Words or Tune First?

On radio Derby last night Lester Simpson brought up a common interview question asked of songwriters: when writing a song, do you write words or tune first? Are you a 'Wordy' or a 'Tuney'.


Personally I always write the tune first. I can only make words fit tunes. I suppose it depends on the individual and how they are able to 'bolt-on'.


The only method I can think of that would allow me to write words before tunes is to write a 'poem'. Poems with a regular syllabic structure would make it easier for me to attach the words to a tune.


To write lines of prose without any thought of rhyme or rhythm, and then fit that to a tune, now that seems backwards to me. Surely this kind of songwriting produces a less structured and a more 'freeform' vocal line?


Are you a 'Wordey' or a 'Tuney'?