Back in Black
Joined
Jun 27, 2012
Messages
1,366
Hello. Which songs that you have heard have the best lyrics? They can be in any language, but please provide a quick explanation of the lyrics.

Lyrics are lyrics. The instrumentation can be anything from Pop to Heavy Metal as long as the lyrics are good.

When do you think that lyrics were the best?

I think that lyrics are the best in the 90s. I will post some songs here later.

Please use a hide tag if you are posting video links or whole lyrics, because it might get crowded in here.

Thanks.
 
A Secret Messenger ...
Joined
May 6, 2005
Messages
1,281
I'll just leave these here ...

[HIDE][ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFUikybw7DA"]Nick Cave live Vox Nonantola 1993 - The Ship Song - YouTube[/ame][/HIDE]

[HIDE][ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NKNv8QKLJeE"]Texhnolyze - Walking Through the Empty Age - YouTube[/ame][/HIDE]
 
No Fear, No Pain.
Joined
Dec 22, 2010
Messages
2,440
Can't throw up videos yet...or lyric sheets...but I have tons of suggestions. I am the sort of guy who loves complex lyrics that make me feel the emotions the music and band members are trying to get across. Excuse my spelling and grammer...I tend to get excited about these things.
[hide]
Neil Peart of Rush fame has created some fantastic lyrics over the years, which can be seen fully in Rush's new album, "Clockwork Angels". It is an album about a young man's rise to manhood and the adventures of his life. Certain version even come with a novelization of the adventure.

The Sword have fantastic, and complex lyrics based on mythology and science fiction while still appealing to the general audience. I can listen to one of their albums front to back, but "Age of Winters" is a great place to start. One of my favorite songs by the band is "Lament for the Aurochs" which has simple lyrics groupe din lines of four, but creates a feeling of times changing and legends of old being lost to the void of time.

Blind Guardian's album, "At the Edge of Time", has some of the absolutely most fantastic lyrics of all time. Powerful, captivating, and full of wonder, sorrow, rage, and hope. A must listen to anyone who wants more then screaming and blood in their metal.

Speaking of which, Ensiferum is one of the greatest metal bands of all time. Listen to their music long enough and you will feel like some ancient norse warrior riding toward battle against unimaginable odds with your shield brothers along side you, and valkyries at your back.


In the realm of pop music, Gorillaz has wowed me every time by infuseing their music with various styles and techniques form all over the music industry. This is partially due to the sheer number of amazing colaborations with other artists, as well as a fearless determination to do something new and unique. Just liten to "Rhine Stone Eyes", "Stylo", the entire "Demon Days" album, and anything else by the band and you will see what I mean.

In Hip Hop I am very scattered out between various artists, but MF DOOM and Sage Francis stick out.

Doom uses alot of fun and creative lyrics backed up by some nice beats either created by himself or one of his colabs. This is especially true with the "Danger Doom" album which is a colab with producer Danger Mouse. Danger Mouse himself is well known for his work on the "Grey Album" which is a mash up of Jay Z's Black Album and The Beatles' White Album.

Sage francis brings a certain level of frustration to his music that is clear in his lyrics. A personal favorite that exemplifies this is his song "Sea Lion". The man is almost like a holy man who has lost his way and is searching for answers through music. Hmmm maybe that is a little too far.

If you need further proof that Hip Hop has hope, then check out Aesop Rock's song "None Shall Pass". As a matter of fact check out the whole album. His lyrics may be hard to understand, but once you read them seperately it is almost like some kind of dark poetry.

"Deltron 3030" is also a very fun album with heavy Sci-Fi lyrics. While Del may not be as creative or deep as his before mentioned peers, he still brings his A game with this look into a desolate future where man is supressed by the government and only freedom through music can save the day.

Of course you should also give listens to tracks by Mos Def, Celo Green, and Dr. Octagon.

So much more music.

If you are looking for something softer, but still energetic and pure, then check out April March. Her voice is heavenly, her lyrics sometimes shift into French, and while simple, they get the point she is trying to make across to the listener.

You want punk rock for whimps, then look no further then the great Ben Folds. His lyrics are almost depressing, but the way he sings and performs makes you feel good about it. He has an energy in most of his songs that radiates happiness, even when his lyrics are often about life being hard, or even unfair. Some songs, however, are about not letting life take advantage of you and smiling even in a bad situation. Things will get better. Personal favorites are "Smoke" and "Steven's last night in town".[/hide]
 
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Back in Black
Joined
Jun 27, 2012
Messages
1,366
Another sad song:

[HIDE][ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_FRSqM2uiM8"]Casas de Carton Ali Primera - YouTube[/ame]

It tells the story of everyday life in a town in Venezuela. The worker leaves his home with the weight of suffering. The kids are millionaires, but of worms. The rain sounds so sad on the cardboard roofs.[/HIDE]

Happy song:

[HIDE][ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0AB0J_jD6_A"]??? (Jaurim) - ?? ?? ??? (Magic Carpet Ride) - YouTube[/ame]

This one is more difficult for me in terms of expressing it. Not a single good translation is out there. Most of it is copy-pasted and ego-maniacally twisted. Back to the actual song: It's like: Fly above the blue sky on a magic carpet ride. Forget your troubles. Leave them for tomorrow. You only have one life, so don't regret it.

