'Lee'rical Wordplay

What I Learned...

2011-06-02T08:48:00.000-07:00

Hello all,

So, if you've been following, then you are already aware of the challenge I presented myself, and the fact that every day for the month of May I finished a song's worth of lyrics as a means of forcing creativity. I would like to thank you for taking this journey with me. As I said, it ain't all gold, but I am very proud to say that I am happy with the outcome of the month, and there are some real gems in there that I fully plan on working with/editing/elaborating on...

Throughout this process, there are a few things that I learned:

   1. It's hard to write a song a day! I found that after a few days, my mind started regressing to things I had already written, or melodic lines/song styles/structures that I had just used. I suppose this isn't a bad thing, but I definitely wanted to really test myself and try to create something brand new everyday, and it became difficult once I had drained the most prominent ideas.

   2. It's hard to create something brand new! Each time I was looking to do a song, I found that there was almost always a song I already knew of (usually by someone else) that my mind used as a frame of reference. I don't think I should be bothered by this. Everyone hears and processes things a bit differently, so I'm sure that my outcome will either end up sounding nothing like the potential 'source' material, or it will sound too much like it, but spark a change. And at that point, at least I'll have the lyrics started!

   3. No matter what the topic of the song, it's all based in two main ideas...'Hope' and 'Fear'. I had learned this concept in college, but it becomes far more apparent when you are on the writer's side. Every song is delivered to it's audience by a character, and that character has to want something. The songs that I feel came out best from this experiment are the ones in which the character is clearly yearning for something, or making a decision...based on their hopes or their fears.

   4. What's the story, Morning glory?! Every song not only needs a character to relay it, but it also is immensely beneficial to know/build surrounding circumstances. The more specific the story is in your head, the more specific the character/lyric can be, and through that specificity you allow a wider audience to connect with your work. "Universality through Specificity." (I heard Stephen Schwartz mention something about this at a reading series for which he was on a panel. So true.)

5. Music is vital! I appreciate those of you who've been following, or checking the site out sporadically, but I understand how difficult it is to follow a page of JUST lyrics. It is not always easy to decipher the rhythm, or the rhyme scheme, and it is certainly not easy to figure out what melody the writer has in mind. For my next challenge, I am working out a remedy to this.

6. Most importantly: While I am glad that I did this, I found that by the end of writing each song, I had little creative energy left over to work on other projects. This may have been different if I wasn't working a day job during most of this process, but I think that the majority of my focus went to this. I'm looking forward to getting back to my musical, where I already have a set idea as to style/focus/story/character, and can really hone in on cleaning that up with my newfound knowledge.

As I said before, thank you so much for joining me for this journey. I am planning to do another self-challenge soon, that will probably allow me a bit more time to create, but will incorporate scan, music...etc. I'm very excited!

If you are just now reading this, you can find out what my SOTD challenge was all about by reading this. I would be more than happy, in fact appreciative, to have you be my guest, and browse through the songs from the month. Remember, each of them was written in a 24 hour period, and I advise starting from the beginning, 'I Turn The Page', and going through from there. Please feel free to comment, or send me any thoughts you may have, but please keep it constructive. This has been a learning process, and I want to keep the experience positive. In fact, if you like it, please click 'Follow' on the upper right corner of the blog. It won't send anything you're way, but it'll make me look cooler!

Thanks again, and I'll be back soon with more 'Lee'rical Wordplay!

~Lee

Day 31 - 'A Goodbye...But Not'

2011-05-31T23:10:00.000-07:00

Hello all,

A goodbye...but not.

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They say that all good things must come to an end.

This is not the most encouraging message you could send.

While we’re teaching our little ones hope, joy and love,

The message seems muddled when we mention the above…

So I prefer to view the world like this,

Though I don’t contend eternity can guarantee you bliss,

I do think good things can last, and that is why,

I say ‘I’ll see you soon’ and not ‘Goodbye’.

And if life gets in the way, confuses, causes you to stray,

It simply is a fact we all must face.

It doesn’t mean you’ve lost it all, that hasn’t been the cost at all,

Look hard enough, you’ll find a lingering trace.

And that hint will lead you back to where you were before,

As we’ve heard too often, all is fair in love and war,

So, is it fair for you to give up without a single try?

No, that’s why it’s ‘I’ll see you soon’ and not ‘Goodbye’.

We’ll say ‘I’ll see you soon’ and not ‘Goodbye’.

We’ll just say ‘I’ll see you soon’ and not ‘Goodbye’.

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Thanks for joining me for the month...and there'll be more to follow!

~Lee

Day 30 - 'The South Shall Rise'

2011-05-30T22:54:00.000-07:00

Hey.

Today’s SOTD is a fun one. I was playing with a character from my show, and I thought it’d be fun to write another song for her, as she is now, before I go and make the character completely different!

This is slow country for the verse, then it gets up-tempo with a bluegrass feel once we hit the chorus and bridge.

Enjoy!

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I know you’re feelin’ low…

I know life’s got you down.

Dejected, un-erected, downright blue.

Balls are hard to juggle,

But a tug’ll cure that frown,

Just listen as I ‘sang’ this vocal ‘yank’ as though on cue…

So your drive’s been far too placid,

Every part of you feels flaccid,

But the South shall rise again.

Your libido’s been defeated

And the ailment has been left untreated…

The South shall rise again.

I’ll give a healthy dose of Southern hospitality…

They say ‘Don’t Mess with Texas” boy, but you can mess with me.

I’ve called on you to draw your sword, you ain’t no General Lee!

The South shall rise again!

Your potency is stunted,

‘Cuz your blood flow has been shunted,

But the South shall rise again.

So your ego is deflated,

Because downstairs won’t get elevated…

The South shall rise again.

Hey ky-ohhhh,

You must be left a little miffed…

Hey ky-ehhhh,

Because life has left you stiffed.

Still, I assure you lots of other gents,

Have lost track of their up-come-ence, but

The South shall rise again!

(Dance break)

So your General’s worn out from all the greasy grass it’s spanned.

Like George, your arm is strong, but can ‘below’ meet the demand?

Let me battle with that Bighorn…’cus this ain’t Custer’s last stand…

Just saddle up, mount on and then…

The South shall rise again!

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I’ll see you tomorrow with another SOTD!

~Lee

Day 29 - 'Tongue Twister'

2011-05-29T23:50:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Today, an exercise. I wanted to try playing with one particular sound for the rhyme scheme, and pivoting off of that.

This is a patter song, so it would be light and quick, in a major key. Enjoy!

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When your nerves are all frayed,
‘Cuz your lover’s ‘away-ed’,
Even though you had bade him,
He ‘couldn’t have’ stayed.

So you’re stuck in a rut, thinking he may have strayed,
Maybe even betrayed you,
And just to get laid!

Well, then I’ve got an aid, to this doubt you’ve relayed,
And replayed it again and again in your hade.

Easily put a halt on that thought cavalcade,
And release all the jaded idea’s your mind made.
If you wade in good thoughts insecurities fade,
And you’ll find peace of mind is a toll that’s been paid.

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with another SOTD!

~Lee

Day 28 - 'A Drinking Song'

2011-05-28T23:48:00.000-07:00

Hello,

And post-Birthday is always a fun day...so here's a silly tune to go with the mood. It's been a crazy day, and I still have more weekend ahead.

This one is rubato for the verse, then uptempo chorus, bridge and chorus.

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Once a year a certain day comes creeping up on me,

And every time it catches me off-guard.

It’s dreadful, yet fantastic…makes me think I’m going spastic.

