The Devil’s Dance
Writing lyrics by hand. Prototyping the sound with AI.
I wrote the lyrics to The Devil’s Dance. Every rhyme, every stomp, every shout in the chorus — all mine.
I grew up on Johnny Cash, George Jones, Dolly Parton, Loretta Lynn and listened to how they told stories — the cadence, the honesty, the grit. Those artists weren’t just singers — they were storytellers. Their legacy made quite an impression. Before jumping into production, I spent weeks getting the rhyme structures and phrasings right. In the modern version, I had a word I wanted in there — cantankerous — my favorite word, because it makes me smile every time I hear it.
But the story? That’s mine too.
The Devil’s Dance is based on an old country term for a tornado. It tears through town, spins unpredictably, and kicks up trouble wherever it lands. I loved the metaphor, so I imagined a couple — a cowboy and his girl — who live that same chaos. Every Friday night, they show up at the same bar, separately. They flirt with danger. They fight over each other. They make scenes. And then they make up. It’s a weekly ritual — a love story held together by barstools and bruises.
There are two versions: one classic, one modern.
The classic version is written like Johnny might’ve sung it, literal and rhythmic. It’s a little dangerous and a little funny. The modern version? Maybe that one could hit the airwaves today? It’s got punchier phrasing, tighter rhyme loops, and this mischievous swagger that leans into the storm.
One Song. Four Sounds.
I used AI to prototype three versions of this track — one classic, two modern. I also have the original — the Devil’s Version — the first pass at lyrics before I started tightening the rhythm. Note that AI didn’t write the song, it means I could hear how different deliveries, instruments, and pacing might shape the same story. If I were in a room with a singer or producer, I’d already have demos to work from.
That’s the power of using AI the right way.
I write the words. I tell the story. Then I use tools to make sure I can show what I mean — fast.
With SUNO, I had to learn how the AI thinks. The model doesn’t just follow instructions; it interprets. Writing a prompt is like tuning an instrument — every word matters. I spent time testing phrasing, adjusting tone, and listening closely to how each version came out. I wasn’t just hitting “generate.” I was collaborating with the algorithm.
And the benefits? Enormous.
I didn’t book studio time. I didn’t wait for musicians to be available. I didn’t spend thousands just to hear what an idea might sound like. I prototyped in days — not months — and was able to move forward confidently.
That’s a game-changer for creatives. Especially for someone like me — I don’t sing, and I don’t play, but I know when something sounds right. And now I can prove it.
What about creative infringement? I used AI to check my lyrics against what’s out there. I want to know if something’s too close. I want my voice to sound like me — not like a collage of someone else’s work.
This is augmentation, not replacement. This is about making sure my original voice is heard — and shown — with power.
This one’s called The Devil’s Dance. And I mean that in every way.
Classic Version
Structured like a 70s country stomp. Written to feel timeless.
Here is an excerpt:
CHORUS
She’s a wild one, a dangerous flame,
No rhyme or reason, she’s got no shame.
She’ll scratch and claw, she’ll curse my name,
But I’m bound to her in this devil’s game.
When Friday night falls, we’re a reckless pair,
Dancin’ with the devil, without a prayer.
(Full lyrics available in here: https://youtu.be/d0VfglVgagk?si=rl8dpIwB-5Yk8Emp)
Modern Version
Today’s phrasing. Radio-friendly swagger. Same story. Louder boots.
Here is an excerpt:
CHORUS
She’s cantankerous, downright dangerous,
Don’t need a reason, just spontaneous.
She’ll kick, she’ll bite, and start to cuss,
Don’t stand around, she’s hazardous.
Got a fire in her belly, drinks gasoline,
A tangy tornado, thorny rose indeed.
When Friday night comes, we don’t stand a chance,
Clouds circle ‘round, it’s the Devil’s Dance!
(Full lyrics available here: https://youtu.be/Aq195gLqA-U?si=XmRLhV_35SSUVKaM)
This has become a great creative outlet for me. I love telling stories. It’s how I process the world, how I connect, how I contribute. My goal isn’t just to highlight my writing — it’s to one day collaborate with an artist who appreciates my style and wants to bring these stories to life.
Turns out, the right tools can unlock more than you think. What might they unlock for you?
Want to hear both versions? Check the links.
Want help with AI tools? Reach out.
Want to write one together? Let’s do it!