NPR Music critics reflect on the lyrics that captured the year's mood, sparked emotions and stayed with them long after the music stopped.

When I listen to a song, I listen for the lyrics. The words put images in my head, if they're good, like a Springsteen line. (Singing) The screen door slams. Mary's dress waves. Or they convey an ...

Poetic allusions makes for the best song lyrics, and these three songs manage to say "I love you" without using the phrase at ...

These three songs boast some of the greatest country music lyrics ever written, according to more than a few famous songwriters.

Right about now, music critics are sharing their favorite albums of the year or favorite songs, but we are going even more granular. What were the most memorable lyrics of 2025? Well, we asked a few ...