"The Path Of Least Resistance"

There's a certain novelty that comes with hearing a song that not many of heard before.  I can't tell you what about it that makes me want to keep discovering these 'unheard' songs, but I want to hear these hidden gems and share them with the world.  And for some reason, I have found the songs that have yet to be released are always the best.

So, let me introduce you to a song that I cannot get enough of...When I first heard this song, I thought it could possibly be one the prettiest, most beautiful melodies I had ever heard.  Then, I started analyzing these lyrics...and then I lost it.

By nature, we gravitate and excel at certain things.  And most of the time, the things that are easy are what we become passionate about.  However, I'd never realized that same theory could be applied to a relationship...apparently Sarah Buxton, Gordie Sampson, and Jedd Hughes did.  I think Carrie Underwood needs to record this song ASAP...only a seasoned artist could take this song where it needs to go...better yet, I think Sarah Buxton should release this, this vocal is flawless.  The chemistry in this song is undeniable.  I have never heard a song like this that sounded like a lullaby before...just stunning.
I just need to say, the imagery within these lyrics is mesmerizing.  That line, "All the stars burned electric, there was nothing we could do but give into each other in one free easy move" just takes my breath away every time I hear it!  Close your eyes, feel this song, and listen to your heart. 

FM Radio:
Singer: Sarah Buxton
Songwriters: Sarah Buxton, Gordie Sampson, Jedd Hughes
Song: "The Path of Least Resistance"

Last night I had a dream

We sailed the river south

With the wind at our backs

All the way down to it’s mouth  

And the water was so calm 

We could see our own reflection crystal clear

All the stars burned electric

There was nothing we could do

But give in to each other

In one free easy move

Cause when you break it down 

It isn’t rocket science after all

We’re only victims of circumstance

We have no choice but to dance this dance

Who knew that lovin’ you

Would lead me down the path of least resistance

I used to make it hard

I’d just close my eyes and swing

Built walls as high as mountains 

Crooked roads and broken wings 

One day you realize

Love’s not a fighting thing

We’re only victims of circumstance

We have no choice but to dance this dance

Who knew that lovin’ you

Would lead me down the path of least resistance

We’re only victims of circumstance

We have no choice but to dance this dance

Who knew that lovin’ you

Would lead me down the path of least resistance

Listen:

"How Great Thou Art"

This song says all I have to say.  I am not even bothering with the lyrics, just watch the best performance you have or probably will ever see in your life.  Vince Gill has one of the best voices of all time.  His background vocal take a song to a level that is otherwise unreachable.  His voice is indescribable and unmatched in the male category.  Carrie, on the other hand, can do no wrong in my eyes.  But seeing this performance on Girl's Night Out just about murdered me.  THIS is called giving your voice to God.  I believe Carrie Underwood will never, ever be forgotten.

FM Radio:

"Jesus Take The Wheel"

In a million years, I never thought that living 4 hours away from a hurricane would be so disastrous.  For a moment, we were driving and I saw an ambulance towing a canoe.  I felt like I was in a picture from Hurricane Katrina.  We passed a Toyota dealership that water was up to all the SUV's door handles.  The cars were, with no exaggeration, floating.  And it was on the road we were driving on.  All of the sudden the few cars in front of us were making U turns in the middle of our busiest intersection, there were cops everywhere, every street was blocked off, every bridge was closed, and the route that would usually take about 12 mins took almost an hour and a half and four different ways to get there.  So needless to say, this was Sunday, August 28th's, Hurricane Irene's melody.

In concert Carrie performs "How Great Thou Art" in the middle of the song, it's life-changing.  I have witnessed it!  You're never the same!  Watch the video!

FM Radio:

Singer: Carrie Underwood

Songwriters: Hillary Lindsey, Brett James Gordie Sampson

Song: "Jesus Take The Wheel"

She was driving last Friday on her way to Cincinnati
On a snow white Christmas Eve
Going home to see her Mama and her Daddy
With the baby in the backseat

Fifty miles to go and she was running low
On faith and gasoline
It'd been a long hard year

She had a lot on her mind and she didn't pay attention
She was going way too fast
Before she knew it she was spinning
On a thin black sheet of glass

She saw both their lives flash before her eyes
She didn't even have time to cry
She was so scared
She threw her hands up in the air

Jesus, take the wheel
Take it from my hands
?Cause I can't do this on my own

I'm letting go
So give me one more chance
To save me from this road I'm on
Jesus, take the wheel

It was still getting colder when she made it to the shoulder
And the car came to a stop
She cried when she saw that baby in the backseat
Sleeping like a rock

And for the first time in a long time
She bowed her head to pray
She said I'm sorry for the way
I've been living my life

I know I've got to change
So from now on tonight

Jesus, take the wheel
Take it from my hands
?Cause I can't do this on my own

I'm letting go
So give me one more chance
To save me from this road I'm on

Oh Jesus, take the wheel
Oh, I'm letting go

So give me one more chance
Save me from this road I'm on
From this road I'm on
Jesus, take the wheel
Oh, take it, take it from me

Oh, why, ooh      

"Twisted"

Never did I think that this would be my first Carrie Underwood song I would write about but never that I ever forgot this song but magically no matter how many times I put my iPod on shuffle, this song always comes on!  No matter how hard you try, I don't think this crazy life is meant for us to fully understand.  And this song explains it best.  Not to mention the epic background vocals by Hillary Lindsey.  I think I could listen to a record just of her making vowel sounds, she's unreal.