There's some imagery in there too, but I don't want to get too deep in there, because it requires translation, which I still am unqualified to do. :sweat:[/HIDE]

I've got some more for later.


ZZ, you really like those epics.
 
Well-Known Member
Joined
Mar 20, 2012
Messages
3,802
Baz Luhrmann - Everybody's Free To Wear Sunscreen.
[hide][ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sTJ7AzBIJoI"]Baz Luhrmann - Everybody's Free To Wear Sunscreen - YouTube[/ame][/hide]
 
Back in Black
Joined
Jun 27, 2012
Messages
1,366
It's a fortune cookie song.

It's the Little Book of Calm.


This song does something that is very rare in lyrics:

[HIDE][ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rZoD8JEFjAE"]Vertical Horizon - Everything You Want - YouTube[/ame]

The way that "He" changes to "I" is something that I found to be fascinating.[/HIDE]
 
Heroes are forever
Joined
Dec 8, 2007
Messages
3,124
Oh heavens, no. We're gonna stay here all night if I ever consider of touching the surface...
Ok, I'll scratch it:

Rise and Fall by Helloween
[HIDE]
[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9rwLkOLA2s"]YouTube[/ame]

Once a singer sang 'bout bullshit
Everyone could see him fall
And be sure it's been his last hit
He's never been seen at all

Some dictator felt progressive
And lay down in the sun
But his people were aggressive
They killed him with a gun

Sometimes you're wrong
By some things you have done
You see fate is too strong
Nothing's won No use for a fight
If you're not acting right
You'll be cut down to size
Like a live

It's the Rise and Fall
The prize for all
That ain't nice at all
Luck is like a ball
You can't recall or care at all
So better use your brain !

A little dragon could spit fire
But never so for something bad
He didn't know the knight's desire
To throw a lance into his head

Romeo love his Juliet
Their parents told them stop
then it all turned out peculiar
He couldn't get it up

And it's vall in vain
When you're living with pain
Reap not goods you have grown
by your own Feelings your like
Disapear over night
You sip up every grin
free to win

It's the Rise and Fall
The prize for all
That's ain't nice at all
Luck is like a ball
You can't recall or care at all
You nearly go insane!

A spaceman files the rocket
That takes him to the stars
thinks his wife is in his pocket
but she's strolling 'round in bars

The king of Los Angeles
bought himself a teddy Bear
And the queen became shameless
She did it with a chair

Sometimes you're wrong
By some things you have done
You see fate is too strong
Nothing's won No use for a fight
If you're not acting right
You'll be cut down to size
Like a live

It's the raise and fall
The prize for all
That's ain't nice at all
Luck is like a ball
You can't recall or care at all
So better use your brain ![/HIDE]

And related:
The Sage, The Fool, The Sinner by Helloween:
[HIDE]
[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GN9MIIpcf8k"]YouTube[/ame]

A tramp found dead, in the street, just made the news
Forensics report read 'drug abuse'
Found a warehouse slip in his sleeve
Marine corps major down-at-heel

They got to the place, unlocked the shed
Soon left awestruck, stunned, amazed
Among stuff and things lay pledges and bonds
Up to a few Mil in the end

The sage the fool the sinner
And what goes for you, one can't ever say
The sage the fool the sinner

One can't foretell fate, no way, no way

Sassy lady puts on her fav heels
Mirror checked, all done - snow white appeal
Adjust the dress, ready to leave
Grab some cash, cab's outside, wipe off a tear

On her way out, she turns once more
To wave her man good - bye
While in his sleep, he recalls thirty years - due to end that night.[/HIDE]

Whenever I listen to/read this song, I always get a bit scared, it reminds me of when I was a kid and was scared by the dark side of religion.
Supper's Ready by Genesis:
[HIDE]
[ame="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-kORf_0uVTw"]YouTube[/ame]

Lovers' Leap


Walking across the sitting-room, I turn the television off.
Sitting beside you, I look into your eyes.
As the sound of motor cars fades in the night time,
I swear I saw your face change, it didn't seem quite right.
...And it's hello babe with your guardian eyes so blue
Hey my baby don't you know our love is true.

Coming closer with our eyes, a distance falls around our bodies.
Out in the garden, the moon seems very bright,
Six saintly shrouded men move across the lawn slowly.
The seventh walks in front with a cross held high in hand.
...And it's hello babe your supper's waiting for you.
Hey my baby, don't you know our love is true.

