Music is said to be the universal language, and for the most part that is true. So how does one explain the incredible diversity of music? The differences between, say, classical and hip-hop seem vast, but for the discerning listener, they may have much in common. In fact, there are creative common elements used by all artists, and understanding these elements can make you a better musician or provide a deeper understanding of the music you enjoy.
These common threads can be distilled down to two ideas. The first, and perhaps most important, idea is that the artist must write from experience.Didn’t catch that? This explains it. This is the only way to create works that have a sense of authority. Writing from imagination has its place, but the most effective music is about real world scenarios.
Second, the personalized account must then be rendered universal. This is the art of going from the specific to the general, and this is how to take a personal account and turn it into something most everyone else can relate to. When listening to favorite songs, these two elements will be found to be at play quite often. Obviously it will vary to a degree, but great songs are the ones that transfer meaning from the creator to the listener. Turning personal experiences into universal themes is one way this is achieved.