And in it’s wake, I’m left a little jarred.

I am speaking of my annual birth-i-versary,

The marker of the day that I was born,

And though I love my Mother dear, for giving life to me,

The event, itself, most recently has filled me up with scorn.

But there’s hope, I’ve found, to get around the hounding of this feeling,

A recipe for respite from this angst,

And so I mix it up a bit, and pour thoughts more appealing,

As I pray to Dionysus, and give thanks…

I have a drink.

That’s right I drink.

When my birthday is at hand, I try to smile, strike up the band,

And give a cheer,

Then grab a beer.

Or swallow any kind of beverage that is clear.

I like starting in the morning, when mourning begins,

My breakfast, eggs and waffles, and three different gins

And if this is wrong, then please, Lord forgive me my sins…

But still, I drink.

That’s right I drink.

Still, I do drink.

When my life is getting harder, well I simply pour a little chardonnay.

And who’s to say,

A nip of whiskey doesn’t go a long, long way?

Though many search for lunch at a local food cart,

I’ve got a little secret that I’ve chosen to impart,

When I’ve aged another year, the liquor cabinet’s where I start,

So I can drink.

Now, I don’t condone, drinking on the job,

Or while driving or when caring for a child…

But in my life, I’ve none of those things,

So I think I’ll pour another drink and watch more ‘Girls Gone Wild’!

Spoken: ‘Parts 2, 5 & 7…I like Lucy, the Slut...’

While I drink!

Another drink.

It isn’t half so bad as all you prudes may think.

It’s just that coping with another year of life gone by,

Makes my heart and mind and body heave a mournful sigh…and

Sure I could resist it, but can someone tell me why?

So I…

Drink!

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with another SOTD.

~Lee

Day 27 - 'Another Year'

2011-05-27T20:20:00.000-07:00

Hello.

So in honor of the passing of another year, I've written a ballad. It's not as sad as it sounds at first.

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Another year has past,

And thinking back, it went so fast,

Faster than I care to admit.

Another year has flown,

And when I think how much I’ve grown,

It’s hard to grasp the fact that I lived

Through all this shit.

But I know it’s ‘onward, upward’,

I know that time will not stand still

For anything at all, or anyone…

Another year has past.

And with it, hopes are slipping fast away,

So they can keep me on the run.

You chase your hopes a million miles until your heart runs out of steam,

Your soul is weak and weary from the pace.

And when you get your second wind and catch up with your dream,

You learn that it’s already won the race…

Another year is gone,

And with it, one more door is closed,

But as it shuts, you feel a window crack,

Remember, hearts can alter, rearrange what they desire,

One goal can be released, as long as someone can inspire,

The next to take it’s place, and fill the space that’s been left vacant and free…

You’re that someone

To me.

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with another SOTD.

~Lee

Day 26 - 'Where You're Meant To Go'

2011-05-26T22:48:00.000-07:00

Hey.

Just a ballad to counter the last couple of days. Contemporary pop ballad, to be exact.

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There’s a horizon in front,

There’s a sunset behind…

But careful not to turn around,

Or you may change your mind…

Just a glance could chance the view to change,

And perhaps spark a relapse.

‘Cuz the spectrum of this open range

Appears to have been laced with traps…

But your vision clears,

As the tears are brushed aside.

And the memories of good times linger,

Ready for the ride.

And a glimpse of what’s in store helps

Veer you toward another day.

And even though there’s more to miss than you could say…

There’s a time, and a place,

And the time has come to change your space up,

Get up and get out, so you can grow.

There’s a where, and a when,

And it’s best that every now and then you

Put it on the line, or you’ll never know…

Where you’re meant to go.

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with another SOTD.

~Lee

Day 25 - 'Yellow Lament'

2011-05-25T22:18:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Today's is another silly one, though admittedly, one of my favorites. This is dedicated to Aimee, and meant without any offense. (You'll understand that in a moment...)

The verse should be rubato and very speak-sing. Then the chorus is a upbeat, George M. Cohen-esque march feel. The bridge is very free, then builds into the 2nd verse climaxing into the last chorus, which is back to the march feel.

Enjoy!

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(verse)
Now, I know it sounds cliche, and/or slightly stereotypic,
But I have found a new love, and she's more than just terrific!
She's neat, petite...in fact, compact. In all ways so efficient.
I think it's clear that my new dear is wholly self-sufficient.

I vowed to learn her history up to this very day,
And so I flash a slanted grin, and this is what I say...

(chorus)
I'm in love with a girl of the...Asian persuasion!
She's my China doll, through and through.
Though my ears had caught wind of a geisha's talents,
Now I know what they say is true.

When she offered to cook for me from her homeland,
I was quite easy to convince...
She walked me in, sat me down, said 'Thai it, you'll like it!"
I've been stuck on the sticky rice since.

(bridge)
Right from the very moment when we had our orient-ation...
And I gazed into her epicanthic, far east Atlantic blues,
It made me dance the Hora, and give thanks to the Torah,
To hear her say she's in no way descended from the Jews.

Then came the eve, to my reprieve, a lofty six months hense,
The night when she would finally give herself.
It wasn't such a sin, though it took quite the Ho-Chi-Minh-ute,
To ditch the slip and slip that hanbok back upon the shelf.

And now it's time, I find that I am ready to propose,
Our wedding day will splendidly surprise.
We'll knock off people's socks when we serve kook su with the lox,
And then we'll have a shinto full of old rabbis!

For she alone remains the one who's sole can quench my thirst.
However, though there's much I know, there's one thing I must find out first.

(verse 2)
Now I know that it's cliche, and it's slightly stereotypic,
But I adore this shiksa, for at spelling she's terrific.
She's brilliant with a violin, she played in South Pacific,
It seems the only problem is I cannot be specific!

(chorus 2 ext.)
I'm in love with a girl of the...Asian persuasion,
But I've just not a clue what kind!
There's Chinese, Thai, Japanese, Cambodian, Vietnamese,
Laos, Malaysian...Help me please! There's Philippines, Korean.
Yes it's driving me out of my mind, to place...
But I swear that I will learn...
Her race!

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with another SOTD!

~Lee

Day 24 - '32 Hours'

2011-05-24T23:11:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Just a really silly little number. Jazzy and upbeat. (I love musical irony)

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I’ve been awake for nearly thirty-two hours,

And I have to say life is great!

The sky has cleared, there are no more May showers,

And my coffee’s beginning to percolate.

The sun is bright, all the birds are singing,

While winging their way ‘cross the blue.

Yes, I’ve been awake for thirty-two hours,

And I’m feeling just fine, how ‘bout you?

Now I know,

Most doctors would advise

A solid seven at the very least.

But oh,

My body’s on the rise,

And it simply has refused to be desisted or ceased!

I’ve been awake for nearly thirty-two hours,

And I think I am doing ok…

But still I’m confessing,

That I’ve started stressing.

Cuz though I’ve had more time to ‘play’

32 hours is too long a day!

Two hours into waking you’re still shaking off the night,

By hour three, you see the world more clearly.

Four hours into daytime, you are prime to get things right, and

Most love how they feel at five hours, dearly.

Now hours six, seven and eight, you start to feel the weight,

The day of work has jerked you all around.

By hours ten through twelve, bedtime is starting to sound great,

And your thoughts will start to muse of sleeping fast and sound.

Now this is when the best of us begin to lose our grips,

Hour fourteen starts to be less kind…

Reality starts slipping right between our fingertips.

By number seventeen, you have already lost your mind.

