LYRIC CHEAT SHEET (LCS)
Lesson 4: Scary Messages
Action Points:
Successful songwriters understand that impactful songs are build from strong emotional messages. They make themselves vulnerable and write songs that connect with their audience. It's your job as a songwriter to find these scary messages and share them with the world.
And you only need to do one thing to find them. Ask yourself one simple question:
What is something I wouldn't dare say out loud or share with some else?
If you feel unwell answering this question, you know you struck gold. So take these ideas and turn them into impactful songs that changes the world of your listeners!
Songs That Use This Concept:
Naked In Manhatten by Chappell Roan
[Pre-Chorus]
Touch me, baby, put your lips on mine
Could go to hell but we'll probably be fine
I know you want it, baby, you can have it
Oh, I've never done it, let's make it cinematic
Like that one sex scene that's in Mulholland Drive
I wanna know, baby, what is it like?
I know you want it, baby, you can have it
Oh, I've never done it, naked in Manhattan
Explanation
These lines embody the concept of a "scary message" by openly describing first-time, taboo, or vulnerable experiences with direct sexual honesty and cinematic references. The songwriter is not afraid to reveal feelings of curiosity, fear, and longing in a situation most would hesitate to talk about, creating an electric sense of risk and emotional exposure. This fearless vulnerability and willingness to risk social judgment are what give the lyrics their power and make them stand out as deeply resonant and memorable examples.
Something To Hide by Grandson
[Verse1]
Mother was the life of the party
Bottle of white wine for dinner
Father had a little box With a razor blade to cut up a painkiller
Sister had an eating disorder
All of her clothes didn't fit her anymore
And I made a best friend Out of the skeleton in the closet
Explanation
These lines go bold and direct by exposing private family struggles—addiction, mental health, and hidden pain—with unfiltered honesty. By revealing topics most people avoid, the song confronts "scary messages" head-on, creating a raw emotional impact. This vulnerability is what makes the lyrics powerful and memorable.
Crawling by Linkin Park
[Chorus]
Crawling in my skin
These wounds they will not heal
Fear is how I fall
Confusing what is real
Explanation
These lines go bold and direct, describing deep, ongoing emotional pain with unfiltered honesty. By confronting feelings of fear, hurt, and confusion so openly, the lyrics express vulnerable struggle in a way that many would find difficult to say out loud. This willingness to expose inner battles and anxiety is a prime example, making the song powerfully relatable and memorable.
Second Chance by Shinedown
[Verse 1]
My eyes are open wide
By the way, I made it through the day
I watched the world outside
By the way, I'm leaving out today
[Pre-Chorus]
Well, I just saw Halley's comet, she waved
Said, "Why you always runnin' in place?"
Even the man in the moon disappeared
Somewhere in the stratosphere
Explanation:
These lines go bold and direct by revealing a decision to leave and face the consequences, showing vulnerability and honesty around change and saying goodbye. By putting difficult feelings—like self-doubt, fear of confrontation, and the need to pursue one’s own life—front and center, the lyrics address topics many people find hard to speak about. This willingness to express a scary, deeply personal message makes the song powerfully relatable.
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