Most People are Good: Things to Learn About the Song

The hit song “Most People are Good” by country music icon Luke Bryan provides a welcome counternarrative in a time of division and skepticism. This poignant song, which was released in 2017, highlights the goodness that exists in all individuals and acts as a gentle reminder to value the small pleasures in life. The song’s weighty words hit strongly with listeners despite its melodious appeal. This essay explores the history, concepts, and wider ramifications of “Most People are Good,” drawing insightful conclusions from the song’s lyrics.

Background and Release

“Most People Are Good” was released as the second single from Luke Bryan’s sixth studio album, What Makes You Country, in January 2018. Written by David Frasier, Ed Hill, and Josh Kear, the song stands out for its affirming lyrics and its departure from the typical themes found in country music. The track was well-received both critically and commercially, with many praising its message of positivity and hope.

Lyrical Themes

At its core, “Most People Are Good” is a song about faith in humanity. The lyrics emphasize the belief that, despite the negativity and challenges in the world, most people are inherently good. The song touches on several themes, including acceptance, optimism, and the importance of trusting in the goodness of others.

One of the song’s most notable lines is: “I believe most people are good, and most mamas oughta qualify for sainthood.” This line encapsulates the essence of the song – a belief in the fundamental goodness of people and the recognition of the everyday kindness and sacrifices made by individuals, especially mothers.

The song also addresses the idea that everyone deserves a chance to be understood and appreciated. It encourages listeners to look beyond surface appearances and preconceived notions, advocating for a more compassionate and open-minded approach to life.

Positive Reception and Impact

“Most People Are Good” resonated with a broad audience, quickly climbing the charts and earning a spot on the Billboard Country Airplay chart, where it reached number one. The song’s success is a testament to its universal message of hope and the power of positivity.

Critics praised the song for its refreshing take on the world, especially during times of division and uncertainty. Many listeners found comfort in the song’s lyrics, which offer reassurance that there is still good in the world, even when it feels like negativity dominates.

The song’s impact extends beyond just its commercial success. It has become an anthem for those who believe in the goodness of humanity and has been used in various contexts to promote kindness and understanding. For many, “Most People Are Good” serves as a reminder to focus on the positive aspects of life and to approach others with empathy and an open heart.

Lessons from the Song

There are several valuable lessons that can be drawn from “Most People Are Good.” These lessons are not only relevant in the context of the song but can also be applied to everyday life.

1. Trust in the Goodness of Others: The song encourages listeners to trust in the inherent goodness of people. While it’s easy to become cynical in the face of negativity, “Most People Are Good” reminds us that most individuals have good intentions and are capable of kindness and compassion. This lesson is a call to give others the benefit of the doubt and to approach interactions with a sense of optimism.
2. Embrace Diversity and Acceptance: Another key lesson from the song is the importance of embracing diversity and accepting others for who they are. The lyrics promote a message of inclusivity, urging listeners to look beyond differences and to recognize the value in every person. This lesson is particularly relevant in today’s world, where understanding and acceptance are more important than ever.
3. Focus on the Positive: “Most People Are Good” is a reminder to focus on the positive aspects of life. The song suggests that while there are challenges and hardships, there is also much to be grateful for. By focusing on the good in people and in the world, we can cultivate a more positive outlook and lead a more fulfilling life.
4. Celebrate Everyday Heroes: The song pays tribute to everyday heroes, particularly mothers, who often go unrecognized for their contributions. This lesson encourages us to appreciate the people in our lives who make a difference, even in small ways. By celebrating these individuals, we can foster a greater sense of gratitude and connection.
5. Maintain Hope and Optimism: Finally, “Most People Are Good” is a song about hope. It reminds us that even in difficult times, there is always reason to be hopeful. By maintaining a positive attitude and believing in the goodness of others, we can navigate life’s challenges with resilience and grace.

The Song’s Broader Message

Beyond the specific lessons, “Most People Are Good” offers a broader message about the importance of positivity and faith in humanity. The song challenges listeners to reconsider their views on the world and to adopt a more optimistic perspective. It suggests that by believing in the goodness of others, we can create a more compassionate and understanding society.

This message is particularly powerful in the context of country music, a genre that often explores themes of hardship and struggle. “Most People Are Good” stands out for its emphasis on hope and its unwavering belief in the potential for goodness in everyone.

“Most People Are Good” is more than just a song; it’s a message of hope and positivity that resonates with listeners from all walks of life. Through its lyrics and themes, the song teaches valuable lessons about trust, acceptance, and the importance of focusing on the good in people. In a world where negativity often takes center stage, “Most People Are Good” is a reminder that there is still much to be hopeful about and that most people, at their core, are good.

As we go about our daily lives, the song encourages us to adopt a more optimistic outlook and to treat others with kindness and understanding. In doing so, we can help create a world where the goodness in people shines through, making our communities and our world a better place.

How to Be an Efficient Songwriter

The craft of songwriting combines technique, feeling, and inventiveness. Many people use it as a passion and a means of using music to express who they are. But efficiency is needed to turn that passion into a methodical procedure that yields high-quality work every time. Increasing your productivity as a songwriter can result in greater creative output that is refined and prolific, regardless of experience level.

1. Develop a Routine

Establishing a routine is crucial to efficiency. Songwriting is not just about waiting for inspiration to strike; it’s about showing up and doing the work regularly. Set aside specific times each day or week dedicated to songwriting. Treat it as an appointment with yourself that you cannot miss. Consistency helps in building momentum, which is essential for creativity.

Why Routine Matters:

• Builds Discipline: A routine helps in fostering discipline, which is necessary to work on your craft even when you don’t feel inspired.
• Enhances Creativity: The more you write, the easier it becomes to access your creative ideas. Over time, your brain becomes accustomed to thinking in musical terms during your designated writing times.
• Increases Output: A regular routine leads to more songs being written, giving you more material to refine and perfect.

