I’m fascinated by language and words and lament mostly what I hear as lyrics in songs. Often what occurs is “ok” but IMO not great.
That said there are a few great ones out there, but you have to look to find them!
Here are some of my big inspirations for lyrics
Firstly, Nick Cave – here are some video clips with lyrics
Secondly an artist who nobody will have heard of, Frank Tedesso who disappeared without trace
I saw him twice, just brilliant, but you will find very little of his material anywhere, see him here
Then of course my favorite Dylan Album “Blood on the tracks”
See – http://www.myths.com/pub/lyrics/Dylan-Bob_bott.html
Joni Mitchell is another great artist who wrote smart lyrics
FULL LIST – http://jonimitchell.com/music/songlist.cfm
One great example – http://jonimitchell.com/music/song.cfm?id=37
Finally, Tom Waits who continues to inspire and mystify
Check – http://www.tomwaits.com/songs/#/songs/song/260/Day_After_Tomorrow/
FULL songs here –
http://www.tomwaits.com/songs/
