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How to cite a song in MLA

How to Cite a Song in MLA | Format & Examples

Published on December 3, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on March 5, 2024.

The format for citing a song in MLA depends on the medium in which you listened to it.

To cite a song accessed through an online streaming service, list the performer (or group) as author, the song title in quotation marks, the name of the site in italics, and the URL where the song can be found. Omit “the” from a band name, e.g. “Beatles,” not “the Beatles.”

If relevant, use a timestamp to indicate a specific part of the song in the in-text citation.

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Citing songs in physical formats, quoting lyrics, optional details to include in an mla song citation, frequently asked questions about mla citations.

To cite a song you accessed in a physical format (e.g. CD, vinyl), include details about the album (or single, EP, etc.) it appears on: the title, distributor, year, and, optionally, the format (e.g. “CD”).

This format also applies to songs you downloaded and accessed through a media player (e.g. iTunes).

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Quote lyrics from a song in a similar format to poetry : separate lines with a slash symbol, and format four or more lines quoted at once as a block quote .

If you’re quoting these lyrics from a transcript included alongside the song (e.g. in the description on YouTube, in the accompanying booklet to a CD), then you should clarify this at the end of the Works Cited entry.

MLA’s citation style is flexible; some details are not mandatory in a song citation but can be included when relevant.

For example, if your discussion focuses on the work of a particular musician, you can list them in the author position instead of the main artist, along with a description of their role. The main artist should still be listed later in the contributor slot.

Especially with classical music, it may be more relevant to cite the composer rather than the performer in the author position. You can then list the particular performer(s) and/or conductor after the title. If the particular performance is irrelevant, you might omit this information entirely.

When citing a song in MLA style , the author is usually the main artist or group that released the song.

However, if your discussion focuses on the contributions of a specific performer, e.g. a guitarist or singer, you may list them as author, even if they are not the main artist. If you’re discussing the lyrics or composition, you may cite the songwriter or composer rather than a performer.

In an MLA song citation , you need to give some sort of container to indicate how you accessed the song. If this is a physical or downloaded album, the Works Cited entry should list the album name, distributor, year, and format.

However, if you listened to the song on a streaming service, you can just list the site as a container, including a URL. In this case, including the album details is optional; you may add this information if it is relevant to your discussion or if it will help the reader access the song.

If a source has no author, start the MLA Works Cited entry with the source title . Use a shortened version of the title in your MLA in-text citation .

If a source has no page numbers, you can use an alternative locator (e.g. a chapter number, or a timestamp for a video or audio source) to identify the relevant passage in your in-text citation. If the source has no numbered divisions, cite only the author’s name (or the title).

If you already named the author or title in your sentence, and there is no locator available, you don’t need a parenthetical citation:

Rajaram argues that representations of migration are shaped by “cultural, political, and ideological interests.”
The homepage of The Correspondent describes it as “a movement for radically different news.”

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How do I cite song lyrics?

Note: This post relates to content in the eighth edition of the MLA Handbook . For up-to-date guidance, see the ninth edition of the MLA Handbook .

The way you cite song lyrics will vary depending on how you access them and how much information you include in the body of your essay.

If you cite song lyrics from a CD you listened to, you might simply refer to the song in your essay:

“You say you got a real solution,” the Beatles sing in “Revolution 1.”

You can then provide a works-cited-list entry for the album that contains the song. Follow the MLA format template : list the name of the performer or band as the author, the name of the album as the title of the source, the publisher, and the date. In the optional-element slot at the end of the entry, list the format:

Beatles. The Beatles . EMI Records, 1968. CD.

If you cite song lyrics from a booklet accompanying the CD, list a description in the “Title of source” slot and the name of the album as the title of the container:

Beatles. Booklet. The Beatles , EMI Records, 1968.

If you cite lyrics from a website, provide a description in place of the title. Then provide the name of the website, publication information for the site, and the URL:

Beatles. Lyrics to “Revolution 1.” Genius , 2017, genius.com/The-beatles-revolution-i-lyrics.

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Arts and Entertainment

How to Quote a Song in a Paper (with Formatting & Examples)

Last Updated: February 4, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by wikiHow staff writer, Jennifer Mueller, JD . Jennifer Mueller is a wikiHow Content Creator. She specializes in reviewing, fact-checking, and evaluating wikiHow's content to ensure thoroughness and accuracy. Jennifer holds a JD from Indiana University Maurer School of Law in 2006. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 317,850 times. Learn more...

Depending on the type of paper you're writing, you may need to use a song as a reference – either a specific recording, or the composition of the song itself. The format of your citation will be somewhat different depending on whether you are using Modern Language Association (MLA) style, American Psychological Association (APA) style, or the format in the Chicago Manual of Style. You'll also need a brief, in-text citation to point the reader to the more complete citation at the end of your work. [1] X Research source

Step 1 Use the name of the performer to cite recordings.

The performer could be a single individual or a band. If you're using the name of a single person, use "last name, first name" format.
For example: Knowles-Carter, Beyoncé.

Step 2 Use the name of the composer for compositions.

If there are multiple writers, list them all in the order they appear in the copyright information for the song. If the song has lyrics, there may be both a composer and a lyricist.
For example: Knowles-Carter, Beyoncé and James Blake.

For example: Knowles-Carter, Beyoncé and James Blake. "Freedom."

Step 4 Include publication or recording information.

For example: Knowles-Carter, Beyoncé and James Blake. "Freedom." Lemonade , Parkwood Entertainment, 2016.

Step 5 List the format and method of access.

For example: Knowles-Carter, Beyoncé and James Blake. "Freedom." Lemonade , Parkwood Entertainment, 2016. Online, www.beyonce.com/album/lemonade-visual-album/, accessed January 9, 2017.

Step 6 Provide the name of the artist or composer for in-text citations.

Use the name you used in your full citation. Just use the first or primary name if there is more than one artist in the full citation. Include the title or a title phrase if you're citing more than one work by that artist.
For example: (Knowles-Carter, "Freedom")

Step 1 Start with the name of the songwriter or composer.

For example: Knowles-Carter, B., & Blake, J.
If there are multiple writers and their roles are identified, you can put these in parentheses after their names. For example: Knowles-Carter, B. (Lyricist), & Blake, J. (Composer).

For example: Knowles-Carter, B., & Blake, J. (2016).

You also may want to include the name of the performing artist if they are known by a stage name or are otherwise not immediately identifiable by their last name.
For example: Knowles-Carter, B., & Blake, J. (2016). Freedom [Recorded by Beyoncé].

Step 4 Provide the name of the album and medium.

For example: Knowles-Carter, B., & Blake, J. (2016). Freedom. On Lemonade [CD].

Step 5 List publication or recording information.

Include state or country information if the city is not well-known. Otherwise, simply include the name of the city.
For example: Knowles-Carter, B., & Blake, J. (2016). Freedom. On Lemonade [CD]. New York City: Parkwood Entertainment (2016).

Step 6 Use the songwriter, copyright year, and track number for in-text citations.

For example: (Knowles-Carter & Blake, 2016, track 10)

Using Chicago Style

For example: Knowles-Carter, Beyoncé, and James Blake.

For example: Knowles-Carter, Beyoncé, and James Blake. Freedom .
If the performer of the song is someone different from the songwriters, include this information immediately after the title of the song or album by listing their first name and last name.
If the performer is more important than the songwriter or composer, you may want to list their name first. Use your best judgment depending on the focus of your paper.

Step 3 Provide publication or recording information.

If you can't find the recording number on the physical copy of the recording itself, look on www.discogs.com. Make sure you have the listing for the same recording as the one you're referencing.
For example: Knowles-Carter, Beyoncé, and James Blake. Freedom . On Lemonade . Parkwood Entertainment, 88985336822, 2016. [11] X Research source

Step 4 List the format and access information.

For example: For example: Knowles-Carter, Beyoncé, and James Blake. Freedom . On Lemonade . Parkwood Entertainment, 88985336822, 2016, CD.

Step 5 Use author-date style for parenthetical citations.

For example: (Knowles-Carter 2016).
To provide a pinpoint citation to a specific song, include the track number. For example: (Knowles-Carter 2016, track 10).

Community Q&A

If you're using Chicago style, list audio recordings separately in a discography that is separate from your main bibliography. [14] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
When you access music online, you may have difficulty finding the information you need for your citation. Try looking up the song on a website such as www.discogs.com, which will have publication information. [15] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

↑ http://pitt.libguides.com/citationhelp
↑ https://blog.apastyle.org/apastyle/2011/12/how-to-cite-recorded-music-in-apa-style.html
↑ http://www.ubishops.ca/wp-content/uploads/APAguide6thofficial.pdf
↑ http://libguides.depauw.edu/c.php?g=73436&p=472435
↑ https://www.discogs.com/Beyoncé-Lemonade/release/8486714
↑ http://www.press.uchicago.edu/books/turabian/turabian_citationguide.html
↑ http://www.easybib.com/guides/citation-guides/chicago-turabian/how-to-cite-a-musical-recording-chicago-turabian/

About This Article

To cite a song using APA, start by putting the last name of the songwriter or composer, followed by their initials. Then, add the copyright year in parenthesis, and the title of the song. Next, start a new sentence with the word “on,” followed by the italicized name of the album and the medium you heard it on. End the citation with the location, the name of the recording company, and the recording year. For more information on citing songs, including in-text citations for MLA and Chicago style, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How to Cite a Song or Album in MLA Referencing

3-minute read

7th April 2021

If you write about music in your work, you might have to cite a recording. But how do you cite a song or album in MLA referencing ? This post will explain the basics.

To cite a song or album in MLA referencing , simply give the artist’s last name or the band’s name in brackets in the relevant part of the text:

Her latest album has a strong environmental theme (Sturgeon).

“Wildlife in America” (Shearwater) comments on US culture.

And to cite a specific part of a song, you can add a timestamp :

The middle eight in “Air and Light” (Sturgeon 2:14–2:29) is truly haunting.

In the above citation, for example, we are citing a section that runs from 2 minutes 14 seconds to 2 minutes 29 seconds into the song.

Musical Recordings in an MLA Works Cited List

All references contain certain core elements in MLA style. And for a musical recording, each entry should include some or all of the following:

Artist or band name – For individual artists, give their surname first, followed by their first name (e.g., Young, Neil). For artists who don’t follow this naming convention (e.g., U2 or Lady Gaga), just use the full name they are known by.
Song title – If you are citing a specific song, give the title in quotation marks.
Album title – Give the name of the album you are citing (or that the song you are citing comes from) in italics.
Version – If relevant, include information on the version of the song next (e.g., if there are different versions of a song on different albums).
Publication details – The name of the publisher (i.e., the record label that released the album or song) and the year the recording was released.
URL – If you accessed the recording online, include the URL. For songs accessed via a streaming platform, give the platform name in italics.
Format – If it is relevant to your work, you can optionally add the format of the recording at the end of your reference (e.g., CD, vinyl, MP3).

You won’t always need all of this! For many references, the artist’s name, song and/or album title, the publisher, and the year of publication will be enough. But whatever you cite, make sure to include enough information in the Works Cited list to guide readers to the exact version of the recording you have used.

