LYRIC CHEAT SHEET (LCS)
Lesson 7: Power Positions
Action Points:
Power position are a great way to make your songs more interesting and memorable. The first and last line of every song section is where the audience's most attention lies.
So next time, when you're done writing a song part, ask yourself:
- What is this song part about?
- How can I introduce this part with one line?
- Can I use visual to underline the topic?
- Can I find a harsh emotional truth that will surprise my listener?
Answer these question and rewrite the power position accordingly. This is something most songwriter won't manage to do, you can use to your advantage. Because every well crafted Power Position is a moment your audience will remember.
Songs That Use This Concept:
Black & White by The Band Camino
[Verse 1]
Call it what you need
But don't blame yourself for me
Don't blame yourself for me
'Cause I spaced myself from you
'Cause I got tired of hurting you
But now I'm hurting too
Explanation
This verse uses power positions by opening with “Call it what you need” and ending with “But now I'm hurting too,” placing key emotional statements at the very start and end of the section. The most important lines—where the conflict is defined and where the emotional consequence lands—are positioned where listeners’ attention peaks, making the verse’s meaning more memorable and resonant. Each line is concise and purposeful, with the first and last lines anchoring the verse’s impact.
Chlorine by Twenty One Pilots
[Chorus]
Sippin' on straight chlorine
Let the vibe slide over me
This beat is a chemical, beat is a chemical
When I leave, don't save my seat
I'll be back when it's all complete
The moment is medical, moment is medical
Sippin' on straight chlorine
Explanation
The chorus opens and closes with the phrase “Sippin’ on straight chlorine,” giving the section strong, memorable power positions that stick in the listener’s mind. These first and last lines use unique imagery and a bold statement, immediately setting the tone and reinforcing the core theme. By anchoring the chorus with these striking bookends, the song uses the L7 Power Positions technique to maximize impact and memorability.
Flowers by Miley Cyrus
[Verse 1]
We were good, we were gold
Kinda dream that can't be sold
We were right 'til we weren't
Built a home and watched it burn
Explanation
These lines show expertly crafted power positions: the verse opens with the evocative “We were good, we were gold” and closes with the cinematic “Built a home and watched it burn.” Both the first and last lines grab attention with vivid imagery and direct emotion, ensuring the listener remembers the core of the story. By focusing impact at the entry and exit points of the section, the song makes each verse memorable and emotionally resonant.
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