Poetry Embedded: How Popular music Keeps Verse Alive
BUENOS AIRES – A surge of interest in lyrical depth within contemporary popular music is prompting a reevaluation of the enduring relationship between song and poetry, with artists and audiences alike seeking resonance beyond simple melody.From the poignant narratives of Chavela Vargas‘ 1961 recording of “La Llorona” to the introspective verses of Caetano Veloso’s “Sin” (1994), popular song has long served as a vessel for poetic expression, bridging the gap between high art and everyday experience.
This renewed focus arrives as digital platforms democratize access to both music and poetry, fostering cross-pollination and challenging customary genre boundaries. The accessibility of lyrics-easily searchable and shareable-encourages listeners to engage with songs as texts, analyzing their structure, imagery, and thematic content. This phenomenon isn’t new; however, its current scale and visibility suggest a deepening appreciation for the poetic qualities inherent in popular music, impacting artists, listeners, and the very definition of what constitutes “literature.”
The lineage of poetic influence in popular music stretches back decades. Ángel Branch’s 1982 study, The Literate City, explored the cultural contexts that fostered this interplay, notably in Latin America. Artists like mercedes Sosa, with her 1969 rendition of “Alfonsina and the Sea,” elevated folk traditions into powerful poetic statements. Simultaneously, Anglo-American artists were exploring similar territory. Frank Sinatra’s 1969 version of “My Way,” originally penned by Paul Anka, and the Beatles’ timeless ballads “Let It Be” (1970) and “Yesterday” (1965) demonstrate a refined use of lyrical storytelling.
The tradition continued through the 1970s and 80s,with Silvio Rodríguez’s “Hopefully” (1978) and Juan Manuel Serrat’s “Mediterranean” (1971) offering politically and emotionally charged verses. Even rock anthems like The Rolling Stones’ “Angie” (1973) and Ritchie Valens’ energetic “La Bamba” (1958) showcase lyrical craftsmanship. Alfredo Sadel’s “Granada” (1957) and Roberto Carlos’ “Friend” (1977) further exemplify the breadth of poetic expression within diverse musical styles.
more recently, the impact of current events has fueled a demand for lyrical depth. Sergio Ramirez’s January 5,2021,El País opinion piece,”I saw people running,” reflects a broader cultural impulse to find meaning and solace in art during times of crisis. This demand extends to music, where artists are increasingly turning to poetic forms to address complex social and political issues. María Martha Serra Lima’s 1999 recording of “My Way” and Miguel Rios’ “Santa Lucía” (1980) represent continued interpretations of established themes. Even Raphael’s “My Love” (1974) demonstrates the enduring power of romantic lyricism. The ongoing resonance of these songs-and the continued creation of new ones-confirms poetry’s vital role in shaping the soundscape of our lives.