In my opinion, there is no greater medium for a story than the lyrics of a song. Simply put, a song is nothing more than a story that is either sung, rapped, or sometimes even screamed. I can always recognize a good song when the lyrics really catch my attention. Some songs are chocked full of wild metaphors with a vast array of meanings meant to be interpreted differently by every listener. Other songs are more straight-forward, telling a story or preaching a message through clever rhymes or uplifting melodies. Regardless of the type of song, genre, or writing style, my ears always gravitate towards particularly meaningful lyrics. One personal favorite of mine is a band called 311. Their songs are always long and drawn out with their dual lead singers rapping over a mix of fast paced funk/reggae. Considering how energetic these guys are, I feel like I’m standing in the pit at one of their shows every time I give them a listen. I’ll never forget the first time I heard my current favorite song by 311 called “Nix Hex.” This song completely embodies every element of the band I just described and continues to blow my mind. The song is from 311's early days and speaks about their desire to become successful and giving proper respect to those who influenced their music. Here is just a taste of their lyrical genius:
Story time
Sways away the haze
They spent contemplating, formulating, theory siring abuse me swimming
Pay tribute to the few we look up to
Come again
You my soul fool
Who will know us but our brothers
Those who be down with us are thinking Newschool, tip top, pound the feeble
Walking and talking
Low down and evil
Follow me now Yo Vato
The Nix Hex is on
See 311 live at Pier Six Pavilion with Ballyhoo! on Saturday, October 23.
Word Count w/o song lyrics: 233
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