“Rather Be Lonely”
Written by Madeline Hutchinson
Interview by American Songwriter
Madeline Hutchinson is the American Songwriter Home Sweet Home Lyric Contest Promotion winner for her song “Rather Be Lonely.” American Songwriter caught up with Madeline to get the story behind her lyrics.
How long have you been songwriting?
Songwriting became my creative outlet when I was about 14 years old, so on and off in some capacity for about 13 years now.
Why did you enter American Songwriter’s Home Sweet Home Promotion?
I finished this song during the time of the Home Sweet Home Promotion and it just so happened to align with the “home” theme.
What was the inspiration behind your song, “Rather Be Lonely”?
Growing up in rural Ohio, being an artistic person with dreams of pursuing a career in music definitely made me an outlier. I always viewed my hometown as my starting point – the place where I was beginning – it never really felt like “home” to me. “Rather Be Lonely” is about having never-ending ambitions and finding myself along the way. It’s about refusing to settle for a life where I’m just content, and instead, going after what I believed would truly fulfill me, even if it meant doing it alone.
Who are your all-time favorite songwriters and why?
I have so many! Billy Joel is probably my all-time favorite. He’s such an incredible storyteller and has created so many memorable, timeless melodies. I love his clever wordplay and deeply introspective songs. I can’t NOT mention Paul McCartney and John Lennon – the Beatles changed my life and I largely attribute my love for music to them. In the past few years, JP Saxe has become one of my biggest inspirations. His ability to string words together and convey feelings so authentically and candidly never ceases to amaze me. I also love English singer-songwriter Eloise for similar reasons. Her lyrics are nuanced and poetic, and her harmonies are beautiful.
Are you planning to release any new music this year?
I’m primarily a writer, but I have a handful of songs that I would love to eventually record and release.
What would you tell other songwriters who are considering entering the contest?
Go for it! You have nothing to lose and it feels amazing to be recognized for something that you’re passionate about!
Read’s Madeline’s winning lyrics to “Rather Be Lonely” below:
“(verse 1)
In a world of blue shades, I always felt yellow
Constantly looking for a place I could settle
Collecting pieces of me
In words and people and cities
(verse 2)
Don’t think I can ever be fully satisfied
At least I will be able to say that I tried
From east to west, to love and back
Through unpaved roads and unwalked paths
(pre-chorus)
“Home” is just the place I began
Always more unrealized plans
(chorus)
Too restless to stay in one place
Too sincere to dissimulate
I’d rather go than wish I went
Rather be lonely than just content
(verse 3)
I’ve heard that where you’re planted is where you should grow
I feel more like the gardener with seeds to sow
A landscaper with wanderlust
Every flower turns to dust
(pre-chorus)
“Home” is just the place I began
Always more unrealized plans
(chorus)
Too restless to stay in one place
Too sincere to dissimulate
I’d rather go than wish I went
Rather be lonely than just content
Too restless to stay in one place
Too sincere to dissimulate
I’d rather go than wish I went
Rather be lonely than just content”
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