Instrumentals, lyrics, vocals: What about music makes you listen?

LAURA GOULD/Charleston Catholic

By Emily Carden
Sherman High School

Music is a must have in every society. Throughout time, different styles of music have been created and adopted by different cultures around the world, so whatever the type, there’s something out there that everyone can enjoy.

But what do people look for in their music? Is it lyrics, vocals or instrumentals that grab their attention? Does it depend on those catchy lyrics, the emotional impact or the intricate guitar riffs? What about a pleasant piano solo, or the vocalist’s voice?

Michael Workman, a junior at Sherman High School, said, “Anything that speaks to me or reminds me of an emotion that I’ve felt before is something that I’d like. It’s either that, or if it’s just something that has a lot of energy to it.”

It’s true that music with a strong emotional impact seems to draw the attention of listeners. It is seen as a form of self expression. People want music that they can relate to their own lives and to their own, personal experiences.

But while the emotional meaning of a song is an important element, no one particularly wants to listen to a vocalist who can’t sing or to vocals that don’t harmonize with the music. Sherman senior Joey Christian thinks that it’s essential for the vocals to fit well with the beat of the music.

“I like vocals that are upbeat, but not so upbeat that you want to strangle the singer for being too happy,” he explained.

Distinctiveness is another trait that draws listeners’ notice. One of the most fascinating things about music is its variability. It is can be anything and everything that the artist wants it to be, whether it shares the characteristics of many different genres or sticks to one specific style. Most people, like Sherman High sophomore Nikki Heaver, like a song with variety.

“I look for something different. I think music just has to be something that I can relate to or get some kind of vibe off of,” Heaver said. “I think a great song has the whole package!”

Most people wouldn’t disagree with her. Music is a diverse thing. Different people are more strongly attracted to different aspects and types of music, but one consistency is the diversity and justification of the songs.