A song is a combination of melody and lyrics that can be sung. It usually has a structure with repeated sections, such as verses and choruses. The average song lasts in the three-minute range and is played on radio and in recorded music. A song can be for a solo singer, for a lead singer supported by backup singers, or for a choir or larger vocal ensemble such as an orchestra. It may also be used in theatrical or other stage shows of any genre, as well as in operas and films.
Songs have a wide variety of cultural contexts, from the traditional to the contemporary. Some are folk songs, such as lullabies or folk tales. Others are art songs, designed for performance by professional or carefully trained singers and accompanied by instruments. These songs are usually quite complex and difficult to sing, and their words and musical structure are resistant to casual change. They are often compared to poetry or other literary works because of their power to convey emotion and to evaluate the human condition.
Songs are a very important part of the cultural heritage. They can help people understand the past, express their emotions, and even challenge the status quo. Some are sung to make money, but those who write them for beauty and meaning are more likely to be successful in the long run. The following articles describe the diverse ways in which people use song to communicate their ideas and values.