The major problem I see with some of the modern songwriting is that music does not reflect a particular song's words, where words 'say' one thing, and the music accompanying them - 'says' another. Sometimes to such an extent that they feel completely disconnected. You read the lyrics and there is one mood, one atmosphere, one sentiment, and then you hear its music and there is something completely different. Sometimes even shockingly different !
It is as if there was an idea, maybe even a good one, or a feeling, maybe even a deep one, but not the ability to express it through music. Or as if, the music was not the right tool/medium, in the hands of that particular individual to express themselves through.
And as a consequence such 'music' doesn't convince and doesn't move. One can feel that disconnection, that discrepancy, even if only on a subconscious level, not knowing why, but feel it never the less, and stay unconvinced.
There are always exceptions of course, so here and there we get some true gems that rise above the previously mentioned discrepant or even usual entertaining quality of modern songwriting.
That's why I, after very short digressions into modern music, always hurry back to classical, with its true, unshakable lasting value where that disconnection doesn't exists. Where emotions run deep, where melody is rich and moves together with words in perfect unison, not only reflecting but also enhancing, enriching and adding to its atmosphere, sentiment and message, thus touching and transforming us on all levels. Giving us something we can not only profoundly relate to and be profoundly moved by, but also grow and evolve with - mind, heart and soul - and thus adding profound lasting value to our life.
Or perhaps this is just about the difference between something that is art and something that isn't. (As it is not about musical genres preferences, or artist preferences, it is about the artistic value of music and its impact on its listeners.)
Personally, music needs to inspire, heal and empower me on all levels to be considered and included. Striving to reach and maintain the highest possible standards that transcend trends, cultures, time and even space, reaching that eternal quality that only gets more value as time is passing.
For me, music is either art, or nothing at all !
"Music is either art or not. If it is not art, it is nothing !"
~ Maria João Pires
Listen to:
CLASSICAL: Hallveig Rúnarsdóttir's heavenly interpretation of heart and soul moving Sigvaldi Kaldalóns' 'Ave María':
MODERN: Lara Fabian's heartfelt interpretation of the convincing, moving, touching song of solid entertaining quality 'Je T’aime' (songwriters: Lara Fabian / Rick Allison):
Wow, you cut deep with your words, but only that that has to be cut off. Profoundly honest, and profoundly true!