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Example References

Below, you can see example references for an album, a song on an album, an album accessed via a streaming platform, and a single song accessed online:

Talk Talk. The Colour of Spring , EMI, 1986.

Song on an Album

Shearwater. “Animals in America.” Jet Plane and Oxbow , Subpop, 2016.

Album on a Streaming Service

Sturgeon, Jenny. The Living Mountain , Hudson Records, 2020. Spotify , https://open.spotify.com/album/7Kt6kaJ8dGIo6cngVA7dcB

Single Song Online

Benin City. “Freaking You Out.” Bandcamp , https://benincity.bandcamp.com/track/freaking-you-out

Make sure to add a hanging indent for each line after the first in all references.

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How to Incorporate Lyrics Into an Essay

Lyrics can be effective tools in an essay. You may want to cite lyrics, because a song writer says something in an eloquent way, or the excerpt solidifies a point you’re trying to make. You are allowed to quote a portion of a song under the fair use doctrine of the United States copyright law, but the law doesn’t specify exactly how many words or what percentage of a song you can use. You can use a limited portion of a song for your research paper, but it must be acknowledged though in-text citations and a listing in your works cited or reference page.

Quotations and In-Text Citations

When incorporating lyrics into an essay, put the lyrics inside quotation marks. Short quotations can be integrated into a sentence, such as, “In the song ‘Hey Jude,’ the Beatles sing…” followed by the lyrics in quotation marks.

Long quotations, or those that are four lines or longer, need to be set off in a block quote, where you indent the entire quote from the paragraph above it. To cite the lyrics in Modern Language Association format, write the artists’ name in parentheses, such as (The Beatles), followed by the ending punctuation.

To cite in American Psychological Association format, include the artist, copyright date and track number in parentheses, such as (The Beatles, 1968, track 1). Note the comma between the artist and year and between the year and track number.

Reference List

Include the details of the recording in your works cited or references page. In MLA format, include the artist’s name, song title, album name, name of the recording manufacturer, publication date and the sound recording medium, for example:

The Beatles. “Hey Jude.” Hey Jude: The U. S. Album (italicized). Capitol, 2014. CD.

Citing this recording in APA style is slightly different, so follow the example:

The Beatles. (2014). Hey Jude. On Hey Jude: The U. S. Album (italicize the album name) [CD]. Los Angeles: Capitol (Recorded 1968).

Purdue Online Writing Lab: In-Text Citations: The Basics
Williams College Libraries: Media
U. S. Copyright Office: Can I Use Someone Else's Work? Can Someone Else Use Mine?
U. S. Copyright Office: Fair Use
Purdue Online Writing Lab: MLA Works Cited: Other Common Sources
Purdue Online Writing Lab: Reference List: Other Non-Print Sources

Cara Batema is a musician, teacher and writer who specializes in early childhood, special needs and psychology. Since 2010, Batema has been an active writer in the fields of education, parenting, science and health. She holds a bachelor's degree in music therapy and creative writing.

Home / Guides / Citation Guides / APA Format / How to Cite a Song in APA

How to Cite a Song in APA

Understanding how to cite songs in APA is crucial for projects that study pop culture, sociology, and a variety of other topics. This guide will show you how to cite songs following the guidelines for APA 7th edition.

Guide Overview

Citing a song, citing an album, citing a classical music album, citing an album that has been reissued or re-recorded.

In-text citations

Reference list entry structure:

Songwriter last name, F. M. (Copyright year). Song title [Recorded by F.M. Last (performer’s name/musical group)]. On Album title [Medium of recording]. Record label name.

Note: If the songwriter and performer are the same person , leave out the bracketed data [Recorded by _______] following the song title.

Turner, A. (2013). Do I wanna know? [Recorded by Arctic Monkeys]. On AM [Album]. Domino Records.

In-text citation structure & example:

(Songwriter last name, Year)

(Turner, 2013)

Citing a song retrieved online

Songwriter last name, F. M. (Copyright year). Song title [Recorded by F.M. Last (performer’s name/musical group)] [Lyrics]. Retrieved from URL

Reference list entry example:

Simon, P. (1972). Me and Julio down by the schoolyard [Lyrics]. Retrieved from https://youtu.be/JVdlpZ4M-Hw

Recording Artist or Group. (Date). Album title in sentence case [Album]. Record label name.

Reference list entry examples:

Abdul, P. (1992). Forever your girl [Album]. Virgin Records US.

King Gizzard and the Wizard Lizard. (2019). Infest the rat’s nest [Album]. ATO Records.

(Recording artist last name, Year)

(Abdul, 1992)

(King Gizzard and the Wizard Lizard, 2019)

For a classical music album, write the name of the composer as the author and the individuals/group who recorded the album in square brackets after the album title. At the end of the reference, include the original date of publication.

Composer last name, F. M. (Date). Album title in sentence case. [Album recorded by group/last name, F. M.]. Recording label. (Original work published date)

Hopkins, A. (2011). And the waltz goes on. [Album recorded by A. Rieu & Johann Strauss Orchestra]. Decca. (Original work published 1725)

For albums that have been rerecorded or reissued, include the original publication, write a slash, then include the date of the version you are using.

(Composer last name, Year)

(Hopkins, 1725/2011)

Include the original date of publication in paratheses after the recording label.

Recording Artist or Group. (Date). Album title in sentence case. [Album recorded by group/last name, F. M.]. Recording label. (Original work published date)

The Rolling Stones. (2015). Sticky fingers [Album]. UMe. (Originally published 1971)

(The Rolling Stones, 1971/2015)

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To cite a song or music video in APA style, you need to have basic information including the name of the composer, title of the song or music, company name, and publication date. The templates for in-text citation and reference list entry of a song or music video, along with examples, are given below:

In-text citation template and example:

In parenthetical citations, use the composer’s surname and the publication year.

Composer’s Surname (Publication Year)

Beyoncé (2013)

Parenthetical

(Composer’s Surname, Publication Year)

(Beyoncé, 2013)

Reference list entry template and example:

Songwriter F.M. (Copyright year). Song title [Recorded by F.M. Last (performer’s name/musical group)]. On Album title [Medium of recording]. City, State of label: Record label name.

Beyoncé. (2013). Ring off. On Beyoncé: Platinum Edition [MP3 file]. Los Angeles, CA: Parkwood; Columbia.

To cite lyrics in APA format, you need to have basic information including the name of the composer, title of the song, company name, date, and URL. The templates for in-text citation and reference list entry of lyrics, along with examples, are given below:

(Composer’s Surname, Publication Year, timestamp)

(Beyoncé, 2019, 02:36)

Beyoncé. (2019). Don’t jealous me. On Beyoncé: Platinum Edition [MP3 file]. Los Angeles, CA: Parkwood; Columbia.

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How to Cite Songs in MLA Style: A Complete Citation Guide

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Are you writing an essay and want to cite a song but are unsure how to do it properly? This article will show you how to cite a song in MLA style so that your article will have an appropriate format. Whether you wish to list some track, mention its composer or performer, or if you are quoting lyrics in your essay, we want you to know the correct way to do it. This article will demonstrate how to do it with helpful examples. Dealing with lengthy research? Don’t have time for in-depth topic exploration? Delegate all the job to top-rated experts! Buy research paper online at StudyCrumb and leave all worries behind.

MLA Song Citation

There are times when you wish to use MLA citation for a song in your essay or article. You want to do this because quoting some melody or lyrics adds quality to what you are writing abou. Still, it is important to cite people's work properly to avoid unwanted plagiarism. Remember to check plagiarism upon paper completion for outstanding results. The way you use MLA citation for some track will vary based on how you accessed the song. The basic MLA song citation format for a source retrieved from a streaming service is:

performer's last name, performer's first name
title of song (using quotation marks)
website or database name( in italics)

When listing its URL, omit http:// and https:// information. If your source has a brand name with an article, you should also skip it. For example, you will go for "Rolling Stones" not "The Rolling Stones." So here is a general structure for your better understanding of how it looks:

Here’s how the above example would be cited:

However, there may be some additional information that you should include, e.g., an album. Let's learn how to format such citation below. You even can cite TED talks in your work. Just follow how to cite a TED talk MLA guide. You will find it and many other useful blogs in our database.

How to Cite a Song From an Album in MLA

Are you citing something from an album in MLA style ? In this case, you would use some basic format above without its URL information. This will work when you are referring to some particular piece from a vinyl album. When citing an MLA song from an album you should include some general information such as: artist’s name, song title (using quotation marks), album title (in italics), record label, publication year. If some information about an album is unavailable, such as the record label or album name, it is acceptable not to list it. Here is a general format that applies if you want to cite a song from an album in MLA.

This is how it would be cited.

Example of MLA citation for a song from an album

MLA in-Text Citation of a Song

When integrating in text citation mla song in your article, you would list the last name of the performer in parenthesis. If necessary, provide timestamps for lyrics you are quoting with its performer's name. In a general format It will look like this.

Here is how the above example would be cited:

Example of MLA in-text citation of a song

Proper MLA Citation for a Song on a CD

How to cite a song from a CD in MLA style? When referencing some track from a CD, you should use a similar format as you would for any reference from an online source. Include such information as author's last name, first name, song title (using quotation marks), album name (in italics), distributor, publication year, and CD. Check a general format of citing songs of physical format here.

Here is also an example of how it will look like.

Example of MLA citation for a song on a CD

In-Text Citation for a Song From a CD in MLA

Are you citing some song in-text? When referencing some melody or lyrics from any CD, you would use the same format as you would from a vinyl album, only in the works cited section, use letters “CD” in the reference. MLA in-text citation for song should include the last name of a performer in parenthesis. Also, add timestamps of where these quoted lyrics appear. In the Works Cited section, integrate such information: performer last name, first name. Then, mention track name (using quotation marks), CD album title (in italics), publisher, publication year, CD. Check a general format of citing songs from a CD in MLA for in-text citation.

Check out our example of in-text citation:

Example of MLA in-text citation for a song on a CD

How to Cite Song Lyrics MLA

There may be occasions when you want to know how to cite song lyrics in MLA in your article. When citing lyrics, you would put quotation marks on each side of the quoted lyrics. If necessary, use timestamps (see above) to indicate where these lyrics are within the track. It is also important to use a poetic format if you are quoting more than a few words or one line. When quoting multiple lines, use a forward slash to indicate breaks in those lyrics. Here is how it looks:

Here is an example of the above formula of how to cite song lyrics in MLA.

Example of MLA citation for a song lyrics

But do not use this guide for an interview citation. It is another source and should be cited another way. Find and read a special blog about MLA in text citation interview .

Core Elements for MLA Song Citation

As we can see, all references in MLA style we have mentioned above contain their core elements that should be included in almost every citation. Here are essential pieces of information that are likely to be incorporated into your quotation:

Artist or band name
Title of a song
Title of an album
Album’s version
Track number
Publication details (name of the publisher of record label, year this record was released)
Website or database where you got this record
Format (e.g., CD, MP3 , vinyl.)

