Why Non-Vocal Music Can Still Be Called a Song
Have you ever wondered why a piece of music without singing can still be referred to as a song? In today’s article, we will explore the precise definitions and the nuances of how music is categorized. Understanding why an instrumental piece, without vocal elements, can still be called a song, and why certain genres and recordings evolved to fit into specific labels, can provide valuable insights for both musicians and music enthusiasts.
Definition of a Song
The term song is often used loosely in the modern context to describe any piece of written music, whether it has lyrics or not. However, the precise definition of a song is a musical composition specifically intended to be performed with the human voice. This definition underscores the fundamental role of the human voice in the essence of a song.
An instrumental piece, written without any vocal part in mind, is more accurately referred to as a piece, not a song. Yet, there is an important exception: if the piece was originally conceived as a song but is performed without vocals, it can still be considered a song. It retains the form and the intent of a vocal performance, which makes it a song by both practical and conceptual standards.
Special Cases and Exceptions
Consider the case of certain modern pop and electronic tracks. Take, for instance, Popcorn by the group Hot Butter. If a listener only searches for “Popcorn” by this artist, they will find the instrumental version. This is not incorrect, but it does present a common misconception. The term “song” is often used to describe it without specifying the instrumental nature, likely because the piece retains the structure and form of a song even in its instrumental format.
Similar cases apply to other genres. A wordless chant with a melody but no lyrics can still be considered a song. While most songs do carry lyrics, the absence of lyrics does not negate the song's nature as a musical composition designed for vocal performance. Therefore, marking such pieces as songs can be more inclusive and accurate.
Historical Context and Modern Usage
In classical music, the categorization of pieces is more precise. An opera, for example, is a large-scale theatrical work in which singing plays a crucial role. It contains various forms of vocal performance such as aria, duet, and chorus. Similarly, other musical works like a symphony or sonata are labeled as such because they serve distinct musical functions and forms.
The late composer Gustave Mahler had a profound respect for vocal music and believed that writing as many symphonies as Beethoven 9 could be detrimental. In an artistic gesture, Mahler titled his symphony, The Song of the Earth (Das Lied von der Erde), to symbolize his reverence for vocal composition. This piece, like many others, includes actual songs within it, highlighting the importance of the vocal element in the work.
The Evolution of Music Labeling
The recording industry has significantly shaped our current understanding of music labels. They often began by marketing popular songs and later expanded to include instrumental pieces, concertos, and other non-sung forms. However, the labels stuck despite the broader inclusion of these different forms.
Quora users and many music enthusiasts prefer more precise terminology to ensure that the nature and purpose of the music are accurately conveyed. This becomes particularly important in discussions about the nuances of musical forms and genres.
Understanding and being mindful of these distinctions can help us appreciate the complexity and artistry of music in a more nuanced way. It is clear that while a song traditionally requires vocal elements, the term has evolved to include a broader range of musical compositions that feature the core form and intent of a vocal performance.