What is most important in a song?

When considering a song which is most important?
a) The voice and vocal abilities of the singer.
b) The melody and instrumentation.
c) The lyrics.

Post 1

Sunday, October 26, 2003 - 5:32pm

To answer my own question and having considered the type of music I enjoy listening to, I consider the melody and instrumentation most important, the lyrics second and the voice and vocal abilities of the singer least important.

I find a poor voice singing a lively toe tapping tune more enjoyable than a wonderful voice singing a funeral dirge.

Post 2

Wednesday, October 29, 2003 - 1:35pm

For my part, Mark, I think that the melody and instrumentation (to say nothing of the rhythm and harmony) are most important. Then there's the vocalist. A better vocalist lifts up the song just as good musicians lift it up, but if the vocalist can enunciate clearly, stay on the beat and on key, then I can forgive other flaws. The lyrics come last.

Post 3

Thursday, October 30, 2003 - 11:51am