There is no need to argue that the songs from Adele make it to the list of the best written songs in music history. Adele is one woman who turned her heartaches into great songs. We should be really thankful to the people who hurt Adele (or those whom Adele hurt, intentional or not) because without them, I don’t think these words would have been immortalized into song. From her albums 19, 20 and 21, I chose seven songs from Adele that are just plain brilliant and makes the listener see and feel the power of great lyrics.
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1. Rolling in the Deep
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On iTunes at: itunes.apple.com
There is a reason why songs from Adele have become the anthems of people who broke up with the loves of their lives. Take Rolling in the Deep for example. This masterpiece co-written with Paul Epworth is a song of force written with the very strong words of a deeply hurt human being. There is so much emotion in the lyrics that it is hard to decide by the end of the song if the girl will move on or wallow in sorrow. "We could have had it all…"
The potency of Adele's Rolling in the Deep resonates with anyone who's felt the sting of betrayal and the loss of intense love. The song's raw energy coupled with Adele's powerful vocals creates an anthem of empowerment and resolution. The dramatic build-up and the gospel-choir backing magnify the element of reclaiming control. Interestingly, while the lyrics paint a picture of sheer disappointment and wasted potential, they also deliver a sense of catharsis — offering listeners a chance to embrace their own inner strength whilst navigating through the ruins of a failed relationship.
2. One and Only
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On iTunes at: itunes.apple.com
This one is that go-girl-let-it-all-out song co-written with Dan Wilson and Greg Will. This was the first song I listened on her second studio album and honestly, I had goosebumps at the sheer amount of confidence and courage that the message of this song conveys. My favorite line: I dare you to let me be your/ Your one and only/Promise I’m worth it/ To hold in your arms.
So, why is this track such a heart-grabber? Adele's raw vocal prowess fused with the deeply intimate lyrics make for a potent emotional cocktail. With each verse, you're pulled closer into a story of vulnerability and the bold plea for singular love. It's a testament to her songwriting genius, standing as an anthem for anyone who's ever wanted to be the only star in someone's sky. Moreover, the live recording adds another layer of authenticity—you can practically feel the emotion pouring through your speakers. Adele has this power to turn a melody into an emotional journey, and "One and Only" does just that.
Frequently asked questions
Adele's lyrics just hit differently, don't they? She has this incredible way of putting raw emotion into words. You feel every bit of her heartbreak, hope, and resilience. Her songs are like poetry with a punch!
Oh, definitely 'Someone Like You' and 'Rolling in the Deep.' You just feel so strong and motivated after listening to them. They’re perfect for those moments when you need a little reminder of your own strength.
Absolutely! Songs like 'Set Fire to the Rain' and 'Rumour Has It' are all about pushing through challenges and coming out stronger on the other side. It's like a motivational speech but set to incredible music.
Her ability to be so genuine and relatable. Everyone has gone through heartbreak or self-doubt, and Adele captures those feelings perfectly in her music. It's like she's singing our collective life experiences.
'When We Were Young' is a solid choice. It’s nostalgic and a bit bittersweet, but sometimes you need that to remember the good times and keep moving forward. It makes you cry, but in a really good way!
3. Hometown Glory
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On iTunes at: itunes.apple.com
From her debut album 19, Adele wrote this song in 10 minutes when her mom tried to persuade her to leave home for college. Hometown Glory makes me homesick and reminds me of the people in that small village I grew up in. I remember my neighbor Pacita and her fruit stand. I remember Connie and her homemade goodies. I remember the fishermen and the smell of fresh fish delivered directly to my Mom’s kitchen.
4. Chasing Pavements
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On iTunes at: itunes.apple.com
Google this song and the searches would tell you that this was written after Adele punched a boyfriend of six months in the face inside a bar. She discovered he was cheating on her. The lyrics of the song are as haunting as Adele’s voice, asking a critical question: Should I give up or should I just keep on chasing pavements? I say: Punch that boy’s face again!
5. Someone like You
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On iTunes at: itunes.apple.com
This one is a tearjerker. The popularity of this song is owed to its honest lyrics and soulful rendition. I think that everyone of us has lost love in whatever form and this is why this song hits right in the heart. It’s a sad song filled with tones of regret and (a little bit of) envy and nostalgia. I love this live version.
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6. My Same
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On iTunes at: itunes.apple.com
The rhythm and melody of My Same make up a feel-good song about friendship. Written when she was 16 and inspired by her best friend Laura, Adele tells you how human she is and how she makes mistakes like the rest of us. You know this is a good song the moment she sings the first word. Brilliant!
Adele masterfully expresses the unconditional acceptance and quirky dynamic that imbues true friendship in "My Same." Through her soulful delivery, listeners can feel the artist's affection and appreciation for those close to her heart. Her lyrics echo a candid realism, highlighting both the similarities and differences that bond friends together. Adele's raw honesty and relatable storytelling draw listeners into her world, making them cherish their friendships just as fiercely. It's a testament to her songwriting prowess, crafting a tune that resonates profoundly with fans around the globe.
7. Turning Tables
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On iTunes at: itunes.apple.com
Adele’s 21 consists of heartbreaking songs and this one, which she co-wrote with Ryan Tedder, is right at the top of that tragic list. I was suffering from an emotionally abusive relationship when this song came out. Listening to this song now, I can’t help but smile remembering how I got out of that horrible mess.
All of these songs have one key thing in common (besides their songstress, of course): their powerful lyrics! How do you find Adele? Are there any Adele songs you like?
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