Lyricists write prose, rhymes, or poetry which is performed through speaking or singing, usually with musical accompaniment. Lyricists are good at fabrication of images through the use of words, though they may or may not possess knowledge of music, song construction, rhythm, alliteration, or timing. The more successful lyricists, however, benefit from a good deal of such knowledge.

Lyricists are an important component of the music industry, as they write timeless lyrics that are remembered and sung sometimes for centuries. Lyricists may spend their lives collaborating with and inspiring composers, songwriters, and film producers. Lyricists sometimes work closely with composers on songs, both contributing words and melodies to complete works, sometimes filling in the words to fully completed scores. Partnerships are sometimes formed between lyricists, between lyricists and composers, and between lyricists and performers, such as Bernie Taupin and Elton John.

Lyricists may or may not explore various styles. Some focus on the creative process and write for their own pleasure, while others direct their efforts more toward commercial markets. Lyricists may write dozens of verse, poems, and songs before they find their own voice and writing style. Some lyricists prefer to fit their words to music, while others prefer to write the lyrics first, fitting music to the words later. Either method works.

All a lyricist needs is a pencil, an eraser, and a sheet of paper. Efforts are improved with recording equipment, and all lyricists will benefit from having a dictionary and a thesaurus at hand. Rhyming dictionaries are also helpful.

Computer software that assists with writing lyrics is available today, which speeds up the process of writing for many prolific lyricists. For lyricists interested in networking opportunities in the music industry, the Internet, magazines, newspapers, and in schools designed expressly for people interested in writing music and lyrics are excellent recourses.

A word of caution: Lyricists should become very familiar with copyright laws and processes before sharing or performing their lyrics to avoid the loss of material and royalties.

This article provides an overview of lyricists. If you would like to submit an article about lyricists, please feel free to do so here at Media Positive Radio.