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The unassuming locations that have inspired the world’s greatest songs
For decades now, from the likes of Leonard Cohen all the way to Alex Turner, when songwriters pen lyrics, they’re doing a lot more than just finding words to go over a catchy tune; they’re trying to reflect their surroundings.
A lot of great songwriters are inspired by feelings, hence why such a great deal of the tracks that we adore talk about love, hate, and all things in between. However, the means by which different feelings are triggered vary. Sure, a lot of us will fall in love because of a specific person, but you can also fall in love with a location, a place, and these have helped a lot of artists find inspiration for lyrics over the years.
You’d be surprised at just how many great songs are less about people and more about places. Songwriters will create lyrics that are supposed to be an accurate reflection of an area that meant a lot to them during a specific moment, be it for better or for worse. I bet if you really looked into it, you’d find that somewhere near you has inspired a great song. I write these words from a small flat in Yorkshire, and less than 45 minutes in either direction, there is a muse dotted somewhere.
The issue isn’t understanding these places exist; it’s finding them. So, let’s get you started on your journey, as this map will point you towards the iconic locations that inspired some of the world’s greatest songs.