Final Thoughts on Citing a Song in MLA

We have looked at MLA style on how to cite a song. Referencing some track is similar to the citation format of citing an article in a periodical. Remember to include the general information such as: performer's last name, first name, a period, title in quotations, an album title italicized, publisher, and year. If you are quoting from an online source, include URL at the end of the reference. If you are quoting from any CD, put the letters “CD” at the end. If you are quoting lyrics from any record, CD, or online source, use a timestamp. When quoting lyrics, put quotation marks. Also, use the poetic style for multiple line lyric quotations.

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How to Cite a Song in MLA Style: FAQ

1. are song titles italicized in mla.

No. When MLA citing a song, titles are listed with quotation marks. Songs that you reference need to be accompanied by the source where they can be found. It is an album title that is listed in italics.

2. How to cite a song in MLA with a different writer and performer?

If you cite a song in MLA, the performer is listed as an author in most cases. If you are referencing songs from some streaming service, the performer or group is listed as an author as if you are citing some written source.

3. How do you in-text cite an audio clip in MLA?

When you cite an audio clip in MLA within your text, the performer's last name and timestamp are placed within your text in parenthesis. At the end of your article, proper MLA citation should be made of the song's origin.

4. How do you reference a concert in MLA?

When citing a live concert using MLA style, you would list the name of the performer, name of the concert (or concert tour), full date of this concert, concert venue, and city and state (and perhaps country) where this concert was performed.

Emma Flores knows all about formatting standards. She shares with StudyCrumb readers tips on creating academic papers that will meet high-quality standards.

Mastering the Art of How to Quote a Song in an Essay

Jennifer Livingstone

Introduction

In the realm of academic writing, the ability to effectively how to quote a song in an essay plays a pivotal role in enriching your text, offering depth and a unique perspective to your argument. Whether it’s how to quote a song lyric in an essay to underscore a point, evoke an emotional response, or how to quote a song title in an essay to reference cultural context, the integration of musical elements can significantly enhance the reader’s engagement with your work. This guide aims to demystify the process, providing a clear set of guidelines for accurately citing songs within your essays. From the nuances of incorporating lyrics to the technicalities of referencing song titles, understanding these principles ensures that your academic writing not only adheres to the highest standards of scholarly integrity but also captures the essence of the musical pieces that influence and inspire your thoughts.

Understanding the Purpose of Quoting a Song

Quoting a song in an academic essay serves several key purposes, each enhancing the depth and breadth of your analysis. Learning how to quote a song in an essay allows you to bolster your arguments or themes with the emotional power or cultural resonance of music. When you master how to quote a song lyric in an essay, you tap into a rich vein of emotional and intellectual material, providing vivid evidence or illustrative examples that support your claims in a uniquely compelling way. Furthermore, understanding how to quote a song title in an essay goes beyond mere citation; it invites readers to consider the cultural or historical significance of the song, connecting your work to broader dialogues within society. This approach not only enriches your essay but also positions your arguments within a larger cultural and historical context, demonstrating the multifaceted impact of music on human experience.

Preparing to Quote a Song

Before incorporating a musical piece into your essay, it’s imperative to navigate the intricacies of how to quote a song in an essay with precision. The initial step involves meticulously identifying the relevant portion of the song that aligns with your discussion or argument. This selection process is critical as it ensures that the excerpt directly contributes to reinforcing your thesis or enriching your analysis.

Contextualizing the song for your audience is another vital aspect. When deliberating on how to quote a song lyric in an essay, providing background about the song or artist can offer valuable insight into its intended message or cultural impact, making your argument more persuasive. This context helps bridge any gaps between the reader’s knowledge and the significance of the lyrics within your essay’s framework.

Furthermore, the adherence to formatting guidelines, such as how to quote a song in an essay MLA, underscores the importance of academic integrity while lending credibility to your work. Whether you’re quoting a song lyric or citing its title, following the Modern Language Association (MLA) guidelines ensures that your citations are properly structured and recognized.

Ultimately, ensuring that each quote supports your essay’s thesis or main idea is paramount. This careful integration of how to quote song lyrics in an essay not only enhances your argumentation but also enriches the reader’s understanding, making your essay a more compelling and informative read.

Guidelines for Quoting a Song

When incorporating music into your writing, understanding how to quote a song in an essay MLA format is crucial for maintaining academic integrity. Begin by italicizing song titles and capitalizing the initial letters of each word. Artist names should be presented in their standard form. For in-text citations, include the artist’s last name and the song title in parentheses. For instance: (Bowie, “Space Oddity”).

In the Works Cited page, the entry should list the artist’s name, the title of the song in italics, the album name as the container, followed by publication details and the format. An example would look like: Bowie, David. “Space Oddity.” David Bowie, 1969, CD.

Adhering to these guidelines ensures that how to quote a song in an essay aligns with MLA standards, providing a clear and concise method for referencing songs in your scholarly work.

In APA format, quoting a song involves specific guidelines that ensure clarity and consistency across academic writing. When addressing how to quote a song in an essay or how to quote a song lyric in an essay using APA style, start by presenting song titles in sentence case, using quotation marks. Artist names should be written in full, without alterations.

For in-text citations, include the artist’s last name and the year of the song’s release in parentheses, for example: (Dylan, 1963). If quoting lyrics, also include a timestamp to indicate the exact part of the song, like (Dylan, 1963, 1:15).

In the References list, the entry should format as follows: Artist’s Last Name, First Initial. (Year). Song title [Song]. On Album Title. Publisher. For example: Dylan, B. (1963). Blowin’ in the Wind [Song]. On The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan. Columbia.

Adhering to these APA guidelines ensures your citations are properly formatted, offering a clear reference for readers to follow when you quote a song or its lyrics in an essay.

Chicago Style

When employing Chicago style in your essay, the approach to how to quote a song in an essay or how to quote a song lyric in an essay integrates a nuanced citation method. Song titles should be quoted, with artist names presented in their full form without alterations.

For footnote or endnote citations, you format them by including the artist’s name, song title in quotation marks, album name in italics, year of release, and format type. An example would look like: 1. Artist Name, “Song Title,” Album Name, Year, Format.

In the bibliography, the entry should be arranged as follows: Artist’s Last Name, First Name. “Song Title.” Album Name. Year. Format. For instance: Dylan, Bob. “Blowin’ in the Wind.” The Freewheelin’ Bob Dylan. 1963. CD.

This Chicago style formatting ensures that quoting a song or its lyrics in your essay is clear, precise, and adheres to academic standards, providing a structured way for readers to locate the original source material.

Incorporating Song Quotes in Your Essay

Incorporating song quotes into your essay requires a seamless approach to ensure the text flows naturally. When how to quote a song in an essay or how to quote a song lyric in an essay, using signal phrases such as “According to [Artist Name]” or “[Artist Name] sings” can smoothly introduce the quote into your narrative. This method not only credits the original artist but also prepares the reader for the integration of external content.

After presenting the quote, it’s crucial to delve into its significance within your analysis. Discuss how the lyrics or the title enhance your argument, contribute to thematic development, or illuminate the subject matter from a unique perspective. This step is vital in demonstrating the relevance of the song quote to your essay’s broader discussion, thereby enriching the reader’s understanding and engagement with your work.

By thoughtfully integrating song quotes and articulating their importance, you bridge the gap between musical expression and academic analysis, offering a richer, more textured exploration of your essay’s themes.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Navigating the legal and ethical landscape is paramount when how to quote a song in an essay or how to quote song lyrics in an essay. Understanding copyright laws is crucial to ensure that your use of song lyrics respects the intellectual property rights of artists and songwriters. When considering how to quote a song lyric in an essay or how to quote lyrics from a song in an essay, it’s important to adhere to the principles of fair use. This doctrine allows for the use of copyrighted material under certain conditions, such as for commentary, criticism, or educational purposes.

Best practices include quoting only the necessary amount of lyrics to support your argument or analysis and always providing appropriate attribution to the original artist. Furthermore, when quoting song lyrics or titles, ensure your usage falls within the guidelines of fair use by contributing original commentary or analysis that transforms the original work in a meaningful way.

By adhering to these legal and ethical considerations, you can ethically incorporate song quotes into your academic writing, enriching your essays while respecting the rights of creators.

In conclusion, mastering how to quote a song in an essay, how to quote a song lyric in an essay, how to quote song lyrics in an essay, and how to quote lyrics from a song in an essay is a valuable skill that enhances your academic writing. We’ve explored the importance of selecting relevant song portions, properly formatting citations across different styles, and the significance of integrating these quotes smoothly into your analysis. Remember, quoting songs not only enriches your essays by providing a diverse range of expressions and cultural references but also deepens the exploration of your topic.

I encourage you to utilize song quotes thoughtfully within your essays. This approach not only demonstrates your ability to engage with a variety of sources but also invites a deeper understanding and appreciation of the intricate ways in which music and text can intersect to reveal profound insights. Let the power of music amplify the impact of your words , and may your essays resonate with the richness and depth that song quotes can provide.

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How to Use Lyrics in Essay Writing

Lyrics are an effective tool that can help you make your writing more emotional and better express some ideas. For example, if some song perfectly illustrates your point, you can cite its lyrics if the type of your essay allows you to do so. Learn more about using lyrics in writing with College Writers .

Sometimes, you may not have enough fresh ideas, brainstorming on some topic over and over again, but suddenly you hear a song that expresses your thoughts clearly, in a concise way. If this situation looks familiar to you, it means that you may try to use such a song in your essay. In addition, it’s a great way to make your academic text less boring.

However, using songs in writing may turn out to be not an easy task because of copyright issues. Fortunately, there is no law that would determine the number of words you’re allowed to use in your texts. The main thing is to use in-text citations and to write a proper reference page so that you won’t need to worry about plagiarism.

How to Quote Songs

There are many different citation formats, such as APA, MLA, Harvard, etc. Every citation style has its requirements that you should follow. What these styles have in common is that you should use both in-text citations in parentheses and a references list. The way you should write citations for lyrics may vary.

For example, when quoting lyrics in MLA style, you should provide the artist’s name after the quote, in parentheses. When writing citations according to Harvard or APA format, you should also include the year and the number of the track on the album.

When citing songs, you should always use quotation marks. However, if your quote is several lines long, you should use a block quote, indenting the citation from the paragraph.

How to Quote Lyrics in References

You should also make notes in the references list, providing the name of the album that contains the song. For instance, when writing references according to MLA style, you should include an artist’s name first, followed by the name of the album, the recording studio, and the date. You might also specify the format:

The Artist. The Album. Studio, 1995. CD.

If you’ve used a website instead of a physical copy, you should provide the URL, after the year.

When writing references in Harvard or APA format, they should look like this:

The Artist. (1995). The Album. [CD]. City: Recording Studio (Recorded 1994).

Quotation Marks vs. Italics

When citing songs, many students cannot figure out whether they should use quotation marks or italics. Fortunately, there are simple rules: write the title of a song in quotation marks, and italicize the names of albums and CDs.

Keep in mind that if the title of the song ends with an exclamation point or question mark, they must stay within quotation marks. However, the punctuation may also go beyond the quotation marks if it’s not a part of the title.

Final Thoughts

We recommend that you keep in mind the following tips when citing songs in your essays.

