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Not too many songwriters, when they write songs go for…

“Not too many songwriters, when they write songs go for broke. When someone does who's really good, it's astonishing. There's a reason a three-minute song can devastate you, or make you get up and dance, stop what you're doing and go, 'What is that?' It just hits you. And it's a very potent thing…” quote by Lou Reed
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“Not too many songwriters, when they write songs go for broke. When someone does who's really good, it's astonishing. There's a reason a three-minute song can devastate you, or make you get up and dance, stop what you're doing and go, 'What is that?' It just hits you. And it's a very potent thing you're playing around with.”

Lou Reed

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He notes that rare, high‑quality songwriting can profoundly affect listeners, making them pause and react emotionally.

In simple terms: Great songs can stop you in your tracks.

Key Takeaway

Value and seek powerful, concise songwriting.

Themes

music creativity impact emotion artistry

Mood

inspirational reflective

Type

analysis observation

When to use this quote

  • listening to music
  • creating songs
  • performing live
  • radio play

Key Concepts

song structure emotional resonance cultural influence

Questions to Reflect On

  • What makes a short song emotionally powerful?
  • How can artists aim for that impact?
A Different Perspective

Not all songs achieve this depth; success is rare.

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