Carrie Underwood was like a musical God to me when she won American Idol.  I just couldn't stop talking about her.  I knew she was going to come out of this show with a career from her audition..and then "ALONE" blew me away, I was sold.  I would buy Carrie Underwood sings the telephone book and it would undoubtedly rip my heart out.  Anyways, I'll talk about her a million times again but I couldn't resist.  I fell in love with Some Hearts, but Carnival Ride just exploded my heart.    

I would kill to hear Hillary's version, if anyone has ever heard it, let me know how incredible it is!

FM Radio:
Singer: Carrie Underwood
Songwriters: Hillary Lindsey, Luke Laird, Brett James
Song: "Twisted"

Baby you're a wrecking ball crashing into me
Nothing I can do but fall piece by piece
You broke down every part of me that ever thought I'd never need you, baby

It's twisted
Messed up
And the more I think about it
It's crazy, but so what
I may never understand it
I'm caught up and I'm hanging on
I'm wanna love you even if it's wrong

Everybody's telling me I'm over my head
But they don't feel you lovin' me
They all say that I've gone crazy
Maybe, but it's too late now to save me
I'm too tangled

It's twisted
Messed up
And the more I think about it
It's crazy, but so what
I may never understand it
I'm caught up and I'm hanging on
I'm wanna love you even if it's wrong

Even if it's twisted

Maybe it's not right
But that's all right
Yeah, it's all right tonight

It's twisted
Messed up
And the more I think about it
It's crazy, but so what
I may never understand it

It's twisted
Messed up
And the more I think about it
It's crazy, but so what
I may never understand it
I'm caught up and I'm hanging on
I'm wanna love you even if it's wrong

Even if it's twisted
Even if it's just a little bit
Just a little bit
Just a little bit twisted
Yeah, it's twisted

"Innocence"

Being 19, I feel like I'm caught between some unspoken age gap.  Everyone older still treats you like you're slightly older than you used to be but still not old enough.  Maybe when I'm 21 I will feel completely different..only time will tell.  Anyways, although when I'm out in this crazy world it still feels like I'm a little girl...However, I didn't feel like that tonight.

Tonight was my elementary school's annual bazaar.  Since I entered kindergarten my family and I have never missed it.  Well, tonight there was not remnant that reminded me of that.  Almost every face I saw or voice I heard, I did not recognize.  Of course, you see old teachers, the principle, the priest. (I went to a Catholic private school)  But I felt something crazy that I just can't even explain.  Although it was completely packed and the most people I have ever seen there, it felt like a ghost town.  I felt for once in my life like a chapter had completely ended.  I guess this means I'm growing up.  Out of all the songs I have ever heard in my life, this song was in my head the whole night.  I am so happy that I am where I stand in my life, but sometimes there's that little voice inside you that wants to go back to that time where the world was a mystery and life was simple.  I guess what I wanted to rediscover was that "young girl, wide eyed innocence."  

From the beginning of this blog, I knew I had to find a way to incorporate this song.  Since I discovered this song, probably 5 or 6 years ago...yes, yet another Myspace discovery.  I remember finding Sarah Buxton and becoming memorized.  She has this rawness that is apparent in her vocals and lyrics that I have never seen before.  She understands rhythm like no other.  One of my all time favorite songwriters.  You'll be seeing a lot more of her!  And as many million times as I have listened to this song, it never rang more true than tonight.  The key to a well-written song is that ability to be applied to any situation, relatable, and to be interpreted many ways.  Well, that description is this song.  I am puzzled as to why this song didn't shoot up to #1.  This song has everything!  And Sarah Buxton is a total dark horse.  She has released one of the best albums that I have ever heard.  Just an unbelievable talent that everyone should know about!!

FM Radio:
Singer: Sarah Buxton 
Songwriters: Sarah Buxton, Georgia Middlemen, Jeremy Stover, Dave Berg
Song: "Innocence"

It's the first time that I've been here
Since I was here with him
I remember all the wildflowers
Waving in the wind

Life was an undiscovered river
I was jumping in head first

It was sink or swim, do or die
Sneaking out on summer nights
Stealing wine from my pa
The thrill of not getting caught
And now and then I miss those days
But coming back to this place
I realize it ain't him I miss
It's that young girl, wide-eyed, first love
One time innocence, yeah

We ran off to the corn field
Just outside the county fair
There were butterflies in my stomach
And fireflies in the air

He tried hard not to show it
Oh, but he was just as scared as me

And it was sink or swim, do or die
Sneaking out on summer nights
Stealing wine from my pa
The thrill of not getting caught
And now and then I miss those days
But coming back to this place
I realize it ain't him I miss
It's that young girl, wide-eyed, first love
One time innocence, yeah

And coming here
Has made me come to this
The one thing I can't get back
Is the one thing I miss, yeah

And it was breaking rules, flying blind
What you see through younger eyes
It wasn't what I thought it was
Man, I swore he was the one
And now and then I miss those days
But coming back to this place
I realize it ain't him I miss
It's that young girl, wide-eyed, first love
One time innocence, yeah

It's that young girl, wide-eyed, first love
One time innocence, yeah
It's that innocence


Best Performance:

"Marry Me?"

