I am very into lyrics. I start with what the words are saying, what the storyline is saying, like a good script. It should really capture me, do something for me. If I don't get it, it's not going to move people, and if it's not going to move people, it's not going to happen.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the importance of meaningful lyrics in music and their ability to resonate with people.
Ray Charles highlights that the power of a song lies in its lyrics and storytelling. He believes that if the words do not resonate with him, they are unlikely to connect with others, thus underscoring the need for authenticity and emotional depth in songwriting.
In practice
In a discussion about songwriting techniques, this quote can illustrate the importance of meaningful lyrics.
I suppose I've always done my share of crying, especially when there's no other way to contain my feelings. I know that men ain't supposed to cry, but I think that's wrong. Crying's always been a way for me to get things out which are buried deep, deep down. When I sing, I often cry. Crying is feeling, and feeling is being human. Oh yes, I cry.
I never wanted to be famous. I only wanted to be great.
To me, music is entertainment - what else can it be? In fact, it's the only language I know of that's universal.
Just because you can't see anything , doesn't mean you should shut your eyes.
Any artist, when he goes in to record, should have the feeling that any song he records can be a hit. This may sound egotistical, but it makes sense.
When I started to sing like myself - as opposed to imitating Nat Cole, which I had done for a while - when I started singing like Ray Charles, it had this spiritual and churchy, this religious or gospel sound. It had this holiness and preachy tone to it. It was very controversial. I got a lot of criticism for it.
Failures are inevitable. Unfortunately, in film they live for ever and they're 40 ft wide and 20 ft high.
I'm not a lawyer, but I do know this: we need to protect our ability to tell controversial stories.
When talented people write badly, it's generally for one of two reasons: Either they're blinded by an idea they feel compelled to prove of they're driven by an emotion they must express. When talented people write well, it is generally for this reason: They're moved by a desire to touch the audience.
When I don't have a story to tell, I'm a terror to live with.
That the best piece of art a person is capable of making is the one that only they could create.
People call me the painter of dancers, but I really wish to capture movement itself.
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