At hour twenty-two, your head feels like it’s split in two,

Your stomach starts to eating at itself,

When number twenty-nine hits, you’ll think life is on the line

You’ll grab and swallow any medicine from off the shelf.

Worse than that is hour thirty, where you see God, and get flirty,

Asserting that you two would get along.

Thirty-one’s devoid of fun, you’re sanity’s been on the run,

For the entire second section of this whole damn song.

As awful as this all may sound, hear me when I tell you,

That nothing quite can match the Hell of hour thirty-two…

I’ve been awake for nearly thirty-two hours,

This was the stupidest thing I could try…

My heart has palpitations, beating out my chest,

My mind’s hallucinations take me on a devilish quest,

You’ve taken mind and body now, so why not take the rest!

My soul needs to sleep or I’ll cry…

Oh, God won’t you please let me die!

(Sadly, she is forced to take the final exam for her economics class 20 minutes after the end of this song. Funny enough...she aced it.)

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with another SOTD!

~Lee

Day 23 - 'Poor Jerry'

2011-05-23T22:15:00.000-07:00

Hey.

A pretty ridiculous little ditty today. very rubato, as it's mostly a speak-sung, character piece. Light and frolic-y feel in the underscore.

Enjoy.

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I’ve a meeting at Noon, at my local saloon,

It’s a chance to enhance my career.

And this meeting at lunch, has my gut in a bunch,

And my heart palpitating with fear.

Although I know that I’m quite the pro,

At my job, I don’t fumble or flub.

I grew scared upon learning what the meeting’s concerning,

‘Cuz I’ve found out my boss wants to start a ‘Fight Club’…

I don’t want to punch my co-workers,

I don’t want to fight the staff,

I maybe, at times, wish to punch my employer,

But if offered to act or to watch, well, I’d voyeur.

I don’t want to fight my co-workers,

This jerk has gone out of his head.

It’s not that I’m not psyched to get in that ring…

But I’d rather piss fire, instead.

Most men out there maybe wish for this Hell,

The shot to take shots at their boss.

But the guy I’m to fight wears size XXXL

And has surely medaled in at least one dwarf toss.

Spoken: Dwarf toss. It’s that thing where a group of larger men compete to see how far they can throw a dwarf. Yes, it’s a thing…

The opportunity to get ahead’s a-heading my direction,

But our bigwig’s found a newfound love for natural selection.

He is forcing the whole work force here to dance his little dance,

And if I pass it by, he’ll pass my application with no glance.

So, I’ll sew it up, I’ll clinch this occupational advancement,

Even if it means I have to take a pill for male enhancement…

Spoken: Those are steroids…right?

I don’t want to fight my co-workers,

Our manager’s out of his mind!

And now every time that he looks cross the room,

I’ll know deep inside that it’s safe to assume,

That in spite of that smile he is plotting my doom…

But to get my promotion slip signed,

I would even fight Jerry…

He’s blind.

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Thank for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with another SOTD!

~Lee

Day 22 - 'Without A Hitch'

2011-05-22T20:33:00.000-07:00

Hello.

So we drove back today and I listened to my show. I am hoping to do some more work on it, so I figured today's song should start that.

I have written an example of what the opening number could be. It would be a very uptempo, similar to a 60's rock mixed with a bluesy rhythm. Not sure if this will make it in, but I figure it's got my mind working on options...

Enjoy.

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Tonight will be somethin’ they’ve never seen.

It’s sink or swim time, no in between.

Tonight will be a revelation,

So let me explain the situation…

Soon we go live when they flip that switch, and

Tonight’s gonna go off without a hitch!

Not a thing can go awry,

Without a hitch…

Can’t throw me off, go 'head and try!

I’ve set the scene to sheer perfection,

The audience is in their section,

The set’s been polished to a glow

And the band is tuned up, ready to go!

My head is reeling, I’ve got that itch,

And tonight’s gonna go off without a hitch!

It’s what I’ve been working for,

Without a hitch…

And they’ll all love what’s in store!

All these years, I’ve been preparing,

Tried to pave my way with gravel, through the cold.

Fought the fears, the 'wear-and-tearing',

Now it’s a gas to watch that gravel turn to gold!

Tonight’s gonna be the biggest yet,

We’re ‘bout to go, so ready, and set…!

Tonight something new’s gonna be unfurled,

And it’s airing live to the whole damn world!

Now everything’s smooth, not a single twitch,

And tonight’s gonna go off without a hitch!

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 21 - 'Home'

2011-05-21T22:11:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Aimee and I went upstate on Friday night and have spent all day today with my mother, (who very graciously gave me my birthday present early) and had a nice time. I thought that I'd write something for her and in reverence to the place where I grew up.

This would be a ballad, flowing and smooth.

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They say you can never go home,

Well, it’s hard to believe this is true,

‘Cuz it’s proven that no matter where else you roam

It’s the one place that’s waiting for you.

Some say you can never go back,

This is also hard to believe,

‘Cuz if you’ve half a mind, then surely you’ll find,

That home is a place you can’t leave.

Though the world you may travel, a new scene unraveling

Drawing you forth day to day…

New adventures exciting you, pleasures delighting you,

Wonders and all, still they won’t make you stay.

They say you can never go home,

Well, it’s hard to believe this is true,

Because, the best part is, home is where the heart is,

And my heart is always with you.

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 20 - 'Talk About a Punch in the...'

2011-05-20T21:14:00.001-07:00

Hello,

So, after the folk song from yesterday, Aimee suggested that I do a full out 'wife left me' kinda country tune. You know, something our boy Scotty McCreery from American Idol could croon in his soothing bass tones. Well, this is what I came up with.

This should be a rockabilly kind of feel. I warn that this is explicit...but only for comedy's sake.

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If you play this song backwards, then I’d have the best day,

My dog would come back home to me, my bills would go away.

My best friend would return my wife, and she’d be here to stay,

To think of it, guess that’s alright…he can keep her anyway…

I guess that last part is alright…he can keep her anyway…

Well I awoke this mornin’, first thing I said was ‘Fuck’

The banging on my trailer was that GD repo truck.

The jerk yelled ‘open up’, and I avoided bein’ crass…

He said ‘I need your assets!’, so I showed the man my ass!

If you play this song backwards, then I’d have the best day,

My dog would come back home to me, collectors’d go away.

My best friend would return my wife, and she’d be here to stay,

To think of it, guess that’s alright…he can keep her anyway…

I guess that last part is alright…he can keep her anyway…

Then lunchtime rolled around and the hunger pains were on,

I knew that with the trailer all the livestock would be gone.

Those bastards took the cow, the pig and chicken. To my shock

They’d only left the rooster, I was stuck there eating cock.

If you play this song backwards, then I’d have the best day,

My dog would come back home to me, this rash would go away.

My best friend would return my wife, and she’d be here to stay,

To think of it, guess that’s alright…he can keep her anyway…

I guess that last part is alright…he can keep her anyway…

Now finally the nighttime fell, and with it did my hope,

See as time soared, I’d wished the Lord would grab hold of my rope.

The only rope grab happenin’ was with the gal next door…

I tell you that’s the last time my prick penetrates a whore!

If you play this song backwards, then I’d have the best day,

My dog would come back home to me, the clap would go away.

My best friend would return my wife, and she’d be here to stay,

To think of it, guess that’s alright…he can keep her anyway…

I guess that last part is alright…he can keep her anyway…

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 19 - 'A Wand'rin' Heart'

2011-05-19T23:05:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Today, I was at work and I asked my coworker to name a style of music. (She is an opera singer, so I had to specify that I wanted something other than opera...) She said folk. So, I thought of a few folk singers/groups I've listened to and loved, thanks to my parents (mostly my father), and tried to recreate something fairly James Taylor-ish, with a hint of Cash, and Kingston Trio.