Not because my brother's currently at the Maroon 5/Train/Gavin DeGraw concert right now, not because I listened to Train sing this song live about an hour ago, because this song is that good.  
I'll admit, I had never heard this song prior to the amazing CMT Crossroads Train did with Martina McBride.  But since hearing this song, you can never get this melody out of your head!  What I find intriguing about this song is that I think the whole song was written as the concept, not the usual let's find the lyrics based off of the concept...this is the idea point blank.  If you have never heard this song, first listen to Martina & Train's version and then Train's version.  And come on, this opening lyric...who wouldn't say yes to a song like this?!  PLUS, I am thrilled to see that Martina McBride recorded this song for her upcoming album, Eleven. (Yes, as if I haven't promoted it enough)
This song has that unusual ability to be recorded in multiple genres and STILL be a hit.  And to whatever tall, dark, guitar-playing man out there...marry me?

FM Radio:
Singer: Train
Songwriters: Pat Monahan (YES, a SOLO effort!!!)
Song: "Marry Me"

Forever can never be long enough for me 
Feel like I've had long enough with you
Forget the world now we won't let them see
But there's one thing left to do

Now that the weight has lifted
Love has surely shifted my way
Marry Me
Today and every day
Marry Me
If I ever get the nerve to say
Hello in this cafe
Say you will
Mm-hmm
Say you will
Mm-hmm

Together can never be close enough for me
Feel like I am close enough to you
You wear white and I'll wear out the words I love
And you're beautiful
Now that the wait is over
And love and has finally shown her my way
Marry me
Today and every day
Marry me
If I ever get the nerve to say hello in this cafe
Say you will
Mm-hmm
Say you will
Mm-hmm

Promise me
You'll always be
Happy by my side
I promise to
Sing to you
When all the music dies

And marry me
Today and everyday
Marry me
If I ever get the nerve to say hello in this cafe
Say you will
Mm-hmm
Say you will
Marry me
Mm-hmm

CMT Unplugged

The second I see the word 'unplugged,' I automatically think of Mariah Carey's epic, life-changing MTV Unplugged special and EP that trademarked my childhood.  Although it was released the year of my birth, Mariah Carey changed my brother, my cousin and my life.  Seriously, there aren't enough blogs to release my musical childhood!

So, when I heard Martina McBride was doing an 'Unplugged' special, my heart raced and I felt like the Mariah days were back...except it clicked that it was 2011 and apparently a tv doesn't exist anymore, and now CMT has an online Unplugged series.  In my opinion, it takes away that nostalgic excitement of watching it on TV...but tonight it really didn't matter.  I'm sure my wonderful neighbors and all of our street heard me...I couldn't contain myself.  I had my doubts with "Teenage Daughters," that obviously Hillary Lindsey did NOT write, but let me reassure you Martina McBride is BACK!!!!  She is back and more classy, flawless and powerful than ever!  AND she has recorded some of the most well-written songs that will evolve the foundation of country music.  Her album will be incredible and (I hope) highly awarded!  She deserves it!  Well, I think everyone should do themselves a favor and lose yourself in this unbelievable CMT Unplugged!!!!!  THIS. IS. MUSIC.

"Here Comes Goodbye"

As much as we all hate to admit it, our lives are chapters of goodbyes.  It's one of those things that it's sitting in front of you the whole time that you don't even notice it.  Until I heard this song, I never realized that we all say goodbye to almost everything.  Childhood, Innocence, Materialistic things, etc.....
But sometimes we get so caught up in goodbyes that we forget about all our hellos.

I was writing a song last night that reminded me of this amazing song.  Rascal Flatts were one of the first bands I've ever really gotten into and one of the best concerts I have ever been to!!  Definitely a must-see!!!  I recommend hearing the song first then watching the video.  The lyrics seem so literal but the video sheds light on a different aspect that you would never expect upon first listen.  One of the best songs Rascal Flatts has ever, ever recorded.  Read the story behind the song by one of the writers who was also a former American Idol contestant,
Chris Sligh: http://frommymindtoyoureyes.blogspot.com/2009/01/story-behind-music-here-comes-goodbye.html  The description in these lyrics is brilliant.  Who writes a first verse like this?!  Incredible.  The sense of anticipating disappointment is poignant.  I remember hearing this song for the first time knowing that I had never heard anything like it before.  Listen for yourself and leave a comment!!