Avoid clichés. Some songs are too popular and some lyrics are cited too often so they won’t help you support a specific point.
Don’t try to include as many lyrics as you can. If you want to cite a big fragment of a song, the best way to do it is to paraphrase. Select a few lines that are directly related to your argument and cite them.
Think of what your readers will imagine. Songs are poetic so they evoke certain images in your readers’ minds. If you’ve selected lyrics that don’t serve this purpose, we recommend that you try to describe your thoughts in another way.

Using lyrics when writing academic essays is a good idea. However, we recommend that you check out our tips and make sure that you know how to do it properly so that your paper will look professional.

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Proper Formatting of Song Titles in Written Documents

Learn when to use italics and quotation marks to write clearly

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What to Know

Refer to the style guide specified by your employer, client, or teacher.
In the absence of a style guide, the general rule is to use quotation marks for song titles and italicize CD or album titles.
Don't use underlining in place of italics unless you are using a typewriter or writing titles by hand.

This article explains the proper formatting of song titles in written documents and includes examples.

How to Format Song Titles in Written Documents

For matters of style when punctuating and formatting titles of any kind, turn first to the style guide prescribed by your employer, client, or teacher. In the absence of a style guide, use the following guidelines:

Put quotation marks around song titles : For best appearance in professionally typeset material, use proper typographical quote marks and apostrophes ( curly quotes ).
Set CD/album titles in italics : In typeset material, watch out for fake italics . That's not a grammar rule but it is a good design and printing rule.
Do not use underlining (in place of italics) unless you're using a typewriter or writing titles by hand.

In desktop publishing and word processing software, create character styles to quickly format song titles and other types of titles used throughout a document.

Example References to Song Titles and Albums

Here are two examples of text that includes song titles and album titles:

Trace Adkins' first #1 single “(This Ain’t) No Thinkin’ Thing” is from his 1997 CD Dreamin’ Out Loud .
The title cut from Toby Keith’s How Do You Like Me Now? was the most-played country song of 2000. Other favorites from the same album include “You Shouldn’t Kiss Me Like That” and “Country Comes to Town.”

When the song/album is the same : In the second example, although “ How Do You Like Me Now? ” is the song title, it is also the album title and in that context is treated as the album title, using italics. It would be just as correct to write: My favorite song on the How Do You Like Me Now? album is “How Do You Like Me Now?”

Punctuation in titles : When a song title ends in a question mark, exclamation point, or other punctuation, that punctuation goes inside the quotation marks because it's part of the song title. The beginning portion of the Adkins song title in parentheses is contained in the quotation marks the same as the other part of the song title.

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Benefits of Quotations in an Essay

Professional insight on quotations and in-text citations, approaches to quoting songs in your composition.

Include the recording label and the publication date.
Include the format and method of access.
Artist's name or composers are provided for in-text citation. Make use of the punctuation marks because each of them has a purpose in the citation.

Ways to Put Quote Lyrics in References Like a Professional

How to use quotation marks vs. italics, the bottom line.

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Cite A Music or recording in Harvard style

Select style:
Archive material
Chapter of an edited book
Conference proceedings
Dictionary entry
Dissertation
DVD, video, or film
E-book or PDF
Edited book
Encyclopedia article
Government publication
Music or recording
Online image or video
Presentation
Press release
Religious text

Use the following template or our Harvard Referencing Generator to cite a music or recording. For help with other source types, like books, PDFs, or websites, check out our other guides. To have your reference list or bibliography automatically made for you, try our free citation generator .

Reference list

Place this part in your bibliography or reference list at the end of your assignment.

In-text citation

Place this part right after the quote or reference to the source in your assignment.

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Other Harvard Citation Guides

How to cite a Archive material in Harvard style
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How to cite a Dissertation in Harvard style
How to cite a E-book or PDF in Harvard style
How to cite a Edited book in Harvard style
How to cite a Email in Harvard style
How to cite a Encyclopedia article in Harvard style
How to cite a Government publication in Harvard style
How to cite a Interview in Harvard style
How to cite a Legislation in Harvard style
How to cite a Magazine in Harvard style
How to cite a Music or recording in Harvard style
How to cite a Newspaper in Harvard style
How to cite a Patent in Harvard style
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How to cite a Presentation or lecture in Harvard style
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Learn How to Quote A Song Online

A song could be defined as a set of phrases or a poem that is set to a certain tune and meant to be sung. At its most basic structures, a song is referred to s a piece of music, usually with words commonly referred to as lyrics. Songs combine both vocals and a melody to create a rhythm that is able to convey their message to their listeners/ fans who in a classroom setting are required to learn how to quote songs.

All things considered, some of these song lyrics have very deep academic roots and pass on useful information using the song as the medium. Therefore we need to teach ourselves how to quote a song for the purpose of writing high-quality and acceptable format papers. Songs have been used by students worldwide as primary sources in their writing. By examining a song’s lyrics, you can have a deeper understanding of certain past and present events in the society.

Depending on the type of paper you intend to write about you may be drawn to gather information from many different sources, some of which may be songs. Therefore, the necessary skills are needed to know the best way on how to cite a song in an essay. A song may be the composition or a specific recording. The format for your citations and references will be somewhat different depending on the writing style you choose to use for formatting your paper. The most common styles of how to cite a song in a paper that is most commonly used by students include Harvard, Chicago, APA, and MLA.

In addition to the style of writing that you choose when quoting a song, the way you cite and reference a son will be different depending on how you access the information they possess and also how much of the song’s lyrics have influenced your paper. The question you should ask yourself is, “how do you quote a song?” For instance, if you quote a song from a compact disc (CD) you had the chance to listen to; in the body of your essay, you might just refer to the song by name. Afterward, you will be expected to create works cited or reference page for the song with information pertaining to the singer and the album it is a part of. When you want to learn how to quote a song in a paper the information needed includes;

The performers or band’s full names
The title of the album
The publisher of the album and release date
The URL of the song (where applicable)
You can also include the format of the song (optional)

You can access our website for samples on how to quote song with the proper appearance of these forming styles in a body of text, and also you can find templates to assist you to format your own citations and reference/ works cited lists.

Importance of Knowing How to Quote A Song in an Essay

“How do you cite a song in a paper?” you ask. Using songs as your primary source of information in a particular area of study, for instance in a history assignment, could enable you to learn more about how to properly quote a song and what a particular culture was doing in terms of economic and social-cultural activities from the lyrics of the songs they sang at that particular point in time. Also, you can learn more about a people’s history and development through their cultures songs. Therefore, it is an added advantage to you to learn how to quote a song in an essay as early as possible.

Sometimes the use of songs as information sources and the importance of quoting a song in a paper is overlooked due to the listeners’ mistakenly labeling it as fictitious or untrue. Most of the time student writing assignments are not all about what happened but focus on the religious and political aspects of the theme of the song or any other aspects that preoccupied songwriters at that particular time the song was conceived. Also, song lyrics can fuel contemporary debated that have proved to be useful learning tools in any classroom.

Why you should Learn How to Quote A Song in MLA Writing Style

Song lyrics are known to have a deep significance in the lives of many people and as such quoting a song MLA should be a big deal. Songs are written to resonate with the actions, experiences and belief systems of its listeners. From time to time, you will find yourself looking to songs for inspiration to incorporate into your essays. Students all over the world are increasingly rushing to know how to quote a song in MLA, why is this? MLA writing style for formatting your bibliography has a standard for almost every type of information source, even songs.

By learning how to quote from a song and reference your papers in accordance with the stipulated styles of writing, you are playing it safe when it comes to cases of plagiarism, which is where you want to be. Plagiarism is a serious academic offense. Cases of plagiarism are often viewed as a breach of trust when you fail to give credit to the originator of information that has helped you complete your research, this is the case whether it is intentional or by accident. However, other than avoiding plagiarism, songs have other important roles in academic circles.

The Importance of Quoting a Song in an Essay

When you are quoting a song in an essay you have to consider from which medium the song lyrics have been sourced and what amount of information you have included in your body of text. And it is a regulation in most institutions of learning that any paper that sources information from the research, words, opinions or ideas of other authors has to have citations and corresponding reference and works cited pages. The importance of citing and referencing is outlined below;

Acknowledge the contribution of others to your completed work
Provide your reader with a way to follow up on your research by accessing the original information
Shows the reader that you have conducted the necessary research
Support your claims and deductions with citations.
Assert your mastery of a particular field by citing similar papers in the same field

Complete Guide on How to Reference A Song in A Paper

For you to learn how to reference a song in a paper first you are required to have a source in the form of a song or songs. Next, you are to visit our website for more instructions and guidelines to help you convert your source into a correct citation and works cited entry. On the website, you will find that it is easy to navigate and peruse the various tools available to help you learn more about how to quote music. Do not be left behind, all your classmates are using citation generation machines for MLA citing a song, why not you?

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How to Properly Quote Songs in an Essay

Quoting songs in an essay can add depth and credibility to your arguments. Songs are a form of expressive art that often convey powerful emotions and messages. By incorporating song lyrics into your essay, you can strengthen your analysis and make your points more persuasive.

However, quoting songs in an essay requires careful consideration and adherence to specific guidelines. This step-by-step guide will provide you with the techniques and strategies to properly quote songs in your essays.

First and foremost, it is important to understand the legal and ethical implications of quoting songs. Song lyrics, like any other form of creative work, are protected under copyright law. Therefore, it is crucial to obtain permission from the copyright holder before quoting any song lyrics in your essay.

Once you have obtained the necessary permissions, you can begin incorporating song lyrics into your essay. One common way to quote songs is to use block quotes. Block quotes should be used when the lyrics you are quoting are more than four lines long. To format a block quote, you should start a new line, indent the entire quote, and use double spacing. Additionally, the lyrics should be enclosed in quotation marks and followed by a parenthetical citation that includes the artist’s name, the song title, and the year of release.

Table of Contents

Understanding Song Quoting

Song quoting is the act of incorporating lyrics from a song into your essay or academic paper. It is commonly used to provide supporting evidence, illustrate a point, or add depth to your analysis. When quoting songs, it is important to follow proper citation guidelines and give credit to the original artist and songwriter.

Why Quote Songs?

Quoting songs can be a powerful way to enhance your writing and engage your readers. Songs often convey emotions, messages, and cultural relevance, making them a valuable resource for analysis and commentary. By quoting songs, you can bring a unique perspective to your essay and make your arguments more compelling.

How to Quote Songs

When quoting songs in your essay, it is important to adhere to the following guidelines:

Use quotation marks: Enclose the lyrics of the song you are quoting within quotation marks. For example, “I can’t get no satisfaction.”
Give credit: Include the name of the artist or band, as well as the songwriter(s), in your citation. This information can typically be found in the song’s album liner notes or on reputable music websites.
Provide context: Explain why you are quoting the song and how it supports your argument or analysis. This helps readers understand the relevance and significance of the lyrics you are including.
Cite the source: In addition to providing the artist and songwriter information, include the song title, album name, release year, and the name of the record label in your citation. This information allows readers to locate the original recording or lyrics.

Examples of Song Quoting:

Song quoting can be an effective tool in your writing if used appropriately. By understanding the guidelines for quoting songs and providing proper citations, you can incorporate lyrics into your essay in a way that adds value and credibility to your work.