This is a folk/country style song. Ballad, with a nice acoustic guitar riff playing throughout.

Enjoy.

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(chorus)

There’s nothin’ wrong with movin’,

Trav’lin’ from town to town,

Lord knows I’m a shaker, who never could be bound,

But lately thoughts occur to me, as I head for higher ground,

Oh, nothin’ helps a wand’rin’ heart that longs to settle down.

Nothin’ helps a wand’rin’ heart that longs to settle down.

(verse 1)

Well, I woke up this mornin’, ‘neath the clear blue sky.

Eyes cracked open showin’ me some birdies flyin’ by.

My wings have got no feathers, won’t raise me in the air,

But still, they do allow me to fly on without a care.

(chorus)

Well, there’s nothin’ wrong with movin’,

Trav’lin’ from town to town,

Lord knows I’m a shaker, who never could be bound,

But lately thoughts occur to me, as I head for higher ground,

Oh, nothin’ helps a wand’rin’ heart that longs to settle down.

Nothin’ helps a wand’rin’ heart that longs to settle down.

(verse 2)

My verse is universal, sure, anyone can tell,

That if reprieve can come from leavin’, it’s an easy sell.

‘Cuz once you’ve loved and lost, been burdened then been booted,

The upturned soil sullies the spoils, those roots will be uprooted.

(bridge)

The past is faster than we think, and catches us off guard.

It rolls right in, under your skin, reminding you that you’ve been scarred.

And if it gets the best of you, the rest of you is left to stew in sorrow,

Trust me, I know…

(chorus)

There’s nothin’ wrong with movin’,

Trav’lin’ from town to town,

Lord knows I’m a shaker, who never could be bound,

But lately thoughts occur to me, as I head for higher ground,

Oh, nothin’ helps a wand’rin’ heart that longs to settle down.

Nothin’ helps a wand’rin’ heart that longs to settle down.

No, Nothin’ heals a lonesome heart that

Longs to settle down.

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 18 - 'Azure Satellite'

2011-05-18T22:39:00.001-07:00

Hello.

Today was an odd one, as I got called in to work my day job last minute. Awesome. Money is good, and it kept me from laying in bed all day. That said, it also kept me from being able to work on my SOTD.

I got home, went for a bite with a friend, and finally sat down to put some words onto the screen. I am happy with what came from this. This is a 1950's doo-wop style number. Imagine a nice quartet of men singing it on a street corner somewhere circa the midpoint of the 20th century. One of them probably leaning on the streetlamp, and the others huddled around snapping their fingers. The song would be a steady tempo (set by the bass) and legato during the choruses, then steccato for the bridge.

Enjoy!

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A blue moon hung up above that night,

That night when you first caught my eye.

And though, I know, you were with some other Joe,

That blue moon still painted the sky…

That blue moon hung up above that night,

That night when our gaze first did meet,

It told me square, that we two shared something rare,

That you could make my life complete.

Now, I was still sore, from mooning over girls before,

Down on my luck, they suckled my heart.

But now, your gaze, gleaming from those sapphire rays,

Amazes and sets you apart.

That blue moon that hung up above that night,

It finally shone upon you.

And so, my dear, let me make this perfectly clear,

My drearier days are all through,

That blue moon has shown me to you.

I’m glad that I’d waited for you to be illuminated,

Standing there stuck, you buckled my knees.

I guess I’m from Mars, ‘cuz while most men thank their lucky stars,

I’m thanking that hunk of bleu cheese…

That blue moon that hung up above that night,

It finally shone upon you,

And so, my dear, let me make this perfectly clear,

I’ve found me a love that is true,

That blue moon has shown me to you.

(I am over the moon!)

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 17 - 'Tom, Tom, Tom'

2011-05-17T23:42:00.000-07:00

Hello,

Today's song of the day is another comedic in triple meter. The verse will be freely speak-sung, then moving into a solid tempo for the chorus. (Conducted in 1) Just a silly little tune, for a silly day.

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(verse)

I’d like to say a toast!

I interrupt this roast,

To boast the wonders of my dear boss, Tom.

He really is the best,

And though you may think I’m obsessed,

The rest have all confessed the same…that he’s ‘da bomb’.

Now he won’t push this so I’ll do it,

‘Cuz humility? Well, screw it!

He’s amazing, guns ablaze-ing from all cylinders.

No, I’m not drunk, so just sit down,

And let me finish this, ass-clown.

The town deserves to hear this said, and I am willin’…ders…

Spoken: …yeah…

(chorus 1)

Tom, Tom, Tom,

Is truly the greatest boss that I know.

Tom, Tom, Tom,

His generosity doth overflow,

Each morning, it’s showtime, he stops to say ‘Hi’

With a smile and his latte, it’s great!

And it’s hard to mind, since he asks you so kindly,

You blindly accept that you have to stay late.

Tom, Tom, Tom,

The most wonderful boss in the world!

So raise up your glasses and get off your asses,

To show your love!

(chorus 2)

Tom, Tom, Tom,

Is truly the greatest boss you could meet.

Tom, Tom, Tom,

Everyday with him brings a brand new treat,

When lunchtime rolls ‘round, he is back with a smile,

And loads of new work to get done.

And just ‘cuz he knows it will take me a while,

He asks me to then run some errands, for fun…

Tom, Tom, Tom,

The most wonderful boss I could have!

So raise up your glasses and get off your asses,

To show your love!

(chorus 3)

Tom, Tom, Tom,

Is truly the greatest boss, strike up the band!

Tom, Tom, Tom,

And even though he has just had me canned…

I must say everyday, his great thoughts he inserts…

His thoughtfulness keeps culminating,

He gives, and he gives, and he gives til it hurts

To the secretary with whom he’s cop-ulating!

Tom, Tom, Tom,

The most wonderful boss I could have had!

So raise up your glasses and get off your asses,

To show…your…

Spoken: I hate you, you son of a bitch!

(He passes out)

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 16 - 'Words'

2011-05-16T21:27:00.000-07:00

Hey,

So today was a busy one. Work, then caught an informal read-thru of Camelot that a few friends of mine were doing, and some socializing. When I got home, I was finally able to work on my SOTD.

Today's song is in triple meter. It should feel lilting and legato, and the underscore should build through the song to the instrumental break, then pull back again for the final few lines.

Enjoy.

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Words used to come so easily to me.

I’d sit and feel, my mind would reel with millions that apply.

Thoughts used to form so effortlessly,

Without hesitation, a complete recitation would fly out my mouth like a battle cry.

And the world understood what I told them,

And the world knew me better by tracking my swerves,

And the world could assess me, know how to caress me

To sooth what was irking my nerves.

Words used to come so easily to me,

Relaying the views in my mind,

But lately my words seem to do me no use,

Now that you’ve left me behind.

I’m sure you’re let down, by our bleak situation,

But know even still, I’m filled with adoration…

Words used to come so easily to me,

My mind was so simple to hack,

But now, without you, it’s been closed in a box,

Locked up and caged in, like it was Fort Knox,

Stagnant, and needing you back.

(inst. break)

Words used to…

Just give me one chance and you’ll see,

How I need you to come back to me.

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 15 - 'When My Phone First Rang'

2011-05-15T22:48:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Today was pretty lazy, and consisted of sleeping in and watching tv. Nice, huh? I thought so.

I am glad to be back up and active, however, tomorrow.

