Obligation as a singer/songwriter?

[TamaraHey]

Hi: Sometimes years after I've "finished," and "released" a song on CD, I see ways to make the song better.  When I perform the song live now, I do it with the improvements. Just because the song's been recorded does that mean the recorded version is "it?" After all, none of my songs are on the charts. It's not like Paul McCartney changing parts of "Yesterday." But still some people in the audience notice and ask "why did you change it?" Is it my obligation to keep a song the way people know it even if I can make it better?

 

Tamara

 

[Leo]

I think in art there shouldn't be any rules. Also in life, but that is a different matter.

 

Sure, some might find the change in lyrics or structure annoying. But others will appreciate the continues growth.

 

In other words, you can't please everybody, unless you get them all drunk.

 

I say, play the song the way you feel it should play.

[TamaraHey]

Thanks Leo!