Choosing the Right Song

When quoting a song in your essay, it’s important to choose the right song that aligns with the theme or message you want to convey. Here are some steps to help you choose the right song:

Identify the theme: Determine the main theme or message of your essay. This could be love, heartbreak, empowerment, social issues, etc.
Research songs: Look for songs that address the theme you’ve identified. Use music streaming platforms, online databases, or your own music library to find potential songs.
Listen to lyrics: Carefully listen to the lyrics of the songs you’ve shortlisted. Pay attention to the words and messages conveyed in the song. Make sure they resonate with your essay’s theme.
Consider the genre: Consider the genre of the song and how well it fits with your essay. Different genres evoke different emotions and moods, so choose a song that enhances the overall tone of your writing.
Ensure credibility: Ensure that the song you choose is credible and well-known within its genre. Avoid using songs that are too obscure or not widely recognized.

Remember, the song you choose should add value to your essay and help emphasize your point. It should enhance the reader’s understanding and engagement with your topic. Take your time in selecting the right song to ensure its relevance and effectiveness in your essay.

Finding the Lyrics

When quoting a song in an essay, it is important to retrieve the correct lyrics. Here are a few methods you can use to find the lyrics:

Search online: The quickest and easiest way to find lyrics is by doing a simple internet search. Type the song title followed by the word “lyrics” into a search engine. This will bring up various websites that provide the lyrics for the song.
Music streaming platforms: Another way to find the lyrics is by using music streaming platforms such as Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube. These platforms often display the lyrics alongside the song, making it easy to reference and quote in your essay.
Artist’s official website: If the song you want to quote is by a well-known artist, visiting their official website may provide you with the lyrics. Many artists include the lyrics to their songs on their websites, which can be a reliable source.
Album liner notes: If you have access to the physical copy of the album that includes the song, you can check the liner notes. These often contain the lyrics for each song on the album.
Lyric databases: There are also websites dedicated solely to providing lyrics for songs. Websites like Genius, AZLyrics, and MetroLyrics have vast libraries of song lyrics that you can search for and quote from.

It is important to make sure you have the correct lyrics before quoting a song in your essay. Double-check the lyrics using multiple sources to ensure their accuracy.

Formatting the Quote

After selecting the appropriate quote from the song, it is essential to format it correctly within your essay. Proper formatting allows the reader to understand that the words being used are from a song and not the writer’s original words. Here are the steps for formatting a quote from a song:

Enclose the quote in quotation marks: Begin by enclosing the lyrics you want to quote in double quotation marks (” “). This is a standard practice when quoting song lyrics in an essay.
Provide the songwriter’s name: After the quotation marks, include the name of the songwriter(s) responsible for the lyrics. Write the songwriter’s name in the format: Last name, First name. If there are multiple songwriters, separate their names using a comma.
Include the song title: After the songwriter’s name, include the title of the song in italics. Italicize the song title to differentiate it from the rest of your essay text.
State the album or source: If the song is part of a specific album or soundtrack, mention the album or source in italics after the song title. This helps provide context and makes it easier for the reader to locate the song if they wish to listen to it.
Provide the year of release: Finish the quote by mentioning the year the song was released. Write the year in parentheses after the album or source. This information allows the reader to understand the historical context of the song and its relevance.

Here’s an example of how a formatted quote from a song would look like:

Remember to include the quote within the body of your essay and introduce it appropriately. Formatting the quote correctly gives your essay a professional look and ensures that proper credit is given to the songwriter.

Meaningful Context

When quoting a song in an essay, providing meaningful context is crucial for the reader to understand the significance of the lyrics within your analysis. Here are some steps to help you incorporate meaningful context:

Introduce the song : Start by providing the reader with the necessary information about the song, such as the title, artist, and release date. This will help set the stage and give the reader a basic understanding of the song’s background.
Explain the relevance : Next, explain why you have chosen this particular song for your essay. What is its relevance to the topic you are discussing? Are there specific themes or messages conveyed in the lyrics that relate to your analysis? By explaining this relevance, you are providing the reader with a clear understanding of why this song is being quoted.
Provide historical or cultural context : In addition to explaining the relevance of the song, it is also important to provide any necessary historical or cultural context. This can include information about the time period in which the song was released, any significant events or movements happening at that time, or the cultural significance of the song within a particular community or genre. This context will deepen the reader’s understanding of the song’s meaning and impact.
Analyze the lyrics : Finally, after providing the necessary context, analyze the specific lyrics you are quoting. Discuss the meaning behind the words, any literary techniques or rhetorical devices used, and how the lyrics contribute to the overall message of the song. Be sure to clearly connect your analysis of the lyrics back to the topic of your essay.

By incorporating meaningful context when quoting a song in your essay, you are ensuring that the reader understands the significance of the lyrics and how they contribute to your overall analysis. This will enhance the credibility and impact of your writing.

Citing the Song

When you quote a song in your essay, it’s important to provide proper citation to give credit to the original artist and songwriter. Here’s how you can cite a song in your essay:

Artist’s name: Begin with the artist’s last name, followed by a comma and their first name. If there are multiple artists, separate their names with an ampersand (&).
Song title: Enclose the song title in quotation marks. Capitalize the first and last words, as well as any important words in the title. If the song title already contains quotation marks, use single quotation marks (‘ ‘) instead.
Album title: Italicize or underline the album title. If the song is not part of any album, you can skip this step.
Record label: If the song is released under a record label, include the record label’s name after the album title. Place a comma after the album title, followed by the record label’s name.
Year of release or recording: Mention the year the song was released or recorded. Enclose the year in parentheses and place a period after it.
Medium: Specify the medium through which you accessed the song. For example, if you listened to the song on Spotify, mention “streaming” after the year. If you listened to a CD or vinyl, mention “CD” or “vinyl”.
URL: If you accessed the song online, include the URL of the website or platform from which you accessed it. Place the URL in angle brackets ( ) immediately after the medium.

Here’s an example of how to cite a song:

In-text citation: (Smith).

Remember to consult the appropriate citation style guide (such as MLA or APA) for specific guidelines on how to format and punctuate song citations in your essay.

Adding Analysis

Once you have included the song lyrics in your essay, it is important to provide analysis and interpretation of the quote. This analysis will help to demonstrate your understanding of the lyrics and their significance in relation to your essay topic.

Here are some steps to follow when adding analysis:

Provide Context: Start by giving some background information about the song, the artist, and the album it is from. This will help the reader understand the context in which the lyrics were written.
Explain the Meaning: Analyze the lyrics and explain their meaning. Consider the themes, emotions, and messages conveyed in the lyrics. Point out any literary devices or figurative language used, such as metaphors, similes, or personification.
Connect to Your Essay Topic: Discuss how the quoted lyrics relate to your essay topic. Make connections between the lyrics and the arguments or points you are making in your essay. Explain how the lyrics support or illustrate your ideas.
Consider the Artist’s Intention: Reflect on the intended meaning or purpose behind the lyrics. Consider the artist’s background, experiences, and motivations. Discuss how these factors may have influenced the creation of the song and the use of certain lyrics.
Explore the Impact: Discuss the impact of the song and its lyrics. Analyze how the lyrics resonate with the audience and how they contribute to the overall message of the song. Consider any cultural or societal implications of the lyrics.
Provide Supporting Evidence: Use the lyrics as evidence to support your analysis. Quote specific lines or phrases from the song to illustrate your points. Make sure to properly cite the lyrics according to the citation style required for your essay.

By adding analysis to your quoted lyrics, you can deepen the understanding and relevance of the song in your essay. Remember to maintain a balance between quoting lyrics and providing your own analysis in order to effectively support your arguments.

Proofreading and Finalizing

Once you have included all the necessary song quotes and completed your essay, it’s time to proofread and finalize your work. This step is crucial as it helps ensure that your essay is free of errors and communicates your ideas effectively.

Here are some tips for proofreading and finalizing your essay:

Check for grammatical and spelling errors: Carefully review your essay for any grammatical or spelling mistakes. Use spell check tools and consider asking a friend or classmate to proofread your work.
Review the formatting: Make sure that the formatting of your essay is consistent throughout. Check the font, font size, spacing, and indentation to ensure that they are uniform.
Verify your in-text citations: Double-check your in-text citations to ensure that they are accurate and properly formatted. Make sure that you have included all the necessary information, such as the song title, artist, and album.
Ensure the quotes are integrated smoothly: Read through your essay to ensure that the song quotes are integrated smoothly into your writing. They should flow seamlessly and be properly introduced and explained.
Consider the overall coherence and structure: Evaluate the overall coherence and structure of your essay. Check that your ideas are well-organized and that each paragraph contributes to the main argument.
Proofread for clarity and readability: Read your essay aloud to identify any areas that may be unclear or confusing. Adjust the wording or sentence structure to improve clarity and readability.
Review the references: If you have included a reference list or bibliography, make sure that it is properly formatted and includes all the necessary information.

Remember, proofreading is an essential part of the writing process that helps you polish your work and present your ideas in the best possible way. Taking the time to carefully review and finalize your essay will ensure that it is well-written, error-free, and ready to impress your readers.

Question and answer:

How do i quote song lyrics in an essay.

To quote song lyrics in an essay, you should enclose the lyrics in quotation marks and provide the name of the song and the artist in parenthesis. For example, “I will always love you” (Whitney Houston, 1992).

What is the correct format for quoting a song in an essay?

The correct format for quoting a song in an essay is to use quotation marks around the lyrics and include the name of the song and the artist in parenthesis. Additionally, it is important to follow any specific formatting guidelines provided by your professor or publisher.

Can I quote an entire song in my essay?

It is generally not advisable to quote an entire song in your essay, as it may take up a significant amount of space and detract from your own analysis or argument. Instead, it is best to select a few key lines or lyrics that support your point and incorporate them into your essay.

Do I need to include a bibliography entry for song lyrics?

Whether or not you need to include a bibliography entry for song lyrics depends on the citation style you are using. In most cases, song lyrics would be considered a “non-print” source and would require a slightly different citation format. Be sure to consult the appropriate style guide or ask your professor for clarification.

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Why do I need to know how to directly quote?

If you’ve seen our blog post on “Quoting Directly,” you know that using direct quotations (or “quotes”) in our writing can be useful for a variety of reasons. By quoting other credible, relevant sources in our own writing projects, we can provide more convincing evidence and reasoning for our own ideas. Direct quotations are a type of support we can provide for our own arguments and claims, as it demonstrates to our readers that other writers agree with what we have to say.

What are different ways to directly quote in my writing so that I don’t sound repetitive?

A common way to integrate “quotes” in our writing is with the use of a signal phrase , which is a short phrase that indicates to readers that the writer is about to introduce another source. For example, we often use the phrase “According to” as a common signal phrase for introducing quotations. However, if we were to use “According to” for every single quotation in our essays, our writing would start to sound awfully repetitive and potentially boring or uninteresting.

So, here are some different approaches you can take for integrating direct quotations to have more variety and style in your writing!

1. Use a signal phrase to introduce the quotation

The two most commonly used signal phrases only require a couple of words, primarily a verb and the author’s name:

The introductory phrase: “According to (author’s name and/or title of source),”. e.g., “According to Ahmed,” or “According to Ulmer in Internet Invention ,”.

