I tend to pay more attention to the music itself rather than lyrics and as a consequence I often don't even know the lyrics to songs I really like outside of a few lines. I usually only notice lyrics when exceptionally good or bad, as I'm not searching for any sort of message, but can appreciate one if relatable and well written. Bad lyrics though can definitely ruin a song for me. For Example, Chinatown from Liam. Good lyrics I sort of treat as a bonus to the listening experience.

Pretty much agree with this.

There has to be a bare minimum standard of lyrics for me to not care for them only as long as the tune is top top class. A shocking lyric can destroy the most brilliant tune. Imagine if Wonderwall lyrics were to My Humps My Humps My Lady Lumps? Doesn't bare thinking about.

However, if the tune is only decent, it will torpedo the song - so the songwriter is really putting all eggs in one basket to make sure one aspect of it is exceptional. If you don't have the melodic prowess, then you need to sharpen up on lyrics or musical invention to bring things up to a good standard.

The truly great songwriters will have a combination of melodic and lyrical prowess though.

I'm similar to this but quite often even if I like the music if the lead singer comes in and starts singing then I'm right off it. Sometimes a voice for me is more important that both the lyrics they sing and the music. I think I actually have to get into the music first then the voice. If they both get a tick I judge the lyrics