Songwriter: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe someone who writes the lyrics and melodies for songs, often for popular music. A songwriter can create complete songs that are performed by themselves or others.

• Taylor Swift is a talented songwriter who writes catchy and heartfelt lyrics.
• The band was looking for a new songwriter to help them create hits.

Used to describe a person who specializes in writing the words or lyrics of songs. The lyricist often collaborates with a composer or songwriter who handles the musical elements.

• Bernie Taupin is a known lyricist who worked closely with Elton John.
• The musical's success was largely due to the talent of its lyricist.

Refers to someone who writes music, often for classical pieces, film scores, or orchestral arrangements. The focus is usually on the music itself rather than the lyrics.

• Ludwig van Beethoven was a famous composer known for his symphonies.
• Hans Zimmer is a contemporary composer who has created soundtracks for many popular movies.

Refers to someone who plays a musical instrument or is musically talented. A musician can also be a performer, composer, or songwriter, but the term is broader.

• She is an accomplished musician who plays both the piano and the violin.
• The festival featured musicians from all over the world.