Song Poems

What is a Song Poem?

It's easier to describe what a song poem service was (and is).  Back in the day there were ads in the backs of magazines that said you could make it big as a songwriter if you send your lyrics in.  You paid a fee and someone would take your lyrics and put them to music.  These songs were called song poems as they were a poem sent in and put to music.  Unlike a normal song writing arrangement, the lyrics and music often had no connection. 

This led to many wacky songs.  The most famous of which is Blind Man's Penis written by John Trubee and put to music by Will Gentry/Ramsey Kearney.  There are also many compilations of song poems if you're interested in finding them. 

Check out the American Song Poem Music Archives for more information.