I've been so far from here,
Far from your warm arms.
It's good to feel you again,
It's been a long long time. Hasn't it?


The Guaranteed Eternal Sanctuary Man

I know a farmer who looks after the farm.
With water clear, he cares for all his harvest.
I know a fireman who looks after the fire.

Can't you see he's fooled you all.
Yes, he's here again, can't you see he's fooled you all.
Share his peace,
Sign the lease.
He's a supersonic scientist,
He's the guaranteed eternal sanctuary man.
Look, look into my mouth he cries,
And all the children lost down many paths,
I bet my life you'll walk inside
Hand in hand,
gland in gland
With a spoonful of miracle,
He's the guaranteed eternal sanctuary.
We will rock you, rock you little snake,
We will keep you snugg and warm.


Ikhnaton And Itsacon And Their Band Of Merry Men

Wearing feelings on our faces while our faces took a rest,
We walked across the fields to see the children of the West,
But we saw a host of dark skinned warriors
standing still below the ground,
Waiting for battle.

The fight's begun, they've been released.
Killing foe for peace...bang, bang, bang. Bang, bang, bang...
And they're giving me a wonderful potion,
'Cos I cannot contain my emotion.
And even though I'm feeling good,
Something tells me I'd better activate my prayer capsule.

Today's a day to celebrate, the foe have met their fate.
The order for rejoicing and dancing has come from our warlord.


How Dare I Be So Beautiful?

Wandering in the chaos the battle has left,
We climb up the mountain of human flesh,
To a plateau of green grass, and green trees full of life.
A young figure sits still by a pool,
He's been stamped "Human Bacon" by some butchery tool.
(He is you)
Social Security took care of this lad.
We watch in reverence, as Narcissus is turned to a flower.
A flower?


Willow Farm

If you go down to Willow Farm,
to look for butterflies, flutterbyes, gutterflies
Open your eyes, it's full of surprise, everyone lies,
like the fox on the rocks,
and the musical box.
Yes, there's Mum & Dad, and good and bad,
and everyone's happy to be here.

There's Winston Churchill dressed in drag,
he used to be a British flag, plastic bag, what a drag.
The frog was a prince, the prince was a brick, the brick was an egg,
the egg was a bird.
(Fly away you sweet little thing, they're hard on your tail)
Hadn't you heard?
(They're going to change you into a human being!)
Yahoo, we're happy as fish and gorgeous as geese,
and wonderfully clean in the morning.

We've got everything, we're growing everything,
We've got some in
We've got some out
We've got some wild things floating about
Everyone, we're changing everyone,
you name them all,
We've had them here,
And the real stars are still to appear.

ALL CHANGE!

Feel your body melt;
Mum to mud to mad to dad
Dad diddley office, Dad diddley office,
You're all full of ball.

Dad to dam to dum to mum
Mum diddley washing, Mum diddley washing,
You're all full of ball.

Let me hear you lies, we're living this up to the eyes.
Ooee-ooee-ooee-oowaa
Momma I want you now.

And as you listen to my voice
To look for hidden doors, tidy floors, more applause.
You've been here all the time,
Like it or not, like what you got,
You're under the soil (the soil, the soil),
Yes, deep in the soil (the soil, the soil, the soil, the soil!).
So we'll end with a whistle and end with a bang
and all of us fit in our places.


Apocalypse In 9/8 (Co-Starring the delicious talents of Gabble Ratchet)

With the guards of Magog, swarming around,
The Pied Piper takes his children underground.
Dragons coming out of the sea,
Shimmering silver head of wisdom looking at me.
He brings down the fire from the skies,
You can tell he's doing well by the look in human eyes.
Better not compromise.
It won't be easy.

666 is no longer alone,
He's getting out the marrow in your back bone,
And the seven trumpets blowing sweet rock and roll,
Gonna blow right down inside your soul.
Pythagoras with the looking glass reflects the full moon,
In blood, he's writing the lyrics of a HIP brand new tune.

And it's hey babe, with your guardian eyes so blue,
Hey my baby, don't you know our love is true,
I've been so far from here,
Far from your loving arms,
Now I'm back again, and babe it's gonna work out fine.


As Sure As Eggs Is Eggs (Aching Men's Feet)

Can't you feel our souls ignite
Shedding ever changing colours, in the darkness of the fading night,
Like the river joins the ocean, as the germ in a seed grows
We have finally been freed to get back home.

There's an angel standing in the sun, and he's crying with a loud voice,
"This is the supper of the mighty One",
The Lord of Lords,
King of Kings,
Has returned to lead His children home,
To take them to the new Jerusalem.[/HIDE]

As the apostle of the Music God, I will keep watch of this thread.
 
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