FM Radio:
Singers: Rascal Flatts
Songwriters: Chris Sligh, Clint Lagerberg
Song: "Here Comes Goodbye"

I can hear the truck tires coming up the gravel road
And its not like her to drive that slow, nothin's on the radio
Footsteps on the front porch, I hear my doorbell
She usually comes right in, now I can tell

Here comes goodbye
Here comes the last time
Here comes the start of every sleepless night
The first of every tear I'm gonna cry
Here comes the pain
Here comes me wishing things had never changed
And she was right here in my arms tonight, but here comes goodbye

I can hear her say I love you like it was yesterday
And I can see it written on her face that she had never felt this way
One day I thought I'd see her with her daddy by her side
And violins would play here comes the bride

Here comes goodbye
Here comes the last time
Here comes the start of every sleepless night
The first of every tear I'm gonna cry
Here comes the pain
Here comes me wishing things had never changed
And she was right here in my arms tonight, but here comes goodbye

Why does it have to go from good to gone?
Before the lights turn on, yeah and youre left alone
All alone, but here comes goodbye

Here comes goodbye
Here comes the last time
Here comes the start of every sleepless night
The first of every tear I'm gonna cry
Here comes the pain
Here comes me wishing things had never changed
And she was right here in my arms tonight, but here comes goodbye

"American Honey"

Today, I became a college sophomore.  Today, I became one step further away from the curly haired little girl I used to be.  And today, I wished I had a chance to go back to that childhood, fresh-faced, innocence that we all lose along our way.

I listened to, undoubtedly, the most uninteresting teacher I have ever had in my lifetime while I prayed that I would get the opportunity to show the world I could be more than the overachieving, straight A student that I am.  I value education but I also value skill.  I know I've been fully blessed with a gift not many have, I just want to find the right outlet...and today that was not my 2 hour lab or lecture.  

Some carry around a certain memory from their childhood, I carry around the feeling.  That feeling that no matter how hard you try, you'll never fall; nothing is worth worrying about; and life was nothing more than the simple things.  In between the awkward silence and boringness of my classes, I wondered what it would be like to go back to that mentality now that I have seen and experienced the opposite side of it.  It would be liberating but captivating at the same time.  However, I didn't need those childhood moments...what I needed was "American Honey." 

Since I had the idea of starting this blog, I just knew I had to write about this song.  For some reason, I always carry this song with me.  Artists release new CDs filled with new songs and for some reason I always come back to this song.  What captivates me about this song is that there is more unspoken than said.  What is beautiful about this song is the fact that there is not one person that cannot be the person in this song...we all are.  This isn't a detailed a song about a busy life filled with waking up to an alarm clock, it's trying to find who you were in the midst of who you've become.  Unfortunately, the trials and tribulations that we all have to experience shape us into the person we become.  Some become bitter, jaded, heartbroken, the list goes on.  However, it's the values that we all learn in childhood that keep us running on the right path.    

I could endlessly fill this blog about the incredible songwriters that I have discovered but these three are on my bucket list of dream co-writes.  Myspace became like a musical heaven for me years ago and I discovered songwriters who are better than any artist that you hear on the radio.  By now I think the world knows how much I idolize Hillary Lindsey...the fact that I become obsessed with every song she writes and word she sings.  She has a voice that goes unmatched.  I love you all, but there's God and then there's Hillary in my life...haha!  The woman can do no wrong in my eyes.  I discovered Shane Stevens and Cary Barlowe through Hillary's myspace and fell in love with their abilities to marry a lyric and melody unlike anything I have ever heard before.  Individually, they are incredible...together, they are indescribable!!  You MUST hear their demo it is blows away the recorded version, LOVE!!!      

One of my favorite songs of all time!

FM Radio:

Singer: Lady Antebellum

Songwriters: Hillary Lindsey, Shane Stevens, Cary Barlowe

Song: "American Honey"

She grew up on the side of the road
Where the church bells ring and strong love grows
She grew up good, She grew up slow
Like American honey

Steady as a preacher, Free as a weed
Couldn't wait to get going
But wasn't quite ready to leave
So innocent, pure and sweet
American honey

There's a wild, wild whisper
Blowin' in the wind
Callin' out my name
Like a long lost friend
Oh, I miss those days
As the years go by
Oh, nothin' sweeter than summertime
And American honey

Get caught in the race of this crazy life
Tryin' to be everything can make you lose your mind
I just wanna go back in time
To American honey

There's a wild, wild whisper
Blowin' in the wind
Callin' out my name
Like a long lost friend
Oh, I miss those days
As the years go by
Oh, nothin' sweeter than summertime
And American honey

Gone for so long now
I gotta get back to her somehow
American honey

There's a wild wild whisper
Blowin' in the wind
Callin' out my name
Like a long lost friend
Oh, I miss those days
As the years go by
Nothin' sweeter than summertime
And American honey
And American honey 

Incredible Original Version:

Lady A's Video:

"The Living Proof"

Last night, I went and saw The Help.  I think it's a must see for everyone!  I absolutely loved it!  It really gives you a life lesson about strength.  Without saying anymore that's all I can say is go see and then listen to every word in this song.  I believe this movie and the closing song should be nominated, if not awarded, an Oscar.  Flawless!  The credits rolled as the beginning of this song played and that's all I heard was an older man sitting behind me balling his eyes out.  This song + this movie touches your soul.

Truthfully, you can try your hardest to understand another's situation but the only way you can fully understand is if you have been there yourself.  Unknowingly, we all try to deny the truth.  However you can't deny what's in front of you if you are "The Living Proof."

Has anyone read the book or seen the movie?  Leave me a comment!

