Raw
A little rough around the edges
I remember once talking to a major music publisher about how cool it was hearing the first time I heard Zack Williams cool duet with Dolly Parton, “There Was Jesus”, And she agreed, it was almost magical when she first heard it too. I asked her what makes it so magical for her? And she said “it’s a cool rough around the edges feel about it.” And this was another learning moment for me.
A little rough around the edges
Maybe you may also have been captivated by a song that exudes raw emotion and vulnerability. There are many songs out there. These rough-around-the-edges tunes possess a unique charm that speaks directly to the heart, bypassing the polish and perfection often found in mainstream music.
So, what makes these unpolished gems resonate so deeply with listeners. Why do we find ourselves drawn to tunes that exude raw emotion and vulnerability, bypassing the polished perfection often found on the charts?
Read on to hear the power of embracing a little roughness in your songwriting, uncover what makes these songs work, how they connect with listeners, and provide tips for tapping into this magic yourself.
What is Raw?
Raw songs, with a rough-around-the-edges feel, possess an organic and unrefined character that sets them apart. These compositions often feature genuine vocals, unconventional song structures, and deeply personal lyrics that invite listeners into the artist's world. By embracing imperfection and vulnerability, songwriters can create authentic, relatable music that fosters a profound connection with their audience. It’s a little like another thing I talked about before, putting art before tools, structures and techniques (click here for more).
Five Tips to Write a Raw Song
1. Raw Vocals: The Power of Emotion
Emphasize authenticity in your vocals by avoiding overproduction and embracing imperfections. Slight wavering, breathiness, or roughness can add depth and emotion to your performance, drawing listeners in with their honesty. For example, Bob Dylan's "Like a Rolling Stone" showcases gritty, unpolished vocals, heightening the song's emotional impact and engaging listeners on a deeper level.
2. Unconventional Structures: Breaking Free from Tradition
Experiment with song structures beyond the traditional verse-chorus-bridge format. By following the natural flow of your emotions, you can create an organic arrangement that captivates listeners and keeps them guessing. The Beatles' "Strawberry Fields Forever" defies conventional structures, resulting in a dreamy, surreal soundscape that transports listeners to another realm.
3. Vulnerable Lyrics: The Heart of the Matter
Reveal your true thoughts, feelings, and experiences through your lyrics. Fearlessly explore raw emotions, personal struggles, and intimate moments, as this vulnerability fosters a powerful bond between artist and listener. Bruce Springsteen's "Thunder Road" paints a vivid picture of heartbreak and longing, forging a deep connection with fans through its honest storytelling.
4. Organic Instrumentation: Warmth and Intimacy
Incorporate acoustic instruments like guitars, ukuleles, or harmonicas to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Unplugged performances can highlight the natural beauty of your song and showcase its raw essence. Take a listen to Ed Sheeran's "Thinking Out Loud", which uses just an acoustic guitar, enhancing its intimate, stripped-down vibe and allowing the song's emotional core to shine.
5. Embracing Imperfections: Turning Flaws into Strengths
Rather than striving for flawlessness, allow imperfections to add texture and character to your music. Rough edges can distinguish your songs and make them truly unforgettable. Take Tom Waits' "Closing Time". It purposely weaves noise and dissonance into its soundscape, creating a haunting atmosphere that is uniquely captivating.
This is in a similar way of writing conversational lyrics (click here for more). But this goes further. By embracing the unpolished, you can create songs that resonate with listeners on a profound level, inviting them to connect with your raw emotions and personal experiences.
Don't shy away from authentic vocals, unconventional structures, or vulnerable lyrics – these elements can transform your music into something truly magical.
Questions
Here are a few questions to help you explore this concept further in your own writing:
How could you express your emotions authentically through the vocals, allowing imperfections to enhance the overall impact?
What unique song structures could you explore to create organic, emotion-driven arrangements?
Which instruments or textures would best emphasize a song's vulnerability and intimacy?
Now it's your turn to craft songs that embrace their unpolished charm and captivate listeners at their core.
Hope this helps!
Simon.