the artist's experiences and emotions. Covering another songwriter’s work can sometimes lack the depth and authenticity that you can convey through your own words. Think of it as a letter written to someone you care about; it can’t be replicated by anyone else.
Writers like myself, who are members of APRA AMCOS, emphasize the importance of originality. When writing lyrics for a band or solo artist, there is a significant creative process involved, and it is rewarding to see the final product as a collaborative effort. However, it is crucial to ensure that contributions are recognized and fairly compensated.
Real-World Challenges and Solutions
Today, the music industry faces many challenges, particularly in terms of returning fair compensation to artists. The rise of streaming services and public performances has altered traditional royalty structures, making it harder for musicians to earn a living. This shift has led to more collaboration and the involvement of multiple writers in the process of creating a single song.
For example, some current original songs are the result of a "small village" of people. This can be problematic because the smaller the share of royalties for each contributor, the less the artist earns. This issue is further compounded by major labels often employing many ghostwriters and lyricists, which can lead to a redistribution of earnings.
While it is necessary to collaborate and acknowledge every contribution, it is also important to maintain transparency and fairness in the creative process. Artists should understand the potential consequences of having more than a handful of lyricists involved in a song. For instance, if a song by Halsey involves 10 writers, the earnings are divided among them, resulting in a significantly smaller share for each contributor.
Conclusion: Teach the Secrets of Songwriting
Ultimately, the art of songwriting is a highly valued skill. Whether you are writing lyrics for a band or working with a solo artist, there is immense value in sharing your techniques and secrets. This ensures that your contributions are appreciated and properly acknowledged, and it helps to maintain the integrity of the creative process.
As a songwriter and lyricist, I advocate for the importance of originality and fairness. It is crucial to voice your own thoughts and feelings through your lyrics, and it is equally important to ensure that you and your collaborators receive fair compensation for your hard work.