FM Radio:
Singer: Mary J. Blige
Songwriters:
Song: "The Living Proof"



It's gonna be a long, long journey
It's gonna an uphill climb
It's gonna be tough
It's gonna be some lonely nightsBut I am ready to carry on
I am so glad the worst is over
I can start living now
I feel like I can do anything
And finally I am not afraid to breath
Anything you said to me
And everything you do
You can't deny the truth
Cause I am the living proof
So many thoughts fight
They just can't make it through
But look at me
I am the living proof
Oh yes I am

Thinking about life been painful
Yes it was
Took a lot to learn how to smile
So now I am gonna talk to my people about the storm
Oh so glad the worst is over
I can start flying now
My best days are in front of me
I am almost there
Cause now I am free
Everything you say to me
And everything you do
You can't deny the truth
Cause I am the living proof
So many those who fight
They just can't make it through
But look at me
I am the living proof

I know where I am going
Cause I know where I have been
I am gonna feel starts that showing
I am gonna keep rolling
That's the way that I will
Everything you say to me
And everything you do
You can't deny the truth
Cause I am the living proof
So many those who fight
They just can't make it through
But look at me
I am the living proof

Nothing about my life has been easy
But nothing is gonna keep me down
Cause I know a lot about today
And I know yesterday
So I am ready to carry on
Oh Lord



Watch:

"Too Damn Young"

Sarcastically, I just love how the politics of the recording industry.  I have seen this so many times when a song is released by an artist that does moderately well, suddenly, a few years later, that same song is given to an artist with an established track record and somehow (gasp) released as a single that surprisingly does well.  Yes, I know you're shocked.  That is what I like to call non-inventive thinking performed minimally by a record company's marketing team.  Wake up...if you don't know about a song, why would you buy it?

Well, I heard this amazing song called "Too Damn Young" on Luke Bryan's new record that I think I've heard by a few artists before.  No way?  Well, when I found out who wrote it, I remembered hearing this demo in the hallmarked Myspace days.  The song is written by another writer I remember from back in the day, Casey Kessel.  And just like I fell in love back then, I fell in love again.  This song oozes that  summer love innocence that everyone wants.  Well I was surprised to hear a guy singing this when it feels like a girl song but they completely made it work so much that I expect to hear this on the radio soon!  Oh and Julie Roberts tried to make this into a ballad, I agree this time...I would've given it away too.

FM Radio:

Singer: Julie Roberts, Luke Bryan

Songwriters: Casey Kessel, Arlis Albritton 

Song: "Too Damn Young"

We met down at the floatin' dock
She snuck out scared, she might get caught
We were nervous, but it was worth it

There was no such thing as consequence
With her in my arms it finally made sense
In that moonlight, I saw her tan lines

Every time my feet are danglin' in the water
I can't help but think about her
Lyin' there with her wet hair
Didn't know what we were doin' but we didn't care
That old wooden dock was warm on our backs
T-shirt for a pillow and just like that
She kissed me like she meant forever
We were too damn young to know any better

The fog rolled in, she said "I better go"
She took my t-shirt and wore it home
A memory, a souvenir she could keep

So I stayed and watched that sunrise
Like it was wakin' up my life
To what love was, I can still see us

Every time my feet are danglin' in the water
I can't help but think about her
Lyin' there with her wet hair
Didn't know what we were doin' but we didn't care
That old wooden dock was warm on our backs
T-shirt for a pillow and just like that
She kissed me like she meant forever
We were too damn young to know any better
We were too damn young to know any better

Luke Bryan:

Julie Roberts:

"If You'd Called Yesterday"

Every songwriting 'how-to' out there says to write from a point of truth.  Well, as a listener and a songwriter, I don't expect to hear someone's truth, I expect to hear someone's vulnerability.  I love to hear someone's truth within themselves.  I hate songs that are written about nothing.  Basically, I can't stand a song that is written that leaves a listener without any inspiration, emotion, idea, or life long lesson.  Thus, the reason I cannot listen to Kiss FM, or any other Top 40 station because they play songs about nothing.  (Wouldn't that make a great song?!)  I love how I write this blog I get a million song ideas, crazy!  Anyways, I found this writer on the wonderful Myspace years ago and totally fell in love with this song...then I later found out Julie Roberts recorded it.  Any & every song that Cory Batten writes has that straight to the bone raw emotion that everyone feels but fails to admit.  However, the truth in this song is chilling.  This is the type of song that can't really be taken out of context but somehow can apply to everyone.  I just love it.  Sometimes, we all get too guarded to admit the truth but we don't realize is that you never get over anything unless you say it out loud.  And that is exactly what this brilliantly written song does.

P.S.- I could go on & on about this song but I am in awe over the second verse and this chorus...AH!  I wish I could've written this song!


