Music and the Muse: People who have inspired some of the most popular songs

It is no secret that much of Taylor Swift songs are based on either on her exes or people she doesn’t like. But she is not the only one. Here are some of the songs by famous musicians that are inspired by real people.

Creative people are known to draw inspiration from people, sceneriesand places. Be it be painters, actors or even musicians. In fact, many great musicians have composed songs based on personal experiences, personal relationships, and even personal grudges. Many times, these musicians were quite vocal and open about the person they are writing the song for and sometimes they were extremely subtle about the person.

Candle in the Wind

Elton John dedicated this song to none other than legendary actress Marilyn Monroe. The lyrics of the song morn the loss of not Marilyn Monroe, the Hollywood bombshell, but Norma Jean, the naive girl behind the persona. Years after, he again rearranged the song for a dear friend’s funeral, Princess Diana. His memorable performance of the song would forever be etched in people’s hearts and minds.

Oh Sherrie

Steve Perry wrote this song for his then-girlfriend, Sherrie Swafford. Sherrie even featured in the song’s music video. But their love was not destined to go on for long, and they broke up soon after. But the song did extraordinarily well, becoming top-charting song of the 1980s.

Hey Jude

Paul McCartney wrote this song for John Lennon’s son Julian. Earlier the song was titled “Hey Jules”, but he subtly changed the title to “Hey Jude”. It is said when John Lennon divorced his wife Cynthia Lennon, Paul McCartney was deeply concerned for both Cynthia and Julian’s welfare and went to visit them in Surrey. On his way back, he wrote the song.

O Donna

Ritchie Valens dedicated this soulful composition to his high school sweetheart Donna Ludwig. The song became a rage amongst the youngsters at that time and even managed to reach number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. This song hits you knowing that Valens could not see the culmination of his love with Donna and passed away at the mere age of 17.

Time After Time

Cyndi Lauper is a pioneer for her eccentric style and unconventional style of music. Her hit album “She’s so unusual” was a chart-topper, especially the love ballad, Time After Time. Cyndi, at the time, was dating her manager David Wolff, and the song was dedicated to him. Fun fact, David appears in the music video too.

So, which one is your favourite track?