Today's SOTD is a possible addition to my work-in-progress musical, Nab-a-Date! This is a rewrite from a different attempt. The feel of the song should be moving and hopeful. www.Nab-a-Date.com

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When my phone first rang, well, I ignored it.

Went about my day just as I would.

Never both’ring to mind

Or trying to find

The reason for the call…

No. Not at all…

When my phone first rang, hell, I deplored it.

To see ‘The Studio’ on my caller i.d.,

Left me with such a chill,

That nothing could fill,

The silence in my head…

What had he said?

It’s only been three months and yet just from the way he looked at me…

It’s plain to see the man who always speaks is struck dumb.

And it wasn’t even him who called! I should have known he’d send his crony.

James’ voice droned in my ear and begged me to come…

Come on back and I could help save his show…

I’m the one who can help save his show!

So my phone first rang for a reason,

Now that reason’s here staring me down.

And I guess I could go,

But then I won’t know…

(musical interlude)

If I make the right move,

I’m sure I can prove,

That what we had between us isn’t gone…

So ‘If music be the food of love...

Play on!’

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 14 - 'A Sheep In Wolf's...'

2011-05-14T22:54:00.000-07:00

Good day,

Today was a good day for inspiration. Saw "Lucky Guy" in the afternoon and then "Around the World in a Bad Mood" in the evening. Congrats to all of the performers.

As always, I learned a lot from seeing other works up, and I'm planning to head back to my script and check in on some important things. However, for the time being, I have another SOTD for you.

This one should be a burlesque style rag. Truly seductive, though a bit goofy.

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Well, I'm a virgin,
A virgin,
A virgin in whore’s clothing…
No clue what to do when the lights are low.

Though cursed with a vibe that many describe as ‘sexy’ and ‘hot’,
When faced with a beau he is saddened to notice that ‘hot’ I’m not!

I’m a virgin,
A virgin,
A virgin in whore’s clothing,
And no matter how it may look,
My virginity’s one thing no Tom, Dick or Harry has took!

A few years ago, when jobs were slow and the stock market took to a new record low
There’s one thing that seemed very clear,
It’s not who you are, but it’s what you appear.

In the mirror I’d glance, tighten my pants, a lower cut blouse and I’d stand half a chance,
And guess what I finally found,
I have managed to land with both feet on the ground…

Though a meek little sheep am I,
I have learned how to act like a wolf...and that's why...

I'm a virgin,
A virgin,
A virgin in whore’s clothing,
And no matter what you may think,
Sure games I do play, but I’m no easy lay.
And though glitter and sass, underneath I’m all class,
Bet your ass, though you doubt it, I’m not putting out shit…
Until I have found the right guy!

There's no chance of him bedding me 'til he is wedding me, that's the right guy!

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 13 - 'No Need For Catnip'

2011-05-13T22:52:00.000-07:00

Hey there,

For Friday the 13th I wanted to write something light-hearted and fun. I had tried nothing, and was fresh out of ideas when Aimee saw a tweet by a certain Branson Reese. I don't know the guy, but his tweets seem to follow a pattern...they're pretty damn funny.

Anyway, he tweeted something that made Aimee laugh out loud while I was working, and when she read it, I did the same. Thus came the inspiration for today's SOTD.

Branson Reese's Tweet: "Can You Feel the Love Tonight" is definitely my favorite song about cats fucking.

Well, move over Elton...

This is in the style of a jazz standard. I'll try to do a recording for this one if I can...hearing the swinging melody helps with the humor. Anyway, with no further ado, today's SOTD...enjoy!

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(verse)
Last night when I arrived,

Back home to my abode,

Well somethin’ wasn’t jivin’,

I could tell,

And oh, there was a most peculiar smell…

I flicked the light switch on,

Into the room I strode,

And wished that I had gone to

Grab a bite.

‘Cuz if I had, I’d be so glad to not have seen this sight.

(chorus)
Doin’ it.

My cats were doin’ it.

The air was laced with sweet amor as

They got busy on the floor.

Makin’ it.

Yeah, they were shakin’ it.

And though creeped out to see one 'taking'

I oddly hoped she wasn’t faking.

(bridge)
Oh, oh, oh,

That I could unsee what I saw,

And no, no, no

It took me an hour just to lift my jaw…

(chorus 2)
And they were still doin’ it,

Really through and through-in’ it,

It made me wish I’d listened more when bade,

To have my little cats neutered and spayed.

(bridge 2)
So distressed

I stood there and questioned ‘Why, God? Why?’

Mostly, though, I’m impressed,

If someone were watching, I’d be much more shy.

(chorus ext.)
But they just kept doin’ it,

Lit-er-ally doin’ it (doin’ it, doin’ it)

And though it seemed as though they did it right,

Still, what I chanced to dance upon

To gaze, gawk, glare and glance upon

What I caught was a most disturbing sight…

When I walked in on my cats

Doin’ it…

Last night!

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Published with Blogger-droid v1.6.9

Day 12 - 'Disclosure'

2011-05-12T23:40:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Apologies for the delay...Blogger had some issues. Here is today's SOTD.

Though a different style of song, this is my third ballad in a row. Mental note for tomorrow...stop it!

Enjoy.

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(verse)

Close your eyes.

Take a deep breath and relax.

I know that it’s taxing to sit and discuss, put up a fuss over all of this mess.

Breathe in deep,

And then let it out slowly and sigh.

(chorus)

I want you to know what you mean to me,

No matter what else is said in this fight.

I want you to know what you mean to me.

And even if things end up ending tonight

It’s important you realize, just what you did for me,

How you have caused me to change…

Rearrange.

I want you to know that I’ve needed you,

More than I ever have said.

I want you to know that wherever I go

A picture of you won’t get out of my head,

And although it is difficult,

Thinking and feeling,

Falling and tumbling,

And quickly revealing our heart,

And trying our hardest to grow,

The growth was apart,

And as soon as it started to show…

Maybe we should have let go…

I want you to know.

(bridge)

When the wind starts to blow in a different direction,

Too little we stop and take time for reflection,

I’m certain it’s some sort of keen self-protection…

Even so…

(chorus)

I want you to know that I love you.

So you can recall now and then.

I need you to know that I love you.

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again,

And in spite of this rift,

Of our courses off drifting,

I cherish the gift, that you have been gifting,

And thank God above that I once had encountered your glow,

I want you to know...

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 11 - 'The Hardest Thing'

2011-05-11T10:43:00.000-07:00

Hello,

Today was a long one, and I was busy up to the end of the day. That said, I remembered a line that I had thought of a while back, about a man who was lamenting over his inability to find a connection. Here’s how it turned out.

This would be a legato ballad. Smooth and melodic.

Enjoy.

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The hardest thing to find is someone special.

The toughest thing to see is who’ll be there.

Though people come and go each day,

Life makes it very tough to say

Which ones might be the perfect ones to care.

The hardest thing to find is something sacred.

The simplest thing to lose is something grand.

Just like a moment, here then gone,

Then sadly, we just carry on,

Not noticing the things you have in hand…

Our eyes are often sharp enough to catch the hidden keys,

And yet, they’re too acute to see the forest through the trees…

The truest thing to find is love unending.

The toughest thing to do is hold it fast…

You search until you find someone who gives you peace of mind,

Who smiles, and gives and works to make it last.

That one soul to share your life with,

Share your time, your heart, your pain and strife with…

Helping you to cope as times unwind.

Yes, true love…that’s the hardest thing to find.

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 10 - 'Yeah, He Did...'