2. Embrace the Power of Freewriting

Freewriting is a technique where you write continuously for a set period without worrying about grammar, structure, or even coherence. The goal is to let your thoughts flow freely, capturing raw ideas that can be shaped later. This method is particularly useful in songwriting, as it helps in generating lyrical content without the pressure of making everything perfect on the first go.

How to Use Freewriting:

• Set a Timer: Start with 10-15 minutes of uninterrupted writing. Choose a theme, emotion, or even a single word to kickstart the process.
• Let It Flow: Don’t censor yourself. Write whatever comes to mind, whether it’s related to the song or not. The idea is to get words on paper.
• Review and Refine: After your freewriting session, go back and highlight phrases, lines, or even single words that stand out. These can serve as the foundation for your lyrics.

3. Study Song Structure

Understanding the structure of a song is vital to efficient songwriting. Most popular songs follow a recognizable pattern—verse, chorus, verse, chorus, bridge, chorus. Knowing this structure can save you time when piecing together your song. While creativity is essential, having a framework allows you to organize your ideas more effectively.

Common Song Structures:

• Verse-Chorus Form: This is the most common structure in modern music, where the verse tells the story and the chorus drives the main message home.
• AABA: This structure consists of two verses (A), a bridge (B), and another verse (A). It’s often used in jazz and older pop songs.
• Through-Composed: This is a less common structure where the song continuously develops without repeating sections, ideal for storytelling.

By mastering these structures, you can decide which one best fits the mood and message of your song, thereby streamlining the writing process.

4. Use Technology to Your Advantage

In today’s digital age, numerous tools can aid in the songwriting process. From apps that help you jot down ideas to software that can produce entire backing tracks, technology can be a significant time-saver.

Useful Tools for Songwriters:

• Lyric Writing Apps: Apps like Evernote or Google Keep allow you to jot down ideas on the go, ensuring you never lose a spark of inspiration.
• DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations): Software like Logic Pro, Ableton Live, or GarageBand enables you to create demos, experiment with arrangements, and fine-tune your compositions.
• Rhyming Dictionaries and Thesauruses: Websites and apps like RhymeZone or Thesaurus.com can help you find the perfect word or rhyme, saving you from creative roadblocks.

5. Collaborate with Others

Collaboration can be a powerful way to enhance efficiency in songwriting. Working with other songwriters, musicians, or producers can introduce new ideas, perspectives, and skills to the process. Collaboration can also lead to faster completion of songs, as different people can focus on different aspects of the creation process.

Benefits of Collaboration:

• Diverse Input: Different people bring different strengths to the table, whether it’s lyrics, melody, or production.
• Accountability: Working with others can keep you motivated and on track, as you’ll have someone to share progress with.
• Learning Opportunity: Collaboration allows you to learn new techniques and approaches from your peers, which you can incorporate into your solo work.

6. Keep a Songwriting Journal

A songwriting journal is more than just a notebook; it’s a space where you can document ideas, thoughts, emotions, and observations. This journal can be a valuable resource when you’re stuck or looking for inspiration. By regularly updating your journal, you create a reservoir of material that you can draw from during your songwriting sessions.

What to Include in Your Journal:

• Lyrics and Phrases: Write down any interesting words, phrases, or lines that come to mind, even if they don’t fit into a song yet.
• Melodies and Rhythms: Jot down ideas for melodies or rhythms, or use a voice recorder app to capture them.
• Inspiration: Document what inspires you, whether it’s a conversation, a book, or a personal experience. These notes can help you reconnect with the emotion behind your songs.

7. Edit Ruthlessly

One of the keys to efficient songwriting is knowing when to edit and refine your work. The first draft of a song is rarely perfect, and it’s essential to go back and polish it. Editing should be approached with a critical eye—be willing to cut or change anything that doesn’t serve the song’s purpose.

Tips for Effective Editing:

• Take a Break: After writing a song, step away from it for a while before editing. This break can give you a fresh perspective.
• Focus on Clarity: Ensure that your lyrics convey the intended message clearly. If a line is confusing or doesn’t fit, rework it.
• Simplify: Sometimes less is more. Don’t overcrowd your song with too many ideas or words. Aim for simplicity and impact.

8. Learn from the Masters

Studying the work of great songwriters can provide insight into what makes a song memorable and effective. Analyze the lyrics, structure, melody, and production of songs you admire. Try to understand why certain songs resonate with you and how you can apply those principles to your work.

Ways to Learn:

• Cover Songs: Playing and singing songs by other artists can help you understand their structure and emotional impact.
• Song Analysis: Break down the elements of your favorite songs. What makes the chorus catchy? How does the verse build tension? Understanding these elements can help you replicate success in your own work.
• Attend Workshops: Songwriting workshops or classes can offer valuable guidance and feedback from experienced songwriters.

9. Trust Your Instincts

Finally, trust your instincts. Songwriting is a deeply personal process, and while there are techniques and strategies to improve efficiency, it’s essential to stay true to your voice. Don’t overthink the process to the point where it stifles creativity. Allow yourself to take risks and make mistakes—that’s often where the magic happens.

Conclusion

Becoming an efficient songwriter requires a balance of creativity, discipline, and strategy. By developing a routine, embracing techniques like freewriting, understanding song structure, using technology, collaborating, and learning from others, you can streamline your process and produce high-quality work consistently. Remember, efficiency in songwriting doesn’t mean sacrificing creativity; it means honing your craft to its fullest potential. Trust your instincts, keep writing, and most importantly, enjoy the process.