After a signal phrase, you can quote from the text directly. Here are some important reminders to keep in mind whenever you directly quote another source in your own writing:

Use quotation marks “ “ and copy the passage exactly as it appears in the original text. If there is a grammatical or spelling error in the original source, you can use [sic] to cue to your reader that you did not make the mistake and are intentionally quoting the source material (for more on using [sic] in direct quotations, see our post on Quoting Directly ).
Long Quotations in MLA format
Long Quotations in APA format

Note: You can also use a signal phrase after the direct quotation for more variety in your sentence structure and style. You’d follow the same rules, except the quotation would come first, followed by your ‘says’ verb and the author.

It is usually better to lead with the author’s name and a ‘says’ verb because this introduces where the quotation is coming from (ensuring your reader is not confused) and is written in active voice, which is more direct and concise.

Example According to Melissa Dahl, “[Cringe is] the intense visceral reaction produced by an awkward moment, an unpleasant kind of self-recognition where you suddenly see yourself through someone else’s eyes. It’s a forced moment of self-awareness, and it usually makes you cognizant of the disappointing fact that you aren’t measuring up to your own self-concept” (Wynn).

While this is a direct quotation attributed to author Melissa Dahl, the in-text citation is credited to (Wynn) because the writer found this quotation in an original source published by Natalie Wynn. If you directly quote an author or writer whose work is quoted by another source, you cite the source that “houses” the passage. In other words, you cite the author who introduced you to the work. You can still credit the original author by introducing them in your signal phrase, as shown in the example above, but make sure your in-text citation credits the source you found the passage in.

2. Summarize the main ideas of the quotation to create a framework for the quotation, then use a colon to present the quotation.

For this method, you would provide a concise overview of the main ideas from the passage you wish to quote as a way of contextualizing what the source is about. This provides a helpful framework for the reader to understand the purpose and meaning of your quote better.

Example In Rebecca Solnit’s Wanderlust: A History of Walking, she raises several theoretical and philosophical viewpoints concerning both the act of walking, or flânerie, and the walker, or flâneur. On escapism, Solnit posits: “In the city, one is alone because the world is made up of strangers, and to be a stranger surrounded by strangers, to walk along silently bearing one’s secrets and imagining those of the people one passes, is among the starkest of luxuries” (23).

3. Blend a shorter quotation into your own sentence structure

This is the best method to use if you have only a short passage, some key words, or a specific phrase you want to quote in your writing. For this method, you want to build your own original sentence that leads up to the key ideas in your short quotation to blend it together as one cohesive sentence.

Example Within a participatory culture, individuals are often gathered together as a community due to shared interest networks, like video games, in which “members believe that their contributions matter” and there is “some type of informal mentorship whereby what is known by the most experienced is passed along to novices” (Jenkins 7).

Practice in the Writing Center

For more support and guidance on directly quoting, make an appointment with us here at the Writing Center! We can help you integrate “quotes” into your writing projects effectively and with style so that your support is interesting and convincing to readers.

For further reading, check out these resources from the Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) International Association:

Integrate Quotations in Writing, by Carla Mannix (2017)
List of Reporting Verbs, from University of Technology Sydney

***Adapted from TESOL International Association Handout “Integrate Quotations in Writing” by Carla Mannix, Nov. 2017

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Recommendations on How to Quote Song Lyrics in an Essay

Like poems, plays, novels, comic books, and other compositions, songs contain lyrics that can support people’s opinions. It may sound strange and unusual for the first time, especially if the title is unpopular. A few years ago, it was hard to believe that products of sound recording medium holders would be so valuable. However, times change extremely fast, and today it’s normal to see how people put lyrics inside quotation marks.

However, people need help finding out how to make the quotation correct, sometimes in short. Modern language association format looks complicated for beginners because even minor issues with song lyrics could lead to negative consequences. So, it’s better to avoid them. Following advice from professionals helps to understand everything about correct quotation marks usage. Keep reading if you want to find out more about in-text citations.

Use Quotations and In-Text Citations Correct

As already mentioned, song titles could become valuable information sources for students working on scholarly papers. Song lyrics may also become the subject of analysis on the same level as novels or poems. Who knows, maybe you’ll find an important term in the citation. If such practice looked unreal a few years ago, today, it’s normal. However, when quoting song lyrics in an essay, following the guidelines for citing sources in your chosen citation style is essential. Some may be obvious, but often people need help citing music lyrics.

Use quotation marks to indicate the beginning and end of the lyrics

This tip is vital in case you put music lyrics into long sentences. If other constructions surround the phrase, it makes sense to show where the quote starts and where it ends. Teachers read assignments very carefully, and you may expect negative consequences once lyrics inside quotation marks are placed wrong.

The following sentence provides an example of correctly citing music lyrics. According to the line, “love is all you need, ” love is the only thing needed. As you see, the word “love” repeats twice very closely, but readers won’t be disoriented because of the quotation marks. If the lyrics are longer (more than two lines), remove them from the essay writing by indenting them and placing them in a separate part. After this, the writing will look much better.

A block quote is required for long quotations or those with more than four lines. There, the entire section is indented from the paragraph above it. Cite music lyrics using Modern Language Association format by putting the artists’ names in parentheses, such as (The Beatles), followed by the punctuation.

Include the songwriter’s name and the song title in your citation

MLA style citation rules require students to be very specific with the information they cite. So, it’s essential to mention the song title. It’s important to show where you take the note from and provide the author’s name. If you know the album title and release date, you may also include that information. Parenthetical in-text citations should include the artist’s name and the time containing the cited lyrics. Below is an example of correctly citing music lyrics.

In the chorus, Bush sings, “if I only could / I’d make a deal with God / And I’d get him to swap our places” (0:51–59).

As you can see, the author and the timing of the cited lyrics are mentioned. When you quote song lyrics and mention them in the bibliographic entry, you may begin with the artist’s surname and first and second names, respectively. You also may support the artist’s name, song title, and URL link for music available online with periods. To understand what exactly this means, look at the citing music lyrics example below.

Knowles-Carter, Beyoncé Giselle. “Irreplaceable.” Lemonade, Parkwood Entertainment, 2009,

For the first time, following the rules of in-text citations may take a lot of work, mainly due to specific punctuation. However, regular practice always brings positive results; if you follow the guideline, even MLA style won’t look complicated.

Quoting Song Lyrics Correctly – Simple Recommendations

Regardless of the type of writing, citing song lyrics according to the set rules is essential. With several reference styles, it may be complicated to adapt to the requirements presented for each type. However, to be honest, everyone interested in essay writing should know how to cite information from different sources. So now, we will tell more about quoting music lyrics.

The first example is based on song lyrics from a CD. In this case, you may use the MLA style template. First, the name of the performer comes in an author’s place, the album’s name as the source title. After that, you should mention the publisher and the date.

If you get the quote from a booklet accompanying the CD, the description should come in the “Title of source” slot and the album’s name as the title of the container. It’s unnecessary to mention the sound recording medium holder who took the song to the CD.

Citing lyrics from the website has other requirements. First, you may provide the description and the website’s name. Only then comes the information, such as the publication date and the URL. You don’t need to mention the sound recording medium as it’s optional for the citing.

Quoting Lyrics in References With No Mistakes

Following several recommendations is required to use the sound title in references correctly. It’s important not only for Modern language association format but for all styles. For example, more than putting phrases in quotation marks are required. Luckily, people have found different academic styles, and following them makes the task of quoting music lyrics easier.

The APA style requires the following elements in citing:

If we talk about song or track reference, the author of the lyrics and the recording artist is usually the same person. If an artist uses a first name and surname, you can mention the name and initial in the reference.

However, if it’s about citing a song recorded by another artist, the rules of using quotation marks change a bit. In this case, you don’t need to mention the publication date of the original work or the name of the song author.

Quotation Marks and Italics – The Difference

People often need clarification about when to use quotation marks and italics. However, there is a slight difference between these two types of citing, and it’s time to explain everything.

Italics are used when something (in our case – song lyrics) is mentioned for the first time or if it’s a title.

Quotation marks should be used to refer to a phrase or sentence. An average EssayWriter mostly wants to use direct quotations to reproduce the cited words’ exact meaning. However, if you form a citation in your essay writing, you may add other elements like the author’s name, song name, and other important information. Unfollowing this rule may lead to a lower mark.

Final Words

Today it’s OK to read essays and see lyrics inside quotation marks. It makes the writing unique and brings new information, helping authors support their opinions. However, citing song lyrics correctly is essential to ensure it will give everyone the expected result. If you face problems creating in-text citations or references, people ask, “can I pay someone to write my paper ?” With support from talented writing specialists, the task becomes much more accessible.

Tips for Writing an Effective Application Essay

How to Write an Effective Essay

Writing an essay for college admission gives you a chance to use your authentic voice and show your personality. It's an excellent opportunity to personalize your application beyond your academic credentials, and a well-written essay can have a positive influence come decision time.

Want to know how to draft an essay for your college application ? Here are some tips to keep in mind when writing.

Tips for Essay Writing

A typical college application essay, also known as a personal statement, is 400-600 words. Although that may seem short, writing about yourself can be challenging. It's not something you want to rush or put off at the last moment. Think of it as a critical piece of the application process. Follow these tips to write an impactful essay that can work in your favor.

1. Start Early.

Few people write well under pressure. Try to complete your first draft a few weeks before you have to turn it in. Many advisers recommend starting as early as the summer before your senior year in high school. That way, you have ample time to think about the prompt and craft the best personal statement possible.

You don't have to work on your essay every day, but you'll want to give yourself time to revise and edit. You may discover that you want to change your topic or think of a better way to frame it. Either way, the sooner you start, the better.

2. Understand the Prompt and Instructions.

Before you begin the writing process, take time to understand what the college wants from you. The worst thing you can do is skim through the instructions and submit a piece that doesn't even fit the bare minimum requirements or address the essay topic. Look at the prompt, consider the required word count, and note any unique details each school wants.

3. Create a Strong Opener.

Students seeking help for their application essays often have trouble getting things started. It's a challenging writing process. Finding the right words to start can be the hardest part.

Spending more time working on your opener is always a good idea. The opening sentence sets the stage for the rest of your piece. The introductory paragraph is what piques the interest of the reader, and it can immediately set your essay apart from the others.

4. Stay on Topic.

One of the most important things to remember is to keep to the essay topic. If you're applying to 10 or more colleges, it's easy to veer off course with so many application essays.

A common mistake many students make is trying to fit previously written essays into the mold of another college's requirements. This seems like a time-saving way to avoid writing new pieces entirely, but it often backfires. The result is usually a final piece that's generic, unfocused, or confusing. Always write a new essay for every application, no matter how long it takes.

5. Think About Your Response.

Don't try to guess what the admissions officials want to read. Your essay will be easier to write─and more exciting to read─if you’re genuinely enthusiastic about your subject. Here’s an example: If all your friends are writing application essays about covid-19, it may be a good idea to avoid that topic, unless during the pandemic you had a vivid, life-changing experience you're burning to share. Whatever topic you choose, avoid canned responses. Be creative.

6. Focus on You.

Essay prompts typically give you plenty of latitude, but panel members expect you to focus on a subject that is personal (although not overly intimate) and particular to you. Admissions counselors say the best essays help them learn something about the candidate that they would never know from reading the rest of the application.