2011-05-10T22:21:00.000-07:00

Good day,

After finishing yesterday's song, I had some other thoughts that wouldn't leave my head, so I started right away on a few other things to prepare for day 10's SOTD. Sadly, nothing panned out. (Anticlimactic...I know.)

The good news is, I then got so frustrated that I started making fun of my project. This is a goofy piece just poking fun at what I'm doing and playing around. The style choices change throughout, so I've marked them.

Enjoy!

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(lilting and melodic)

I’m forcing myself to write this

It’s not going to be very good.

I’m forcing myself to write this,

To prove to myself that I could.

I’ve concocted this challenge, and given myself

Thirty-one days to explore

All of the songs that I may have within me

And if all goes well, I’ll write thirty-one more.

I’m forcing myself to write this,

And so far it’s going ok…

Though the task may be tricky, if I am not picky,

I’ll finish this new song today.

There are nine other songs that I’ve written as part,

Of this challenging, once-a-day dare.

Some of them skilled, some I shouldn't impart,

But whether they’re good or they’re bad, I can’t care…

I’m forcing myself to write this,

Regardless of awesome or crap,

And if you are reading, I’m sure you’re conceding

At least I’ve not written a rap…

(Rap beat starts)

Yo.

Uh.

Check it.

If you noticin’ lately that I’m MIA,

I will say it’s cuz I’m writing a new lyric every day.

It’s not that I’m thinkin’ it will make me famous, or rich beyond belief…

I am not an ignoramus,

I do it for the practice, to expand my mind, and I’m finding that it’s kind of fun to get up behind

A new idea, an all new thought or creation,

Every new 24 brings a brand new obligation.

So I’m gonna continue on my mission and then you will see my work performed in a much larger venue.

And for those of you visitin' up in my place,

Keep reading or I’ll have to slap the shit out yo’ face…

Peace!

(back to lilting and melodic)

I’m forcing myself to write this,

I’m sure you now see what I mean,

So I’ll try to have fun, and bring smiles to your cheeks,

I’ll cater my work to both hipsters and geeks,

If you don’t like my stuff, well, I’m done in three weeks…

But 'til then…

I’ll grab my pen,

And write.

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

A Freebie

2011-05-10T07:52:00.000-07:00

Hello gang,

Here is a lyric that I wrote a while ago. Now though I wrote it within a day, it was not today, so I will not be counting this as the SOTD...just wanted to share...

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One day Father Time did wrong…

He abused his power, let the clock stay sleeping for one hour just too long.

And though young clock quite enjoyed the rest, this tested all the rest of the world,

As it hurled every being, celestial and non, on and on through space and oblivion.

For that one tiny hour seemed eternal til maternal Mother Earth,

Chided Father Time, and woke the son to which they’d given birth.

And one time not long after that,

Who would even think it? But the mystic Mother lost her son clock’s favorite trinket.

And the search began, just as most hunts do, with a rummage here and there, over, under, too,

And before too long the foraging escalated to a universal seeking, a macrocosmic peeking

Til every single thing was inside out throughout oblivion and space…

Only then did Earth recall exactly where her child’s toy was placed.

If even Earth and Time show a whole portfolio of faux pas,

And it seems to me they’ve acquired quite a collection,

Then how are we mortals supposed to avoid contributing to the cause?

Tell me what chance have I for achieving perfection?

Now, I know I’m no Father Time,

And I know that your heart is broken,

But if you’ll just accept that I have faults like any man,

And give me the chance to change circumstances

I’ll happily comply…

And turn this all around,

Create eternity,

So hopefully we’ll see things eye to eye…

If you’ll believe in me,

And let me try.

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Check back later for today's actual SOTD!

~Lee

Day 9 - 'My Confession'

2011-05-09T23:11:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,

Today I had work again, and was reminded how tricky it is to come up with a strong idea for a tune while one is helping corporate office workers use their new phone sets. That said, I spoke with co-workers about what they thought and played with some of those ideas. Nothing came of it yet, but I'll look back at them later this month, since I have plenty of songs I'll be writing!

Anyway, I came up with this thought after work. I wanted to relay really bad news in a cheerful and relatively unapologetic way. This song should be uptempo and bright, with a happy background.

Enjoy!

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I’ll put my hand out. Slap my wrist ‘cuz

This is gonna make you pissed,

See, I accidentally slept with your girlfriend.

Oh no, you heard me quite correctly,

I confessed a recollection

That I accidentally slept with your girlfriend.

I can see, I can see that your face has started wincing,

Could it be? Could it be that you’re gonna need convincing?

I assure it’s no deceit…Does

It hurt more when I repeat it?

Still I’m glad to let that out the vault…

So blame me, if you must,

But now you know she can’t be trusted.

I’m not saying that it’s all her fault.

I’m just saying that it’s all her fault!

Based on the past,

You should have realized it, seen that she was

Far too flirty.

It was over fast,

4 or 5 weeks and then we stopped it because

Using your own bed felt dirty.

Now I know it will take time,

Forgiveness won’t be on a dime, I mean

I accidentally slept with your girlfriend.

But I’ll work to make it better,

If she wants to go, then let her

And try to move on and let go!

So…

In five years, this little gaffe,

We’ll look back on it and laugh!

You’ll be married and happy with life…

Then I’ll accidentally sleep with your wife!

Spoken: What?! Too soon?

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 8 - 'The Choices I've Made'

2011-05-08T20:34:00.000-07:00

Pronto.

In honor of Mother's Day, I wanted to write a song to all of the Moms out there...but I didn't. Sorry, Moms, but I hope you've had an amazing day anyway.

What I did write is from the point of view of a guy who is viewing the world and asking, 'what if?'

For a frame of musical reference, this should be uptempo, with a pretty contemporary feel throughout the verse and chorus. The bridge would take on a different beat altogether, but then come back to the original rhythm, though at a slower tempo for sentimentality.

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Everyday,

There’s a slew of papers strewn across my desk.

And everyday,

They get filled out, punched and filed,

I tell you, it’s grotesque.

But though my body is impounded,

Stuck in its corral,

My thoughts refuse to just stay grounded

And then, without fail

I sit and try to clear my mind,

So I can do the task assigned,

But frankly it does no damn good…

‘Cuz if I could…

I’d be roaming the street fairs,

Without a single care.

Strolling through the park in the sun.

Sitting in the outdoor chairs,

They’ve set up in Times Square,

If I could just levy a trade,

For the choices I’ve made.

Everyday,

I’m allowed one fifteen-minute coffee break.

And everyday,

I step outside and think about the

Chances that I didn’t take.

And realizations flood my brain,

Of what I might have been.

And just as I adjust my train

Of thought toward hope, right then

My break is ended quite abrupt,

I forcibly have been re-upped,

Corrupted by ‘Do what you should…’

But if I could,

I’d be riding a Harley,

Without a helmet on.

Racing at dangerous speed…

The road may be gnarly,

But my fears would all be gone,

If only my debt was repaid…

She was the one I’d searched for all life long,

To my surprise, I’d finally got her.

But in you’re youth, it’s hard to face when you’ve made a mistake…

There was no give and take…

There was just take…or I’d be

Climbing up Everest,

No peak would be too high,

Flying in a turbo jet craft,

Cutting through the sky.

Taking out my yacht, on a plot to

Sail across the clear blue sea.

Or sitting in my backyard,

Observing stars above.

Dozing by the fire clinging

To the one I love.

I never would have lost her,

She’d still be mine, if I could evade,

The choices I’ve…

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 7 - 'Come On, Tomorrow'

2011-05-07T21:46:00.000-07:00

And good day,

Today Aimee and I went to see 'Catch Me If You Can'. I really liked it...some great material performed really well. Catch it if you can. (pun intended...sorry.)

