Did you know Johann Strauss wrote, “Vienna Woods” after riding through a forest? Bird melodies enchanted Strauss until the waltz flew into his head.
Each spring, birds sport their songs to attract mates. Mockingbirds riff for hours tweeting up and down the scale. Song Sparrows and Spotted Towhees (photo above) toss their heads back, open beaks and warble in the name of love. Spring comes alive with insistent songs.
Popular song writer, producer and singer, Lamont Dozier, claims his songs result from observation and eavesdropping. He believes a good songwriter must listen and observe for stories that weave into songs. Restaurants and gathering places nurture his inspiration. He gains material from watching lovers quarrel and make up. Daily soap operas add to his material.
Songbird melodies and counter melodies also inspire Lamont. He listens to each chirp, trill and tweet and claims he has even borrows many of their ideas.
Lamont Dozier has written for the Four Tops, Supremes, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations and others. His musical, The First Wives Club is Broadway-bound.
Take a look at Lamont Dozier’s site:
http://www.lamontdozier.com/so
Birdsong sites:
http://www.colander.org/gallim
http://www.sciencebuddies.org/
Stop in the Name of Love! Sugar pie, honey bunch! What songs could you write as a result of observing people and listening to birds? Spring arrives soon and the birds have started acheepin' and achirpin'.
Listen, hum along and add your words.
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