7. Stay True to Your Voice.

Use your usual vocabulary. Avoid fancy language you wouldn't use in real life. Imagine yourself reading this essay aloud to a classroom full of people who have never met you. Keep a confident tone. Be wary of words and phrases that undercut that tone.

8. Be Specific and Factual.

Capitalize on real-life experiences. Your essay may give you the time and space to explain why a particular achievement meant so much to you. But resist the urge to exaggerate and embellish. Admissions counselors read thousands of essays each year. They can easily spot a fake.

9. Edit and Proofread.

When you finish the final draft, run it through the spell checker on your computer. Then don’t read your essay for a few days. You'll be more apt to spot typos and awkward grammar when you reread it. After that, ask a teacher, parent, or college student (preferably an English or communications major) to give it a quick read. While you're at it, double-check your word count.

Writing essays for college admission can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. A well-crafted essay could be the deciding factor─in your favor. Keep these tips in mind, and you'll have no problem creating memorable pieces for every application.

What is the format of a college application essay?

Generally, essays for college admission follow a simple format that includes an opening paragraph, a lengthier body section, and a closing paragraph. You don't need to include a title, which will only take up extra space. Keep in mind that the exact format can vary from one college application to the next. Read the instructions and prompt for more guidance.

Most online applications will include a text box for your essay. If you're attaching it as a document, however, be sure to use a standard, 12-point font and use 1.5-spaced or double-spaced lines, unless the application specifies different font and spacing.

How do you start an essay?

The goal here is to use an attention grabber. Think of it as a way to reel the reader in and interest an admissions officer in what you have to say. There's no trick on how to start a college application essay. The best way you can approach this task is to flex your creative muscles and think outside the box.

You can start with openers such as relevant quotes, exciting anecdotes, or questions. Either way, the first sentence should be unique and intrigue the reader.

What should an essay include?

Every application essay you write should include details about yourself and past experiences. It's another opportunity to make yourself look like a fantastic applicant. Leverage your experiences. Tell a riveting story that fulfills the prompt.

What shouldn’t be included in an essay?

When writing a college application essay, it's usually best to avoid overly personal details and controversial topics. Although these topics might make for an intriguing essay, they can be tricky to express well. If you’re unsure if a topic is appropriate for your essay, check with your school counselor. An essay for college admission shouldn't include a list of achievements or academic accolades either. Your essay isn’t meant to be a rehashing of information the admissions panel can find elsewhere in your application.

How can you make your essay personal and interesting?

The best way to make your essay interesting is to write about something genuinely important to you. That could be an experience that changed your life or a valuable lesson that had an enormous impact on you. Whatever the case, speak from the heart, and be honest.

Is it OK to discuss mental health in an essay?

Mental health struggles can create challenges you must overcome during your education and could be an opportunity for you to show how you’ve handled challenges and overcome obstacles. If you’re considering writing your essay for college admission on this topic, consider talking to your school counselor or with an English teacher on how to frame the essay.

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With ‘Tommy’ Revival, Pete Townshend Is Talking to a New Generation

He’s also still working through his childhood trauma. Considering his musical’s legacy, he sees a story about how “we prevail ultimately, by turning toward the light.”

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A close-up, black-and-white portrait of Pete Townshend looking straight ahead.

By Rob Tannenbaum

As he entered a suite at the Carlyle hotel in Manhattan, Pete Townshend mentioned that an afternoon meeting had been canceled. “So,” he added, “we have lots of time to talk.”

Townshend is one of rock’s great singers, songwriters and guitarists, and he’s also among music’s pre-eminent talkers. Since the Who first took the stage 60 years ago, he has considered interviews to be an adjunct to his music, a parallel way for him to clarify or interrogate the ideas he pours into songs.

In 1969, the Who released “Tommy,” a rock opera written mostly by Townshend, although the bassist John Entwistle contributed the songs “Cousin Kevin” and “Fiddle About,” and the drummer Keith Moon suggested the premise of “Tommy’s Holiday Camp.” Townshend expected the double album to fade quickly, in the way of most records. Instead, it took root in pop culture, and in short succession was adapted by a ballet group in Montreal, the Seattle Opera and the London Symphony Orchestra. Then, most memorably, it was a delirious 1975 film directed by Ken Russell .

The “Tommy” hoopla had faded before it was adapted for Broadway in 1993, with a book by Townshend and the show’s director, Des McAnuff. In a review in The New York Times, Frank Rich called it “stunning” and “the authentic rock musical that has eluded Broadway for two generations.” It ran for two years, and garnered Tony Awards for McAnuff’s direction and Townshend’s score.

Last year, the pair revived “Tommy” in a reimagined version at the Goodman Theater in Chicago, where it drew candescent reviews, and on March 28, it opens at the Nederlander Theater, with Ali Louis Bourzgui making his Broadway debut in the title role.

Townshend’s plot revolves around Tommy Walker, who witnesses a murder when he is 4 and, in response to the trauma, turns into the “deaf, dumb and blind kid” described in the show’s most famous song, “Pinball Wizard.” Sexual abuse, narcissism, cults and celebrity are contemplated — all topics that connect the show to today. If anything, it’s more pertinent now than it was in 1969.

“Pete created the blueprint for an extraordinary, universal story,” McAnuff said in a phone interview. “Tommy is an antihero who rejects existence as we know it, and you can’t go much further than that, in terms of being an antihero.

“There’s enormous sophistication in the music, even though Pete was only 23,” he added. “He even used repeating musical themes, which Lerner and Loewe and Stephen Sondheim also did.”

At our interview earlier this month, Townshend, now 78, was dressed smartly in layers of muted colors, with a pocket square tucked into his blazer. He settled into an armchair with a cup of Yorkshire Gold tea, and for more than 90 minutes was, by turns, hilarious and troubled, tender and profane, candid and coy.

“I’m a great believer in conversation as part of the artistic process,” he said. “I talked my way through 20 years of the Who’s career.” These are edited excerpts from the conversation.

When the Who released “Tommy” in 1969, the record — and you — were described as “sick.” Was that because the topics were taboo?

They reacted almost as though I’d picked that subject because it was controversial. I picked it because I wanted to explain the human condition with respect to its spiritual potential, which is that we’re deaf, dumb and blind to our spiritual side. It was a metaphor.

Bullying, sexual abuse — these were topics that prevailed in my peer group after the war. In London, there were still buildings that were smashed by German bombs. Adults were very damaged by the war, and the damage led to damaged children.

In your 2012 memoir, “Who I Am,” you wrote about being abused as a child. When you were writing “Tommy,” did you have personal experience in mind?

It was always fresh in my mind, but I was unaware it was a component of “Tommy.” In 1993, on Broadway, I was doing 20 interviews a week. In one, I suddenly said, “This is my life story.” That idea that “Tommy” is a memoir in which I work out my childhood stuff — it probably is and I should admit that. The abuse I suffered as a kid was at the hands of my grandmother, not my parents, though my parents were neglectful and careless.

My father was a professional musician, and my mother was a young, beautiful singer. She farmed me out to be breastfed by the wife of a trombone player in my dad’s band.

I was a sickly child, and she sent me to the countryside to live with her mother, Denny, who had been dumped by a rich lover, and was sexually bereft. There were creepy men around all the time, and when I started school, I was bullied. I was bullied by [the Who singer] Roger Daltrey, and what’s sick is that when he asked me to join his band, I did!

It’s a personal and generational story, but audiences continue to relate to it. Why?

I was shocked in 1993, and I don’t know if I’d say pleasantly shocked. The idea that “Tommy” was locked in the postwar period was of no consequence to audiences. They were looking at the meat and potatoes of family life, and the way even the best parents can [expletive] things up, without overquoting [the poet Philip] Larkin .

I don’t want it to feel as though I think “Tommy” needs to be treated only seriously. It has lightheartedness and joy. It has the idea that whether you’re an abused child or a healthy child, we prevail ultimately, by turning toward the light. That’s simplistic but it’s also powerful, particularly when set to music.

Has its relevance to audiences changed in 2024?

Young people seem to be convinced they can look into their phones and get an answer. But I don’t want to make presumptions about how audiences will perceive it. We’re at the Nederlander, where “Rent” ran for so long. I saw it and thought, This is going to be on for a week. Sometimes I don’t get the showbiz system.

Rock singing and Broadway singing are very different. How theatrical can the “Tommy” cast get without altering the tone of the music?

I leave it to the experts. The only reason “Tommy” was turned into a Broadway show is that I had a bike accident and smashed my wrist. The surgeon said, “You will never play the guitar again. And you will never masturbate again with your right hand.” (Laughs) I was learning to write and play piano with my left hand when I got a call asking me to meet Des McAnuff.

The tradition of Broadway singing is its ebullience, isn’t it?

Which is the opposite of rock singing.

Yeah, but the function of rock ’n’ roll is similar: You come, we’ll make a lot of noise, and we’ll all dance together over your troubles.

Is it true that you asked John Entwistle to write songs for Uncle Ernie and Cousin Kevin, two of Tommy’s abusers, because you didn’t think you could write so darkly?

I didn’t know if I could be flip enough. John was one of my earliest friends. He recognized in me a musician, which nobody else did. My father wouldn’t buy me a guitar. “Stick to drawing. You’ll never make a musician.”

John’s father had abandoned him, and his stepfather was a brute of a man. I sensed he had the capacity to write these two songs. I said to him, “I want sexual abuse in there, but try to keep it light.”

John knew about my grandmother, because my parents brought this awful woman to live with us when I was a teenager. One day, John and I were playing music and she said, “Turn off that awful sound.” I picked up the amplifier and threw it at her.

There have been only two new Who albums since 1983, and your last solo album was in 1993. Do you want to be doing more new music?

I do and I think I will. It feels to me like there’s one thing the Who can do, and that’s a final tour where we play every territory in the world and then crawl off to die. I don’t get much of a buzz from performing with the Who. If I’m really honest, I’ve been touring for the money. My idea of an ordinary lifestyle is pretty elevated.

I’ve been immensely creative and productive throughout that period, but I haven’t felt the need to put it out. And if I can make it personal, I don’t care whether you like it or not. When “White City” came out [in 1985] and the sales were so slow, I thought, Screw this. Nobody wanted me as I was — they wanted the old Pete.

AC/DC made 50 albums, but all their albums were the same. It wasn’t the way the Who worked. We were an ideas band.

Did the reaction to “White City,” a solo album, make you feel like not releasing new songs?

I’ve got about 500 titles I might release online, mostly unfinished stuff. We’re not making Coca-Cola, where every can has to taste the same. And it’s turned out, surprise, surprise, that rock ’n’ roll is really good at dealing with the difficulties of aging. Watching Keith Richards onstage, trying to do what he used to do — it’s disturbing, heart-rending, but also delightful.

When I was a kid, my dad’s band supported Sarah Vaughan for two weeks. To me, she was really old and not sexy. Time shifts; I’m now older than she was. In every rock documentary, there are bald men who look 100 years old, talking about doing loads of cocaine with David Bowie. What do young people think?

The Who isn’t Daltrey and Townshend onstage at 80, pretending to be young. It’s the four of us in 1964, when we were 18 or 19. If you want to see the Who myth, wait for the avatar show. It would be good!