FM Radio:
Singer: Julie Roberts
Songwriters: Cory Batten, Kent Blazy, Wendell Mobely
Song: "If You'd Called Yesterday"

I'll admit it got to me
Hearing your voice on the machine
It took all I had to just let you talk And not pick up where we left off


Every night since your goodbye
I hit my knees and closed my eyes
And I pray that you'd come back
Too many tears washed out that bridge
You wanna cross, but baby, it's too late for that
Last night would've been a different story
But the morning sun must've done something for me
'Cause I bet I'd gone the other way
If you'd called yesterday
If you'd called yesterday

This victory runs bitter sweet
Through the heart and soul of me
But I sip my coffee and watch the sun rise
Makin' its way to a bluer sky

Every night since your goodbye
I hit my knees and closed my eyes
And I pray that you'd come back
Too many tears washed out that bridge
You wanna cross, but baby, it's too late for that
Last night would've been a different story
But the morning sun must've done something for me
'Cause I bet I'd gone the other way
If you'd called yesterday
Last night would've been a different story
But the morning sun must've done something for me
'Cause I bet I'd gone the other way
If you'd called yesterday
If you'd called yesterday
If you'd called yesterday

Hear the AMAZING original version:


Julie Roberts Version:

"Love Lives On" & "I Belong To You"

Never in my life have I had the opportunity to realize that I am witnessing something beyond words happen in front of my eyes...until now.  When I started to become obsessed with music and lyrics, back in the myspace days, I used to spend countless hours discovering new songs.  The second I heard a song that struck me, I would write it out.  I would take me a little while to keep pausing, writing, pausing, writing, but that is how I taught myself how to structure and write a song.  I discovered rhyming patterns, different structures, etc.  Crazy, right?  Anyways, I would do this so often that I began discovering my 'favorite' writers.  When some people listen to a song, unknowingly, they immediately only listen to the melody, not caring or knowing what in the heck the song is about.  I, on the other hand, listen initially to the lyrics, second for how the melody blends with the lyrics, third...I end up writing it out if I love it that much.  Anyways, to make me even crazier, I still have a notebook filled with lyrics to a bunch of songwriters demos that disappeared off of the internet.  So maybe you just heard the song playing on the radio, but I heard it about 2 years ago.

Sometimes a writer comes along that, for lack of better words, totally blows your mind and rips your heart out with every song you hear.  So for today, meet my best kept secret...Mallary Hope.  Usually, you get to know an artist once their song has gone #1 and they've been on the market forever.  Well, I've been honored to watch Mallary's career develop from probably more than 2 years ago.  I discovered her myspace and was captivated, I heard something in her that I hadn't heard before.  She has this indescribable ability to pour emotions into her lyrics and performance that is just unbelievable.  I'll never forget a song I heard so long ago called "Why'd You Let Me Love You," I wrote it out and blasted it consecutively every day (obsessed?) until it was taken down haha!  I have been a fan from when she signed her publishing to record deal, and listened from 900 miles away while she made her Grand Ole Opry debut...which was incredible by the way ;)  I honestly can't say enough about how much she has influenced me!  I can't wait until she starts racking up her CMA's & Grammy's!!

Well, Mallary wrote & released one of my favorite songs ever written (Yes I put that on my Belmont application as my favorite song!) "Love Lives On."  You have to sit down and lose yourself in this song...it's the crying kind.  

Tonight, Mallary put on Facebook a video of a song that is undoubtedly getting added to my 'all-time favorite songs' list.  I have no idea if this is going to work, but the song is called "I Belong To You."  If it doesn't open, friend her and listen!!!   

Watch: http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=10150270904123907&comments  

FM Radio:

Singer: Mallary Hope

Songwriters: Mallary Hope, Shane Stevens, Matthew West

Song: "Love Lives On" 

I reached for you this morning

Woke up with empty arms

Once again it's sinking in

How far away you are

I still pour two cups of coffee

And tell you all about my dreams

This kitchen's way to quiet

You should still be here with me

And even though I cry like crazy

Even though it hurts so bad

I'm thankful for the time god gave me

Even though we couldn't make it last

I’m learning how to live without you

Even though i don't want to

And even with you gone love lives on

I still call your mom on Sunday

It's good to hear her voice

She always tells me that same story

About her stubborn little boy

And i kept your favorite tshirt

You know the one i used to hate

Ain't it funny how it's the one thing i

I just can't throw away

And even though I cry like crazy

Even though it hurts so bad

I'm thankful for the time god gave me

Even though we couldn't make it last

I’m learning how to live without you

Even though i don't want to

And even with you gone love lives on

She comes with me on your birthday

Little flowers in her hands

She's always known there's something missing

But to young to understand

And someday she's going to ask me

What kind of man you were

I'll tell her all the ways i loved you

And all of you i see in her

And even though i cry like crazy

Even though it hurts so bad

I’m thankful for the love god gave me

And she's the perfect way to make it last

Learning how to live without you

Baby i don't want you to

But even with you gone

Love lives on yeah

I reached for you this morning

Woke up with empty arms

Hear The Story & Watch Her Sing It:

"Anyway," "Broken Wing," & "Independence Day"

As you can see, sometimes I go through these spurts where I feel the need to show the world how much I love music, hence, the reason I created this blog.  Anyways, I couldn't just stop at one Martina McBride video.  The first one is M & Lauren Alaina performing at the CMA Fest, if that doesn't give you chills wait until the last note and standing ovation for "Broken Wing."  I was sitting here clapping at the Mac, so not pointless.  The next video is the incredibly humbling speech, which made me love her that much more, that M made after the whole stadium gave her a standing ovation.  

Watching these has made me realize that I don't care how far I ever get on this crazy journey to become one of the women of country music.  

