Why Artists Write Songs for Other Artists to Sing
There is a common misconception that songwriters and singers are not different individuals. In reality, writing and delivering a song are two distinct skills. Professional songwriters play a crucial role in the music industry, crafting hit songs that become iconic in the musical landscape. This article explores the reasons behind artists writing songs for other artists, and how these collaborations enhance the overall quality of the music.
Why Songwriters are Not Singers
Not all songwriters are renowned for their singing abilities. Many exceptional songwriters possess the talent to write incredible lyrics and catchy melodies, but fall short in the vocal department. Conversely, some singers excel at delivering songs but lack the necessary skills to write them. By harnessing the strengths of both parties, a synergy is created that results in top-quality music.
Consider the famous country songwriter, Harlan Howard. Despite being a mediocre singer, he owned at least three decades of country music, with over 4,000 published songs. Many prominent country artists like George Strait and Johnny Cash have a vast repertoire of songs from Howard, underscoring the importance of skilled songwriters in the industry.
Allegory of the Songwriting Process
The process of songwriting and singing is analogous to the work of classical composers. Just like how composers focus on composing music without worrying about singing, songwriters excel in creating memorable tunes and lyrics without necessarily excelling in vocal performances. The role of a singer is to bring these compositions to life by delivering them with passion and emotion.
Celebrated Examples of Collaborations
The music industry is replete with examples of successful collaborations between songwriters and singers. Here are a few notable instances:
Elvis Presley
Perhaps the most famous example is Elvis Presley, who never wrote a single song during his entire career. Still, songs like "Heartbreak Hotel" and "In the Ghetto" are heavily associated with him. The latter was written by Sinéad O'Connor (originally titled "Nothing Compares 2 U") and performed by Prince. This collaboration showcased Elvis's appeal and the songwriter's ability to craft hits.
Patti Smith and Bruce Springsteen
Patti Smith wrote the lyrics for "Because the Night", but Bruce Springsteen and the E-Street Band sang it. Patti provided the title and mumbled some unfinished lyrics. They later performed it with their own lyrics, using Bruce's initial title for the song.
Joe Cocker and Lennon-McCartney
Joe Cocker performed "I Get By With A Little Help From My Friends" (written by Lennon-McCartney), while some of his lyrics were written after listening to the song as performed by the Beatles.
Jimi Hendrix and Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan penned the iconic song "All Along the Watchtower", which Jimi Hendrix later made famous. Similarly, Adele wrote "Make You Feel My Love", reviving and popularizing a classic by Bob Dylan.
Conclusion
Collaborations between songwriters and singers are a testament to the versatile nature of the music industry. These partnerships have produced some of the most memorable songs in history, enriching the cultural tapestry of music. As long as songwriters continue to craft compelling lyrics and melodies, and singers bring these compositions to life, the art of music will continue to thrive.
As we appreciate songs like "Heartbreak Hotel", "Because the Night", and "Make You Feel My Love", let us recognize the contributions of both the songwriters and singers in creating these timeless hits.