The Muses and the Magnate: Barry Manilow and the Art of Persona
In the world of popular music, there are songwriters and then there are those seemingly magical figures who capture the hearts of entire generations and make the world sing. One such titan is Barry Manilow, whose songs have become landmarks in the annals of popular music. However, the story of 'I Write the Songs' reveals a fascinating aspect of songwriting that few may be aware of.
Hiding Behind Persona: 'I Write the Songs'
One of the most famous lines from Manilow's discography, 'I Write the Songs' presents a unique phrasing that has been the subject of much discussion. However, the song itself was actually written by none other than Bruce Johnston, a longtime contributor to Manilow's projects. While this may seem to detract from Manilow's creative legacy, it actually highlights the artistic choices and literary devices that can enrich a song's meaning.
The Persona Principle
When Bruce Johnston referred to the "I" in the title as representing God, rather than himself or the performer, he was employing a common literary device known as persona. Persona, in the context of songwriting, is the technique of speaking in the first person as another character, which can imbue the lyric with a greater sense of authenticity and depth. This is distinctly different from self-expression, as seen when Jackson Browne sings 'Running on Empty' as himself.
Case Studies in Persona: From Browne to Knopfler
To further illustrate the concept of persona in songwriting, let's look at the lyrics of Mark Knopfler's 'Money for Nothin’'. In this song, Knopfler sings, 'I should've learned to play the guitar', which he clearly did not literally mean. Instead, this line is spoken in persona, representing a character who was perhaps skilled in other areas but overlooked in his musical talents. This technique is used widely in the music industry to create compelling and relatable narratives.
Barry Manilow: Writing the World’s Hits
Despite the misconception surrounding 'I Write the Songs', it is indeed true that Barry Manilow has penned countless hits that have resonated with people across the globe. Songs like 'Copacabana' and 'Mambo Italiano' continue to be earworms of the decade. However, Manilow’s reinterpretation of the lyric 'I am Music and I write the songs' is a striking and perhaps provocative statement that goes beyond the song’s original meaning.
Making the World Sing
Beyond the songs that were written by others, Manilow has indeed made the whole world sing. His ability to capture the zeitgeist and create timeless melodies continues to be a testament to his genius as a songwriter. His songs have been covered and adapted by countless performers, further amplifying their reach and impact.
Manilow’s approach to surface-level songwriting incorporates a deep understanding of the power of persona, allowing him to create a seamless blend of personal expression and universal appeal. His hit 'Can't Take My Eyes Off You' is a fine example of this, with its introspective yet light-hearted lyrics that continue to resonate with listeners.
In conclusion, while the authorship of 'I Write the Songs' is a matter of fact, Manilow’s masterful use of persona in other songs has undoubtedly elevated his contributions to the world of popular music. This exploration of literary techniques and personal expression opens a new chapter in understanding the artistry behind some of the most beloved songs ever written.
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