Speaking about lyrics that never become songs, etc., sometimes I write and record a demo or rough track of a song and it just never seems to go anywhere. Some of them do get resurrected, many don’t. For some it may be as simple as a tempo change or a different arrangement. Other times for me it is mysterious. In honor of Saint Patrick’s Day, I would like to post lyrics to a song in the making. As this platform gives us access to followers around the globe, I do not want to leave anyone out, so please take this as intended. If I don’t mention your country, other people’s songs will!
Then in a later post I can bring in the recorded demo tracks. I like the lyrics for the most part and I love the idea behind the song, but it is not there yet. Maybe after a pint or two of Guinness and some suggestions from you I can finish this song. And of course, that could be a topic in and of itself. We hear phrases like “final mix”. Some people say there is no such thing. Others say you just have to stop at some point and let it go. Much of this may depend on your final goal. Are you a singer/songwriter trying to get a break and some air-time? Are you shopping for places your band can perform your unique style? Do you want to have a clean demo to send to your favorite artist? Is this a sound-track for video/YouTube? Do you make sound effects for games?
We can always say make it as good as possible but that is very subjective. Hire 50 sound engineers and you will get 45 different mixes (there are always people that look over your shoulder!) Tip for today; it takes a really long time to fix it in the mix even if you know what you are doing. It is much easier and preferred to get the great sound first, and then record it properly (using gain staging and other procedures mentioned earlier). When you record a great sound it will sound great. As a sound guy for a local band I would get compliments on the sound (House from the audience but almost always monitors from the band). I thank them and tell them the band sounds great, I just let everyone hear them.
“A Part of Me” © 08-2000 MSK
American Indians gave me my soul,
A spiritual guide for all living things.
Each man’s fate is his to control
Peace with Nature, the warrior sings.
A Part of Me belongs to all of Them
From the Germans strength was my first lesson.
Trial and precision as you master these.
Pride that’s passed down from son to son.
Built in each hand crafted Masterpiece.
Oriental neighbors have shown me the light
Truth, Balance, Eternal harmony.
The beauty of patience and delight
Traditions deep within history.
A Part of Me belongs to all of them.
I’m proud to be an American.
Sisters and brothers from every shore,
That’s what makes us Americans.
Part of Me belongs to all of Them
From the Irish I inherit my pride
I stand my ground and I will speak my mind.
I will honor the lands and the tide,
And I’ll never leave a neighbor behind.
My English side embraced nobility.
Dry humor in the face of foes
Hardy enough to capture the seas.
Portraits legends and heroes.
African Americans forced to become
A torn people of two nations.
Tribal tales and melodic rhythm
Passed onto the next generation.
The French helped me understand
Style and grace can be nurtured like wine.
To believe there is no better place
Life shared with friends, bread and wine.
A Part of Me belongs to all of them.
I’m proud to be an American.
Sisters and brothers from every shore,
That’s what makes us Americans.
Part of Me belongs to all of Them
Year after year
They want to raise their children here.
Because sweat blood and tears
Can amount to something here.
There’s a lot of people in my life
A part of Me belongs to all of Them.
Your song may be different and that’s OK.
Sing it with your fellow American.
MidiMike 