"I'm Gonna Love You Through It"

Speaking from experience, I honestly believe that people who undergo a major illness have a different appreciation for life.  Once unnoticed things become seen but most importantly, closeness becomes closer.  I read earlier that Martina's video for her new single was going to debut today but I finally just got a chance to watch one of her best videos to date.  If you really know me, you know how much I idolize Martina McBride.  She was the first one that made me fall in love with singing.  If you didn't know, Martina doesn't sing...she SINGS.  As a singer, a songwriter, and a person, I simply adore, idolize, the list goes on & on Martina McBride.  Artists may come and go, but no one does it as excellent or classy as Martina.  Simply put, I want to be her when I grow up.  Anyways, I am completely in love and humbled by this incredible song.  After watching the video, that's all I want is that gorgeous color lipstick and eyeshadow and my bedroom to look like that incredible performance scene.  If you're not a Martina McBride fan than you cannot possibly like music.  Speaking of, her new album which I am SO excited about, and will shamelessly promote on this blog until you stop reading it, comes out on October 11th, and I will predict it's going to be one of the most awarded of her career.  I cannot wait!

Regardless if you're 5 or 85, what career you're in, or what you are doing in life, we all strive for acceptance.  Therefore, when something comes along that makes you feel like you're different, that's all you wanna feel is loved.  You undoubtedly want someone to love you through it.


FM Radio:
Singer: Martina McBride
Songwriters: Ben Hayslip, Jimmy Yeary, Sonya Isaacs
Song: "I'm Gonna Love You Through It"

She dropped the phone and burst into tears

The doctor just confirmed her fears

Her husband held it in and held her tight

Cancer don’t discriminate or care if you’re just 38

With three kids who need you in their lives

He said, "I know that you’re afraid and I am, too

But you’ll never be alone, I promise you"

When you’re weak, I’ll be strong

When you let go, I’ll hold on

When you need to cry, I swear that I’ll be there to dry your eyes

When you feel lost and scared to death,

Like you can’t take one more step

Just take my hand, together we can do it

I’m gonna love you through it

She made it through the surgery fine

They said they caught it just in time

But they had to take more than they planned

Now it's forced smiles and baggy shirts

To hide what the cancer took from her

But she just wants to feel like a woman again

She said, "I don't think I can do this anymore"

He took her in his arms and said "That's what my love is for"

When you’re weak, I’ll be strong

When you let go, I’ll hold on

When you need to cry, I swear that I’ll be there to dry your eyes

When you feel lost and scared to death,

Like you can’t take one more step

Just take my hand, together we can do it

I’m gonna love you through it.

And when this road gets too long

I'll be the rock you lean on

Just take my hand, together we can do it

I’m gonna love you through it.

I’m gonna love you through it.

Watch:

"It Matters To Me"

I have a weakness for any song that is done acoustically...or just alone with a piano.
Since I have apparently been biten by the Faith Hill bug lately, I found this absolutely breathtaking performance of "It Matters To Me" that she did live somewhere.  Does anyone know where this is from?  My volume can't get any louder on the computer I'm totally in love and have the chills when the audience sings!  AHHH!  AHHMAZING!  Faith needs a comeback!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And let me just say THIS IS MUSIC.

"Stronger"

As a promise to myself, The SongBird Project will be at least a 365 day blog.  I may not post every single day but by this time next year, I will guarantee there will be 365 posts!
Anyways, my reason for not posting yesterday is that I had the most traumatic experience of my life.  To spare the details, let me just say if I ever am able to get my voice back and sing like I used to, it will only be by the grace of God.  However, Music always saves me.  As I was going through the events of yesterday, all I had in my head was this song.  Besides the obvious title of this song, "Stronger," I believe a great song is marked by the ability to carry a message that can be applied to any situation.  If you remove the relationship context of this song, this song can apply to anything.  This chorus is incredible!!  Not to be totally corny, but once you cry it out and get the weight of your emotions off your chest you are then able to move forward and on to something greater than what had been.  To me, this song symbolizes allowing yourself to be vulnerable enough to realize what you have to overcome to get to where you want to go.  You have to be weak to be strong. 


On a side note: I am probably the biggest Hillary Lindsey fan out there, but I saw her and a few other writers a few years ago at a CMA Songwriters Series in NYC and that night completely changed my life.  One of the songs Hillary sang that night was "Stronger," which is better than Faith's in my opinion, below is the video I took!

FM Radio:
Song: "Stronger"
Songwriters: Hillary Lindsey, Troy Verges
Singer: Faith Hill

This is the window to my heart

I just want us to be free

There ain't no freedom where we are

Ain't no wishes in these stars

Ain't no reasons to believe

But don't worry baby

Don't you worry

Maybe this is what we need

A little bruise and a little bleeding

Some space that we can breathe in

Some silence in between

[Chorus:]

So cry for me baby

And I'll cry for you

And we'll both break down and we'll both break through

We'll find our way you will face the truth

We both will be stronger

And we'll lie down in our loneliness

Wake up with our sad regrets

Even know we don't know it yet

We both will be stronger

We both will be stronger

I can't believe you're really gone now

But I know it's for the best

And I know that we weren't right

But I still reach for you each night

And man that hurts like hell

[Chorus]

So baby
[Chorus]

This is the window to my heart

I just want us to be free

Baby I'm sorry for the way things are

Goodbye is always hard

And we both will be stronger

Hear Hillary's version: (She looks at us around the 3:20 mark)