Do you find comfort in being onstage with Roger?

A few years ago, Des and I spoke about doing a one-man show like Bruce Springsteen did. We went to dinner, and I had a panic attack just thinking about it: A lot of Who fans come every night and eventually they’d be repeating what you say to them, which happened to Bruce.

It’s different when you’re in a band. I used to watch Roger knock people out if he didn’t like what they said. It feels like a gang. We did a show for fans at Christmas one year, and I said, “You’re a bunch of [expletive].” And they all went, “ Yay, Pete! ” They like me to hate them.

To me, Tommy’s response to trauma is both masochistic and sadistic. He’s denying himself the pleasure of being in the world, and he’s also torturing his mother.

Well, that’s worth doing. When I wrote “Tommy,” I didn’t know about my mother’s errancy. Years later, I asked her to tell me why I went to live with my grandmother, and she did. Rather than hit her, which would have been appropriate, I felt gratitude, because I had answers at last.

You’ve said that “Tommy” celebrates “the value of suffering and the transformation of suffering into joy.” Do you envy Tommy?

Envy a creature I’ve created? I don’t think of Tommy as anything more than a coat hanger on which to hang a whole series of ideas. It’s a smart quote, though. Thanks for giving it back to me.

What is the legacy of “Tommy”?

It’s the idea that pop music can have a function beyond just getting through the day. I’ve lumbered myself, in a sense, with the responsibility to honor “Tommy,” which happened within the Who framework and grew out of the chaos of a rock ’n’ roll life.

Stephen Sondheim came to see “Tommy” on Broadway and said: “It’s good. I’m glad you’re having fun. Prepare yourself.”

I said, “What do you mean?” And he said, “It’s hell.” (Laughs)

Was he right?

Yeah, in a way. I had a musical called “Psychoderelict,” which I toured with in ’93, and it nearly killed me. I mean, literally. That year I also did a serious musical in London called “The Iron Man.” It was an utter disaster. So yeah, I understood what he meant.

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3 Ways to Cite a Song
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How to Cite a Song in MLA Format & Examples

COMMENTS

How to Cite a Song in MLA
Quoting lyrics. Quote lyrics from a song in a similar format to poetry: separate lines with a slash symbol, and format four or more lines quoted at once as a block quote.. Quoting lyrics in the text In the chorus, Bush sings "if I only could / I'd make a deal with God / And I'd get him to swap our places" (0:51-59).. If you're quoting these lyrics from a transcript included ...
How do I format a quotation of song lyrics?
Format a quotation of song lyrics the same way you would format a quotation of poetry. If the quotation consists of fewer than four lines, run it into the text, placing quotation marks around the lines and separating the lines from each other with a forward slash with a space on either side of it. Bob Dylan famously sang that " [t]he answer ...
How to cite a single song or track reference
For a song or track reference, the author of the work is usually the recording artist, which may be an individual or group. If a music artist prefers to use their first name and surname, then follow the APA guideline to invert the author's name as "Surname, First Initial" in your reference (e.g., "Smith, S." for singer and songwriter ...
How do I cite song lyrics?
If you cite song lyrics from a CD you listened to, you might simply refer to the song in your essay: "You say you got a real solution," the Beatles sing in "Revolution 1.". You can then provide a works-cited-list entry for the album that contains the song. Follow the MLA format template: list the name of the performer or band as the ...
How to Cite a Song in MLA, APA & Chicago Style
1. Start with the name of the songwriter or composer. In Chicago style, you must list all songwriters or composers, whether you're citing a piece of sheet music or a recording. List names with the last name first, followed by the first name. List additional writers' names in regular "first-name last-name" order.
How to Cite a Song in APA, MLA or Chicago
To cite an audio recording of a song, you should make note of the following pieces of information: 1. Singer's name 2. Songwriter's name 3. Title of the song (and subtitle, if there is one) 4. Title of the album (and subtitle, if there is one) 5. Album's Edition (if there is one) 6. Track Number 7.
How to Quote Song Lyrics in APA
To one who'll watch over me. (Gershwin & Gershwin, 1926, stanza 6) If you are quoting lyrics from a booklet, replace the track number with the booklet page number (as the words contained in CD booklets do not always correspond to what is sung on an album): Janey, a letter came today. And a picture of you.
How to Cite a Song or Album in MLA Referencing
To cite a song or album in MLA referencing, simply give the artist's last name or the band's name in brackets in the relevant part of the text: Her latest album has a strong environmental theme (Sturgeon). "Wildlife in America" (Shearwater) comments on US culture. The middle eight in "Air and Light" (Sturgeon 2:14-2:29) is truly ...
How to Incorporate Lyrics Into an Essay
When incorporating lyrics into an essay, put the lyrics inside quotation marks. Short quotations can be integrated into a sentence, such as, "In the song 'Hey Jude,' the Beatles sing…" followed by the lyrics in quotation marks. Long quotations, or those that are four lines or longer, need to be set off in a block quote, where you ...
How to Cite a Song in APA
To cite lyrics in APA format, you need to have basic information including the name of the composer, title of the song, company name, date, and URL. The templates for in-text citation and reference list entry of lyrics, along with examples, are given below: In-text citation template and example: In parenthetical citations, use the composer's ...
How to Cite a Song in MLA Format & Examples
When quoting multiple lines, use a forward slash to indicate breaks in those lyrics. Here is how it looks: Quotation format. Text before lyrics "line / line / line" (timestamps). Here is an example of the above formula of how to cite song lyrics in MLA. But do not use this guide for an interview citation.
How to Quote a Song in an Essay: A Comprehensive Guide
Incorporating song quotes into your essay requires a seamless approach to ensure the text flows naturally. When how to quote a song in an essay or how to quote a song lyric in an essay, using signal phrases such as "According to [Artist Name]" or "[Artist Name] sings" can smoothly introduce the quote into your narrative.
How to Use Lyrics in Essay Writing
The way you should write citations for lyrics may vary. For example, when quoting lyrics in MLA style, you should provide the artist's name after the quote, in parentheses. When writing citations according to Harvard or APA format, you should also include the year and the number of the track on the album. When citing songs, you should always ...
Copyright permission for use of song lyrics
Another one is if you use the quote as part of an argument, it's easier to claim fair use. ... then you'll likely get a pass. You can quote song lyrics in your high school or college essay, but if it was every published commercially, permission would have to be obtained -- assuming the lyrics are not in the public domain. ...
Quoting a song in an essay title
1 Answer. Sorted by: 1. I would just put it in your works cited page. If the lyric is popular enough ("Hit me, baby, one more time", for example), your reader will probably know where the lyric is from without even having to read the back of your essay. Otherwise, a simple mention will cover you from any angry Oasis lawyers :)
Proper Formatting of Song Titles in Written Documents
In the absence of a style guide, the general rule is to use quotation marks for song titles and italicize CD or album titles. Don't use underlining in place of italics unless you are using a typewriter or writing titles by hand. This article explains the proper formatting of song titles in written documents and includes examples.
How To Legally Quote Song Lyrics in Your Stories, Books and ...
Your character can listen to the song on the radio, play it on a CD, hum it, sing along or bang their head against the wall to the beat of the music, that's all fine and legal. Just don't ...
Quick Steps to Quote Song Lyrics in an Essay
Here, an individual song title is put in quotation marks, and the album name is italicized. Next, give the recording studio's name, then the publication date. If unavailable, do not list the information, such as album name or label. This is how quotation marks are used in the in-text citation to make your composition credible.
Cite A Music or recording in Harvard style
Cite A Music or recording in Harvard style. Use the following template or our Harvard Referencing Generator to cite a music or recording. For help with other source types, like books, PDFs, or websites, check out our other guides. To have your reference list or bibliography automatically made for you, try our free citation generator.
Importance of Knowing How to Quote A Song in an Essay
Also, you can learn more about a people's history and development through their cultures songs. Therefore, it is an added advantage to you to learn how to quote a song in an essay as early as possible. Sometimes the use of songs as information sources and the importance of quoting a song in a paper is overlooked due to the listeners ...
How to Properly Quote Songs in an Essay
By quoting songs, you can bring a unique perspective to your essay and make your arguments more compelling. How to Quote Songs. When quoting songs in your essay, it is important to adhere to the following guidelines: Use quotation marks: Enclose the lyrics of the song you are quoting within quotation marks. For example, "I can't get no ...
Expert Tips on Quoting Song Lyrics in an Essay
If you want tо quote something, you have to put it in quotation marks. Yоu have to write thе name of thе author or artist, the song title, and the date the quote was written in parentheses. The last part of the quote should be written in your own words. Thе name and date must match exactly. If you are quoting a song from a book or album ...
Integrating Direct Quotations into Your Writing
List the author's name and a 'says'-style verb. e.g., "Ahmed asserts," or "Ulmer discusses,". Some 'says' verbs include: States. Claims. Argues. Describes. Emphasizes. After a signal phrase, you can quote from the text directly. Here are some important reminders to keep in mind whenever you directly quote another source in ...
How to Quote Song Lyrics in an Essay? Explanation
However, when quoting song lyrics in an essay, following the guidelines for citing sources in your chosen citation style is essential. Some may be obvious, but often people need help citing music lyrics. Use quotation marks to indicate the beginning and end of the lyrics. This tip is vital in case you put music lyrics into long sentences.
Tips for Writing an Effective Application Essay
Follow these tips to write an impactful essay that can work in your favor. 1. Start Early. Few people write well under pressure. Try to complete your first draft a few weeks before you have to turn it in. Many advisers recommend starting as early as the summer before your senior year in high school.
With 'Tommy' Revival, Pete Townshend Is Talking to a New Generation
Performances in N.Y.C. Advertisement Supported by He's also still working through his childhood trauma. Considering his musical's legacy, he sees a story about how "we prevail ultimately, by ...

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How to Incorporate Lyrics Into an Essay

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How to Cite a Song in APA

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How to Cite Songs in MLA Style: A Complete Citation Guide

MLA Song Citation

How to Cite a Song From an Album in MLA

MLA in-Text Citation of a Song

Proper MLA Citation for a Song on a CD

In-Text Citation for a Song From a CD in MLA

How to Cite Song Lyrics MLA

Core Elements for MLA Song Citation

Final Thoughts on Citing a Song in MLA

How to Cite a Song in MLA Style: FAQ

2. How to cite a song in MLA with a different writer and performer?

3. How do you in-text cite an audio clip in MLA?

4. How do you reference a concert in MLA?

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Mastering the Art of How to Quote a Song in an Essay

Introduction

Understanding the Purpose of Quoting a Song

Preparing to Quote a Song

Guidelines for Quoting a Song

Chicago Style

Incorporating Song Quotes in Your Essay

Legal and Ethical Considerations

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How to Use Lyrics in Essay Writing

How to Quote Songs

How to Quote Lyrics in References

Quotation Marks vs. Italics

Final Thoughts

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Proper Formatting of Song Titles in Written Documents

What to Know

How to Format Song Titles in Written Documents

Example References to Song Titles and Albums

Benefits of Quotations in an Essay

Ways to Put Quote Lyrics in References Like a Professional

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