Song Club #33: Mountains

Mountains have a wild and magical pull to them, an ancient wisdom humming underfoot that feels impossible to reach.

Mountains have a wild and magical pull to them, when hulking—giant and hazy—in the distance, or when towering over you before you before an ascent. There is a majesty and terror to mountains, an ancient wisdom humming underfoot that feels impossible to reach.

Music that channels this pull can be expansive, aching and powerful. Think of the ethereal yet rugged Ágætis byrjun by Sigur Ros, or the vast, mountainous soundscape created by vocal harmonies in any Fleet Foxes song. It can also be earthy and stirring, as in Wild Mountain Thyme or Rocky Mountain High by John Denver. Whether used as metaphor, lyrical backdrop, sonic inspiration, mountains are potent music-making material.

This week in our songwriting, let’s go exploring the mountains!

Big love and keep going,
Lucy 

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SONG PROVOCATIONS

Compose a "mountain anthem."

Write a song that captures the majesty and grandeur of a mountain. Think about the towering peaks, the rugged terrain, and the sense of awe they inspire. How can you translate that feeling into your lyrics and melody? Consider using a slow build-up in your song structure, reflecting the ascent of a mountain climb.