Despite the day being filled with amazing inspiration, it was a rough one for coming up with a song. After much time, and many failed beginnings, I found one that seemed to unfold. It's from the perspective of an 18 year old preparing to open the next chapter of his life.

For a frame of musical reference, this should be uptempo, with a pretty contemporary feel.

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My things are all packed, the boxes are stacked above my head.

My eyes dart around, to be sure there's nothing hidden 'neath my bed...
And I hear my mother shouting, and my face forms an ear-to-ear smile,
'Cuz I know, come tomorrow, I won't hear that noise for a while.

So, come on, tomorrow,
I've never been more psyched.
Come on, tomorrow,
Take the training wheels from off this bike,
Come on, tomorrow,
Even though the last few weeks have been a haze...
College starts tomorrow, and
Tomorrow starts the best of my days.

We've hopped into the car, and so far my little sister hasn't cried.

And my brother has yet to get me scared, though it's not like he hasn't tried...
As we pull into the parking lot, I feel my heart drop down to my knees,
But I pray, come tomorrow, 'Oh, God, help me get through this please!'

And, come on, tomorrow,

You're creeping up so quick.

Come on, tomorrow,

Shit, I hope me and my roommate click,

Come on, tomorrow,

Bring me strength and the guts to move on...

So, come on, tomorrow,
Though the truth may hurt my pride,
Come on, tomorrow,
I'll admit that I am terrified.
But I'll face that fear,
Because even though I'm scared to end this phase...
I know from deep within my soul,
That staying put is not the goal
In life you must give up control, a risk untaken never repays...
So tomorrow...
Starts the best of my days.

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 6 - 'It's Never Easy'

2011-05-06T20:02:00.000-07:00

Hello,

Today, we lost a brilliant theatrical mind. Arthur Laurents died today at the incredible age of 93, and I thought that I'd be remiss were I to let this event go by without acknowledgement. So, I just wish to send my regards to his family, friends and other fans. His creative works helped inspire so many of us and truly helped shape musical theater for the best. I'm sure I'm not alone in wishing to give appropriate thanks.

For today's SOTD, I have a ballad that speaks of the difficulty of moving on. I hope you enjoy.

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It’s never easy to walk away.

Troubled times may come, but pass just as fast,

And the pleasant ones are the memories that last.

It’s never easy to let it go.

The fear of losing what you already know is a burden that’s too tough to face,

Fastening you to the same old place.

Same old places, same old faces, smiling, gazing,

Watching you roam…

Welcoming home…

It’s never easy to say goodbye.

Though your dreams see you soaring, the truth is you’ll never touch the sky.

No matter how hard you try.

To fly,

You just get by,

Never fly…

And I…

It’s never easy to walk away,

But it’s far more difficult now to stay.

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 5 - 'This Part Of Me'

2011-05-05T20:11:00.000-07:00

Hello and good day!

It was beautiful out today, and Obama was passing by the building that I am working in, so there were many distractions keeping me from appropriately starting today's song. Incidentally, this meant that I didn't actually get to do any work on it during the day. I then went with Aimee to see Roundabout Theatre Co.'s production of 'People In the Picture', and the experience inspired the first line of the song below, so 'Thanks PITP!'

Anyway, here is what I came up with after getting home and fleshing out the rest. It's a duet, so there would be some kick-ass harmonies at the end!

For a musical reference, it would have a bluesy/pop rhythm, very contemporary pop MT. The rhythm would alter for the bridge.

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MALE:

I take a seat in LL 109,

And I am waiting for the lights to dim.

I hold my breath, and I can feel my heart beat out my chest…

Please be impressed…

‘Cuz it’s me up there, struggling for their attention.

It’s me up there making them roar and tear.

It’s me up there, and despite my apprehension,

Now they can all sit back, relax and see…

This part of me.

FEMALE:

I hang steps back from the crowd as they’re talking,

And words like ‘form’ and ‘shading’ are tossed around.

Though every syllable is threat’ning to shatter my core

Still, I adore…

That it’s me up there who’s receiving recognition.

It’s me up there causing their hearts to stir.

It’s me up there, and the work is my ambition,

So judge me if you must, but still they see…

We all have something that drives us this way,

That gives us strength and pushes us harder…

MALE:

The fact remains at the end of the day,

BOTH:

The victories feel overblown…

If you win them alone. And so...

It’s me right here, and I hope you will accept me.

It’s me right here looking you in the eyes.

I’ll be right here, and though my words may be inept,

I swear my actions will help make them clear…

That it’s me right here, and there’s nothing that could budge me,

We’ll be right here, taking it, come what may.

And now, right here, I assure you, 'til our life is done,
That you will be the only one who’ll see

This part of me.

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD.

~Lee

Day 4 - 'Methinks He Doth...'

2011-05-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

Good day,

So, I was at work and thought of an old line I wrote about 3 years ago that I had since procrastinated on until...today. I had a line and a half of this when I started this afternoon, and here's where it went.

For a frame of musical reference, this is in the same vein as Day Two's SOTD. Speak-sing-ish verse with an upbeat, catchy chorus and bridge...very classic MT comedy.

Enjoy!

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When I walked into that small café, and glanced across the room,

A new sensation tingled down my spine,

A fluster of frustration, with a twinge of revelation,

Caused a great uprising feeling in this heart of mine.

She said ‘A double mocha with two sugars and no cream.’

I felt the blood flow cause my face to blaze.

And though clueless for a second, I have thought on it and reckoned, and

I think that I have finally found the proper phrase…

I’m…in…hate.

Yes, I’m in hate.

My heart may skip a beat, but it does not ‘elate’.

Some have said “This can’t be love because I feel so well…”

Well, I’m sure this isn’t love because it feels like Hell!

I squint my eye,

I clench my jaw,

Though she may be cutest thing I've ever saw...seen...

It really doesn’t matter, I’d still push her off a ladder, because

I’m…in…hate!

I’ve been in love so very many times before,

Each time worse than the last, it’s like an art.

If a medal could be given for picking evil women

Well, the way I’ve played, they’d retrograde, I’d win before we start.

But now this little temptress has been haunting me,

Taunting with her rude flirtatious eyes!

I’m astounded that I find my mind so sound around this devil,

For I’m sure were she to lure me in, it’d not be ‘on the level’.

Beads of sweat

My forehead farms,

Are rivaled only by the pit stains ‘neath my arms.

My pulse is racing with my heartbeat, seeing which one can advance!

The pixies in my stomach fight the cobra in my pants!

I guess it’s possible I love her…wait! NO, never! Not a chance!

So, I’m sure,…

There is no cure…

For…my…

Spoken: Excuse me, would you like to get a drink sometime?

(she answers)

Really?!

Love!

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 3 - 'The Picture'

2011-05-03T15:20:00.000-07:00

Hey all.

Today I found some time during my lunch break to stare out the window. The nice part of this is that the window is on the 26th floor of a building in downtown NYC. I looked out at the water and New Jersey and a slew of thoughts occurred to me, prompting the beginning of a lot of songs, but nothing was coming to fruition. Finally, a seed of an idea came seemingly out of nowhere (I still don't know where it came from, but it came fast) and fleshed itself out into today's SOTD. This may have been more appropriate for Sunday, but it came today, so...I put it up.

Frame of musical reference: This would be a ballad, fluid and slow, but with movement through the bridge, nothing crazy in the underscore, so as not to be overdone since it's such a sentimental lyric.
Enjoy.

