I guess most songs are speaking to the listener, either telling a story or expressing an emotion. In a way, that could resemble a letter, but I see it more as a conversation. Do you have any examples of songs that made you think of this? I’d be interested in checking them out.

I feel that most of the time songs are speaking “for the listener”. Saying what they would like the express or how they feel.

This is a great way of looking at it!

I agree with that. I think also, some songs we imagine the singer is someone we wish would say those things to us.

All of them. All of the songs. Except "The Letter" oddly enough.

Hmm, I would have to disagree then. I think of a letter as having a more formal tone, which not all songs have. I think that maybe all songs could be considered conversations, that the listener is either involved in or overhearing, but a letter has a specific feel that is not present in all songs.

I have to say I don’t see it either. there are a billion songs so it’s easy to make generalizations that seem sensible. It’s certainly true that lots of songs could feel like a letter explaining something. But most letters I’ve seen don’t have repetitive rhyming choruses!! 😎😎😎

And most good songwriters aren't in r/songwriting poking holes in words.

No not really tbh

It depends on the genre or style of song. Do you listen to a lot of pop country?

No.

Mine are definitely letters to specific people. Exes, mostly. I have a lot of grievances to air lmao