Lyrics are Poems Put to Music: Part Two

I hope you find this well worth the wait after reading part one.

Although Janis Joplin's professional career did not last nearly long enough, her gravelly voice and folky sound will not be forgotten. Her songs are about love, freedom and living.

Carole King started as a song writer by writing hits for other singers. She eventually became a performer in her own right by turning her lyrics into hits for herself.

The easy sensuality and snark of Peggy Lee is something of a marvel. From her contributions to animated movies, like Lady and the Tramp and Who Framed Roger Rabbit?, to the eternal question, "Is that all there is?," it's hard not to know a Peggy Lee song even if you don't know her name.

I have to admit that I didn't think much of P!nk when she first burst on the scene in 2000. Yet, when I realized the amazing song "Dear Mr. President" was one of hers and heard her awesome Janis Joplin covers, my love for her was sealed.

There are more women I could mention and so many more yet to discover whose lyrics and music speak to my moods and are soundtracks to my life. This is but a small sample of some of my favorites.

During National Poetry Month, don't limit your celebration to words in a book. Take the time to truly listen to the lyrics in songs and the feelings they invoke in you.