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A picture hangs,

Its spot is right upon the wall between the window and the television set.

So there it hangs.

And to ensure it doesn’t fall I’ve reinforced it with the best glue I could get.

And every time it’s glanced upon

The viewer gets a chill.

And whether ‘why’ is clear to them or not,

They know the drill.

A look creeps to their face and in their eyes I see the sympathy rise.

A picture hangs,

I still recall the day we took it, though the baby in his lap’s now nearly ten.

I wish that day,

That I’d known what was going to happen ‘cause it surely would have changed

my whole demeanor back then.

Although I wasn’t terrible

As far as one could see,

And though he thought that I was ‘all the

Son that I could be’,

And though I loved him dearly, at that age it seemed impossible to show…

I just hoped he’d know…

So I didn’t flash a smile every time he made a joke,

Instead I’d just glare and act bored.

And I didn’t give a shit about redwood, pine or oak…

The things that he loved, I ignored.

I look at you,

At who I still have in my life, and hope that I can learn from my mistakes.

So tell me of your pine and oak,

And go ahead and make a joke,

I promise I’ll give you a smile.

There’s no real way of telling

What the future holds,

But I gladly make the promise
That as long as time unfolds,
I'll cherish what we have and make my feelings as clear as can be...

'Til the picture is of me.

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For Mom & Dad.

Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD.

~Lee

Day 2 - 'A Weight Is Lifted'

2011-05-02T20:45:00.000-07:00

Hello all.

So today's song did not come to me nearly as easily as the last. It was 8:30pm before I was even able to start working on it, and I was still stuck for an idea about what to do an hour later. Ironically, I have come into this month with several blanket ideas in order to keep this type of block from happening...but it's obviously not that simple.

Anyway, I finally decided to elaborate on a single line that I had written a while back. Originally, the lyric was a sincere sentiment (which I planned to be) leading into a lovely ballad. I've changed my mind. Here's how it came out...

A quick frame of musical reference, this should be very rubato at the beginning then once we get to the chorus it should pick up a tempo and increase through the end. It should lend itself to a very classic MT sound.

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Now you know how much I love you, and love you, dear I do…

But something has been weighing on my mind.

I’ve a tiny little qualm, a bone to pick, a cause for coup…

That’s not it…you know I’m not the coup-ing kind…

But of this I must insist, I can’t resist, it’s too insistent,

Inside me it’s been gnawing like a mite.

And though I won’t go on a tear, I can no longer grin and bear it

So lend an open mind and I will try to say this right…

You’ve gotten fat.

Not just a little overweight, but fat.

And though my bluntness may cause you to want to beat me,

Wiser men may not repeat me,

And though you’ll prob’ly think I am a pig,

Just please, Don’t eat me!

But you’re chunky!

No longer husky, shapes or jolly. No, you’re chunky!

And though it’s partially my folly with the lies of clothes unfitting,

I assure it was unwitting,

But now you…are…fat.

And oh, I could have stopped it! ‘Do these pants make me look…?’

‘Yes, they do!’

No, I could have, should have dropped it when I caught you after meals trying to
Make yourself spew.

No, I don’t condone Bulimia,

And though it won’t redeem me, ya

Have gotten outta hand,

So food is banned!

I just can’t stand it,

Cause you’re tubby!

Your proportions more than ample, more than chubby!

And though it brings me no great joy to see you suffer,

I have taken off the buffer

Though it’s tough, I’ve simply got to speak my mind…

Happy we once were, and happy again we can be

If only you drop that fat be-hind!

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

Day 1 - 'I Turn the Page'

2011-05-01T13:44:00.000-07:00

Hey there.

So this morning I woke up early (8:40am) with the very first 'SOTD' in my head...which is fortunate, as I was a bit anxious about starting this process. Turns out, there was a line I wrote a week or so ago (for nothing in particular, but regarding starting this site) that prompted a series of other lines, that then sprung into a song. Now, the original lyric didn't make it into the song...but I'm happy with what it inspired.

So that there is some frame of musical reference, this song should have a soulful, steady beat. The underscore would start with a strong baseline, and a few jazzy/bluesy piano chords/riffs, then progress to a fuller sound by the 2nd stanza. I have posted an audio clip of the scan, so that the rhythm will be clear. Unfortunately, there is no melody set just yet, but if I get to it, I'll create another file and update...

Anyway, here it is! The first ever 'Song of the Day...in a Day!'

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I turn the page, and there is another just in sight,

Woke today…and low and behold, a new chance to get things right,

It almost seems like something’s on the way…

I glance around, there’s something unusual in my eye,

My retinas have found that four new shades of cyan paint the sky,

And grass has reached a whole new tint of green…

And guided by the things that I’ve now seen,

I cannot bear the thought of living ‘in-between’,

I turn the page.

This optimism thing is fairly new to me

And all this ‘look ahead’ junk’s not my style.

A mere observance of my past will show that I would be the last

To take a chance, pick up the phone and dial…

But getting up today a thought occurred to me

A notion that I still have yet to shake,

That somehow it is possible that I’ve reached the time to forget the rhyme and reason of it all…

So I make that call!

And hearing your voice, I know that the feeling’s not misleading!

Making the choice to take this chance is the greatest thing that I’ve been needing!

No fleeting sense of satisfaction,

Heating up then quick retraction…

No, it’s more a call to action,

Telling me I must attract the best love I’ll ever engage…

And so…

I turn the page!

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Thanks for joining me for the day, and I'll see you tomorrow with my next SOTD!

~Lee

An Announcement...

2011-04-29T17:00:00.000-07:00

Hello friends, family…random guy who accidentally stumbled across my page.

If you’re visiting, then you probably already know who I am (except for you Stumbly McRando), so I won’t bore you in this entry with intricate details of my past, or involved glimpses into my psyche…I’m sure that’ll all come later. Instead, I will simply explain my purpose in doing this blog.

Now if you’re anything like me, or even if you just like me, then you probably don’t care much for blogs. I, and most of my friends, have little to no interest in learning that Janet Murray’s kitten snuggled closely with a neighbors puppy in a baby’s sock while both were dressed as bunnies. Ok, perhaps I should have chosen an example that wasn’t so damn cute…but the point is, unless there is a purpose for the blog beyond relaying the daily events of someone’s existence, I won’t read it.

-‘What are you doing writing a blog, then?’ you ask?

I have created this blog as a tool. A device contrived strictly to assist me in accomplishing a goal.

-‘What is that goal?’ Alright…calm down and I'll tell you.

-‘It’s just that you seem to be talking an awful lot and saying very little-’ Seriously! I was just getting there…

My goal is to write an entire song’s worth of lyrics each day for a whole month. That means every day, no matter what else I’ve got going on with work, friends, family…I will sit down and force myself to write, at the very LEAST, a set of song lyrics.

Now I have to warn you if you’re going to continue on…it’s not all gonna be gold! In fact, some of it may wreak! (...for what it's worth, I'm hoping not much!) But, anyone who has had to write even a breakup text knows that sometimes you just have to get it out there. Well, in this case, I’m going to be posting everything with minimal edit time, so it'll be fun to see what comes out.

The good news is that if something shows promise, I will likely go back and tweak it after it’s posted. I may even decide to share the revisions so you all can see the growth and progression, but the main thing is the goal. Good or Bad…‘A song’s worth of lyrics every day for a month.’

In this case, that month will be May. (That’s right. None of that 30 day month crap for me!)

So join me here at ‘Lee’rical Wordplay starting Sunday, May 1^st, and check out the very first...

‘Song of the Day…in a Day!’