Hear Faith Hill's version: (3:11 is my favorite)

"There Is A God"

Nothing bothers me more than people who 'say' they have such strong beliefs but later on these are the first people who change their so called 'beliefs' over the smallest, most mindless things.  I've never believed that statement more than I do today.  Not because I had such a cleansing Sunday but I think it's more of an homage to the way I was raised.  I am a proud full-blooded Italian.  With being this way, I say it like it is.  Unfortunately, I'm not saying I'm a...(You know what)...but what I am saying is that I always want to be a positive person but I have an extremely difficult time censoring myself.  (That's why I created this blog)  I was raised to be grateful, to be appreciative, and not expect any handouts...just give everything your all and hope for the best.  Thus, I'm thankful for learning how to say 'Thank You."  Unfortunately, not everyone was taught this way.

Unless you do not have the gift of sight, no matter what type of hardship you are going through, there is no way that you can deny what is encompassing you.  Anyway that someone can deny that, in my eyes, they are denying God.  Believe me, in the end, everything comes full circle.  Unfortunately, myself included, it takes having something taken away from you to make you realize all that you have.      

Anyways, I know what strong beliefs I have, therefore, I just don't understand how others don't believe.  Realistically, everyone has their own belief systems and I'm not saying my way IS the only right way, but at the end of the day...and this life, "There Is A God."  Sitting in that church pew today, listening to the man who taught me how to 'give my voice to God,' play "How Great Thou Art" on the piano, I was reminded of this song.

This song is the type that after the first listen, you instantly know it and remember it.  It some research to find out exactly who wrote it and when it was released, which actually it was completely overlooked (as are most amazing songs,) today I think it's important to include these incredible lyrics in this blog.

"There Is A God"


Try and put your arms around
the 100 year old tree
Climb up on a horse
and let it run full speed
Take a look down at the world from 30,000 feet
on your next flight

Watch a flock of birds
against the morning sun
Close your eyes and listen
to the river run
Catch a firefly in your hand
or a raindrop on your tongue
That's right

Chorus:
There is a God
There is a God
There is a God
How much proof do you need?

Plant a seed and see
what comes out of the ground
Find the heartbeat on your baby's ultrasound
In a few years hear it laughing,
and don't it sound like a song?

Stop and think about
what you don't understand
Things like life and love
and how the world began
Hear the doctor say he can't explain it,
but the cancer is gone

Chorus:
There is a God
There is a God
There is a God
How much proof do you need?

Bridge:
Science says it's all just circumstance
Like this whole worlds just an accident
But if you want to shoot that theory down,
Look around

Just look around

There is a God
There is a God
There is a God,
How much proof do you need?

Oh there is a God
There is a God
There is a God
How much proof do you need?



FM Radio:
Song: "There Is A God"
Songwriters: Ashley Gorley, Chris DuBois
Singers: Lee Ann Womack

LISTEN: http://youtu.be/1s9l5EvHeQs

"This Is Me"

Silence is the antithesis to my life.  Since I can remember I've always had a song in my head, constantly.  I know every 'music lover' says this, but honestly, music IS the soundtrack to my life.  I believe music can change your life...it's changed mine.  

I've always admired others who can crack themselves open and expose everything about themselves, whether that be in a book, a song, a blog...So the least to say is that I have been inspired.  I've never been an open book, but I guess I could try to be.  So to all the songs, songwriters, bloggers, Oprah, etc., this is for you.  You've taught me to not be afraid of who I am, what I believe in, or what kind of music I listen to.  ;)    

Every school report, that anyone grades or reads, gets criticism for being too wordy.  Well truth is, I love to write.  Even that is an understatement.  I'm constantly finding words that I hear people say that instantly sound like a song title.  Although I'll sometimes strive for the 'ideal' 3 minutes and 40 seconds, I want to lose and find myself in my words, my music, and in my songs.  I'm a songwriter, through and through, it's everything I am.  However, sometimes it gets hard to open a hidden heart.  So that is what this blog is for and what it's going to become.  A place to crack myself open and expose all I am.  


I love shedding light on things that remain unseen or unheard.  I am, self-professed, totally, utterly, obsessed, with discovering songs and songwriters.  So, since my life is chronicled through songs, and is practically a Lifetime movie in the making, as long as you are reading this, you are basically listening to my radio.  So at the end of every post will be a 'What's playing'....Listen!!  I like my music relatable, emotional and truthful.  Unfortunately, most music has now become any 'singer' that likes to have a backing of fake instruments and autotune.  Fortunately, there's one genre that doesn't tolerate that nonsense...country.  
So if I haven't made it clear....My name is Francesca and I love Country Music.     

Why SongBird? - Everyone is a work in progress, myself included.  In my eyes, music is empowering, it can give you wings.  Hopefully, one day, when these wings are ready to fly, I'll have a 'franchise' haha, that will be everything SongBird...SongBird Music, SongBird Bake Shoppe, etc.  So this blog is sort of a 'making of' myself with documentation = The SongBird Project.   

FM Radio

Song: "This Is Me"

Songwriters: Hillary Lindsey (You'll be seeing a LOT of her), Troy Verges

Singer: Faith Hill